Press releases
Data license: MIT · Data source: dwillis/congress-press
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67 rows where chamber = "Senate", state = "NJ" and year = 2021 sorted by date descending
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| url | title | date ▲ | year | month | party | chamber | state | member_name | bioguide_id | domain | scraper | source | date_source | text | has_text | collected_at | updated_at |
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| https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-and-barragn-urge-epa-to-strengthen-standards-for-freight-pollution-sources | Booker and Barragán Urge EPA to Strengthen Standards for Freight Pollution Sources | 2021-12-21 | 2021 | 2021-12 | Democrat | Senate | NJ | Cory A. Booker | B001288 | www.booker.senate.gov | booker | https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Senator Cory Booker and Congresswoman Nanette Diaz Barragán led 48 of their colleagues in encouraging the Environmental Protection Agency to update technology standards for freight-related sources of pollution to address the high levels of air pollution in communities surrounding our nation’s freight shipping facilities and freight transportation corridors. In a letter to EPA Administrator Michael Regan, Booker, Barragán and their colleagues also requested information regarding EPA’s regulatory schedule for updating freight-related emissions standards, technology assessments for mobile and non-mobile freight sources, and opportunities available to streamline rulemaking to update several emissions standards by 2025. “We appreciate the EPA’s demonstrated commitment to combatting environmental racism and advancing equal access to clean air, land and water. We specifically applaud the steps the EPA has taken to set criteria pollutant and greenhouse gas emissions standards for medium- and heavy-duty trucks. We encourage you to expand these efforts to include other freight sources, including locomotives, ocean-going vessels, and aircraft,” the members of Congress wrote. In the 10-20 years since the EPA has updated emissions standards for mobile and non-mobile freight-related emissions sources, new control technologies have become available, including zero-emissions and electric options. There are significant opportunities for reducing toxic air pollution in environmental justice communities while addressing the climate crisis. Senator Booker and Congresswoman Barragán were joined on the letter by Senators Richard Durbin (Ill.), Richard Blumenthal (Conn.), Edward J. Markey (Mass.), Christopher Murphy (Conn.), Alex Padilla (Calif.), Sheldon Whitehouse (R.I.), Dianne Feinstein (Calif.), Elizabeth Warren (Mass.) and Bernard Sanders (Vt.), and Congressmembers Alan Lowenthal (Calif.), Adriano Espaillat (N.Y.), Emmanuel Cleaver (Mo.), Yvette Clarke (N.Y.), Bobby Rush (Ill.), Suzanne Bonamici (Ore… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T20:37:48Z |
| https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-leads-colleagues-in-calling-on-us-department-of-education-to-suspend-wage-garnishment-of-student-loan-borrowers | Booker Leads Colleagues in Calling on U.S. Department of Education to Suspend Wage Garnishment of Student Loan Borrowers | 2021-12-21 | 2021 | 2021-12 | Democrat | Senate | NJ | Cory A. Booker | B001288 | www.booker.senate.gov | booker | https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press | scraper | Washington, D.C. -- Today, U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) led colleagues in urging the U.S. Department of Education (USDOE) to suspend administrative wage garnishment of student loan borrowers. The letter comes nearly a month before student loan and interest payments are set to resume on January 31, 2022. “Currently, over 9 million borrowers are in default on more than $180 billion in federal student loan debt,” wrote the lawmakers to USDOE Secretary Miguel Cardona. “A disproportionate number of these borrowers are people of color, first-generation college students, veterans, parents, people with disabilities, and students who will not complete college. Even before the devastating COVID-19 pandemic, these borrowers in default were subject to aggressive collection measures, some of which only the federal government can utilize to collect on student loans. In addition to having to pay exorbitant fees, borrowers in default could expect to see their wages, tax refunds, and even Social Security checks confiscated. Low-income families that had their Child Tax Credit (CTC) and Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) refund checks seized by the federal government were often left in worse situations with limited access to jobs and housing, and fewer resources to cover basic necessities.” The lawmakers continued by highlighting that the USDOE’s “current intention to resume these collection efforts in a couple of months, as cash-strapped borrowers struggle to recover from a still-ongoing pandemic, will likely result in significant financial harm.” As such, they asked the Department “to automatically remove eligible borrowers from default status” and “to suspend administrative wage garnishment and other forced collections until of the end of the COVID-19 national public health emergency.” Furthermore, the lawmakers urged the USDOE “to conduct an analysis of the disparate effects of these practices on Black, Latino and Indigenous people with student debt as part of any comprehensive review of the student loan debt collection syst… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T20:37:48Z |
| https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/senators-booker-and-scott-introduce-comprehensive-legislation-addressing-sickle-cell-disease | Senators Booker and Scott Introduce Comprehensive Legislation Addressing Sickle Cell Disease | 2021-12-17 | 2021 | 2021-12 | Democrat | Senate | NJ | Cory A. Booker | B001288 | www.booker.senate.gov | booker | https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Cory Booker (D-NJ) and Tim Scott(R-SC) introduced the Sickle Cell Disease Comprehensive Care Act. This legislation would direct the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) to create a Medicaid demonstration program to improve access to comprehensive, high-quality, outpatient care - including clinical and support services - for individuals with sickle cell disease (SCD). Congressman Danny K. Davis (D-IL 07) and Congressman Michael C. Burgess (R-TX 26) introduced the Sickle Cell Disease Comprehensive Care Act in the House last week. Sickle cell disease is an inherited blood disorder that disproportionately impacts people of African descent. Among the most notable symptoms of SCD is severe, debilitating pain, but people with SCD also experience complications like stroke, acute chest syndrome, and organ damage. Sadly, individuals with SCD have a significantly lower life expectancy than the overall population. While some advancements in the field have been made recently, many with SCD are not receiving the level of care needed to adequately manage the disease. A Medicaid demonstration program, such as the one outlined in the Sickle Cell Disease Comprehensive Care Act, could significantly improve the quality of care SCD patients receive. Additionally, any improvements made as a result of this demonstration program would have the potential to meaningfully improve care for all SCD patients as approximately half of SCD patients in the U.S. are enrolled in Medicaid according to CMS data. Further, this demonstration program shows a lot of promise in saving money, as it aims to reduce patients’ reliance on costly emergency room care. “People with sickle cell disease have for too long suffered from an underinvestment in federal funding and attention,” said Senator Booker. “The Sickle Cell Disease Comprehensive Care Act would improve access to high-quality, comprehensive care for SCD patients and would be the greatest investment in SCD patients and care since our Sickle Cell Disease… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T20:37:48Z |
| https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-cardin-sanders-introduce-legislation-to-create-special-envoy-to-monitor-and-address-islamophobia | Booker, Cardin, Sanders Introduce Legislation to Create Special Envoy to Monitor and Address Islamophobia | 2021-12-14 | 2021 | 2021-12 | Democrat | Senate | NJ | Cory A. Booker | B001288 | www.booker.senate.gov | booker | https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C - Today, U.S. Senators Cory Booker (D-NJ) and Ben Cardin (D-MD), both members of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, and Bernie Sanders (I-VT) introduced the Combating International Islamophobia Act, legislation that would require the Department of State to establish a Special Envoy for tracking and combatting Islamophobia globally. The creation of the Special Envoy will also help lawmakers and other government officials better understand anti-Muslim hatred and violence, allowing for the development of a comprehensive strategy that will establish U.S. leadership in addressing Islamophobia worldwide. The legislation is the Senate companion to a House bill introduced by Representatives Ilhan Omar (MN-05) and Jan Schakowsky (IL-9). The House is expected to consider Omar and Schakowsky’s bill for passage as early as today. In a recent survey conducted by the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), 69% of American Muslims responded that they have personally experienced anti-Muslim bigotry or discrimination since 9/11. In March, the United Nations Human Rights Council cited discrimination and hatred toward Muslims had risen to “epidemic proportions.” “We’ve witnessed in recent years an alarming rise in Islamophobia both in the United States and globally that has threatened the religious freedom, well-being, and lives of Muslims,” said Sen. Booker. “Establishing a Special Envoy at the State Department is an important step that we should take to develop a comprehensive plan to reverse this trend and position the U.S. as a global leader in combating hate.” “For over a decade, we have seen a rise in Islamophobia around the country and around the world. The United States should be a global leader in fighting such intolerance. So I am proud today to be joining my Senate colleagues in introducing the Combating International Islamophobia Act. This bill would elevate our commitment to freedom of religion and further protect the rights of Muslims everywhere, ” said Senator Cardin, who serves as the … | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T20:37:48Z |
| https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-norcross-celebrate-expansion-of-the-enterprise-center-into-new-jersey | Booker, Norcross Celebrate Expansion of The Enterprise Center Into New Jersey | 2021-12-14 | 2021 | 2021-12 | Democrat | Senate | NJ | Cory A. Booker | B001288 | www.booker.senate.gov | booker | https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press | scraper | Newark, NJ - Today, U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) and Representative Donald Norcross (NJ-01) celebrated the New Jersey launch of The Enterprise Center, a nonprofit organization that has secured contracts to create two distinct entities: the New Jersey Minority Development Agency (MBDA) Business Center and the Camden Cares Business Center. Through these contracts, The Enterprise Center will help minority-owned businesses in New Jersey access capital, business development opportunities, and contracts to grow their operations as well as provide technical assistance, training services, and funding application support to COVID-impacted businesses in Camden. Citing the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on minority small business and historical racial inequities within the financial system, Booker urged the U.S. Department of Commerce to establish a Minority Business Center in New Jersey earlier this year. Over the past years, he has also worked to ensure that the MBDA is permanently authorized, an effort that was recently signed into law as part of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Deal. “The devastating economic effects of this pandemic have disproportionately impacted minority small businesses across America, with nearly half of Black and one-third of Latino small businesses being forced to shut down - some permanently,” said Sen. Booker. “However, we know that minority businesses and entrepreneurs were struggling even before the pandemic, and historic inequities and barriers were merely exacerbated by this crisis. That is why I’ve fought to make the MBDA permanent and fought to open the first Minority Business Center here in New Jersey so that our residents don’t have to travel out of state to access these services. As it launches today, I know that The Enterprise Center will offer critical resources and assistance to our state’s underserved small businesses for years to come.” “We know that our financial institutions can and need to be better if we’re going to expand equal opportunity to everyone in our community,” … | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T20:37:48Z |
| https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/senate-passes-booker-scott-resolution-raising-awareness-of-sickle-cell-disease | Senate Passes Booker, Scott Resolution Raising Awareness of Sickle Cell Disease | 2021-12-14 | 2021 | 2021-12 | Democrat | Senate | NJ | Cory A. Booker | B001288 | www.booker.senate.gov | booker | https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – This week, the U.S. Senate unanimously passed U.S. Senators Cory Booker (D-N.J.) and Tim Scott’s (R-S.C.) resolution designating September as Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) Awareness Month. “Sickle cell disease is the most common inherited blood disorder in our country, and yet research, treatment, and awareness efforts for the disease still lag far behind other chronic illnesses,” said Senator Booker. “More work and research remains to be done, and we must continue to raise awareness of sickle cell disease and ensure that communities that are largely affected by this condition have equitable access to care and treatments that help improve their health. I am proud to lead the Sickle Cell Disease Awareness Month resolution with Senator Scott and I will continue to champion federal initiatives to raise awareness, improve access to care, and help find a cure for this disease.” “Sickle cell disease is the most common inherited blood disorder in the U.S., affecting one in every 365 Black Americans,” said Senator Scott. “Yet despite the prevalence of SCD, research and treatments remain far too limited. With this resolution, we commit to raising awareness and seeking out legislation that will help our medical community fight—and one day, cure—this painful disease.” | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T20:37:48Z |
| https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-krishnamoorthi-lead-colleagues-in-calling-on-us-department-of-education-to-facilitate-student-civic-engagement-in-institutions-of-higher-education | Booker, Krishnamoorthi Lead Colleagues in Calling on U.S. Department of Education to Facilitate Student Civic Engagement in Institutions of Higher Education | 2021-12-07 | 2021 | 2021-12 | Democrat | Senate | NJ | Cory A. Booker | B001288 | www.booker.senate.gov | booker | https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) and Representative Raja Krishnamoorthi (IL-8th) led a bicameral group of over two dozen colleagues in urging the U.S. Department of Education (USDOE) to address student voter registration and participation as it formulates rulemaking for higher education accountability. The letter comes as states across the country pass legislation designed to curb the voting rights of Black, Brown, and young people. “Across the country, voting rights are under attack, and new laws restricting access to voting have been transparently intended to discourage students and people of color from participating in our elections,” wrote the lawmakers to USDOE Secretary Miguel Cardona. “The Department can and should play a significant role in supporting democracy by creating additional nonpartisan opportunities for students to register to vote, keep their voter registration up to date, and participate in state and federal elections.” The lawmakers continued by highlighting that “Section 487(a)(23) of theHigher Education Act requires each institution of higher education that receives federal financial aid funds to make a “good faith effort” to distribute voter registration materials and to make such materials “widely available” to students. A college’s good faith effort to distribute voter registration information widely should reflect the most common methods by which individuals register to vote—including, increasingly, online registration—and the deadlines they must meet.” Given that the USDOE will only complete rulemaking for higher education institutions in early 2022, the lawmakers called on the department to“swiftly issue sub-regulatory guidance that clarifies institutions’ responsibilities under current regulations. This guidance should remind colleges of their existing requirement to distribute voter registration information to students well in advance of state deadlines to register to vote. And, such guidance should strongly encourage institutions to adopt best practices … | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T20:37:48Z |
| https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-menendez-applaud-senate-judiciary-committee-passage-of-bipartisan-bill-to-protect-privacy-safety-of-federal-judges-and-their-families | Booker, Menendez Applaud Senate Judiciary Committee Passage of Bipartisan Bill To Protect Privacy, Safety of Federal Judges and Their Families | 2021-12-02 | 2021 | 2021-12 | Democrat | Senate | NJ | Cory A. Booker | B001288 | www.booker.senate.gov | booker | https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-N.J.), a member of the Senate Judiciary Committee and co-author of the bill, and U.S. Senator Bob Menendez (D-N.J.), lead and co-author of the bill, applauded the passage of the Daniel Anderl Judicial Security and Privacy Act of 2021 by the Senate Judiciary Committee. The legislation comes after the fatal, targeted attack last year on U.S. District Court Judge Esther Salas’s New Jersey home. The bill, named for Judge Salas’s son who was murdered during the violent home invasion last year, would safeguard the personally identifiable information of federal judges and their immediate families that could leave them vulnerable to potential threats. The bill passed through the Judiciary Committee today without opposition and with broad bipartisan support. WATCH MEDIA AVAILABILITY HERE “I am grateful that Senators of both parties came together today to support the Daniel Anderl Judicial Security and Privacy Act— urgently needed legislation that will help protect the privacy and safety of federal judges and their families,” said Senator Booker, a member of the Senate Judiciary Committee. “No person who takes on the responsibility of serving as a federal judge should ever have to live in fear that they or their family could be targeted by someone who is able to access their personal information easily online. As we continue to grieve and stand with the Salas family in honoring the memory of their son Daniel, we must never forget that tragic day, and we must ensure that this legislation is passed by the full Senate.” “I made a personal commitment to Judge Salas that I would push for legislation to better protect those who serve on our federal judiciary. Today, we are one step closer to fulfilling that promise with this important legislation passing the Senate Judiciary Committee,” said Sen. Menendez, who recommended Judge Salas to President Barack Obama for appointment to the federal bench. “Over the past several years, we have witnessed increased threats against th… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T20:37:48Z |
| https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-sullivan-introduce-world-aids-day-resolution | Booker, Sullivan Introduce World AIDS Day Resolution | 2021-12-01 | 2021 | 2021-12 | Democrat | Senate | NJ | Cory A. Booker | B001288 | www.booker.senate.gov | booker | https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press | scraper | Washington, DC - Today, U.S. Senators Cory Booker (D-NJ) and Dan Sullivan (R-AK) introduced a resolution commemorating and supporting the goals of World AIDS Day, including the goal to achieve zero new HIV infections and AIDS-related deaths. The resolution recognizes current efforts made by the United States and international organizations in combatting HIV/AIDS while also encouraging greater coordination between the global community to end the HIV epidemic by 2030. A companion resolution was introduced in the House by Representatives Barbara Lee (CA-13) and Jenniffer González-Colón. “Each year, thousands of Americans are newly diagnosed with HIV/AIDS, with Black and Brown communities being disproportionately affected by the disease,” said Sen. Booker. “As we commemorate World AIDS Day, this is also the time for us to recommit to finally eradicating HIV/AIDS in the United States and worldwide by scaling up support for prevention, treatment and research programs and improving access to life-saving medications, especially for vulnerable populations.” “As we continue to battle COVID-19, World AIDS Day is an important reminder of the millions of people living with another virus—HIV,” said Senator Sullivan. “Since coming to the Senate, I’ve been an ardent supporter of robust funding for PEPFAR, a federal program started by President Bush that has treated nearly 15 million people around the world. I’m glad to join Senator Booker and our House colleagues in introducing a resolution to recognize World AIDS Day and the critical work being done to prevent infections and save lives.” “On World AIDS Day, we remember those who have lost their struggle against this disease, their families and loved ones, and the millions more who continue to live with and fight against it,” said Rep. Lee. “This is the moment that we must all enact the political and moral will to bring equitable care and services for the LGBTQI+ community, sex workers, racial and ethnic minorities, and women and girls. We will only end AIDS if we address the… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T20:37:48Z |
| https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-and-durbin-introduce-legislation-aimed-at-increasing-membership-within-us-sentencing-commission | Booker and Durbin Introduce Legislation Aimed at Increasing Membership within U.S. Sentencing Commission | 2021-11-30 | 2021 | 2021-11 | Democrat | Senate | NJ | Cory A. Booker | B001288 | www.booker.senate.gov | booker | https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Cory Booker (D-NJ) and Dick Durbin (D-IL) today introduced the Sentencing Commission Improvements Act, legislation that would for the first time add an ex officio member with a public defender background to the U.S. Sentencing Commission. The U.S. Sentencing Commission, an independent agency within the federal judiciary, was created to establish policies and practices to help reduce sentencing disparities. It specifically collects and analyzes information on federal sentencing practices to help develop fairer and more effective criminal justice policies. Currently, the Commission consists of seven members from both political parties appointed by the President and two ex officio, nonvoting members, the Attorney General or a designee and the U.S. Parole Commission chair. However, unlike the majority of state sentencing commissions, the federal Commission lacks a representative from a public defender background who would provide an essential perspective on the criminal justice system. “The federal Sentencing Commission was created to be fair, impartial, and capable of providing evidence-driven improvements to our sentencing system, which is fraught with disparities,” said Senator Booker. “Adding a statutory member to the Commission with a public defender background will ensure that the Commission’s ranks include this distinct and essential perspective on our criminal justice system and, thus, bring us one step closer to a more balanced and just system.” “The U.S. Sentencing Commission is tasked with establishing practices and policies to promote transparency and reduce sentencing disparities, but the Commission is missing a crucial perspective from the federal public defender system. If we hope to improve sentencing policies in America, we must balance the Commission’s membership by adding a nonvoting federal defender,” said Senator Durbin. “The Sentencing Commission Improvements Act will remedy the Commission’s blind spot and move us toward a fairer sentencing process.” “We wel… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T20:30:49Z |
| https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/as-thanksgiving-approaches-booker-khanna-announce-legislation-to-protect-meatpacking-workers | As Thanksgiving Approaches, Booker, Khanna Announce Legislation to Protect Meatpacking Workers | 2021-11-23 | 2021 | 2021-11 | Democrat | Senate | NJ | Cory A. Booker | B001288 | www.booker.senate.gov | booker | https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press | scraper | WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) and Representative Ro Khanna (CA-17) announced the Protecting America’s Meatpacking Workers Act which would provide stronger workplace protections for meat and poultry processing workers. Our nation’s food system has long been broken, but the COVID-19 pandemic has shined a light on just how broken the system truly is for workers, farmers and ranchers, animals, and consumers. Unfortunately, the workers responsible for getting food from the farm to our table are often overlooked and underappreciated. It is clear that our food system is not safe for most farm and food chain workers including meatpacking workers that, due to the power and influence of large multinational corporations, have been forced to risk their lives, crowded into meatpacking plants that became hotbeds for COVID-19 outbreaks. In fact, recent reports indicate that over 59,000 meatpacking workers employed by JBS, Tyson, Smithfield, Cargill, and National Beef contracted COVID-19, and at least 269 died. The Protecting America’s Meatpacking Workers Act would provide much needed protections for meatpacking workers along with systemic reforms such as creating a fair market that allows independent farmers, ranchers and robust local food systems to thrive and ensuring that consumers can actually identify where their food comes from so that food giants cannot simply shift the burden of their unfair system to others in the supply chain or import more unsustainable meat from other parts of the world. “As we sit down with family and friends this Thanksgiving, let it also be a day of gratitude for the workers who have worked tirelessly to ensure we have food on our tables,” said Senator Booker. “Unfortunately, meatpacking workers, including those processing the turkeys on the plates of many Americans this week, often face exploitative and dangerous work conditions. We must end this era of abusive practices and begin to ensure that all workers, farmers, and ranchers have a safe and fair opportunity to earn … | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T20:30:49Z |
| https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-announces-legislation-aimed-at-banning-dangerous-pesticides-from-our-agriculture-system | Booker Announces Legislation Aimed at Banning Dangerous Pesticides from our Agriculture System | 2021-11-23 | 2021 | 2021-11 | Democrat | Senate | NJ | Cory A. Booker | B001288 | www.booker.senate.gov | booker | https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Cory Booker (D-NJ) announced the Protect America’s Children from Toxic Pesticides Act of 2021 (PACTPA) that would remove dangerous pesticides within our farm system. Specifically, this legislation would update the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide and Rodenticide Act of 1972 (FIFRA) by banning the most damaging pesticides that have been scientifically proven to harm the safety of people and our environment. Each year, the United States uses over a billion pounds of pesticides — nearly a fifth of worldwide use. Once they’re approved, pesticides often remain on the market for decades, even when scientific evidence overwhelmingly shows a pesticide is causing harm to people or the environment. In 2017 and 2018, the Environmental Protection Agency registered more than 100 pesticides containing ingredients widely considered to be dangerous. Approximately one-third of annual U.S. pesticide use — over 300 million pounds from 85 different pesticides — comes from pesticides that are banned in the European Union. The pesticide regulation statute, the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide and Rodenticide Act of 1972 (FIFRA), contains many loopholes that put the interests of the pesticide industry above the health and safety of people and our environment. “As we sit down with family and friends for Thanksgiving, let this day also be one of gratitude for the workers who have worked tirelessly to ensure we have food on our tables,” said Senator Booker. “Farmworkers are often exposed to dangerous and toxic pesticides, risking their health as they work to provide our food. It is imperative that we address this issue directly by updating our laws in order to protect farmworkers, frontline communities, and our environment.” “Pesticide hazards haunt farm workers, especially those that are parents. No parent should worry that hugging their children after a long day of work could expose them to brain-harming chemicals. No pregnant worker should have to wonder what the effects will be on a developing b… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T20:30:49Z |
| https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-murray-menendez-maloney-kelly-and-porter-lead-over-100-democrats-in-introducing-the-access-to-birth-control-act | Booker, Murray, Menendez, Maloney, Kelly, and Porter Lead Over 100 Democrats in Introducing the Access to Birth Control Act | 2021-11-18 | 2021 | 2021-11 | Democrat | Senate | NJ | Cory A. Booker | B001288 | www.booker.senate.gov | booker | https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press | scraper | Washington, D.C.—Today, Senators Cory Booker (D-NJ), Patty Murray (D-WA), Chair of the Senate Committee on Committee on Health, Education, Labor and Pensions, and Bob Menendez (D-NJ) led the reintroduction of the Access to Birth Control Act in the Senate. Representatives Carolyn B. Maloney (D-NY), Chairwoman of the House Committee on Oversight and Reform, Robin Kelly (D-IL), and Katie Porter (D-CA) reintroduced the bill in the House. Over 100 Democrats are cosponsors of the bill. The legislation—which has been endorsed by 50 national and local advocacy organizations—would guarantee patients’ timely access to birth control at the pharmacy—including by addressing pharmacies’ refusals of contraception that prevent patients from obtaining their preferred form of birth control medication. “Birth control is a vital part of reproductive health care and basic family planning,” said Senator Booker. “At a time when reproductive rights are under increasing attack throughout the country, protecting Americans' access to contraception is more important than ever. The Access to Birth Control Act would ensure that all people not only have autonomy over their health but also have affordable and timely access to birth control.” “Birth control is essential health care—full stop. And it’s health care that helps ensure everyone can control their own bodies, lives and futures,” said Senator Murray. “With reproductive rights under attack from every angle, we’ve got to stand up and make clear that no one should be able to come between a patient and the birth control they need—including being turned away at the pharmacy.” “I am proud to lead my colleagues in reintroducing the Access to Birth Control Act to ensure patients seeking birth control can access their health care without unnecessary barriers or delay,” said Chairwoman Maloney. “During the Trump Administration, some health care providers—including pharmacists—denied patients care simply based on their personal views. Health care providers must do their jobs based on science—n… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T20:30:49Z |
| https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-releases-resource-handbook-for-new-jersey-veterans | Booker Releases Resource Handbook for New Jersey Veterans | 2021-11-11 | 2021 | 2021-11 | Democrat | Senate | NJ | Cory A. Booker | B001288 | www.booker.senate.gov | booker | https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press | scraper | Newark, NJ - Today, U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) released a comprehensive resource guide for New Jersey veterans and their families. The handbook, accessible on Booker’s website here, includes added information on COVID-19 resources and VA benefits for conditions related to toxic exposure as well as information on health benefits, crisis support services, federal and state education programs, and employment resources. “As a nation, we must make sure that our veterans are given the resources, care, and support they need to succeed as they return to civilian life,” said Sen. Booker. “Ahead of Veterans Day, I am proud to release this handbook that provides the 400,000 veterans who call New Jersey home and their loved ones information on accessing critical services - from healthcare benefits, employment programs, to COVID-19 assistance.” | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T20:30:49Z |
| https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/on-eve-of-veterans-day-booker-klobuchar-announce-legislation-to-improve-access-to-mental-health-services-for-veterans | On Eve of Veterans Day, Booker, Klobuchar Announce Legislation to Improve Access to Mental Health Services for Veterans | 2021-11-10 | 2021 | 2021-11 | Democrat | Senate | NJ | Cory A. Booker | B001288 | www.booker.senate.gov | booker | https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press | scraper | Washington, D.C. - Today, U.S. Senators Cory Booker (D-NJ) and Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) announced the Vet CENTERS for Mental Health Act, legislation that would expand access to mental health services for veterans and their families. The bicameral bill would allow 10 additional states, including New Jersey and Minnesota, to be eligible for at least one additional Vet Center which would provide mental health counseling to veterans, survivors of military sexual assault, and Gold Star families. Companion legislation was earlier introduced in the House by Representatives Mikie Sherrill (NJ-11), Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-01), Anthony Gonzalez (OH-16), Dean Phillips (MN-03), and Gregorio Kilili Camacho Sablan (Northern Mariana Islands-At-Large). This legislation has been endorsed by The American Legion, the Veterans of Foreign Wars, Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America, the Service Women’s Action Network, and New Jersey SOS Veteran Stakeholder Group. “Vet Centers play a critical role in ensuring that our veterans and their families receive access to affordable and potentially lifesaving care, including vital mental health resources and gender specific services,” said Sen. Booker.“Unfortunately, as data shows, such centers are not always available in communities with high veteran populations. This bicameral legislation will help expand Vet Center services in several states, allowing more of our nation’s veterans to receive the VA care they have earned and deserve.” “Our veterans have sacrificed for our country, and we need to repay this service by providing access to care that meets their unique needs, whether that be mental health needs or readjustment counseling,” said Sen. Klobuchar. “The VA estimates that about 11 to 20 out of every 100 Iraq and Afghanistan veterans have been diagnosed with potential symptoms of PTSD, making it all the more crucial that we ensure every veteran has access to Vet Center services, regardless of where they live. I am proud to partner with Senator Booker on this legislation to prioritize th… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T20:30:49Z |
| https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-releases-open-enrollment-resource-guide-for-new-jerseyans | Booker Releases Open Enrollment Resource Guide for New Jerseyans | 2021-11-09 | 2021 | 2021-11 | Democrat | Senate | NJ | Cory A. Booker | B001288 | www.booker.senate.gov | booker | https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press | scraper | Newark, NJ - Today, U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) released a Health Insurance Marketplace Open Enrollment Resource Guide for New Jerseyans. The guide, accessible here, includes information on health insurance plans available through the marketplace, financial assistance options, and the enrollment process. New Jersey uses a state-based exchange, Get Covered New Jersey, to provide health insurance to residents. Also, as a result of the American Rescue Plan Act, which President Biden signed into law in March 2021, more New Jerseyans will have access to subsidies that will make their health coverage even more affordable in 2022. New Jerseyans can enroll in a health insurance plan for themselves and their loved ones during the Open Enrollment Period that runs from November 1, 2021, to January 31, 2022. | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T20:30:49Z |
| https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-celebrates-four-months-of-child-tax-credit-payments-to-nj-families | Booker Celebrates Four Months of Child Tax Credit Payments to NJ Families | 2021-11-04 | 2021 | 2021-11 | Democrat | Senate | NJ | Cory A. Booker | B001288 | www.booker.senate.gov | booker | https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press | scraper | WASHINGTON, DC - Today, U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) highlighted the transformative impact that four months of Child Tax Credit (CTC) payments have had on New Jersey families. Since monthly payments were first issued in July, nationally, the CTC has provided historic economic relief for nearly 39 million households, covering almost 90 percent of children in the country, and setting the U.S. on course to cut child poverty by half. Statistics from the Treasury Department and IRS show that $1,552,834,000 in CTC payments was awarded to New Jersey families from July to October, with more than 1.6 million New Jersey children being covered in October alone. “Four months ago, families across the United States received their first child tax credit payments, a historic investment in the lives of working people that has helped struggling parents put food on the table, cover child care costs, and buy school supplies,” said Sen. Booker. “In New Jersey specifically, this transformative policy has been a lifeline for the 14% of children who lived in poverty prior to the pandemic, helping change life trajectories and positioning our state for stronger economic growth. I am especially encouraged to see President Biden’s Build Back Better framework include an extension of these payments.” | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T20:30:49Z |
| https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-colleagues-urge-dot-to-implement-regulations-to-detect-and-reduce-methane-leaks | Booker, Colleagues Urge DOT to Implement Regulations to Detect and Reduce Methane Leaks | 2021-10-29 | 2021 | 2021-10 | Democrat | Senate | NJ | Cory A. Booker | B001288 | www.booker.senate.gov | booker | https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) led a letter with 11 colleagues urging the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) and the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) to issue strong regulations to help reduce methane leaks within our natural gas pipeline system. Specifically, the Senators urged DOT and PHMSA to require advanced methane leak detection technologies that effectively detect and address harmful greenhouse gas emissions, an important step in implementing the PIPES Act of 2020 which Congress passed last year. “Leaks in natural gas gathering, transmission, storage, processing and distribution threaten public health and our environment and cost industry substantial amounts in escaped methane,” the Senators wrote to DOTSecretary Pete Buttigieg. “Methane is more than 80 times as potent as carbon dioxide and drives near-term greenhouse gas emission trends. A 2018 study published in Science found that the volume of natural gas leaking from across the natural gas supply chain would be enough to fuel 10 million homes and isworth an estimated $2 billion per year – and these estimates do not include the significant air quality and climate benefits associated with abating these methane emissions.” The Senators continued, “The first step to fixing methane leaks is finding them. Fortunately, effective technologies now exist to detect, locate, and quantify natural gas leaks quickly and accurately. Enabling swift, broad deployment of this technology will keep our communities safer, our air cleaner, and our greenhouse gas emissions lower. That is why in December 2020, Congress reauthorized the PIPES Act and required PHMSA to create minimum performance standards for leak detection and repair that reflect the capabilities of commercially-available advanced leak detection technologies.” “We are urging the Department of Transportation and PHMSA to take quick action to complete this rulemaking process and issue strong regulations that will enhance pipeline safety and reduce h… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T20:24:51Z |
| https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-peters-lead-21-senators-to-urge-interior-department-to-place-emergency-protections-on-gray-wolves | Booker, Peters Lead 21 Senators to Urge Interior Department to Place Emergency Protections on Gray Wolves | 2021-10-28 | 2021 | 2021-10 | Democrat | Senate | NJ | Cory A. Booker | B001288 | www.booker.senate.gov | booker | https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senators Cory Booker (D-NJ) and Gary Peters (D-MI) led 21 of their colleagues in urging the U.S. Department of Interior to issue an emergency listing to restore temporary federal Endangered Species Act (ESA) protections to the gray wolf in the western United States. The letter comes on the heels of the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service initiation of a comprehensive status review of the gray wolf in the western United States as well as the recent enactment of dangerous wolf eradication policies in several states including Idaho and Montana. “If continued unabated for this hunting season, these extreme wolf eradication policies will result in the death of hundreds of gray wolves and will further harm federally protected ecosystems like Yellowstone,” the Senators wrote to Secretary of Department of Interior Deb Haaland. “The Department of the Interior can prevent these senseless killings, and we urge you to immediately establish emergency interim protections while the Service completes its status review. The Senators continued, “As you know, wolves are an integral component of North American ecosystems. More than 600 scientists have written to request emergency relisting of the Northern Rockies wolf population, precisely because wolves’ role in maintaining healthy ecosystems is being jeopardized by the policies now being implemented by Idaho, Montana, and Wyoming. As the scientists note, ‘Without the presence of key species in numbers, we are merely conserving scenery and not functioning ecosystems.’ “Given the above, we urge you to immediately issue an emergency listing to establish temporary federal protections for gray wolves. An emergency listing, which extends for 240 days, will prevent more wolves from being killed before the Service makes a determination about whether relisting is warranted. Furthermore, as part of its status review, we respectfully request that the Service both engage in meaningful tribal consultation and consider the impacts of state-level policies like those in… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T20:24:51Z |
| https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/senators-booker-braun-announce-subcommittee-hearing-on-the-state-of-nutrition-in-america-in-2021 | Senators Booker, Braun Announce Subcommittee Hearing on the State of Nutrition in America in 2021 | 2021-10-27 | 2021 | 2021-10 | Democrat | Senate | NJ | Cory A. Booker | B001288 | www.booker.senate.gov | booker | https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press | scraper | Washington, D.C. - U.S. Senators Cory Booker (D-NJ), Chairman of the U.S. Senate Agriculture Subcommittee on Food and Nutrition, Specialty Crops, Organics, and Research, and Mike Braun (R-IN), Ranking Member, today announced that the subcommittee will hold a hearing entitled “The State of Nutrition in America 2021.” WHEN: Tuesday, November 2nd, 2021 at 10:00 A.M. ET WHERE: 216 Hart Senate Office Building WHO: Dr. Dariush Mozaffarian, Dean, Friedman School of Nutrition Science & Policy, Tufts University, Boston, MA Dr. Angela Odoms-Young, Associate Professor, Director, Food and Nutrition Education in Communities Program and NYS Expanded Food and Nutrition Education Program (EFNEP), Division of Nutritional Sciences, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY Dr. Donald Warne, Associate Dean, Director, Indians into Medicine (INMED) & Public Health Programs, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of North Dakota, Grand Forks, ND Dr. Patrick Stover, Dean and Vice Chancellor for Agriculture and Life Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX Ms. Angela Rachidi, Senior Fellow and Rowe Scholar, American Enterprise Institute (AEI), Washington, D.C. ***The Committee will follow guidelines developed in consultation with the Office of the Attending Physician, the Senate Sergeant at Arms, and the Senate Rules Committee to protect the health of members, staff, and the public. This includes maintaining six-foot social distance spacing in the hearing room as well as wearing a mask or face covering. Pursuant to this guidance, Senate office buildings are not open to the public other than official business visitors and credentialed press at this time. Accordingly, the general public will not be allowed to attend the hearing. MEDIA GUIDANCE: Congressionally-credentialed members of the media wishing to attend the hearing should RSVP to their respective gallery by 5:00 p.m. on November 1, 2021. Editorial presence will be limited due to social distancing requirements. Questions about coverage should be directed to… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T20:24:51Z |
| https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-braun-mcgovern-and-walorski-introduce-bipartisan-bicameral-bill-that-would-convene-a-white-house-conference-on-food-nutrition-hunger-and-health | Booker, Braun, McGovern, and Walorski Introduce Bipartisan, Bicameral Bill That Would Convene a White House Conference on Food, Nutrition, Hunger and Health | 2021-10-26 | 2021 | 2021-10 | Democrat | Senate | NJ | Cory A. Booker | B001288 | www.booker.senate.gov | booker | https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press | scraper | WASHINGTON, DC – Today, U.S. Senators Cory Booker (D-NJ) and Mike Braun (R-IN) and U.S. Representatives James P. McGovern (D-MA) and Jackie Walorski (R-IN) introduced a bipartisan, bicameral bill that would convene a second national White House conference on food, nutrition, hunger, and health. The first such conference occurred just over 50 years ago, culminating in the creation and expansion of programs such as the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children (WIC), and the National School Breakfast and Lunch Program. The proposed second conference would take a whole-of-government approach to ending hunger and combatting nutrition insecurity in America, featuring diverse voices and those with lived experience. The conference would also explore weaknesses within the current food system, highlighting the fragility created by hyper-consolidation that has led to fewer choices for consumers and economic insecurity for farmers, ranchers, and rural communities, many of which are now considered food deserts. “Fifty years ago, our nation convened a conference to address the widespread hunger crisis in America, leading to the creation and expansion of programs such as WIC and the National School Breakfast and Lunch Program,” said Sen. Booker. “Despite the progress made, America is grappling with a hunger crisis and now faces a second crisis—one of nutrition insecurity—that is plaguing our nation and hindering the success of our nation’s youth as a result of decades-long policy failures in our food system. This bicameral, bipartisan legislation will, in the spirit of 50 years ago, convene a second conference of advocates, healthcare professionals, and farmers and ranchers to address the failures and inequities of our broken food system that is poisoning our communities and preventing us from achieving true justice.” “The time has come to address our nation’s food insecurity with a bipartisan, commonsense approach. There is no reason that mi… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T20:24:51Z |
| https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-menendez-applaud-confirmation-of-karen-m-williams-to-us-district-court-for-new-jersey | Booker, Menendez Applaud Confirmation of Karen M. Williams to U.S. District Court for New Jersey | 2021-10-26 | 2021 | 2021-10 | Democrat | Senate | NJ | Cory A. Booker | B001288 | www.booker.senate.gov | booker | https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press | scraper | WASHINGTON, DC – Today, U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-N.J), a member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, and Senator Bob Menendez (D-N.J.) applauded the Senate’s confirmation of Karen M. Williams to the United States District Court for the District of New Jersey. “Judge Williams has had a long and distinguished legal career defending the rights of workers and has a deep understanding of the issues facing the people of New Jersey,” said Senator Booker. “Judge Williams is eminently qualified to serve on the United States District Court for the District of New Jersey, and I know that she will bring fairness, impartiality, and a commitment to applying justice equally to the federal bench. This is a historic confirmation—she is the first African-American federal judge confirmed by the Senate to sit in the federal courthouse in Camden, New Jersey. I am proud of her confirmation today.” “Judge Karen M. Williams is a thoughtful and intelligent legal mind and her unique experience as a human resources professional, trial attorney, and magistrate judge make her eminently qualified to serve on the U.S. District Court of New Jersey,” said Senator Menendez. “I’m incredibly proud that she is the first Senate-confirmed African American and person of color to sit in the U.S. District courthouse in Camden, N.J. I am confident that she will not only administer equal justice under the law, but serve the people of New Jersey with distinction. I thank President Biden for selecting a stellar nominee who reflects the values and diversity of the great state of New Jersey.” Karen M. Williams has served as a U.S. Magistrate Judge for the U.S. District Court in the District of New Jersey since 2009. Judge Williams also currently serves as an adjunct professor at Rowan University in Glassboro, New Jersey. Prior to her appointment, Judge Williams spent 17 years in private practice at Jasinski & Williams, P.C. in Atlantic City, New Jersey. Judge Williams’s work focused on employment law, including litigation in state and federal courts and be… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T20:24:51Z |
| https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-underwood-adams-kelly-and-beatty-urge-president-biden-speaker-pelosi-and-leader-schumer-to-include-critical-investments-to-advance-maternal-health-equity-in-final-build-back-better-package | Booker, Underwood, Adams, Kelly, and Beatty Urge President Biden, Speaker Pelosi, and Leader Schumer to Include Critical Investments to Advance Maternal Health Equity in Final Build Back Better Package | 2021-10-22 | 2021 | 2021-10 | Democrat | Senate | NJ | Cory A. Booker | B001288 | www.booker.senate.gov | booker | https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press | scraper | WASHINGTON, DC – In a letter to President Joe Biden, House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, and Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) and Representatives Lauren Underwood (IL-14), Alma Adams (NC-12), Robin Kelly (IL-02), and Congressional Black Caucus Chair Joyce Beatty (OH-03) pushed to ensure that investments from the Black Maternal Health Momnibus Act are included in full in the final Build Back Better package. The group also urged the leaders to build on the critical progress made through the American Rescue Plan Act by investing in the permanent expansion of yearlong postpartum Medicaid coverage in every state. “Permanently expanding postpartum Medicaid coverage and advancing comprehensive investments in the Momnibus will uphold a principle that is fundamental to the Build Back Better Plan: that in America, every family has a right to thrive—a principle that begins with a safe and healthy pregnancy and birth. We must include these critical maternal health equity investments in the final Build Back Better reconciliation package,” they wrote. If passed, the Momnibus and postpartum Medicaid provisions in the Build Back Better package would be historic investments to save moms’ lives, end racial and ethnic maternal health disparities, and advance birth equity across the United States. The letter echoes previous outreach to Leadership by more than 160 Members of the House and Senate advocating for the inclusion of the Momnibus and yearlong postpartum Medicaid coverage in a reconciliation package. The United States has the highest rate of pregnancy-related mortality among high-income countries, and the only rate that is rising. Maternal mortality rates for Black and Native Americans are 2-4 times higher than rates for white Americans, and Hispanic and AAPI people also experience disproportionately high rates of maternal mortality and morbidity. The Black Maternal Health Momnibus Act includes 12 bills to build on postpartum Medicaid coverage expansion and comprehensively address the drivers of th… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T20:24:51Z |
| https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-wicker-introduce-legislation-to-better-measure-future-precipitation-amounts | Booker, Wicker Introduce Legislation to Better Measure Future Precipitation Amounts | 2021-10-22 | 2021 | 2021-10 | Democrat | Senate | NJ | Cory A. Booker | B001288 | www.booker.senate.gov | booker | https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Senators Cory Booker (D-NJ) and Roger Wicker (R-MS) today introduced the Providing Research and Estimates of Changes in Precipitation Act, or PRECIP Act, legislation that would update out-of-date precipitation data in the U.S. by providing the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) with funding and guidance to conduct future research. The PRECIP Act would also direct NOAA to studythe ongoing changes in precipitation that will help communities better prepare for extreme weather and flooding events and to work with the National Academies to complete a consensus study on the best practices for estimating precipitation. Companion legislation was introduced in the House earlier this year by Rep. Mikie Sherrill (D-NJ-11). “We must take every step possible to protect our communities from the increasing frequency of disasters like the historic flooding and rainfall New Jersey experienced this summer from the remnants of Hurricane Ida,” said Sen. Booker. “This bipartisan bill would provide NOAA with vital funding to consult with partner organizations and conduct studies to modernize and improve our nation’s precipitation data, which is needed now more than ever as communities in New Jersey and across the country face the realities of climate change and extreme weather. The new data will be especially useful as we invest in climate-resilient infrastructure to strengthen and safeguard our communities.” “Flooding regularly puts American lives and property at risk, resulting in billions of dollars in economic losses each year,” said Sen. Wicker. “One threat from flooding is dam failure, and in Mississippi there are hundreds of state-regulated dams with a high hazard potential. Forty-two of these dams have failed and nine others have been drained. We need better data to help flood control managers improve dam safety and to update methods used to estimate the risk of failure.” Specifically, the PRECIP Act requires NOAA to: Update precipitation frequency estimates for the United States… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T20:24:51Z |
| https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-cardin-portman-and-young-urge-more-countries-to-engage-with-israel-following-historic-face-to-face-meetings-with-uae | Booker, Cardin, Portman, and Young Urge More Countries to Engage with Israel Following Historic Face-to-Face Meetings with UAE | 2021-10-13 | 2021 | 2021-10 | Democrat | Senate | NJ | Cory A. Booker | B001288 | www.booker.senate.gov | booker | https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press | scraper | WASHINGTON – Cory Booker (D-N.J.), U.S. Senators Ben Cardin (D-Md.), Rob Portman (R-Ohio), and Todd Young (R-Ind.), all members of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, released the following statement on Wednesday’s meeting between the foreign ministers of Israel and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) at the U.S. Department of State. The senators are the lead sponsors of S. 1061, the Israel Relations Normalization Act of 2021, which has 69 sponsors/cosponsors. “Today, we witnessed an historic milestone as Secretary Blinken hosted Israeli Foreign Minister Yair Lapid and UAE Foreign Minister Sheikh Abdullah Bin Zayed Al Nahyan to discuss progress made since the signing of the Abraham Accords last year, future opportunities for collaboration, and bilateral issues including regional security and stability. This joint meeting with the UAE and Israel would have been impossible prior to the signing of the Abraham Accords,” the senators said. “As the lead authors of the Israel Relations Normalization Act of 2021, we hope to continue to build on the success of the Abraham Accords and expand normalization agreements. The countries that signed the Abraham Accords have demonstrated global leadership and embraced a new path for the future of their nations. Progress on economic, political and security cooperation can only be made through meaningful and face-to-face engagements, and we hope to see many more of these meetings in the future. | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T20:24:51Z |
| https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-warren-call-on-doj-to-decriminalize-cannabis | Booker, Warren Call on DOJ to Decriminalize Cannabis | 2021-10-08 | 2021 | 2021-10 | Democrat | Senate | NJ | Cory A. Booker | B001288 | www.booker.senate.gov | booker | https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press | scraper | Washington, DC - United States Senators Cory Booker (D-NJ) and Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) sent a letter to Attorney General Merrick Garland urging the Department of Justice (DOJ) to decriminalize cannabis by removing the drug from the Federal controlled substances list. Under the Controlled Substances Act of 1970 (CSA), the Attorney General can remove a substance from the CSA’s list, in consultation with the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS), based on the finding that it does not have the potential for abuse. Decriminalizing cannabis at the federal level via this descheduling process would allow states to regulate cannabis as they see fit, begin to remedy the harm caused by decades of racial disparities in enforcement of cannabis laws, and facilitate valuable medical research. “While Congress works to pass comprehensive cannabis reform, you can act now to decriminalize cannabis,” wrote Senators Booker and Warren. The vast majority of the country supports decriminalization of cannabis: approximately 91% of adults in the United States believe that cannabis should be legal for medical and recreational use, or for medical use only. To date, thirty-six states, four territories, and the District of Columbia have legalized cannabis for medicinal purposes, and eighteen states, two territories, and the District of Columbia have legalized cannabis for adult recreational use. These state-level legalizations have not caused spikes in traffic accidents or violent crime, or use by teenagers, paving the way for much-needed action at the federal level. Decriminalizing cannabis at the federal level is a critical first step in addressing the racial inequities in cannabis law enforcement. Federal cannabis policy has disproportionately affected the ability of people of color in the United States to vote, to pursue educational and career opportunities, and to build intergenerational wealth. Moreover, decriminalizing cannabis is a vital step so that Americans seeking cannabis treatment options for conditions such as chro… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T20:24:51Z |
| https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-paul-introduce-bipartisan-fda-modernization-act-to-end-animal-testing-mandates | Booker, Paul Introduce Bipartisan FDA Modernization Act to End Animal Testing Mandates | 2021-10-07 | 2021 | 2021-10 | Democrat | Senate | NJ | Cory A. Booker | B001288 | www.booker.senate.gov | booker | https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Cory Booker (D-NJ) and Rand Paul (R-KY) introduced the FDA Modernization Act to end animal testing mandates. This legislation would end an outdated FDA mandate that experimental drugs must be tested on animals before they are used on humans in clinical trials. The bill would not ban animal testing outright, but would allow the option for drug sponsors to use alternative methods where they are suitable. This legislation is currently co-sponsored by U.S. Senators Mike Braun (R-IN), John Kennedy (R-LA), and Ben Ray Lujan (D-NM). “Thanks to modern scientific innovation, the use of animal toxicity testing for experimental drugs has become increasingly obsolete,” said Sen. Booker. “This legislation will eliminate unnecessary suffering for countless animals when scientifically reliable alternative testing methods are available.” “The FDA Modernization Act would accelerate innovation and get safer, more effective drugs to market more quickly by cutting red tape that is not supported by current science. It would also prevent the needless suffering and death of animal test subjects—which is something I think both Republican and Democrats can agree needs to end,” said Dr. Paul. “Over the years, research has demonstrated that animal testing can often be inefficient in predicting drug effects and efficacy in humans. I’m proud to join Sen. Paul in introducing legislation that will cut FDA red tape, allowing drug manufacturers and sponsors to innovate clinical trial designs and utilize modern alternatives to demonstrate safety and efficacy,” said Sen. Braun. “Testing new drugs on animals is often risky for both animals and people. The FDA Modernization Act would allow drug producers to improve safety by using more modern, humane and effective testing. I want Louisianians to get the best medicines as quickly and safely as possible, and I’m thankful to work with Sen. Paul to protect our furry friends at the same time,” said Sen. Kennedy. Background: In 1938, Congress passed the U.S. … | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T20:24:51Z |
| https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-mcgovern-urge-usda-to-work-with-local-farmers-and-ranchers-to-help-provide-nutritious-meals-to-school-districts | Booker, McGovern Urge USDA to Work with Local Farmers and Ranchers to Help Provide Nutritious Meals to School Districts | 2021-10-06 | 2021 | 2021-10 | Democrat | Senate | NJ | Cory A. Booker | B001288 | www.booker.senate.gov | booker | https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) and Representative Jim McGovern (D-MA), along with 19 other Senators and Representatives, urged the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to work with independent family farmers and ranchers to help address the food shortages currently impacting schools, and consequently, school meals, across the country. Due to supply chain disruptions within large multinational food corporations, many schools throughout the nation are currently facing food shortages and are struggling to provide healthy and nutritious meals to their students. The USDA recently announced that they are providing $1.5 billion to help school districts offer meals to address this issue. However, without clear direction, that money will likely end up in the pocket of large food corporations, such as Tyson Foods, who continue to be the source of ongoing supply chain disruptions instead of local and independent family farmers and ranchers that have continued to provide healthy, nutritious food to their communities throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. “Creating opportunities for schools to work with local, resilient, small scale producers would also allow school districts the ability to feed children in a way that aligns with their values,” wrote Senator Booker and Representative McGovern to USDA Secretary Tom Vilsack. “Many school foodservice professionals are frustrated by the idea of serving food from companies that have committed human rights abuses, environmental harms, and violation of federal laws. As one school dietitian in Washington State put it, “I am pulling my hair out every day having to feed these Big Ag products to children.” “A growing number of school districts have committed to the Good Food Purchasing Program, which includes a commitment not to source from companies with labor violations,” the lawmakers continued. “However, when school districts place their commodity purchasing orders with the USDA, they are not given a choice in which company will fill that order. The USDA Fo… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T20:24:51Z |
| https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-meets-with-new-jerseys-haitian-community | Booker Meets with New Jersey’s Haitian Community | 2021-10-06 | 2021 | 2021-10 | Democrat | Senate | NJ | Cory A. Booker | B001288 | www.booker.senate.gov | booker | https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C - U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) today met with leaders of the New Jersey Haitian community and Haitian elected officials to discuss issues affecting the Haitian diaspora in the state and the treatment of Haitian immigrants at the Southern Border. The meeting occurred a week after images showed Border Patrol agents on horseback violently interdictingmigrants attempting to cross the Rio Grande River, and as nearly 2,000 Haitian immigrants, including more than 170 children, were deported back to Haiti. “I was proud to join leaders of our state’s Haitian community for this important discussion and look forward to working together to ensure that our country’s immigration policies reflect our nation’s best values,” said Sen. Booker. “I unequivocally condemn the unconscionable violence and inhumane treatment Haitian migrants have experienced while seeking entry into the United States. As the political situation in Haiti deteriorates and the country endures the aftermath of another devastating earthquake, our nation must stop the cruel deportations of Haitians and live up to its highest ideals as a beacon of hope to people cast out of their native lands by violence, terror, persecution, oppression, and humanitarian disaster.” “With the third most Haitian American elected officials in the U.S., the state of New Jersey and its leaders have a moral obligation to act in the Haitian migrants’ best interest by allowing them to stay in the U.S. with due process capabilities and legal representation,” wrote members of National Haitian American Elected Officials Network. “We firmly believe [Senator Booker’s] office can assist us in the execution of our strategic plans.” “Thank you to Senator Booker for bringing light to and addressing this unthinkable crisis,” said Stanley Neron, Commissioner of the Elizabeth Board of Education. “Helping Haiti and our Haitian brothers and sisters is a humanitarian issue and we must work together to establish solutions that will save lives and provide a bright future.” | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T20:24:51Z |
| https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-duckworth-ossoff-schatz-padilla-and-feinstein-lead-25-senators-to-promote-access-to-solar-energy-for-low_and-moderate-income-households | Booker, Duckworth, Ossoff, Schatz, Padilla, and Feinstein Lead 25 Senators to Promote Access to Solar Energy for Low- and Moderate-Income Households | 2021-10-01 | 2021 | 2021-10 | Democrat | Senate | NJ | Cory A. Booker | B001288 | www.booker.senate.gov | booker | https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Senators Cory Booker (D-NJ), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Jon Ossoff (D-GA), Brian Schatz (D-HI), Alex Padilla (D-CA) and Dianne Feinstein (D-CA) today led a group of 25 Senators to urge the inclusion of a direct pay option for residential renewable energy property tax credits in Section 25D of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 (25D). In a letter, the Senators detailed how a direct pay option would help low- and moderate-income (LMI) households install solar energy systems and help meet President Biden’s goal of curbing greenhouse gas emissions by 50% from 2005 levels by 2030. “[The] essential tax credit is designed to help residential customers install renewable energy systems such as solar, wind and geothermal, but without a direct pay option, the low- and moderate-income (LMI) households who would benefit most from distributed generation are effectively blocked from accessing this tax credit,” wrote the Senators. “We believe that a direct pay option will not only help us meet President Biden’s goal of a 50% reduction of greenhouse gas emissions over 2005 levels by 2030, but it will also help address long-standing impacts of climate injustice.” “Renewable energy and environmental justice advocates estimate that roughly half of American households – approximately 60 million households – do not owe enough taxes to fully capitalize on the 25D tax credit in a single year under current law,” continued the Senators. “However, because these LMI households spend more of their income on energy bills, they will benefit disproportionately from installing distributed generation like solar on their properties. We have an obligation to ensure that all Americans have equal access to benefit from the renewable energy transition, and securing 25D direct pay is critical to this goal.” Taking into account the number of LMI households who own their homes, the current tax code prevents an estimated 26 million households from fully benefiting from the residential solar tax credit in the same year that the syste… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T20:24:51Z |
| https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-applauds-house-judiciary-committees-passage-of-crown-act | Booker Applauds House Judiciary Committee’s Passage of CROWN Act | 2021-09-30 | 2021 | 2021-09 | Democrat | Senate | NJ | Cory A. Booker | B001288 | www.booker.senate.gov | booker | https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. - Today, U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ), a member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, applauded the passage of the CROWN Act out of the House Judiciary Committee. “No one should be harassed, punished, or fired for the beautiful hairstyles that are true to themselves and their cultural heritage, yet Black people – especially Black women – face unjust harassment because of their natural and protective hairstyles, including denial of employment opportunities and exclusion from school activities,” said Sen. Booker. “To combat biases against natural hair and to protect the civil rights of people of color, the CROWN Act will ensure that discrimination based on hairstyles is prohibited. I applaud the House Judiciary Committee for their vote today and now urge all members of the House and Senate to support this legislation that will allow individuals to wear their hair proudly without fear or prejudice.” | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T20:17:01Z |
| https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-menendez-raise-concerns-over-proposed-changes-to-faas-william-j-hughes-technical-center | Booker, Menendez Raise Concerns Over Proposed Changes to FAA’s William J. Hughes Technical Center | 2021-09-28 | 2021 | 2021-09 | Democrat | Senate | NJ | Cory A. Booker | B001288 | www.booker.senate.gov | booker | https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Cory Booker and Robert Menendez (both D-NJ) raised concerns to the Federal Aviation Administration over the agency’s proposed changes to the structure of the William J. Hughes Technical Center located in Egg Harbor Township, New Jersey. The changes would restructure the current research, development, testing, and evaluation operations of the facility, decentralizing the center’s operations, threatening the effectiveness and autonomy of the center and impacting the numerous economic development initiatives in the Greater Atlantic City region. “The William J. Hughes Tech Center plays a key role within FAA,” the Senators wrote to FAA Administrator Steve Dickson. “It offers world class laboratories and serves as a central hub for research, development, testing, and evaluation. As emerging technologies in Unmanned Aircraft Systems and developments in commercial aviation continue to advance, the Tech Center is positioned as essential to the future of aviation. The central management, yet collaborative coordination, of each of these interdependent functions creates a synergy that allows for more effective and efficient operations. This centralized model is in line with best practices for research centers and is utilized at many other research facilities across several federal agencies and departments. “The William J. Hughes Tech Center is also vitally important to its regional economy, both because it currently employs approximately 4,000 individuals and because it is central to many economic development initiatives,” the Senators continued. “The Greater Atlantic City region is economically distressed due to historic reliance on the casino and tourism industries, and extensive efforts are underway to diversify the local economy by attracting new aviation related businesses. Due to its prominent role, resources from the Tech Center are often sought out by private sector and academic stakeholders for collaboration, making the center a major asset in regional economic development i… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T20:17:01Z |
| https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/senate-sponsors-laud-house-passage-of-equal-act | Senate Sponsors Laud House Passage of EQUAL Act | 2021-09-28 | 2021 | 2021-09 | Democrat | Senate | NJ | Cory A. Booker | B001288 | www.booker.senate.gov | booker | https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press | scraper | Washington, DC – Senators Cory Booker (D-NJ), Dick Durbin (D-IL), Rob Portman (R-OH), Rand Paul (R-KY), Thom Tillis (R-NC), and Patrick Leahy (D-VT), the bipartisan Senate sponsors of the EQUAL Act, issued the following statement: “Today, House Republicans and Democrats joined together in passing the EQUAL Act, legislation that will once and for all eliminate the unjust federal crack and powder cocaine sentencing disparity. Enjoying broad support from faith groups, civil rights organizations, law enforcement, and people of all political backgrounds, this commonsense bill will help reform our criminal justice system so that it better lives up to the ideals of true justice and equality under the law. We applaud the House for its vote today and we urge our colleagues in the Senate to support this historic legislation.” | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T20:17:01Z |
| https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-padilla-merkley-lead-push-to-enhance-nations-data-science-and-literacy-education | Booker, Padilla, Merkley Lead Push to Enhance Nation’s Data Science and Literacy Education | 2021-09-24 | 2021 | 2021-09 | Democrat | Senate | NJ | Cory A. Booker | B001288 | www.booker.senate.gov | booker | https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Cory Booker (D-NJ), Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), and Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.) led a group of colleagues in urging the Institute of Education Sciences (IES) and the National Science Foundation (NSF) to improve equity and access to high-quality K-12 data science education. The Senators also asked how Congress can better support the development and deployment of data science curriculum to reach more communities and open doors to STEM careers. Increasing access to high-quality data science education will help students keep pace with our 21st century world. One poll found that while 69 percent of employers would prefer candidates with data science skills, only 23 percent of educators said their graduates would possess those skills. Only 25 percent of students took a statistics course in 2019. “Enhancing data science education will have significant benefits for our nation’s citizenry and economy. Like reading, writing, and arithmetic, basic data literacy is vital for informed democratic participation. We also see employers increasingly demanding data science expertise. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of computer and information research scientists is expected to grow 15 percent between 2019 to 2029, far exceeding the average growth rate of other occupations,” wrote the Senators. The Senators asked the NSF and IES to “describe any past, existing or planned efforts to enhance equitable access to data science education and data science careers, as well as any efforts to increase research in this field.” Statistics show there are stark disparities on who has access to data science courses and who can pursue data science careers. African Americans and Hispanics occupy only 6 and 7 percent of STEM jobs, respectively. Moreover, in order to address artificial intelligence algorithms that may contain implicit biases, it is critical to foster a diverse data science workforce that will develop more equitable technologies. Only a handful of states and school districts ha… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T20:17:01Z |
| https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/11-senators-back-house-progressives-in-demand-for-passage-of-entire-biden-agenda | 11 Senators Back House Progressives in Demand for Passage of Entire Biden Agenda | 2021-09-22 | 2021 | 2021-09 | Democrat | Senate | NJ | Cory A. Booker | B001288 | www.booker.senate.gov | booker | https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press | scraper | WASHINGTON, Sept. 22 — Sens. Cory Booker (D-N.J.), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.), Mazie K. Hirono (D-Hawaii), Ed Markey (D-Mass.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii), Tina Smith (D-Minn.), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), and Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.) issued the following statement on upcoming votes regarding infrastructure and reconciliation legislation: “In the coming weeks, Congress has the opportunity to pass the most consequential economic legislation since the New Deal. We can create millions of good-paying jobs as we repair our crumbling infrastructure, address the climate crisis, and finally confront the long-neglected crises facing millions of low-income and working-class families across this country. But we can accomplish those goals only if we stick to our original agreement. “We voted for the bipartisan infrastructure bill with the clear commitment that the two pieces of the package would move together along a dual track. Abandoning the $3.5 trillion Build Back Better Act and passing the infrastructure bill first would be in violation of that agreement. Congress must not undercut the President’s proposals that will create new opportunities for America’s families and workers. The House of Representatives should wait to pass the bipartisan infrastructure bill until the budget reconciliation bill, which enacts the rest of the President’s Build Back Better agenda, is sent to the President’s desk. “Now is the time to pass both of these major pieces of legislation. We have no time to waste. We strongly support the Congressional Progressive Caucus and other members in the House who have said they intend to vote for the bipartisan infrastructure bill only once the Build Back Better Act is passed. That is what we agreed to, it’s what the American people want, and it’s the only path forward for this Congress.” | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T20:17:01Z |
| https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-statement-on-bipartisan-policing-reform-negotiations | Booker Statement on Bipartisan Policing Reform Negotiations | 2021-09-22 | 2021 | 2021-09 | Democrat | Senate | NJ | Cory A. Booker | B001288 | www.booker.senate.gov | booker | https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press | scraper | Washington, DC -- Sen. Cory Booker (D-NJ) issued the following statement: “America has a serious problem when it comes to discriminatory policing and excessive and deadly force used against communities of color. We can’t properly honor the lives of the victims of this violence if we don’t take meaningful steps to prevent future violence and deaths from occurring and make our communities safer. “We made it clear from the beginning of our negotiations that a bill must ensure true accountability, transparency, and the policing standards necessary to bring an end to horrific incidents of violence Americans are routinely seeing -- like the murder of George Floyd. After months of exhausting every possible pathway to a bipartisan deal, it remains out of reach right now, even after working collaboratively with and securing the support of policing groups like the Fraternal Order of Police and International Association of Chiefs of Police for our proposals. “Unfortunately, even with this law enforcement support and further compromises we offered, there was still too wide a gulf with our negotiating partners and we faced significant obstacles to securing a bipartisan deal. “The time has come to explore all other options to achieve meaningful and common sense policing reform. I will not stop fighting until we achieve change that keeps our communities and police officers safe.” | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T20:17:01Z |
| https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-menendez-urge-ice-to-end-transfer-of-detainees-out-of-new-jersey | Booker, Menendez Urge ICE to End Transfer of Detainees out of New Jersey | 2021-09-21 | 2021 | 2021-09 | Democrat | Senate | NJ | Cory A. Booker | B001288 | www.booker.senate.gov | booker | https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. —Today, U.S. Senators Cory Booker and Bob Menendez (both D-NJ) urged the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to end the out-of-state transfer of people detained in New Jersey, and to release detainees from custody who do not fall under the current enforcement prioritization scheme. The letter comes on the heels of legislation recently passed and signed into law by New Jersey legislators and Governor Phil Murphy prohibiting state, local, and private entities from entering into, renewing or extending detention agreements with ICE. Booker and Menendez have both previously called for an end to contracts between ICE and local governments in New Jersey. “When the ICE detention program at the Essex County Jail closed earlier this year, our offices made several inquiries encouraging you to release detained individuals who did not fall within the enforcement priorities outlined by Secretary Mayorkas, rather than transferring said individuals to detention centers located several states away,” the Senators wrote to acting ICE Director Tae D. Johnson. “Reports indicate that at least 46 people detained at Essex were transferred to facilities across the country, including to Alabama, Georgia, and Louisiana. Transferring detained individual’s increases their risk of contracting COVID-19, endangers immigrants’ mental and physical health and wellbeing, and makes it extremely difficult to remain in contact with their existing legal counsel. “Not only do transfers expose detainees to COVID-19, but they also threaten the physical, mental, and emotional health of detained individuals,” the Senators continued. “Any form of detention is a traumatic experience, especially among immigrant detainees who are more likely to experience anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder both during and after detention than the general population. For detainees with existing medical conditions, transfer risks can interrupt necessary or urgent medical care. The destination facility may also neglect to provide … | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T20:17:01Z |
| https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-reintroduces-legislation-prohibiting-discrimination-in-the-name-of-religion | Booker Reintroduces Legislation Prohibiting Discrimination in the Name of Religion | 2021-09-15 | 2021 | 2021-09 | Democrat | Senate | NJ | Cory A. Booker | B001288 | www.booker.senate.gov | booker | https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press | scraper | Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ), a member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, reintroduced the Do No Harm Act, legislation to restore the Religious Freedom Restoration Act’s (RFRA) original intent and prohibit individuals and businesses from using religion to deny others’ civil rights. Representative Bobby Scott (D-VA) introduced this legislation earlier this year in the U.S. House. In response to the 1990 Supreme Court case, Employment Division v. Smith, which excused discriminatory practices towards American Indians, Congress passed the Religious Freedom Restoration Act (RFRA) in 1993, expanding civil rights protections for religious minorities. However, decades of systematic efforts by some organizations and businesses and the Supreme Court’s 2014 decision in Burwell v. Hobby Lobby (which held that RFRA requires closely-held corporations with religious opposition to contraception to be exempt from the Affordable Care Act’s contraception mandate) have coopted the original intent of the law and turned it into a license to legally discriminate and impose religious beliefs on others. “Freely exercising your religion shouldn’t mean denying others of their civil rights,” said Senator Booker. “The Do No Harm Act rights the Supreme Court’s wrong, restoring the careful balance of the First Amendment by both protecting religious liberty and ensuring the law and religious beliefs cannot be wielded to deny people of their right to live free from discrimination.” “When Congress passed the Religious Freedom Restoration Act in 1993, it was intended to protect religious exercise—not to erode civil rights under the guise of religious freedom. Regrettably, we have seen RFRA repeatedly used to attack civil rights protections, deny access to health care, and allow discrimination in federal contracts and programs. The Do No Harm Act simply provides that RFRA cannot be used to limit access to health care, deny services supported by taxpayer dollars, or undermine the Civil Rights Act or other anti-discrim… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T20:17:01Z |
| https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/senator-booker-joins-nj-delegation-in-urging-congressional-appropriations-committees-to-supply-emergency-funding-for-families-impacted-by-tropical-storm-ida | Senator Booker Joins NJ Delegation In Urging Congressional Appropriations Committees to Supply Emergency Funding for Families Impacted by Tropical Storm Ida | 2021-09-15 | 2021 | 2021-09 | Democrat | Senate | NJ | Cory A. Booker | B001288 | www.booker.senate.gov | booker | https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press | scraper | Washington D.C. -- Senator Booker (D-NJ) joined the entire New Jersey bicameral congressional delegation in a letter urging Congressional Appropriations Committees to supply emergency funding for the state of New Jersey in wake of the destruction caused by Tropical Storm Ida. Emergency supplemental appropriations would immediately help the thousands of New Jerseyans who suffered catastrophic damage to their homes and who will undoubtedly need more assistance in the long-term. “New Jersey faces a long, difficult road to recovery from Tropical Storm Ida. In fact, the damage in many parts of the state is worse than the aftermath caused by Hurricane Sandy, which rightly merited an emergency supplemental funding bill. The storm caused the tragic and heartbreaking deaths of over two dozen people, left hundreds homeless, crippled our infrastructure and transportation networks, and damaged countless homes and small businesses,” wrote the New Jersey lawmakers. As of today, President Biden has declared a Major Disaster Declaration in 11 New Jersey counties, unlocking FEMA assistance for individuals and business owners. For information and resources available to those impacted by the remnants of Hurricane Ida, please visit booker.senate.gov/ida. Read the text of the letter below or here. Dear Chair DeLauro and Leahy, Ranking Member Granger and Vice Chairman Shelby: We are requesting emergency supplemental appropriations as soon as possible for the New Jersey region in the wake of Wednesday night’s destruction caused by Tropical Storm Ida. To date, the storm has taken 27 lives in New Jersey — more fatalities than in any other state in the Northeast. While the recovery and damage assessment continue, we ask that you act swiftly so that we can get Jersey’s families, small businesses, and local governments back on their feet. On Wednesday night, September 1, the remnants of Hurricane Ida slammed the Garden State with raging flash floods, tornadoes, and record rainfall. At Newark Liberty International Airport, the National… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T20:17:01Z |
| https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-menendez-applaud-biden-for-major-disaster-declaration-for-additional-counties-hit-hard-by-tropical-storm-ida | Booker, Menendez Applaud Biden for Major Disaster Declaration for Additional Counties Hit Hard by Tropical Storm Ida | 2021-09-10 | 2021 | 2021-09 | Democrat | Senate | NJ | Cory A. Booker | B001288 | www.booker.senate.gov | booker | https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press | scraper | Newark, N.J. – U.S. Senators Cory Booker and Bob Menendez (both D-N.J.) today applauded President Biden and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) for adding Essex, Hudson, Mercer and Union counties to the Major Disaster Declaration that was first issued to several counties on Sunday. The declaration will make these counties eligible for more federal resources as areas recover from damage caused by Tropical Storm Ida. The storm caused historic flash flooding, tornadoes and record rainfall, and resulted in the tragic deaths of at least 27 New Jerseyans. On Sunday, FEMA approved the Major Disaster Declaration for Bergen, Gloucester, Hunterdon, Middlesex, Passaic and Somerset counties. “Last week, New Jersey experienced the devastating impacts caused by the remnants of Hurricane Ida,” said Sen. Booker. “This amended disaster declaration will allow more communities in our state to get the critical federal assistance they need for their relief efforts. I was proud to work alongside Senator Menendez and the rest of the New Jersey delegation to get this vital aid for our state and am grateful to President Biden for his decisive response to this crisis.” “I’m glad President Biden approved a Major Disaster Declaration for these additional counties that were hit hard by the storm,” said Sen. Menendez. “With this declaration, Essex, Hudson, Mercer and Union counties now have access to greater federal assistance and resources to help residents, families, and businesses rebuild and get back on their feet. There is still more work to be done and I look forward to going back to Washington next week to fight for additional federal resources to help our state and region.” Sens. Booker and Menendez joined the state’s entire congressional delegation in urging Congressional leaders to pass an emergency disaster supplemental bill to rebuild homes, businesses and infrastructure affected by the storm. | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T20:17:01Z |
| https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/bipartisan-american-beef-labeling-act-would-reinstate-mandatory-country-of-origin-labeling | Bipartisan American Beef Labeling Act Would Reinstate Mandatory Country of Origin Labeling | 2021-09-09 | 2021 | 2021-09 | Democrat | Senate | NJ | Cory A. Booker | B001288 | www.booker.senate.gov | booker | https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Sens. Cory Booker (D-NJ), a member of the Senate Agriculture Committee, John Thune (R-S.D.), Jon Tester (D-Mont.), and Mike Rounds (R-S.D.) today announced the American Beef Labeling Act, legislation that would reinstate mandatory country of origin labeling (MCOOL) for beef. This legislation, which will be formally introduced next week, would require the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR), in consultation with the U.S. Secretary of Agriculture, to develop a World Trade Organization-compliant means of reinstating MCOOL for beef within one year of enactment. USTR would have six months to develop a reinstatement plan followed by a six-month window to implement it. If USTR fails to reinstate MCOOL for beef within one year of enactment, it would automatically be reinstated for beef only. “Americans should know exactly where their beef is coming from, but current USDA labeling practices allow big meatpacking companies to falsely label imported beef as being a product of the USA,” said Booker. “I’m proud to join colleagues in this bipartisan legislation that will restore mandatory country of origin labelling for all beef products and provide fairness for our family farmers and ranchers.” “Transparency in labeling benefits both producers and consumers,” said Thune. “Unfortunately, the current beef labeling system in this country allows imported beef that is neither born nor raised in the United States, but simply finished here, to be labeled as a product of the USA. This process is unfair to cattle producers and misleading for consumers. When you see a ‘product of the USA’ label on the grocery store shelf, it should mean just that. “South Dakota cattle producers work tirelessly to produce some of the highest quality beef in the world. The pandemic has only highlighted their important role in our domestic food supply and the urgent need to strengthen it. To ensure the viability of cattle ranching in this country, the system in which producers operate must be fair and transparent. As a long-time su… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T20:17:01Z |
| https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-president-biden-governor-murphy-and-fema-administrator-criswell-discuss-and-survey-damage-caused-by-ida | Booker, President Biden, Governor Murphy, and FEMA Administrator Criswell Discuss and Survey Damage Caused by Ida | 2021-09-07 | 2021 | 2021-09 | Democrat | Senate | NJ | Cory A. Booker | B001288 | www.booker.senate.gov | booker | https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press | scraper | Newark, NJ – Today, U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) met with President Joe Biden, Governor Phil Murphy, FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell, and local and state officials in Hillsborough, New Jersey, to discuss and survey damage following historic rain and flooding caused by the remnants of Hurricane Ida. During a briefing hosted by local officials in Hillsborough, New Jersey, Booker joined the President and called for the quick completion of preliminary damage assessments by FEMA in New Jersey counties severely impacted by the storm to ensure every resident gets the federal resources they need to recover. After the discussion, Booker toured a neighborhood in Manville, New Jersey, alongside the President and Governor to speak with residents impacted by the storm. Senator Booker with President Biden at a briefing to discuss relief operations after the effects of Ida. | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T20:17:01Z |
| https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-menendez-applaud-swift-action-by-biden-for-federal-assistance-after-tropical-storm-ida-ravaged-nj | BOOKER, MENENDEZ APPLAUD SWIFT ACTION BY BIDEN FOR FEDERAL ASSISTANCE AFTER TROPICAL STORM IDA RAVAGED NJ | 2021-09-03 | 2021 | 2021-09 | Democrat | Senate | NJ | Cory A. Booker | B001288 | www.booker.senate.gov | booker | https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press | scraper | Newark, N.J. – U.S. Senators Bob Menendez and Cory Booker (both D-N.J.) today applauded the Emergency Declaration issued to New Jersey for the damage inflicted on the state by Tropical Storm Ida. The storm caused historic flash flooding, tornadoes and record rainfall, and resulted in the tragic deaths of at least 23 New Jerseyans. The senators last night led the entire congressional delegation in a letter urging President Biden to approve Governor Phil Murphy’s request for a Major Disaster Declaration, which will make the state eligible for more federal resources as areas recover from damage. “For communities across New Jersey, this record-breaking storm has caused widespread devastation, and our state’s residents will need robust assistance in the coming days and weeks to rebuild,” said Sen. Booker. “I’m grateful to President Biden for his quick and decisive action that will provide New Jersey with the critical federal resources it needs to help with the immediate recovery efforts.” “I thank President Biden for quickly approving Governor Murphy’s request for federal assistance. This is much needed federal relief for all of New Jersey’s 21 counties,” said Sen. Menendez. “From the tornadoes, to the flooding and torrential rain, communities across the state are now burdened with debris removal and widespread power outages. This will help communities begin the recovery process, get families out of harm’s way and our transit systems back up and running.” In the letter, the lawmakers noted that FEMA Individual Assistance is needed to help New Jerseyans who were displaced from their homes due to flooding. FEMA Public Assistance is also critical in order to resume the state’s mass transit systems that millions of people rely on every day. Last night’s letter was also signed by U.S. Representatives Donald Norcross (N.J.-01), Jeff Van Drew (N.J.-02), Andy Kim (N.J.-03), Chris Smith (N.J.-04), Josh Gottheimer (N.J.-05), Frank Pallone, Jr. (N.J.-06), Tom Malinowksi (N.J.-07), Albio Sires (N.J.-08), Bill Pascrell, Jr. (… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T20:17:01Z |
| https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-menendez-lead-nj-delegation-call-for-president-to-issue-major-disaster-declaration-for-nj-after-tropical-storm-ida | BOOKER, MENENDEZ LEAD NJ DELEGATION CALL FOR PRESIDENT TO ISSUE MAJOR DISASTER DECLARATION FOR NJ AFTER TROPICAL STORM IDA | 2021-09-02 | 2021 | 2021-09 | Democrat | Senate | NJ | Cory A. Booker | B001288 | www.booker.senate.gov | booker | https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press | scraper | NEWARK, N.J. – U.S. Senators Bob Menendez and Cory Booker (both D-N.J.) today led the entire congressional delegation in calling on President Biden to approve Governor Phil Murphy’s request for a Major Disaster Declaration for all 21 counties. Approval of the request would make the state eligible for more federal resources as areas recover from damage caused by Tropical Storm Ida. The storm caused historic flash flooding, tornadoes and record rainfall, and resulted in the tragic deaths of at least 23 New Jerseyans. The state’s mass transit systems also suffered significant damage, which caused service disruptions for residents, commuters and travelers. Flooding at passenger and baggage areas at Newark Liberty International Airport caused flight cancellations and delays, while Teterboro Airport remains closed due to significant flooding on main roads around the facility. Service on NJ Transit remains halted due to downed trees and flooded areas. The lawmakers noted that FEMA Public Assistance is “critical” in order to quickly resume the transit systems that millions of people rely on every day. The letter was also signed by U.S. Representatives Donald Norcross (N.J.-01), Jeff Van Drew (N.J.-02), Andy Kim (N.J.-03), Chris Smith (N.J.-04), Josh Gottheimer (N.J.-05), Frank Pallone, Jr. (N.J.-06), Tom Malinowksi (N.J.-07), Albio Sires (N.J.-08), Bill Pascrell, Jr. (N.J.-09), Donald Payne, Jr. (N.J.-10), Mikie Sherrill (N.J.-11) and Bonnie Watson Coleman (N.J.-12). Full text of the letter can be found here and below. Dear President Biden: Governor Murphy has formally requested a Major Disaster Declaration for all 21 counties in the State of New Jersey in response to Tropical Strom Ida.We urge you to approve this request to ensure New Jersey has all the resources available to manage this disaster. Tropical Storm Ida has devastated our state through historic flash flooding, tornadoes, and record rainfalls. Tragically, at least 23 New Jerseyans have lost their lives due to the storm. Tropical Storm Ida poured inches… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T20:17:01Z |
| https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-epa-administrator-regan-nj-dep-commissioner-latourette-mayor-baraka-and-advocates-survey-and-discuss-environmental-justice-issues-affecting-newark-residents | Booker, EPA Administrator Regan, NJ DEP Commissioner LaTourette, Mayor Baraka, and Advocates Survey and Discuss Environmental Justice Issues Affecting Newark Residents | 2021-08-27 | 2021 | 2021-08 | Democrat | Senate | NJ | Cory A. Booker | B001288 | www.booker.senate.gov | booker | https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press | scraper | Newark, NJ - U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) joined EPA Administrator Michael Regan, New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection Commissioner Shawn LaTourette, Newark Mayor Ras Baraka, Ironbound Community Corporation, and New Jersey Environmental Justice Alliance for an environmental justice tour of the Ironbound neighborhood in Newark. The tour was followed by a roundtable discussion on federal policies to address issues affecting environmental justice communities. “Since my early days as a tenant rights lawyer in Newark, I’ve seen how underserved communities and communities of color bear the burden of legacy pollution, toxic Superfund sites, and the lack of clean air or water,” said Sen. Booker. “I was proud to host Administrator Regan, Commissioner LaTourette, and local environmental justice advocates for this important tour and discussion that underscores the urgent need to address stark environmental inequalities and racism. Such discussions between local, state, and federal entities are essential to ensuring residents in overlooked communities across the United States are given the tools, resources, and funding they need to achieve environmental justice.” “As EPA Administrator, I understand how important it is to be on the ground, to listen, and to learn from our communities on the frontlines of pollution,” said U.S. EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan. “It’s critical that we understand people’s lived experiences, and that these impacts on communities are at the forefront of EPA’s decision-making. I’m grateful to Senator Booker for his partnership, steadfast leadership, and for providing me an opportunity to see firsthand the environmental injustices facing the Ironbound community in Newark. By listening to our communities of color and working hand in hand with our state and local partners, we will ensure that all people in this country realize the full protections of our environmental laws and policies.” “Thanks to the partnership of our community leaders, advocates, and legislators, New Jersey is … | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T20:11:17Z |
| https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-statement-on-terror-attacks-in-afghanistan | Booker Statement on Terror Attacks in Afghanistan | 2021-08-26 | 2021 | 2021-08 | Democrat | Senate | NJ | Cory A. Booker | B001288 | www.booker.senate.gov | booker | https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press | scraper | Newark, NJ - US Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ), a member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, issued the following statement: “My heart and my prayers are with the loved ones of the American service members and Afghan civilians who were killed in the acts of terrorism earlier today in Afghanistan. “The American heroes who were killed today undoubtedly saved the lives of many more, their enduring legacy will be one of service and sacrifice. “I strongly condemn this act of terror and vow to work alongside my colleagues and the Biden Administration to find those responsible and hold them accountable. “I commend and am deeply grateful to the brave U.S. service members and diplomats working to continue the evacuation.” | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T20:11:17Z |
| https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-menendez-bipartisan-infrastructure-investment-and-jobs-act-delivers-for-nj | BOOKER, MENENDEZ: BIPARTISAN INFRASTRUCTURE INVESTMENT AND JOBS ACT DELIVERS FOR NJ | 2021-08-13 | 2021 | 2021-08 | Democrat | Senate | NJ | Cory A. Booker | B001288 | www.booker.senate.gov | booker | https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Cory Booker and Bob Menendez (both D-N.J.) released a breakdown of how the historic, $1.2 trillion bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act passed today in the U.S. Senate will provide record investments in New Jersey’s aging infrastructure to repair roads and bridges, expand mass transit, build the Gateway Project, replace water and sewer pipes, and increase broadband internet access. The bill projects to generate more than two million jobs per year over the next decade and deliver billions to New Jersey in federal funding to address the state’s most pressing infrastructure needs. The legislation will provide an estimated $12.31 billion in guaranteed transportation and transit funding formula dollars for New Jersey over the next five years—the largest ever investment in the state’s transportation infrastructure. The state will also receive a minimum $100 million to expand broadband internet access. State formula funding for water and sewer infrastructure has yet to be calculated, and New Jersey can still compete for additional federal funding through other discretionary sources TRANSPORTATION ·Highways/Roads $6,883,719,399 ·Bridges $1,146,780,115 ·Electric Vehicles $104,373,268 ·Ferry Service $24,407,410 TRANSIT ·TOTAL $4,154,648,806 ·FY21 $626,068,511 ·FY22 $792,674,692 ·FY23 $809,730,546 ·FY24 $831,558,775 ·FY25 $849,219,308 ·FY26 $871,465,485 BROADBAND $100,000,000 (*min.) The Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act also includes additional infrastructure funding for federal programs that will benefit New Jersey, namely: GATEWAY PROJECT ·Amtrak’s Northeast Corridor (NEC) $30,000,000,000 ·Capital Improvement Grants oSupplemental appropriation $8,000,000,000 oAnnual authorization $3,000,000,000 (Note: Funding from these programs can be used to complete Gateway) AIRPORTS ·Airport Infrastructure Grants $15,000,000,000 ·Airport Terminal Program $5,000,000,000 (Note: Funding is national over the next five years) WATER INFRASTRUCTURE ·Drinking Wate… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T20:11:17Z |
| https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-durbin-urge-president-biden-to-use-executive-authority-to-allow-individuals-under-federal-custody-to-remain-on-home-confinement | BOOKER, DURBIN URGE PRESIDENT BIDEN TO USE EXECUTIVE AUTHORITY TO ALLOW INDIVIDUALS UNDER FEDERAL CUSTODY TO REMAIN ON HOME CONFINEMENT | 2021-08-12 | 2021 | 2021-08 | Democrat | Senate | NJ | Cory A. Booker | B001288 | www.booker.senate.gov | booker | https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ), Chair of the Senate Judiciary Subcommittee on Criminal Justice and Counterterrorism, and U.S. Senate Majority Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Chair of the Senate Judiciary Committee, today sent a letter to President Biden urging his Administration to rescind a Trump-era opinion that would force individuals on home confinement to return to federal prison following the COVID-19 pandemic. In their letter, Booker and Durbin note that the Office of Legal Counsel’s (OLC) January 15, 2021, memorandum opinion incorrectly found that following the emergency period of the pandemic, the Bureau of Prisons (BOP) must recall people who had been released to home confinement pursuant to the CARES Act to complete their sentences at BOP facilities. In fact, the CARES Act does not require or permit BOP to recall these individuals. “Your Administration has ample executive authority to immediately provide the certainty these returning citizens deserve as they reintegrate into their communities, reunite with their families, and join in rebuilding our economy,” the Senators wrote. “We urge you to use your unfettered pardon power to immediately commute the sentences of those on home confinement pursuant to the CARES Act.” Since March 26, 2020, thousands of people have been released to home confinement and halfway houses, and less than one percent have been returned to BOP facilities for violating the conditions of their release. The Senators continued, “These individuals, who were released only after careful vetting by BOP, have successfully transitioned to home confinement. They have reunited with family, obtained jobs, and are abiding by the conditions of their release.” The CARES Act expanded BOP’s home confinement authority to reduce prison populations to help contain the spread of the virus, The Act provides that during the covered emergency period, BOP may lengthen the maximum amount of time an individual may be placed in pre-release home confinement under 18 U.S.C. § 3624(c)(2). Rec… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T20:11:17Z |
| https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-statement-on-senate-passage-of-bipartisan-infrastructure-bill | Booker Statement on Senate Passage of Bipartisan Infrastructure Bill | 2021-08-10 | 2021 | 2021-08 | Democrat | Senate | NJ | Cory A. Booker | B001288 | www.booker.senate.gov | booker | https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) issued the following statement on Senate passage of the bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act of 2021: “After months of bipartisan negotiations, I applaud the Senate for passing the most extensive infrastructure investment our country has seen in decades. This landmark legislation will help create millions of good-paying jobs throughout our country, strengthen our national security, and bolster our economy -- making us more economically competitive with other nations. “New Jersey and our country badly need federal investment to modernize our nation’s rail and transit systems, repair our crumbling roads and tunnels and deteriorating water systems, strengthen cyberinfrastructure, expand broadband access, and combat climate change. “The IIJA also includes key funding for Amtrak and transit that will support completion of the Gateway Program, funding for the construction and refurbishment of household decentralized wastewater systems that I’ve worked to advance for years, and a toll credit exchange pilot program, ferry operators provision, and wildlife crossing safety program based on my legislation. “I am proud to have worked with my colleagues in passing this bipartisan legislation and look forward to following it up with a budget bill that will make significant and transformative investmentsto lower costs for American families, create additional American jobs, and move our country forward in addressing the climate crisis.” Specifically, the bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act of 2021 will include the following: $66 billion for passenger and freight rail including $30 billion in dedicated funding for Amtrak’s Northeast Corridor that will address the region’s backlog of repairs and improve service. $39.2 billion of new investments over baseline funding for a total of $89.9 billion to modernize transit. $111 billion in new investments in roads and bridges including a $40 billion dedicated program to rebuild our nation’s aging … | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T20:11:17Z |
| https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-warren-reintroduce-bill-to-crack-down-on-bank-overdraft-fees | Booker, Warren Reintroduce Bill to Crack Down on Bank Overdraft Fees | 2021-08-09 | 2021 | 2021-08 | Democrat | Senate | NJ | Cory A. Booker | B001288 | www.booker.senate.gov | booker | https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senators Cory Booker (D-NJ) and Elizabeth Warren (D-MA) today reintroduced legislation to crack down on exploitative overdraft fees that banks charge consumers when they make a purchase or pay a bill but don’t have sufficient funds in their account. The Stop Overdraft Profiteering Act of 2021 would ban overdraft fees on debit card transactions and ATM withdrawals, and limit fees placed for checks and recurring payments. It would also mandate that banks post transactions in a manner that minimizes overdraft and nonsufficient fund fees (often times, banks reorder transactions in such a way as to maximize overdraft fees, which can mean, in some cases, that the consumer faces multiple charges). “Exploitative and excessive overdraft fees allow banks to reap enormous profits at the expense of the most economically vulnerable people,” said Sen Booker. “Even when accounting for the temporary and uneven measures that the industry took to provide relief to consumers throughout the pandemic, banks continued to make billions of dollars of revenue last year on the backs of their most vulnerable consumers. Our bill will require banks to institute overdraft protections and transparency measures that protect consumers and put an end to the unfair practices that can often be the tipping point toward financial ruin for struggling families. Families emerging from this crisis cannot continued to be saddled by these burdensome and abusive practices.” "While the COVID-19 pandemic has swept across the country and millions of families have struggled financially, big banks have reaped in billions of profits made from overdraft fees," said Senator Warren. I am glad to introduce this critical legislation with Senator Booker to protect consumers and crackdown on these predatory practices.” Specifically the Stop Overdraft Profiteering Act of 2021 would: Prohibit overdraft fees on debit card transactions and ATM withdrawals. Prohibit financial institutions from charging more than one overdraft fee per month and n… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T20:11:17Z |
| https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-hirono-blunt-rochester-and-fitzpatrick-reintroduce-bill-to-boost-small-business-growth-in-rural-low-income-and-underserved-areas | Booker, Hirono, Blunt Rochester, and Fitzpatrick Reintroduce Bill to Boost Small Business Growth in Rural, Low-Income, and Underserved Areas | 2021-08-06 | 2021 | 2021-08 | Democrat | Senate | NJ | Cory A. Booker | B001288 | www.booker.senate.gov | booker | https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senators Cory Booker (D-NJ), a member of the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, and Mazie Hirono (D-HI) today reintroduced legislation that invests in startup accelerators and incubators in new and underserved areas. Research indicates that just three geographic clusters — the San Francisco Bay area, the Boston-Washington corridor, and Southern California—account for 77 percent of venture capital funding in the United States, driving small business job growth to thrive in these areas and leaving rural, low-income, and other underserved areas behind. Companion legislation was introduced in the House by U.S. Representatives Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-DE, At-Large) and Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA-1). Incubation and accelerator programs, which provide entrepreneurs with essential services such as experienced leadership, office space, access to financing opportunities, and structured mentorship for certain periods of time, are critical elements of innovation ecosystems where successful startups can flourish. According to research conducted at MIT, areas in which an accelerator opens see a 97 percent increase in the number of distinct venture capital investors compared to similar areas without an accelerator. “When we fail to get entrepreneurs the resources they need to scale their businesses, regardless of their zip code or wealth, we leave some of the best ideas and innovations on the sidelines,” said Sen. Booker. “To aid in our country’s long term economic recovery, our bill will make robust investments to help fund new startup programs in low-income and underserved areas, providing more entrepreneurs with the support they need to launch their businesses and create jobs.” “Every day across our country, small businesses and entrepreneurs drive innovation and growth, and create jobs,” Senator Hirono said. “The SOAR Act is a critical opportunity to provide more businesses and entrepreneurs with the resources they need to succeed—regardless of where they may be located. Passing … | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T20:11:17Z |
| https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-introduces-legislation-to-end-draconian-policy-that-prevents-formerly-incarcerated-individuals-from-accessing-government-assistance-programs | Booker Introduces Legislation to End Draconian Policy that Prevents Formerly Incarcerated Individuals from Accessing Government Assistance Programs | 2021-08-06 | 2021 | 2021-08 | Democrat | Senate | NJ | Cory A. Booker | B001288 | www.booker.senate.gov | booker | https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press | scraper | Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) introduced the Making Essentials Available and Lawful Act, or the MEAL Act. This legislation would repeal a lifetime ban that prevents formerly incarcerated individuals convicted of felony drug offenses from accessing Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits or assistance under programs funded by Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) block grants. Earlier this year, Representatives Steve Cohen (D-TN), Gwen Moore (D-WI), Bonnie Watson Coleman (D-NJ), and Jahana Hayes (D-CT) introduced companion legislation in the House. According to the U.S. Bureau of Justice Statistics, more than 600,000 individuals are released from local and federal prisons every year. However, due to the Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity Act established in 1996, many formerly incarcerated individuals do not have access to critical programs such as SNAP and TANF. Meanwhile, studies have shown that access to public assistance like SNAP and TANF is associated with a reduced risk of recidivism among returning citizens. “For formerly incarcerated individuals trying to reenter society, the lifetime ban on SNAP and TANF benefits poses unnecessary barriers that we know increase the risk of recidivism,” said Senator Booker. “Those who have repaid their debt to society shouldn’t have to suffer from a lifetime of continued punishment. The MEAL Act will repeal this decades-old lifetime ban and ensure that people convicted of felony drug offenses can meet their basic needs and safely reintegrate into their communities.” “I am pleased to be working with Senator Booker and Representatives Gwen Moore, Bonnie Watson Coleman, and Jahana Hayes on these commonsense and humane re-entry reforms,” said Congressman Cohen. “Thousands of people released from state and federal prisons each year re-enter society and find major, and unnecessary, challenges, including lifetime bans on food assistance and TANF. The MEAL Act would repeal the 1996 ban on people with drug felony c… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T20:11:17Z |
| https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-leads-senators-in-urging-majority-leader-schumer-to-include-baby-bonds-in-the-reconciliation-package | Booker Leads Senators in Urging Majority Leader Schumer to Include “Baby Bonds” in the Reconciliation Package | 2021-08-06 | 2021 | 2021-08 | Democrat | Senate | NJ | Cory A. Booker | B001288 | www.booker.senate.gov | booker | https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C – Today, U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) led a letter urging Majority Leader Chuck Schumer to include the American Opportunity Accounts Act, or “Baby Bonds,” in the reconciliation package. If included and passed, this groundbreaking legislation will create a federally-funded savings account for every American child that will make economic opportunity a birthright for every American and substantially close the racial wealth gap. Staggering wealth inequality in the U.S. has only worsened in the past six decades, especially along racial lines. According to the 2019 Survey of Consumer Finances, the median white family has eight dollars in wealth for every one dollar held by Black families, and the members of the Forbes 400 wealthiest Americans own more wealth than all black families in the U.S. combined. Recent studies by Columbia University and Morningstar have found that a program like Baby Bonds would substantially close the racial wealth gap among young adults in America. “The COVID-19 pandemic, ensuing economic crisis, and ongoing recovery have only further exposed vast economic inequities along racial lines,” the senators wrote to Majority Leader Chuck Schumer. “Today, the median white family has eight dollars in wealth for every one dollar held by Black families, and the members of the Forbes 400 wealthiest Americans hold more wealth than all Black families in the U.S. combined. These disparities left Black families particularly vulnerable during this crisis as they dealt with the challenges of high costs of healthcare, unemployment, and remote learning without the buffer of savings and resources.” “To be clear, these disparities are the result of intentional policymaking,” the senators continued. “For decades, federal, state, and local policy has stripped wealth and opportunity from Black and Brown people, and our tax code is overwhelmingly skewed to reward the already-affluent. We have an opportunity to build a just economic recovery that addresses the economic injustices of the past and p… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T20:11:17Z |
| https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/08/05/2021/booker-reintroduces-sweeping-environmental-justice-bill | Booker Reintroduces Sweeping Environmental Justice Bill | 2021-08-05 | 2021 | 2021-08 | Democrat | Senate | NJ | Cory A. Booker | B001288 | www.booker.senate.gov | booker | https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C.— U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) reintroduced sweeping legislation to address the environmental injustices that harm communities of color, low-income communities, and indigenous communities around the country. The Environmental Justice Act of 2021 would require federal agencies to mitigate environmental injustices through agency action and would strengthen the legal protections of those affected by environmental injustices. Congressman Dr. Raul Ruiz, M.D. (D-CA) introduced companion legislation in the House of Representatives earlier this year. “We cannot achieve economic justice or social justice in this country without simultaneously addressing environmental justice,” said Senator Booker. “Clean air and clean water shouldn’t be luxuries for the privileged – yet every day, communities of color, low income communities, and indigenous communities are disproportionately harmed by pollution. This reality has largely been ignored, and the affected communities have been left without the legal tools to protect their rights. The Environmental Justice Act is an important step in returning power to these communities.” “Having clean water to drink and clean air to breathe is not a privilege for the affluent few – it's a right and common good for everyone," said Dr. Ruiz. "My bill with Senator Booker, the Environmental Justice Act of 2021, will strengthen protections for vulnerable at-risk populations, give impacted communities the ability to hold big corporations and government accountable, and provide much-needed funds to mitigate and prevent future environmental hazards. Our legislation will take an important step forward in creating a healthier environment for all." Booker worked closely with dozens of grassroots organizations in New Jersey and across the country to craft this comprehensive bill that strengthens environmental justice protections for vulnerable communities. As part of that effort, in 2017, he visited important environmental justice communities in the Southeastern United States, includ… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T20:11:17Z |
| https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-duckworth-re-introduce-bill-to-improve-disaster-response-and-recovery-plans-in-prisons | Booker, Duckworth Re-introduce Bill to Improve Disaster Response and Recovery Plans in Prisons | 2021-08-04 | 2021 | 2021-08 | Democrat | Senate | NJ | Cory A. Booker | B001288 | www.booker.senate.gov | booker | https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Cory Booker (D-NJ) and Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) re-introduced legislation that would ensure prison disaster response and recovery plans protect the health, safety and civil rights of incarcerated individuals during natural disasters and public health emergencies. The legislation follows a U.S. Government Accountability Office report—which is part of Duckworth and U.S. Senator Maggie Hassan’s (D-NH) requested review of the Bureau of Prisons’ (BOP) emergency preparedness—found shortcomings in BOP’s COVID-19 response that impacted the health and safety of those incarcerated and exacerbated staffing shortages. “The COVID-19 pandemic has revealed alarming gaps in the response and preparedness plans currently used to safeguard the health, well-being, and dignity of incarcerated people during emergencies,” said Booker. “Our legislation will ensure Congress has the oversight to address these gaps and will help correctional facilities implement vital changes to protect the lives of incarcerated people during future natural disasters.” “One of the many injustices exposed by this deadly pandemic is the fact that incarcerated individuals are particularly vulnerable during major disasters since they rely on staff to provide necessities and decide whether to evacuate to a safer location,” Duckworth said. “I’m re-introducing this bill today to help make sure that federal and state correctional agencies appropriately prioritize the health and safety of incarcerated individuals and staff during major disasters by better assessing damages sustained from these disasters, taking corrective actions to resolve preparedness gaps and seeking input from professionals with emergency management and health backgrounds, as well as formerly incarcerated individuals.” The Correctional Facility Disaster Preparedness Act would: ·Strengthen oversight by requiring the Bureau of Prisons (BOP) to provide an annual damage assessment report to Congress after a presidential disaster declaration or other major disaster… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T20:11:17Z |
| https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-and-warner-reintroduce-legislation-to-lower-prescription-drug-costs-for-children | BOOKER & WARNER REINTRODUCE LEGISLATION TO LOWER PRESCRIPTION DRUG COSTS FOR CHILDREN | 2021-07-30 | 2021 | 2021-07 | Democrat | Senate | NJ | Cory A. Booker | B001288 | www.booker.senate.gov | booker | https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press | scraper | WASHINGTON – U.S. Sens. Cory Booker (D-NJ) and Mark R. Warner (D-VA) reintroduced legislation to help lower the costs of needed medical care and prescription drugs for children. The Fair Drug Prices for Kids Act would give states the ability to purchase prescription drugs at the lowest price possible, reducing the cost of prescription drugs for children who receive coverage through the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) and generatingimmediate savings for states and the federal government. “Skyrocketing health care costs – including prescription drug costs – have left many families unable to afford critical life-saving medication for their children,” said Sen. Booker. “Our bill will make important changes to the CHIP program, lowering drug prices for over 4 million children and helping states save money. Health care is a fundamental right and this legislation is critical to ensuring that more of our nation’s children have access to quality, affordable care.” “It’s an absolute tragedy that in one of the richest nations in the world, families still face a steep price tag for their child’s lifesaving prescription drug,” said Sen. Warner. “This commonsense bill would cut through bureaucratic red tape and give states the ability to secure the best possible price – something that is currently forbidden under current law.” The Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) provides low-cost health coverage to low-income children who would otherwise be uninsured. Currently, states can either have a standalone CHIP that is separate from Medicaid, or they can expand Medicaid eligibility to achieve the same goal of providing health insurance to low-income children. States can also have a combination program. However, states that have a standalone CHIP are not allowed to participate in the Medicaid Drug Rebate program (MDRP), which allows state Medicaid programs to purchase products from drug manufacturers at “Medicaid best price” – the lowest price offered to any other commercial payer. This means that these states … | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T20:03:51Z |
| https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-capito-pascrell-mckinley-introduce-legislation-to-extend-alternatives-to-opioids-program | Booker, Capito, Pascrell, McKinley Introduce Legislation to Extend Alternatives to Opioids Program | 2021-07-29 | 2021 | 2021-07 | Democrat | Senate | NJ | Cory A. Booker | B001288 | www.booker.senate.gov | booker | https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press | scraper | WASHINGTON, DC – Today, U.S. Senators Cory Booker (D-NJ) and Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV) introduced legislation to reauthorize the Alternatives to Opioids (ALTO) in the Emergency Department program at $10 million annually over five years. The ALTO program was created in 2018 by Booker and Capito-led measure in the Senate that was included in the Substance Use-Disorder Prevention that Promotes Opioid Recovery and Treatment (SUPPORT) for Patients and Communities Act (P.L. 115-271). Companion legislation has been introduced in the House by Representatives Bill Pascrell, Jr. (D-NJ-09), David McKinley (R-WV-01), Diana DeGette (D-CO-01), and Brad Wenstrup (R-OH-02). “Successfully addressing the devastating effects and unimaginable pain caused by the opioid epidemic requires a holistic and innovative response such as the one pioneered by St. Joseph’s Medical Hospital in New Jersey for years,” said Sen. Booker. “I’m proud to introduce legislation that will ensure St. Joe’s innovative program can continue to be a blueprint of success for communities, helping us reduce the number of opioid prescriptions written in emergency rooms across our nation.” “Last year, we lost more Americans than ever before to drug overdoses, and it’s another reminder that we need to redouble our efforts to curb the addiction crisis in our country,” said Sen. Capito. “Doing so requires an all-hands-on-deck approach and the ALTO in the Emergency Department Act is a tool that will help in this fight. Millions of opioid prescriptions are written each year, and a significant portion of opioid overdose deaths involve these prescription opioids. There are alternatives to treating pain that can help save lives, and that is exactly what our bill aims to do. By helping to explore non-opioid pain treatments, I am hopeful this bill will help decrease opioid usage in West Virginia.” “The ALTO program we created is an essential tool in our longstanding fight against the opioid crisis. We must continue to fund this lifesaving program with every dollar it ne… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T20:03:51Z |
| https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-crdenas-bass-announce-second-chance-for-justice-legislative-package | Booker, Cárdenas, Bass Announce Second Chance for Justice Legislative Package | 2021-07-28 | 2021 | 2021-07 | Democrat | Senate | NJ | Cory A. Booker | B001288 | www.booker.senate.gov | booker | https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ), Congressman Tony Cárdenas (CA-29), and Congresswoman Karen Bass (CA-37) released the Second Chance for Justice Package, a group of bills aimed at reforming the criminal and juvenile justice system. “Our nation’s broken criminal justice system is the result of decades of failed policies that have shattered families and inflicted devastating harm on young people, especially on Black and Brown youth,” said Senator Booker. "Our juvenile justice bills will provide critical, innovative, and community-based solutions that will protect minors who are involved with the criminal justice system and provide them the support to avoid contact with the system in the first place.” “Growing up in Pacoima, I witnessed how our broken criminal and juvenile justice systems kept neighborhood kids in a perpetual cycle of incarceration,” said Congressman Cárdenas. “I saw how systemic problems literally ruined the lives of generations of children. We all make mistakes when we’re young, but those mistakes should not determine our futures. I'm leading the Second Chance for Justice legislative package with Congresswoman Bass and Senator Booker because I believe our children deserve to live in a world where they can change for the better, and where their future is not defined by a single mistake. Our bills will provide smart, meaningful solutions and close loopholes that treat at-risk kids like criminals. Investing in children is one of the best things we can do, and I’m proud our package embodies the principles that will give them the second chance they deserve.” “After decades of increasingly punitive and failed juvenile justice policies, it’s time to take a step in a direction that recognizes that children are different than adults, that they have enormous potential for rehabilitation, change, and growth, and that we can do better to meet their developmental needs,” said Congresswoman Bass. “This applies to all children – no matter what they look like or where they grow up. I’m prou… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T20:03:51Z |
| https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-capito-introduce-legislation-to-tackle-uterine-fibroids-through-research-education | Booker, Capito Introduce Legislation to Tackle Uterine Fibroids through Research, Education | 2021-07-23 | 2021 | 2021-07 | Democrat | Senate | NJ | Cory A. Booker | B001288 | www.booker.senate.gov | booker | https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Cory Booker (D-N.J.) and Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) today introduced the Stephanie Tubbs Jones Uterine Fibroid Research and Education Act, legislationthat would create research and public education programs to support women suffering from uterine fibroids. “As we mark Fibroid Awareness Month, we must continue our work to address the devastating health impacts uterine fibroids have on nearly 26 million women, especially Black women, nationwide,” Senator Booker said. “By funding critical research and increasing public and provider awareness, this bipartisan legislation will help enhance the quality of care provided to those living with uterine fibroids, including better diagnostic and treatment options.” “Millions of women are affected by uterine fibroids, which often go undiagnosed and can have significant health consequences in both the short and long term,” Senator Capito said. “Making investments in research and education efforts is a critical step in supporting individuals who suffer from this condition across our country. I’m proud to join with Senator Booker to both honor a champion of this issue and help prevent, diagnose, and treat uterine fibroids for future generations of women.” July marks Fibroid Awareness Month, an opportunity to raise awareness for uterine fibroids, which are noncancerous growths of the uterus that impact an estimated 26 million women nationwide. Symptoms of this devastating condition include severe menstrual bleeding, anemia, pregnancy complications and loss, and infertility. In addition to the pain and discomfort they cause, uterine fibroids cost the health care system an estimated $5.9 billion to $34.4 billion every year. Despite their prevalence and impact, preventing, diagnosing, and treating uterine fibroids is very difficult. This condition often goes undiagnosed, and even when it is accurately diagnosed, treatment is usually invasive and can lead to infertility. Black women are particularly impacted by this condition as they tend to de… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T20:03:51Z |
| https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-durbin-applaud-passage-of-the-equal-act-out-of-house-judiciary-committee | Booker, Durbin Applaud Passage of the EQUAL Act out of House Judiciary Committee | 2021-07-21 | 2021 | 2021-07 | Democrat | Senate | NJ | Cory A. Booker | B001288 | www.booker.senate.gov | booker | https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. - Today, U.S. Senators Cory Booker (D-NJ), a member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, and Dick Durbin (D-IL), chair of the Senate Judiciary Committee, applauded the passage of the EQUAL Act out of the House Judiciary Committee. “Advancing the EQUAL Act out of the House Judiciary Committee represents a welcome step forward in finally rectifying the decades-long federal crack and powder cocaine sentencing disparity that has devastated Black and Brown communities,” said. Sen. Booker. “As we continue to fight against systemic racial inequities, I urge all members of the House and Senate to support this critical piece of legislation that will help right the wrongs of our nation’s failed War on Drugs and reform our broken criminal justice system.” “The crack-powder cocaine sentencing disparity disproportionally impacts people of color, with 81 percent of those convicted of federal crack offenses from 2015 to 2019 being Black,” said Sen. Durbin. “We need to end this injustice once and for all by eliminating the crack-powder disparity. I’m glad the House Judiciary Committee took this important step forward on our bill today and I will continue to work with Senator Booker to advance it in the Senate on a bipartisan basis.” After passage of the Anti-Drug Abuse Act of 1986, sentencing for crack and powder cocaine offenses differed and were criticized over the years for lacking scientific justification and disproportionately impacting people of color. In January 2021, Senators Booker and Durbin introduced the Eliminating a Quantifiably Unjust Application of the Law (EQUAL) Act to eliminate the crack and powder cocaine sentencing disparity and re-sentence those previously convicted or sentenced for a federal offense involving cocaine. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T20:03:51Z |
| https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-durbin-we-should-not-force-individuals-on-home-confinement-to-return-to-prison | BOOKER, DURBIN: WE SHOULD NOT FORCE INDIVIDUALS ON HOME CONFINEMENT TO RETURN TO PRISON | 2021-07-20 | 2021 | 2021-07 | Democrat | Senate | NJ | Cory A. Booker | B001288 | www.booker.senate.gov | booker | https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press | scraper | WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ), Chair of the Senate Judiciary Subcommittee on Criminal Justice and Counterterrorism, and U.S. Senate Majority Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Chair of the Senate Judiciary Committee, today responded to reports that the Biden Administration has decided that thousands of nonviolent inmates who were released on home confinement to reduce the spread of COVID-19 will be required to return to prison one month after the official state of emergency for the pandemic ends. “The Trump-era’s Office of Legal Counsel opinion that will require incarcerated individuals return to prison once the public health emergency ends serves no public health purpose and only works to unnecessarily incarcerate people who have succeeded in re-entering society,” said Sen. Booker. “I am deeply troubled that the Department of Justice has not rescinded this opinion as we previously requested and urge the Department to reconsider our request. If the Biden Department of Justice feels this is not possible, then other legal means must be considered to ensure that these individuals are not sent back to federal prison. ” “Individuals on CARES Act home confinement have posed no threat, and are already reintegrating into society, reconnecting with their families, and contributing to our economy,” said Sen. Durbin. “I have repeatedly urged the Department of Justice to rescind a Trump-era legal opinion that would needlessly force thousands to return to prison. If this opinion is not withdrawn, the Biden Administration must use other legal tools – like compassionate release and clemency – to ensure that no inmate who has successfully transitioned to home confinement is returned to prison.” In April, Booker and Durbin sent a letter to Attorney General Merrick Garland requesting that he rescind the Office of Legal Counsel’s January 15, 2021, memorandum opinion entitled “Home Confinement of Federal Prisoners After the COVID-19 Emergency” (OLC opinion). In their letter, Booker and Durbin noted that the OLC opinion, issu… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T20:03:51Z |
| https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-leads-14-senators-in-urging-fina-to-reverse-policy-barring-swim-caps-designed-for-natural-black-hair-in-upcoming-tokyo-olympics | Booker Leads 14 Senators in Urging FINA to Reverse Policy Barring Swim Caps Designed for Natural Black Hair in Upcoming Tokyo Olympics | 2021-07-20 | 2021 | 2021-07 | Democrat | Senate | NJ | Cory A. Booker | B001288 | www.booker.senate.gov | booker | https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ), a member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, led a letter to Husain Al-Musallam, President of the Fédération Internationale De Natation (FINA) – competitive swimming’s international governing body – urging him to reverse the organization’s recent decision prohibiting the use of swim caps designed for natural Black hair in the upcoming Tokyo Olympics. This letter was also signed by Senators Dick Durbin (D-IL), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Tina Smith (D-MN), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Ed Markey (D-MA), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Alex Padilla (D-CA), Raphael Warnock (D-GA), Patty Murray (D-WA), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), and Bernie Sanders (I-VT). “In its statement expressing its intent to ensure there are no barriers to swimming, FINA explained that it must ensure that ‘swimwear does not confer a competitive advantage’ to swimmers. What this misses is that the ban on swim caps for natural hair is a barrier in and of itself that primarily disadvantages Black swimmers,” the senators wrote. “For too long, Black people have had to conform to the societal and cultural norms in areas of life from which they have been excluded. It is time to recognize this history and make all spaces – including competitive swimming – inclusive.” “As an international organization that sets the standards for swimming across the globe, FINA bears a special responsibility to ensure it serves all people and cultures. FINA has stated that it will review its decision to ban swim caps for natural hair and embark on initiatives to promote inclusivity. While we appreciate this commitment, FINA has the ability to reconsider its policy to ban swim caps for natural hair now,” the senators concluded. The full text of the letter can be found here and below. July 20, 2021 Husain Al-Musallam President Fédération Internationale de Natation Chemin de Bellevue 24a/24b CH - 1005 Lausanne Switzerland Dear President Al-Musallam, W… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T20:03:51Z |
| https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/senator-booker-speaker-pelosi-leader-schumer-house-and-senate-dpcc-chairs-uplift-moms-helped-by-biden-child-tax-credit | SENATOR BOOKER, SPEAKER PELOSI, LEADER SCHUMER, HOUSE & SENATE DPCC CHAIRS UPLIFT MOMS HELPED BY BIDEN CHILD TAX CREDIT | 2021-07-20 | 2021 | 2021-07 | Democrat | Senate | NJ | Cory A. Booker | B001288 | www.booker.senate.gov | booker | https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press | scraper | (Washington, DC) – Today, Senator Booker, Vice Chair of the Senate Democratic Policy and Communications Committee (DPCC), House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Senate Majority Leader Charles Schumer joined House and Senate DPCC Chairs and MomsRising to share stories of what the historic tax relief from President Biden’s Child Tax Credit means to working families. They were joined by House DPCC Co-chairs Matt Cartwright (PA-08), Debbie Dingell (MI-12), Ted Lieu (CA-33) and Joe Neguse (CO-02), Senate DPCC Chair Debbie Stabenow (MI) , and moms Daniella Knight of Maryland and Sarah Taylor of Virginia. The Child Tax Credit provides historic tax relief for nearly all hardworking families – roughly 39 million households, covering almost 90 percent of children in the United States. Monthly advanced payments of the Child Tax Credit started hitting bank accounts for working families last week. Every single Congressional Republican voted against the Child Tax Credit. Learn more at Childtaxcredit.gov. “Last week, the families of nearly 60 million children across our nation received the first advance child tax credit payments,” said Senate DPCC Vice Chair Booker (NJ). “This historic investment will make a difference in the lives of working people, allowing them to put food on the table, covering child care expenses, and bringing much-needed economic relief to millions in the midst of a continuing pandemic. I will continue to work alongside my colleagues to make sure these expanded payments are extended and ultimately made permanent for generations to come.” “Today, Democrats from both chambers of Congress joined together to celebrate a promise fulfilled: families receiving their first checks from the American Rescue Plan’s Biden Child Tax Credit!” said Speaker Nancy Pelosi. “The expanded Biden Child Tax Credit is Social Security for children, delivering life-changing benefits for 35 million families nationwide and cutting child poverty in half. President Biden and Congressional Democrats will continue to fight to make this expa… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T20:03:51Z |
| https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-delauro-re-introduce-bill-to-increase-access-to-infertility-treatment | Booker, DeLauro Re-Introduce Bill to Increase Access to Infertility Treatment | 2021-07-16 | 2021 | 2021-07 | Democrat | Senate | NJ | Cory A. Booker | B001288 | www.booker.senate.gov | booker | https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) and Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro (D-CT) re-introduced a bicameral bill to expand health insurance coverage of infertility treatment and services. The Access to Infertility Treatment and Care Act would require more health insurers to provide coverage for infertility treatment, as well as fertility preservation services for individuals who undergo medically necessary procedures that may cause infertility, such as chemotherapy. “Infertility is a common medical condition, but few health insurance plans cover its treatment, leaving many American families financially burdened or unable to grow their families,” said Senator Booker. “The Access to Infertility Treatment and Care Act will help alleviate that burden by requiring more insurance plans to cover treatment for infertility and fertility preservation services.” “When people do not have insurance coverage for infertility treatment and care, they are forced to make impossible choice between essentials like food, clothing, and housing or paying out of pocket for the chance to have a child,” said Congresswoman DeLauro. “The emotional and physical toll of infertility should not be intensified by the financial burden that can come with treatment. The Access to Infertility Treatment and Care Act will help ensure all Americans get the insurance coverage they deserve and the opportunity to grow their family.” “Expanding access to affordable health care services is vital to help create strong and healthy families. This bill will improve coverage of infertility treatment and fertility preservation for patients,” said Senator Menendez. “Aside from the enormous emotional toll, helping women and couples conceive is incredibly expensive. Our bill lifts some of that financial burden, protects parents from going bankrupt trying to have a child, and allows families to grow.” “For many families, infertility treatments are expensive and often out of reach,” said Senator Gillibrand. “These important and life-changing services streng… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T20:03:51Z |
| https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-congressional-ctc-champions-celebrate-first-payments-call-for-permanent-expansion | Booker, Congressional CTC Champions Celebrate First Payments, Call for Permanent Expansion | 2021-07-15 | 2021 | 2021-07 | Democrat | Senate | NJ | Cory A. Booker | B001288 | www.booker.senate.gov | booker | https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press | scraper | WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Senators Cory Booker (NJ), Michael Bennet (CO), and Sherrod Brown (OH), and Representatives Suzan DelBene (WA-01), Rosa DeLauro (CT-03), and Ritchie Torres (NY-15), released the following statement on the delivery of the first Child Tax Credit payments. “Today is a historic day for American families. With the delivery of the first round of expanded Child Tax Credit payments, help is here for parents that have been struggling to make ends meet during this pandemic. The expanded credit will provide relief to nearly 66 million children – close to 90 percent of all kids in this country. This is one of the single most impactful and transformative parts of the American Rescue Plan. “The expanded credit is in place for only one year. We cannot stop now. Kids do not grow up in one year or five years. Parents deserve the predictability a permanent expansion would provide as they raise their families. We must seize this moment to permanently expand the credit. Doing so would cut childhood poverty in half and help us rebuild our middle class for the next generation. “With support from the overwhelming majority of Democrats in both chambers and House and Senate leadership, we will use every tool at our disposal to help make this a permanent benefit.” More information about the Child Tax Credit and how parents can claim the credit can be found atChildTaxCredit.gov. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T20:03:51Z |
| https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-reintroduces-bill-to-reform-farm-system-with-expanded-support-from-farm-labor-environment-public-health-faith-based-and-animal-welfare-groups | Booker Reintroduces Bill to Reform Farm System With Expanded Support From Farm, Labor, Environment, Public Health, Faith Based and Animal Welfare Groups | 2021-07-15 | 2021 | 2021-07 | Democrat | Senate | NJ | Cory A. Booker | B001288 | www.booker.senate.gov | booker | https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) today reintroduced legislation to create a level playing field for independent family farmers and transform the broken system built by multi-national meatpacking companies. The Farm System Reform Act would, among other things, strengthen the Packers & Stockyards Act to crack down on the monopolistic practices of meatpackers and corporate integrators, place a moratorium on large factory farms, sometimes referred to as concentrated animal feeding operations (CAFOs), and restore mandatory country-of-origin labeling requirements. U.S. Representative Ro Khanna (D-CA) introduced companion legislation in the House of Representatives. This reintroduction also follows President Biden’s recent executive order promoting competition in the marketplace, which is an important first step toward restoring fairness for independent family farmers and ranchers. The COVID-19 pandemic has exposed many of the serious weaknesses in our food system. In particular the hyper consolidation of our livestock and meat industry led to a near collapse of the supply chain in the early days of the pandemic. Consumers found empty shelves at their grocery stores, at least 259 meat processing workers died of COVID after their employers failed to provide safe working conditions, animals were cruelly killed, and farmers were left with no market for the livestock they produced. This broken system is not the result of inevitable market forces, but rather flows directly from the influence multinational meatpackers – who continued to make record profits during the pandemic – have over federal farm policy. Economic concentration in agriculture has been hurting our country, especially rural America, for decades. The top four beef packing companies control nearly 85% of the market. The top four pork packers control 71% of the market. These companies have too much market power, and it comes at the expense of independent family farmers, who earn just 14.3 cents of every dollar spent on food. Agricultural con… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T20:03:51Z |
| https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/video-booker-speaks-on-impact-of-expanded-child-tax-credit-payments | VIDEO: Booker Speaks on Impact of Expanded Child Tax Credit Payments | 2021-07-14 | 2021 | 2021-07 | Democrat | Senate | NJ | Cory A. Booker | B001288 | www.booker.senate.gov | booker | https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Cory Booker delivered remarks on the Senate floor to discuss the impact of expanded child tax credit payments for families with kids and the need to make these benefits permanent. WATCH HERE Key Excerpts “We have a big thing happening tomorrow, when the vast majority of families with kids across the country will start seeing more money in their bank accounts every [month] for the rest of the year.” “This policy means stability, it means help is on the way, it means hope is here.” “For middle class families trying to stay afloat, lower income families desperate to make ends meet, families living in poverty, struggling to put food on the table, tomorrow is a new start.” “I will fight alongside my colleagues to see that this is not a one-time benefit for one year but a permanent change…we in America have to make this country live up to its promise to every child that we are the cornerstone of the idea of the American dream, that we are the most fertile soil for which a child to thrive, that we love our children not just in words, but in the policies we make.” ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T20:03:51Z |
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