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

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215 rows where chamber = "Senate", state = "NJ" and year = 2023 sorted by date descending

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url title date ▲ year month party chamber state member_name bioguide_id domain scraper source date_source text has_text collected_at updated_at
https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-introduces-resolution-commemorating-50-years-of-the-endangered-species-act Booker Introduces Resolution Commemorating 50 Years of the Endangered Species Act 2023-12-20 2023 2023-12 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) introduced a resolution celebrating the 50th anniversary of the Endangered Species Act (ESA), reaffirming the role this legislation has played in safeguarding global biodiversity. The resolution not only commemorates the invaluable achievements of the ESA over the last five decades, but also underscores the unprecedented threat of the current global extinction crisis and therefore the continued importance of protecting the ESA. Enacted in 1973, the Endangered Species Act has been a cornerstone of environmental protection efforts, responsible for rescuing 99 percent of wildlife under its shield from the brink of extinction. Now, 50 years later, our world’s wildlife is again at a critical juncture. As a result of human impacts on the environment, we are facing a global mass extinction crisis on par with the events that drove dinosaurs to extinction 65 million years ago. Species today are going extinct thousands of times faster than natural extinction rates, with scientists estimating more than one in six species are at risk of extinction within our lifetime. “From the iconic humpback whale to the majestic grizzly bear and the emblematic bald eagle, the ESA has been instrumental in preserving diverse ecosystems and ensuring the survival of numerous species,” said Senator Booker. “As our planet confronts a biodiversity crisis of monumental proportions, we must reinforce legislative efforts to preserve wildlife and counter partisan attacks that threaten the safety of our country’s rich ecosystem.” The resolution notes the Endangered Species Act is one of the most successful conservation laws ever enacted by any country, with four out of five U.S. citizens in favor of it. With nearly half of all ecosystems in the United States at risk of total collapse, expanding protections for endangered species is crucial to saving our nation’s treasures. Last month, Co-Chairs of the Endangered Species Act Caucus, Reps. Don Beyer (D-VA-08), Raul M. Grijalva (D-AZ-07) and D… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T01:14:16Z
https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-lynch-introduce-bicameral-bill-to-help-students-earn-their-ged Booker, Lynch Introduce Bicameral Bill to Help Students Earn their GED 2023-12-19 2023 2023-12 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. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) and U.S. Representative Stephen F. Lynch (D-MA-08) introduced the Reengage the Workforce Act, bicameral legislation which would provide federal grants to organizations that work with students who did not complete high school to help them earn their GED and offer additional workforce training and career support programs. The grants would be created within the Department of Labor, in consultation with the Department of Education, to help facilitate the advancement of education through in-person or virtual programs alongside any necessary support services. “For the tens of millions of Americans across the country without a high school diploma, the American dream is becoming increasingly out of reach,” said Senator Booker. Everyone deserves the chance to succeed, which is why I am introducing legislation to help people reconnect with educational opportunities and meaningful career paths. By providing more opportunities for those who are not in school or in the workforce to get back in, we can ensure more people have the tools to build brighter, more promising tomorrows for themselves, their families, and their communities.” “It is important we are proactive in reengaging students who have not been able to complete high school and help them obtain the qualifications that will make it easier to join the workforce and support themselves in future,” said Representative Lynch. “While the number of students who did not complete high school has fallen in the past decade, the percent of those students that are not in the labor force has increased. This bill will help enable organizations, like the Boston Public Schools Re-engagement Center, better assist those students by allowing them to reenter secondary school with support services, such as transportation or childcare, or enroll in flexible courses to earn their GED.” According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, individuals who did not finish high school make up the highest percentage of unemployed people in the c… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T01:14:16Z
https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-statement-on-eve-of-elections-in-the-democratic-republic-of-the-congo Booker Statement on Eve of Elections in the Democratic Republic of the Congo 2023-12-19 2023 2023-12 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), chair of the Senate Foreign Relations Subcommittee on Africa and Global Health Policy, issued the following statement: “As the Congolese people head to the polls, it’s imperative that officials in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) respect the democratic process, ensure unimpeded access for election observers, provide a timely and transparent tabulation of votes, publish comprehensive data on election results, and refrain from promoting destabilizing rhetoric or actions that could incite violence or undermine the credibility of the electoral process. “I recognize efforts by the Independent National Electoral Commission (CENI) to overcome significant logistical and technical challenges in organizing these elections and have been monitoring ongoing concerns related to voter cards and registration. During this next stage of the electoral process, I urge the CENI to commit to maximum transparency so the Congolese people can have full faith in the election results. “Furthermore, I support the Biden Administration’s stated intent to use all available tools to ensure accountability for anyone who seeks to undermine the democratic process in the DRC. “It’s critical that the Congolese people are able to exercise one of their most fundamental rights—the right to vote—and the Congolese authorities, including CENI, must work to ensure all Congolese are able to exercise this right, through a fair and transparent process.” 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T01:14:16Z
https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-and-colleagues-call-on-the-epa-to-protect-children-and-endangered-species-from-rodenticide-poisonings Booker and Colleagues Call on the EPA to Protect Children and Endangered Species From Rodenticide Poisonings 2023-12-15 2023 2023-12 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-N.J.), Alex Padilla (D-C.A.), Peter Welch (D-V.T.),Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), and Ed Markey (D-MA) wrote a letter to Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Michael Regan urging the agency to adopt measures to protect children and endangered species from rodenticide poisoning. “We thank the EPA for issuing a proposal to strengthen protections for children and non-target species from rodenticides, and urge the EPA to approve strong mitigation measures,” the lawmakers wrote. “The current allowable use of rodenticides poses a threat to human health and endangered species. Rodenticides are powerful poisons that don’t just kill the target pests, but also kill non-target animals, including pets and predators of rodents. Further, rodenticides that are not properly secured threaten the safety of humans, particularly children, who may be poisoned when exposed to them.” The lawmakers detailed the risks of unsecured rodenticides, writing “rodenticides pose a risk of poisoning in households where the rodenticides are accessible to children and pets. From 2017-2021, the Centers for Disease Control reported 40,808 poisonings of humans from rodenticides. The majority of these exposures occurred in children under 5 years old.” “Further, rodenticides pose a persistent threat to non-target wildlife, especially threatened and endangered species. These poisonings impact predators, such as red-tailed hawks, barn owls, mountain lions, and the critically endangered California Condors, who consume the rodenticides through eating poisoned rodents. Other species, such as squirrels, opossum, raccoons, and the endangered Attwater’s prairie chicken, die by consuming the poison directly.” The Senators concluded by calling for a “careful, scientific review of the broader harms of the current uses of rodenticides, and ways these can be mitigated.” 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T01:14:16Z
https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/bookers-schatz-van-hollen-welch-kaine-call-on-biden-to-urge-israeli-egyptian-governments-to-allow-journalists-into-gaza-protect-free-press Booker, Schatz, Van Hollen, Welch, Kaine Call on Biden to Urge Israeli, Egyptian Governments to Allow Journalists into Gaza, Protect Free Press 2023-12-15 2023 2023-12 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), Brian Schatz (D-HI), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Peter Welch (D-VT), and Tim Kaine (D-VA) today called on President Joe Biden to urge the governments of Israel and Egypt to allow journalists into Gaza to cover the war and protect press freedom. They also condemned Hamas’s use of propaganda and harassment, obstruction, and use of physical violence against journalists in Gaza. In their letter to the president, the senators underscored the importance of safe access into Gaza for journalists and the need for accurate and independent reporting from inside the warzone. “As Israel addresses legitimate and ongoing threats from Hamas, we ask you to further urge the Israeli government, as well as the Egyptian government, to respect press freedom by allowing all interested journalists to report without restriction from Gaza, with the exception of operational security requirements for embedded journalists, and provide journalists with the appropriate protections to carry out their essential work,” the senators wrote. “Without protections for journalists in Gaza and access for international journalists, the world is unable to get a complete and accurate understanding of events. Journalists play a vital role in a free society by holding individuals, organizations, and governments accountable for their actions. The lack of transparency caused by limited journalistic access is at odds with the obligation all governments have to allow citizens to access factual information. Especially in a time of rampant mis- and disinformation, journalists both provide the international community with up-to-date news about the war and equip the local population with potentially life-saving information about fast-changing developments.” The senators further noted concern that “the scale of the killings of journalists and media workers is unprecedented in recent times.” The senators continued, “American democracy rests on a bedrock commitment to a free press and we must insist on the same from … 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T01:14:16Z
https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-lankford-propose-establishing-national-monument-in-north-tulsa Booker, Lankford Propose Establishing National Monument in North Tulsa 2023-12-14 2023 2023-12 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 James Lankford (R-OK) introduced legislation to designate the Historic Greenwood area of North Tulsa, Oklahoma, the site of the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre, as a national monument. “Over 100 years ago, a violent mob destroyed the thriving Black neighborhood of Greenwood in Tulsa, Oklahoma, in one of the worst incidents of racial violence in our history,” said Senator Booker. “When I visited Tulsa in 2019, I felt pain and anguish for the hundreds of unarmed men, women, and children who were murdered, the more than 1,250 homes that burned, and for the thousands of victims who survived this act of hatred. Even the darkest chapters of American history deserve to be told. It’s imperative that we act now to ensure that future generations remember Greenwood’s heartbreaking history and its legacy of unrelenting resilience.Establishing a national monument here will forever enshrine this community’s legacy of sorrow, strength, and hope into the fabric of America’s story.” “The Historic Greenwood District/Black Wall Street area in North Tulsa deserves its place among our nation’s significant historic locations. I have worked with my friends in North Tulsa to secure designations on the National Registry of Historic Places and on the Civil Rights Trail. Now, we are one step closer to establishing a national monument,” said Senator Lankford. “Even after the fateful events in 1921, North Tulsa remains a place of light and hope as the community continues to show their strength to overcome adversity and work toward reconciliation, which is something our nation should never forget. I am grateful for the tireless efforts of so many in North Tulsa and in our state to make sure our children today and the generations yet unborn remember those lost, understand the stain of racism, and learn the powerful story of rebuilding and resilience.” In 2019 Senator Booker visited Tulsa, Oklahoma where he toured the Greenwood District, the site of Black Wall Street. 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T01:14:16Z
https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-statement-on-fy-2024-national-defense-authorization-act-conference-report Booker Statement on FY 2024 National Defense Authorization Act Conference Report 2023-12-13 2023 2023-12 Democrat Senate NJ Cory A. Booker B001288 www.booker.senate.gov booker https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press scraper Washington, DC - U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) issued the following statement: “The Fiscal Year 2024 National Defense Authorization Act contained many worthy provisions, including a well-earned pay raise for servicemembers and the Defense Department’s civilian workforce; improved access to housing, health care, and other benefits for military families; and funding for critical projects in New Jersey at Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, Atlantic City, Newark, and other locations. “I remain troubled by Congress continuing to increase the Pentagon’s budget without completing a comprehensive audit to reduce existing levels of financial waste and mismanagement. Strengthening oversight, increasing transparency, and improving accountability at the Pentagon must be a priority, yet, inexplicably, Congress is unwilling to fulfill this obligation.. “The richest nation in the world can responsibly afford both a modern military that keeps us safe from threats, and vital domestic programs that help families get ahead. This shouldn’t be a choice between one or the other. “Finally, it’s critical that this legislation authorizes programs and funding to support our international allies and partners during the upcoming fiscal year. However, this legislation is not enough. Congress must take action as soon as possible to provide the necessary emergency assistance to Ukraine and Israel while also providing necessary life-saving assistance to address increasing humanitarian suffering and crises around the world. Supporting the most vulnerable around the world and standing with our international partners is central to America’s national security interests.” 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T01:14:16Z
https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-warren-hirono-sanders-and-lawmakers-urge-ftc-to-block-kroger-albertsons-merger-and-reject-flawed-structural-remedies Booker, Warren, Hirono, Sanders and Lawmakers Urge FTC to Block Kroger-Albertsons Merger and Reject Flawed Structural Remedies 2023-12-12 2023 2023-12 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. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) along with Elizabeth Warren (D-MA) Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), and Reps. Summer Lee (D-PA) and Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-NY) sent a letter to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to express their opposition to the proposed merger of major grocery store chains Kroger and Albertsons. The lawmakers explain that despite the companies’ recent proposal to divest 413 stores to C&S Wholesale Grocers (C&S), this merger would still harm consumers, workers, and the grocery industry as a whole. They urge the FTC to oppose the merger, regardless of the proposed divestiture. This letter comes as the FTC’s deadline to act on the merger approaches on December 15, and as shoppers look to save on holiday food prices. A Kroger-Albertsons merger would net the five largest food retail companies control of 55 percent of all grocery sales, and would result in a duopoly with Walmart, with the two corporations controlling more than 70 percent of the grocery market in over 160 cities across the country. As a result, the newly merged entity could use its dominant position to further control and ultimately raise consumer prices, while also reducing job competition, decreasing wages, and decreasing the bargaining power of organized labor. A massive grocery merger also increases the risk that firms will violate the Robinson-Patman Act, a longstanding but under-enforced law that prohibits sellers from engaging in price discrimination among different buyers. In September 2023, Kroger and Albertsons proposed a structural remedy in which 413 stores and other assets would be acquired by C&S Wholesale Grocers. “As Members of Congress have previously raised, structural and behavioral remedies are difficult to administer and enforce and cease to be binding once the term of the agreement ends, and they often fail to maintain competitive conditions because, as stated previously, companies have an incentive to ensure that the businesses they spin off do not succeed. Furthermore, they… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T01:14:16Z
https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-statement-on-ongoing-negotiations-over-supplemental-funding-bill-and-immigration-laws Booker Statement on Ongoing Negotiations Over Supplemental Funding Bill and Immigration Laws 2023-12-11 2023 2023-12 Democrat Senate NJ Cory A. Booker B001288 www.booker.senate.gov booker https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ), a member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, issued the following statement: “Last week, my Republican colleagues voted to block a supplemental package that would have funded 1,300 additional border patrol agents, more than 100 inspection machines to detect fentanyl coming in through ports of entry, 1,600 additional asylum officers to interview and adjudicate claims for asylum, 375 new immigration judge teams to adjudicate and process immigration cases, and $1.4 billion to support local governments in providing food, shelter, and other services to migrants. Each of these provisions would have helped secure the border, provided refuge for migrants fleeing violence and persecution, and would have delivered relief to the border communities and cities across the country that have been most impacted by the increase in migration. “My colleagues in Congress and in the administration share the same goals: to create orderly, safe, and humane border and immigration policies that respect our laws and our sovereignty. There are real safety and security issues at the border, and I believe there are solutions that can and must get bipartisan support. We must have a larger conversation about updating our immigration laws, and the way forward must stay true to our nation’s fundamental values. “Right now, as negotiations on a supplemental funding bill continue, it is critical to recognize that proposals to eliminate or severely reduce access to asylum and parole will not accomplish these goals. Instead, as recent history shows, drastic bans at the border have not served to reduce the number of people seeking refuge from violence in their countries. I hope that my colleagues on both sides of the aisle will adopt commonsense solutions like those proposed in the supplemental and changes to our outdated immigration laws that provide meaningful access to legal pathways to immigration.” 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T01:14:16Z
https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-padilla-lieu-introduce-bill-addressing-snap-application-approval-backlog-for-online-grocery-retailers Booker, Padilla, Lieu Introduce Bill Addressing SNAP Application Approval Backlog for Online Grocery Retailers 2023-12-08 2023 2023-12 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-N.J.) and Alex Padilla (D-C.A.) and U.S. Representative Ted Lieu (D-C.A.) introduced the Timely Review of SNAP Online Retailer Applications Act, which would speed up the application review process for online-only grocery retailers. Since its implementation in 2019, the USDA’s Food and Nutrition Service’s (FNS) Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) Online Purchasing Pilot has allowed millions of Americans to access healthy affordable groceries, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. While the program has seen significant growth and additions of numerous retail chains to its offerings, online-only retailers without brick-and-mortar storefronts face significant wait times before they are approved. There is currently a backlog of dozens of online only retailer applications that have been waiting over nine months for a USDA determination. This bill would require USDA to make a determination on all online retailer applications within six months. By reducing barriers to entry for smaller online-only retailers, this bill will enable SNAP beneficiaries to shop a wider variety of retailers and access the benefits of online grocery shopping. “Addressing the backlog in online-only retailer applications is critical to expanding access to essential, nutritious groceries for every household," said Senator Booker."By setting a six-month processing deadline and requiring a timely USDA review process, we will ensure that eligible online-only retailers are able to quickly start providing fresh fruits and vegetables and other healthy foods to families who may not otherwise have access to these nutritious items.” “Healthy, affordable groceries should be readily accessible for our millions of SNAP recipients no matter how they shop, whether online or in person. But prolonged delays for SNAP online retailer applications have limited the number of options on the market,” said Senator Padilla. “This legislation would help expand a crucial, flexible pathway to provide S… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T01:14:16Z
https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-reacts-to-gao-report-showing-crop-insurance-program-failing-small-and-diversified-farms-enriching-corporations Booker Reacts to GAO Report Showing Crop Insurance Program Failing Small and Diversified Farms, Enriching Corporations 2023-12-04 2023 2023-12 Democrat Senate NJ Cory A. Booker B001288 www.booker.senate.gov booker https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, the Government Accountability Office (GAO) issued a report with statistics that reveal how the federal crop insurance program incentivizes the crop insurance industry to service large farms at the expense of small and specialty crop farms. The report also shows that crop insurance companies have been earning an inflated underwriting gain that is significantly higher than other insurance sectors, and that aligning their underwriting gains with a market-based rate of return would save $7.2 billion over 10 years. This reform could fund programs that actually benefit farmers in the next Farm Bill. U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-N.J.), who requested the GAO report in December of 2021, reacted to the report. Booker is a member of the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry. “This GAO report shows that a shocking proportion of the subsidies intended to support the cost of writing crop insurance policies for all farmers are being eaten up by companies and agents who write policies for the very largest farms. At the same time, the majority of small and diversified specialty crop farms, including many in my state of New Jersey, do not have crop insurance coverage. This means that despite taxpayers spending over $1.5 billion each year to make sure farmers get good service and understand their options in the crop insurance program, the program is still failing small and diversified farms,” said Senator Booker. “We need to pass my Insuring Fairness for Family Farmers Act, which would make the A&O subsidy a much more effective tool for incentivizing companies and the crop insurance agents they work with to cover all farm types fairly.” “Small and specialty crops are the backbone of our agriculture economy in Oregon. Yet small growers have consistently lagged behind large commercial farms in terms of access to crop insurance,” said Rep. Salinas. “GAO’s report further demonstrates why we need to revisit the way A&O subsidies are calculated. That is exactly what the Insuring Fairness for… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T01:14:16Z
https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/12/04/2023/booker-sullivan-reintroduce-world-aids-day-resolution Booker, Sullivan Reintroduce World AIDS Day Resolution 2023-12-01 2023 2023-12 Democrat Senate NJ Cory A. Booker B001288 www.booker.senate.gov booker https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. - Today, on World AIDS Day, U.S. Senators Cory Booker (D-NJ) and Dan Sullivan (R-AK) reintroduced 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 combating HIV/AIDS, such as the President`s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR), which has saved over 25 million lives. The resolution also encourages greater coordination between the global community to end the HIV epidemic by 2030. “This World AIDS Day, we honor the lives lost and stand in solidarity with those living with HIV/AIDS by redoubling our efforts to eradicate this disease,” said Senator Booker. “This day continues to stand as a vivid reminder of a staggering reality—nearly 40 million people around the world continue to live with HIV/AIDS, with communities of color disproportionately suffering. The US must continue to be a global leader in the effort to ultimately achieve zero new HIV infections and AIDS-related deaths.” “During my time working in the George W. Bush administration, I helped spearhead the PEPFAR program, which built a global coalition of partners in a unified response to the AIDS crisis and treated nearly 15 million people around the world,” said Senator Sullivan. “Since that time, the United States and the world have made great progress in combatting the HIV/AIDS epidemic, but there is more work to be done. I’m glad to join Senator Booker in introducing a resolution recognizing World AIDS Day to commend the critical work being done to prevent infections, end this devastating disease, and save lives.” The resolution was endorsed by the Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation, The National Alliance of State & Territorial AIDS Directors, Friends of the Global Fight, The AIDS Institute, RESULTS, NMAC, ONE, and AVAC. 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T01:14:16Z
https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-applauds-advancement-of-judge-edward-kiel-by-senate-judiciary-committee-for-new-jersey-federal-judgeship Booker Applauds Advancement of Judge Edward Kiel by Senate Judiciary Committee for New Jersey Federal Judgeship 2023-11-30 2023 2023-11 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. Senator Cory Booker applauded the vote to advance through the Senate Judiciary Committee the nomination of Judge Edward Kiel to serve on the U.S. District Court of New Jersey. Booker is a member of the committee. “Judge Kiel is a highly qualified jurist who has dedicated his career to justice, fairness, and the law,” said Senator Booker. “His nomination is the full-circle realization of the American Dream: if confirmed, he will serve in the same courthouse where his parents were naturalized as American citizens. I’m confident he will serve New Jersey with integrity and distinction when confirmed by the full Senate.” Judge Edward S. Kiel has been a United States Magistrate Judge for the District of New Jersey since 2019. Previously, Judge Kiel was a partner at Cole Schotz, P.C. from 2002 to 2019. Before that, he was an associate at Cole Schotz from 1998 to 2001, at Beattie Padovano from 1994 to 1998, and at Jamieson Moore Peskin & Spicer from 1992 to 1994. Judge Kiel served as a law clerk on the Superior Court of New Jersey, Somerset County from 1991 to 1992. He received his J.D. from Notre Dame Law School in 1991 and his B.A. in Economics and B.S. in Electrical Engineering from Rutgers University in 1988. If confirmed, Judge Kiel will serve as the first Korean-American judge on the U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey. 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T01:01:09Z
https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-duckworth-statement-on-epa-proposed-strengthening-of-lead-and-copper-rule Booker, Duckworth Statement on EPA Proposed Strengthening of Lead and Copper Rule 2023-11-30 2023 2023-11 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 Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), co-founders of the U.S. Senate Lead Task Force and the Senate Environmental Justice Caucus, today applauded the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) proposed strengthening of the Lead and Copper Rule (LCR), including lowering the lead action level to better protect human health and requiring water systems to replace old and deteriorating lead pipes within a decade. “We applaud the Biden Administration for continuing to prioritize the health of our families by working to strengthen the Lead and Copper Rule. Setting this ambitious goal to remove the vast majority of our nation’s lead pipes within 10 years is a bold action that will help save our children’s future. With no safe level of lead for a child to ingest, we must take action to ensure lead regulations are as strong as possible. All too often lead poisoning disproportionately affects underserved, underfunded communities and communities of color. With this improved rule—along with historic investments from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law—we can make a lead-free future a reality for all, no matter the color or their skin or their zip code.” The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law included Duckworth’s Drinking Water and Wastewater Infrastructure Act (DWWIA) and is the most significant federal investment in water infrastructure in history, including $15 billion for national lead pipe replacement. DWWIA, which has a focus on disadvantaged communities, will help rebuild our nation’s crumbling and dangerous water infrastructure and enable communities to repair and modernize their failing wastewater systems. Last year Booker and Duckworth, along with U.S. Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL), led a dozen of their Senate colleagues, in calling on EPA to strengthen and enforce the Lead and Copper Rule. This month Booker and Duckworth founded the first-ever Senate Lead Task Force to create long-term visibility around the public health crisis of lead and to oversee the state and federal impleme… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T01:01:09Z
https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-statement-on-hudson-tunnel-project-new-jersey-groundbreaking Booker Statement on Hudson Tunnel Project New Jersey Groundbreaking 2023-11-30 2023 2023-11 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. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) issued the following statement about the start of construction in New Jersey on the Hudson Tunnel Project, as work begins on the Tonnelle Avenue Bridge and Utility Relocation Project. “This is a day to rejoice for every New Jerseyan and every American as we enter a new era for the most critical infrastructure project in our country. Beginning active construction on both sides of the river for the Hudson Tunnel Project is testament to the collective determination—from the Biden Administration and congressional leaders to state officials and other vital partners—to get Gateway done. The economy of our region and our nation depends on the Northeast Corridor and this project, which will modernize our mass transit, improve the lives of millions of commuters, and create thousands of good jobs.” 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T01:01:09Z
https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-announces-13m-for-new-jersey-ferry-operations-improvements Booker Announces $13M for New Jersey Ferry Operations Improvements 2023-11-29 2023 2023-11 Democrat Senate NJ Cory A. Booker B001288 www.booker.senate.gov booker https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press scraper NEWARK, N.J. — Today, U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) announced $13 million in grants through the Federal Transit Administration’s (FTA) Passenger Ferry Grant Program for New Jersey commuter ferry operations. The grants will enable NY Waterway to improve operations and lower emissions, and the City of South Amboy to add operational capacity. “Passenger ferries play a critical role connecting New Jerseyans to jobs and providing more travel options that get people where they need to go,” said Senator Booker.“This federal funding will help our ferry operators improve reliability, lower emissions, and increase our economic competitiveness.” “New Jersey thanks the Biden Administration and our congressional delegation for their continued efforts to promote accessible and sustainable transportation across the Garden State,” said Governor Phil Murphy. “This robust funding will enhance capacity and improve connectivity between Central Jersey and our neighbors across the river. Just as importantly, by supporting the conversion of vessels from diesel to battery electric power, these significant federal dollars will help improve the air our children and families breath for generations to come.” “We appreciate Senator Booker’s efforts to secure federal funding that complements the New Jersey Department of Transportation’s work to ensure safe navigation and expand transportation access to the region,” said Diane Gutierrez-Scaccetti, NJ Department of Transportation Commissioner. “Investing in public transportation, such as ferry service, provides commuters an environmentally friendly alternative to driving and is another step forward in achieving Governor Murphy’s climate change goals.” “Sustainability is one of the pillars of NJ TRANSIT’s strategic plan, so we are pleased to support our partners at NY Waterway in advancing their transition to battery-electric power,” said NJ TRANSIT President & CEO Kevin S. Corbett. “I want to thank Senator Booker and the entire Congressional delegation for their work in providing the res… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T01:01:09Z
https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-applauds-confirmation-of-jamel-semper-to-us-district-court-for-the-district-of-new-jersey Booker Applauds Confirmation of Jamel Semper to U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey 2023-11-29 2023 2023-11 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. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ), a member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, praised the bipartisan Senate confirmation of Jamel Semper to serve on the U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey. “I’m thrilled that the Senate has confirmed Jamel Semper, an outstanding public servant who has served New Jersey for over 15 years, to the federal bench,” said Senator Booker. “I have gotten to know Mr. Semper during the nomination process and have reviewed his record closely, and I’m confident in his ability to preside over cases with fairness and integrity. I want to thank my colleagues in the Senate for their bipartisan support and President Biden for the nomination.” Jamel Semper has ably served New Jersey at the state and federal levels as a career criminal prosecutor. He began his career as a judicial law clerk on the Essex County Superior Court, served Essex and Union Counties as a prosecutor, and now serves as the Deputy Chief of the Criminal Division for the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of New Jersey, where he supervises federal prosecutors in all phases of criminal investigation and prosecution and supervises the Office’s Violent Crime Initiative, a joint task force of federal, state, and local law enforcement that aims to reduce gun violence in New Jersey communities. Semper is the ninth judge President Joe Biden has nominated and the Senate has confirmed to the U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey, following Julien X. Neals, Zahid Quraishi, Christine O’Hearn, Karen Williams, Georgette Castner, Evelyn Padin, Michael Fabiarz, and Robert Kirsch. In recent months, President Biden has also nominated Judge Edward Kiel to the U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey and Adeel Abdullah Mangi to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit. 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T01:01:09Z
https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-joins-padilla-and-9-colleagues-to-issue-joint-statement-on-proposed-threats-to-asylum-system-in-supplemental-aid-package-negotiations Booker Joins Padilla and 9 Colleagues to Issue Joint Statement on Proposed Threats to Asylum System in Supplemental Aid Package Negotiations 2023-11-29 2023 2023-11 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. Senator Cory Booker (D-N.J.), a member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, joined senators Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), Chair of the Senate Judiciary Subcommittee on Immigration, Citizenship, and Border Safety, Majority Whip Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.), Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.), Bob Menendez (D-N.J.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.), and Ron Wyden (D-Ore.) in issuing the following joint statement in response to reports of potentially harmful changes to the U.S. asylum system being considered in the ongoing bipartisan negotiations around the supplemental aid package: “As negotiations surrounding the supplemental aid package progress, we are concerned about reports of harmful changes to our asylum system that will potentially deny lifesaving humanitarian protection for vulnerable people, including children, and fail to deliver any meaningful improvement to the situation at the border. Using a one-time spending package to enact these unrelated permanent policy changes sets a dangerous precedent and risks assistance to our international partners. Any proposal considering permanent changes to our asylum and immigration system needs to include a clear path to legalization for long-standing undocumented immigrants. “We remain committed to working in good faith to modernize our outdated immigration system on a bipartisan basis and through a deliberative process. We cannot truly secure our border and help American communities without increasing lawful pathways for migration and legalizing long-time undocumented immigrants who put food on our tables, care for our elderly, and form the fabric of our communities.” 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T01:01:09Z
https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/with-thanksgiving-approaching-senators-booker-and-markey-announce-legislation-to-improve-food-safety-and-hold-fda-accountable With Thanksgiving Approaching, Senators Booker and Markey Announce Legislation to Improve Food Safety and Hold FDA Accountable 2023-11-21 2023 2023-11 Democrat Senate NJ Cory A. Booker B001288 www.booker.senate.gov booker https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press scraper WASHINGTON, D.C.– Senator Cory Booker (D-N.J.) joined Senator Edward J. Markey (D-Mass) to announce the?Ensuring Safe and Toxic-Free Foods Act, legislation that would direct the Department of Health and Human Services’ (HHS) Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to strengthen the Substances Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) Rule, which exempts companies from seeking pre-market approval for food chemicals. The legislation would also direct the Secretary of HHS to create an Office of Food Chemical Safety, Dietary Supplements, and Innovation within FDA to reassess whether existing GRAS substances are safe for families to consume. Senators Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) and Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) are cosponsors of the legislation. “Food companies have been taking advantage of a major gap in US food safety laws to add new chemicals to foods without an independent, scientific review of those additives’ safety. As a result, thousands of food products in the United States contain additives that have been banned in other countries for being carcinogenic, endocrine-disrupting, or developmentally harmful,” said Senator Booker. “Americans should not have to eat foods with ingredients that have known health harms. This legislation will close the loophole that allows companies to use toxic substances in foods and food packaging.” “The only mystery families should encounter at mealtime is what’s for dinner, not what’s in dinner.?Americans deserve to know that the food at their Thanksgiving dinner on the kitchen table is safe for themselves, their families, and loved ones to eat,”?said Senator Markey.?“Our legislation ensures that the FDA doesn’t fall short on their responsibility to ensure that the food we eat is safe. It is long past time that we revise existing food safety measures and close the loophole by allowing manufacturers to self-regulate what new substances can enter our food supply.” A one-page summary of the legislation can be found?HERE. Specifically, the?Ensuring Safe and Toxic-Free Foods Act?would?direct th… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T01:01:09Z
https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-and-goldman-push-biden-administration-to-address-israeli-settler-violence-in-the-west-bank Booker and Goldman Push Biden Administration to Address Israeli Settler Violence in the West Bank 2023-11-16 2023 2023-11 Democrat Senate NJ Cory A. Booker B001288 www.booker.senate.gov booker https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press scraper Washington, DC– Senator Cory Booker (D- NJ) and Representative Dan Goldman (D-NY-10) today called on President Joe Biden and his administration to not lose sight of the increasing danger posed by Israeli settler violence in the West Bank. As the Israeli government responds to legitimate threats from Hamas, Hezbollah, and others, Goldman and Booker are urging the Biden Administration to make clear to our Israeli allies that extremist settler violence poses a direct threat to the objectives of preventing the war from escalating into a wider regional conflict, protecting innocent Israeli and Palestinian civilians, and facilitating the flow of desperately needed humanitarian assistance. Representative Goldman and Senator Booker were the only two members of Congress who were in Israel when Hamas attacked on October 7. Since October 7, daily settler violence against Palestinian civilians has increased by over 130 percent. “As your administration tirelessly works to prevent the expansion of this conflict, we write to specifically highlight the threat that violence in the West Bank – especially vigilante violence by Israeli settlers – poses to those efforts, Israel’s near-term security, Palestinian human rights, and long-term regional peace,” the members wrote. Congressman Goldman and Senator Booker warned that settler violence in the West Bank not only pose a grave threat to an immediate peace deal, but the long-term prospect of peace through a two-state solution as well. Whether it be the Palestinian Authority or another entity, Goldman and Booker believe that any government in the West Bank and Gaza will require intense international support, reforms, and legitimacy to deliver for the Palestinian people. “We strongly believe that a two-state solution remains the only genuine option to achieve a just, secure, and prosperous future for both Israelis and Palestinians,” the members continued. “However, settler violence against Palestinian civilians destroys the very seeds of trust and cooperation needed to make progr… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T01:01:09Z
https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-applauds-historic-nomination-of-adeel-abdullah-mangi-to-us-third-circuit-court-of-appeals Booker Applauds Historic Nomination of Adeel Abdullah Mangi to U.S. Third Circuit Court of Appeals 2023-11-15 2023 2023-11 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. Senator Cory Booker, a member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, applauded President Biden’s nomination of Adeel Abdullah Mangi to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit. If confirmed, Mangi would be the first Muslim American to serve as a federal appellate court judge. “Having come to know Adeel Mangi over the years as a fixture in the New Jersey legal community, I have seen firsthand that he is a person of integrity and deep conviction with an unflinching commitment to fairness and equality,” said Senator Booker. “He represents the best of New Jersey: Mangi is a preeminent lawyer who has secured landmark legal victories, and I have the utmost faith in his ability to serve the people of New Jersey and our country fairly and impartially on the Third Circuit Court of Appeals. I thank President Biden for this historic nomination, and I look forward to introducing Adeel Mangi to my colleagues on the Senate Judiciary Committee for his hearing.” A resident of Jersey City for over 20 years, Adeel Mangi is a Partner at Patterson Belknap Webb & Tyler in New York. Born in Karachi, Pakistan, Mangi received his B.A./Law degree, First Class, from the University of Oxford in 1998. He attended Lincoln’s Inn and the Inns of Court School of Law in London and qualified as a British Barrister at Law in 1999. He received his LL.M from Harvard Law School in 2000 and has since worked at Patterson as a civil litigator representing an array of clients in complex high-stakes cases. He has devoted thousands of hours to pro bono service, filed numerous amicus briefs in the federal appellate courts and before the U.S. Supreme Court on behalf of cross-faith religious coalitions, and, among his many other legal accomplishments, successfully fought on behalf of Muslim communities seeking to build and open mosques in Bernards Township and Bayonne. The nomination comes two years after Booker spoke in support of and voted to confirm the first Muslim-American federal judge to the federal bench, Zahid Qur… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T01:01:09Z
https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/senators-booker-durbin-hirono-and-representatives-lee-castro-jayapal-and-urge-biden-administration-to-expand-health-coverage-to-daca-recipients Senators Booker, Durbin, Hirono and Representatives Lee, Castro, Jayapal and Urge Biden Administration to Expand Health Coverage to DACA Recipients 2023-11-15 2023 2023-11 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), and Mazie Hirono (D-HI) joined with Representatives Barbara Lee (CA-12), Joaquin Castro (TX-20), and Pramila Jayapal (WA-07) to call on the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to finalize their proposed rule to expand health coverage for those participating in the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program, crime victims, and immigrant children. In April 2023, the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) proposed a regulation to make DACA recipients eligible for coverage under Medicaid, the Affordable Care Act (ACA), and the Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP). This rule also enhances coverage for other groups, including those approved for Special Immigrant Juvenile (SIJ) status and children applying for humanitarian relief. If this rule is not soon finalized, individuals in need may not be able to fully benefit from the 2024 Affordable Care Act open enrollment period, which began on November 1, 2023. “DACA recipients are also disproportionately uninsured and tend to experience higher barriers to health care – these trends all contribute to racial health disparities in the U.S. Youth approved for Special Immigrant Juvenile (SIJ) status often have to wait years before receiving a status adjustment. Due to confusion around current rule implementation, access to health coverage has been delayed for many,” wrote the lawmakers. The lawmakers requested that the Biden Administration address the following questions: What is preventing HHS from finalizing the rule, and how can congressional allies help address any barriers? When the rule is finalized, what resources will your administration devote to ensuring newly eligible people are aware of their health coverage options? The preamble of the proposed rule stated, “implementation of these changes would be most effective during a period when there are many outreach and enrollment activities occurring.” The time to finalize this policy and expand health coverage is now. 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T01:01:09Z
https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-castro-introduce-bicameral-bill-to-expand-advanced-coursework-opportunities-for-underrepresented-students Booker, Castro Introduce Bicameral Bill to Expand Advanced Coursework Opportunities for Underrepresented Students 2023-11-14 2023 2023-11 Democrat Senate NJ Cory A. Booker B001288 www.booker.senate.gov booker https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press scraper WASHINGTON, DC – Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) and Representative Joaquin Castro (D-TX-20) introduced the Advanced Coursework Equity Act, bicameral legislation that would create a federal grant program to help states and school districts increase the enrollment of underrepresented students in advanced coursework and academic programs. The Advanced Coursework Equity Act would allow eligible schools and school districts to receive up to $60 million to implement universal screening for advanced students, expand enrollment in advanced courses, cover course fees for low-income students, train or hire teachers for advanced courses, prepare students for postsecondary STEM pathways, and create or expand related efforts. Black, Latino, and Native American students, students from low-income families, English learners, and students with disabilities are underrepresented in advanced programs and courses. While 1 in 10 students in American schools participate in the Advanced Placement (AP) program, just over 1 in 20 low-income, Black, and Native American students participate in these courses. A low-income student with reading and math achievement levels equal to those of a high-income student is half as likely to receive gifted services. “Black, Latino, and Native American students face structural barriers that often prevent them from taking advantage of advanced courses and programs,” said Sen. Booker. “We know that gifted and talented programs as well as advanced coursework in high school can change life trajectories. By expanding enrollment of underrepresented students in advanced courses and covering exam fees, we can ensure that more young people are able to realize their full potential.” “When I got to Stanford in the fall of 1996, I met students who racked up dozens of college credits through advanced coursework before they ever stepped foot on campus. In the mostly Latino and low-income San Antonio neighborhoods where I grew up, few students had the same chance to prepare for college success,” said Rep. Castro. “While… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T01:01:09Z
https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/ahead-of-veterans-day-booker-introduces-legislation-to-promote-housing-stability-among-low-income-veteran-families Ahead of Veterans Day, Booker Introduces Legislation to Promote Housing Stability Among Low-Income Veteran Families 2023-11-09 2023 2023-11 Democrat Senate NJ Cory A. Booker B001288 www.booker.senate.gov booker https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press scraper WASHINGTON, DC. – Ahead of Veterans Day, U.S. Senator Cory Booker today introduced the Supportive Services for National Guard and Reserve Component Veterans and Families Act, legislation that would expand the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Supportive Services for Veteran Families (SSVF) program to include former members of the National Guard and Reserves who have retired or separated from service after having served a term of enlistment. Established in 2011, the SSVF program promotes housing stability among very low-income veteran families who reside in or are transitioning to permanent housing. The program has helped decrease veteran homelessness by 50% and has assisted 850,000 veterans and their families by permanently housing, rapidly rehousing, or preventing them from becoming homeless. However, under the program’s current guidelines, many former members of the National Guard and Reserve Component who were not activated for federal active-duty military service while serving, are ineligible for the program. “The SSVF program has provided critical housing assistance to former servicemembers during their times of need, reducing veteran homelessness rates by 50 percent and assisting some of our most vulnerable veterans during the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Sen. Booker. “Yet, despite the program’s success, veterans of the National Guard and Reserves are unable to take advantage of its benefits even though they have sacrificed for this nation. This bill would remove this barrier, expanding eligibility to this vital program so that more veterans and their families can access the resources they deserve.” “Reserve and National Guard service members stand ready to deploy at a moment’s notice to serve their country and state at home and abroad,” said David Pearson, Co-Chair NJ SOS Veteran Stakeholders and Assistant Director Catholic Charities Veterans Services. “We owe them and their families resources to ensure that none of them experience homelessness. NJ SOS Veteran Stakeholders and Catholic Charities thank… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T01:01:09Z
https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/ahead-of-veterans-day-booker-releases-updated-resource-handbook-for-new-jersey-vets Ahead of Veterans Day, Booker Releases Updated Resource Handbook for New Jersey Vets 2023-11-09 2023 2023-11 Democrat Senate NJ Cory A. Booker B001288 www.booker.senate.gov booker https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press scraper NEWARK, N.J. – Ahead of Veterans Day this weekend, U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) today unveiled his 2024 Veterans Handbook, an updated version of his annual, comprehensive resource guide for New Jersey veterans and their families. The handbook, available online here, is designed to help New Jersey veterans with the transition from military to civilian life and includes information on health benefits, workforce centers, employment opportunities, federal and state education programs, crisis support services, and more. “After being elected to the United States Senate 10 years ago, one of the very first meetings I had as a Senator was with a group of New Jersey veterans,” said Sen. Booker. “We must remain committed to honoring the incredible service and sacrifices made by veterans and their families. I’m proud to have played a part in passing legislation that will close critical gaps in education benefits; increase access to timely, quality, and inclusive healthcare options; expand access to VA housing assistance programs; and help veterans whose health was forever affected by exposure to toxic burn pits. Ahead of Veterans Day, I am proud to release an updated version of this annual handbook that provides the latest information on how New Jersey veterans and their loved ones can access critical resources.” 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T01:01:09Z
https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-announces-45-billion-for-new-jersey-northeast-corridor-transit-improvements-including-gateway Booker Announces $4.5 Billion for New Jersey, Northeast Corridor Transit Improvements, Including Gateway 2023-11-06 2023 2023-11 Democrat Senate NJ Cory A. Booker B001288 www.booker.senate.gov booker https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press scraper NEWARK, N.J. – Today, U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) announced $4.5 billion in federal funding for mass transit improvements in New Jersey and the region, including historic investments in the Gateway Program and the modernization of Newark Penn Station. Joining Booker at Newark Penn Station on Monday morning for the announcement were Representative Rob Menendez, Jr. (D-NJ), Newark Mayor Ras J. Baraka, NJ Transit President and CEO Kevin S. Corbett, and Gateway Development Commission CEO Kris Kolluri. The funding—authorized by the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act of 2021, which Booker voted to support—includes $3.8 billion for the Hudson River Tunnel, a key component of the Gateway Program; $300 million to rehabilitate the 90-year-old, six-track Dock Bridge over the Passaic River, also part of the Gateway Program; and $59 million to improve passenger circulation at Newark Penn Station, a critical hub in the Northeast Corridor. “This large round of mass transit investments will pay dividends for generations to come, helping push Gateway toward completion and strengthening regional connectivity,” said Senator Booker. “Thanks to this funding, we will upgrade decades-old infrastructure and help modernize our mass transit system, to the benefit of the lives of millions of commuters. These investments will also spur economic growth and create thousands of jobs for New Jerseyans. I will continue to work with the Biden Administration and congressional colleagues to deliver funding to rebuild New Jersey’s and our region’s transportation infrastructure.” “This generous award, made possible by the Biden Administration’s Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, allows us to significantly advance two major infrastructure projects that have long languished prior to the Murphy Administration,” said NJ Transit President and CEO Kevin S. Corbett. “Delco Lead and Newark Penn Station are just two of the more than 100 vital projects within our $17 Billion Five-Year Capital Plan, transforming our transit system and the custo… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T01:01:09Z
https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/statement-of-senators-regarding-humanitarian-aid-to-civilians-in-gaza STATEMENT OF SENATORS REGARDING HUMANITARIAN AID TO CIVILIANS IN GAZA 2023-11-03 2023 2023-11 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. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) joined U.S. Senators Tim Kaine (D-VA), Mark Warner (D-VA), Dick Durbin (D-IL), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Peter Welch (D-VT), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Ed Markey (D-MA), Tina Smith (D-MN), Chris Murphy (D-CT), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), and Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) to issue the following statement: “The tragic war in Gaza, initiated by Hamas terrorist attacks on innocent civilians on October 7, is causing heartbreaking suffering among Israelis, Palestinians and citizens of other nations living in the region. “Israel has the right and obligation to defend itself against Hamas, whose leadership continues to state clearly that their goal is the complete annihilation of Israel. Israel also has the obligation, pursuant to international law, to conduct that defense in such a way as to minimize harm to civilians and allow humanitarian aid to reach those who are suffering. We acknowledge the increased burden that this necessarily places on Israel to accomplish these obligations. “Hamas’s horrific actions cannot be ascribed to all Palestinians. Indeed, Palestinian residents of Gaza have often been victimized by Hamas. “As Senators, we have been closely monitoring the war in Gaza and believe that much more must be done to protect civilian life. We have been in ongoing dialogue with government officials in the United States, Israel and other nations in the region. We have communicated extensively with international aid officials doing work in Gaza, including those working together with the U.S. Agency for International Development. And we have talked at length with our own constituents who have family and friends in the region. “The failure to adequately protect non-combatant civilians risks dramatic escalation of the conflict in the region and imposes severe damage on prospects for peaceful coexistence between Israelis and Palestinians. Based on the consensus opinion of U.S. and international aid officials, it is nearly impossi… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T01:01:09Z
https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-announces-525-million-to-new-jersey-ports-to-improve-operations-enhance-sustainability Booker Announces $52.5 million to New Jersey Ports to Improve Operations, Enhance Sustainability 2023-11-02 2023 2023-11 Democrat Senate NJ Cory A. Booker B001288 www.booker.senate.gov booker https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press scraper NEWARK, N.J. – Today, U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) announced $52.5 million in funding to New Jersey ports to improve the safety, efficiency, and reliability of the movement of goods. The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey is receiving $32 million for the reconstruction of Berth PN-308 at Port Newark, a project vital to the port’s operations, with regional and national benefits, and $20.5 million is going to South Jersey Port Corporation for environmental remediation and improvements at Paulsboro Marine Terminal. The grants are part of the U.S. Department of Transportation Maritime Administration’s Port Infrastructure Development Program, which is awarded on a competitive basis to ports for planning and capital projects. “New Jersey’s ports are engines of economic development for our region, moving goods, creating jobs, and strengthening our economy,” said Senator Booker. “These investments will fund critical upgrades that improve port operations and shore up supply chains; secure New Jersey’s position as a leader in clean energy, and create thousands of jobs.” “The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law continues to provide economic opportunities in our communities and deliver for South Jersey,” said Representative Donald Norcross (D-NJ). “This $20 million investment in the Port of Paulsboro will expand and improve the port’s operations, infrastructure, and capacity while creating and supporting good-paying jobs throughout our region. The long-term sustainability of our ports is vital to our economy, and I will continue to support investments that ensure we can meet America’s freight and transportation needs.” “The ships arriving at the Port of New York and New Jersey are carrying the goods that power our region’s economy,” said Port Authority Chairman Kevin O’Toole. “This grant award will make sure those ships have a reliable place to dock – a rebuilt wharf and pier structure that will last well into the future.” “The Port Authority is committed to maintaining the cargo capabilities of the Port of New Yor… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T01:01:09Z
https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-reintroduces-federal-firearm-licensing-act Booker Reintroduces Federal Firearm Licensing Act 2023-11-02 2023 2023-11 Democrat Senate NJ Cory A. Booker B001288 www.booker.senate.gov booker https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. -- As the toll from the epidemic of gun violence and deadly mass shootings across the country, most recently in Lewiston, Maine, continues to grow, U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ), a member of the Senate Judiciary Committee and Chair of the Subcommittee on Criminal Justice and Counterterrorism, reintroduced the Federal Firearm Licensing Act, legislation that would require individuals to obtain a federal firearm license before purchasing or receiving a firearm. Studies have shown that licensing laws can significantly reduce gun violence in places that have enacted them. For example, according to the Giffords Law Center, Connecticut saw its gun homicide and gun suicide rates decrease by 28 and 33 percent, respectively, after passing a state licensing law. In contrast, after Missouri repealed its firearm licensing law, the state saw a 47 percent increase in its gun homicide rate and 24 percent increase in its gun suicide rate. Licensing laws also enjoy strong support from Americans, with 77% backing the idea according to a Quinnipiac survey from 2019. “The epidemic of gun violence and mass shootings continues to claim the lives of thousands of innocent Americans every year,” said Senator Booker. “If you need a license to drive a car, you should need a license to own and use a gun. Data shows that states that have implemented licensing laws have significantly reduced gun-related deaths. This legislation would mirror this common-sense idea at the federal level and enhance public safety by ensuring that individuals seeking to purchase firearms pass a standard background check and are properly trained before obtaining a required license. We are not powerless to stop the carnage in our communities. Meaningful reforms like this will prevent gun violence, save lives, and make our communities safer.” “This common-sense, straightforward measure would require a license to own a gun. States like Connecticut have successfully implemented this very simple standard—requiring a background check and firearm safe… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T01:01:09Z
https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-introduces-bicameral-legislation-to-address-childhood-obesity-in-us Booker Introduces Bicameral Legislation to Address Childhood Obesity in U.S. 2023-10-31 2023 2023-10 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-N.J.) introduced the bicameral Reducing Obesity in Youth Act, legislation that would address the epidemic of childhood obesity in America. The bill would create incentives to improve the future health of American children and affect future national health care costs and national security. U.S. Representative Steve Cohen (D-TN) introduced the House version last month. According to the Centers for Disease and Control Prevention, roughly one in five children in the United States between the ages of 2 and 19 is affected by obesity. "A healthy nation starts with healthy children," said Senator Booker. "Childhood obesity not only poses a health crisis, leading to higher risks of chronic diseases, stroke, and heart conditions but also carries significant economic implications. This bicameral bill will allocate funds for grant programs that encourage healthy dietary choices and ensure a healthier future for all our children." “I have long been concerned that Tennessee has one of the highest childhood obesity rates in the nation. The national childhood obesity rate is dangerously high but, in recent years, Tennessee has trended even higher than the national average. The Reducing Obesity in Youth Act I am introducing with Senator Booker would reverse this trend and improve the health and well-being of America’s children. Research shows that early childhood is an important time for developing positive dietary and physical activity behaviors. The House and Senate bills being introduced would create a competitive grant program to incentivize the development of earlier health and nutrition education environments for our children. A healthy start will lead to healthy lives,” said Representative Cohen. The legislation is endorsed by the Association of State Public Health Nutritionists, Better Children’s Diets, Curricula Concepts, Inc., First Focus Campaign for Children, Florida Chapter for the American Academy of Pediatrics, Health Council of Southeast Florida, Jump in fo… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T00:49:26Z
https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-kim-usda-announce-community-facility-funding-in-burlington-county Booker, Kim, USDA Announce Community Facility Funding in Burlington County 2023-10-31 2023 2023-10 Democrat Senate NJ Cory A. Booker B001288 www.booker.senate.gov booker https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press scraper NEWARK, N.J. – Today, U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ), U.S. Representative Andy Kim (D-NJ), and USDA Rural Development State Director Jane Asselta announced $13.6 million in grant and loan awards for the township of Edgewater Park for the construction of a public safety building and a community center. “I'm thrilled to see Edgewater Park receive these vital federal investments for its public safety building and community center,” said Senator Booker. “This mix of grant and loans will address the growing needs of the community by providing space to support public safety, civic administration, and community events. This funding is testament to the dedication of local leaders and Rep. Kim’s and the USDA’s commitment to serving all our communities." “I am proud to officially break ground in Edgewater Park. This project will go a long way to support law enforcement’s work keeping people safe and make regular, municipal services more accessible to the community in one, easy-to-access location with a new community center right next door,” said Representative Kim. “I am glad to have been able to connect federal funds to local needs in Edgewater Park. I look forward to seeing the new facility’s doors open and help ease some everyday burdens for neighbors, local municipal employees, and law enforcement.” “The needs of rural New Jersey communities are our priority, and these Edgewater Park projects demonstrate our ability to assist towns buy, build or repair facilities that are an essential part of the social fabric of any community,” said USDA Rural Development State Director Asselta. “Expanding access to essential civic resources drives economic growth, strengthens community ties, and showcases our continued collaboration with local and state representatives – the result is for small towns to thrive.” The projects – financed by the USDA Rural Development’s Community Facilities Program, which is designed to provide affordable funding to develop essential community facilities in rural areas – will serve more than 8,000 … 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T00:49:26Z
https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-applauds-biden-executive-order-on-artificial-intelligence Booker Applauds Biden Executive Order on Artificial Intelligence 2023-10-30 2023 2023-10 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-N.J.) issued the following statement: “I commend President Biden, Vice President Harris, and their Administration for the Executive Order announced today to capture the promise of artificial intelligence and effectively manage its risks. “The Executive Order is further evidence that the United States is poised to lead the world not just in the development of cutting-edge AI technologies, but also in the development of sound and balanced policies to responsibly govern their use. “I’m glad to see that the Executive Order includes many of the principles and priorities I shared with the White House earlier this year, including the need for provisions to bolster AI research and development, promote innovation, combat AI-enabled discrimination, advance equity and civil rights, and otherwise maximize the benefits of AI for all people – not just the most fortunate. “As the Senate continues its critical work under Leader Schumer to develop policies to invest in AI and establish needed guardrails, I’m grateful to the Administration for its efforts to date, and I look forward to our continued collaboration to a create a fair, safe, and secure AI future.” 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T00:49:26Z
https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-supports-biden-administration-call-for-humanitarian-pauses Booker Supports Biden Administration Call for Humanitarian Pauses 2023-10-28 2023 2023-10 Democrat Senate NJ Cory A. Booker B001288 www.booker.senate.gov booker https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press scraper Washington, DC – Senator Cory Booker (D-N.J.), a member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, issued the following statement: “Israel has the right and responsibility to defend itself from terrorist attacks and to ensure that something like what happened on October 7th never happens again. “Hamas’ attacks against Israel, including the gruesome massacre and kidnapping of civilians, are abhorrent and necessitate a robust response that ensures the long-term safety and security of both Israelis and Palestinians. “At the same time, we must not lose sight that upholding the law of war and protecting civilians is absolutely paramount. I’m concerned by the humanitarian situation on the ground in Gaza. The images of loss and human suffering from Gaza are devastating. “I echo the Biden Administration’s call for humanitarian pauses to ensure that life-saving assistance–such as food, water, medicine, and fuel–reaches innocent civilians in Gaza and for the purposes of returning hostages held by Hamas to safety.” 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T00:49:26Z
https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-joins-murphy-van-hollen-schatz-welch-merkley-colleagues-to-call-for-fuel-deliveries-to-hospitals-and-water-treatment-centers-in-gaza Booker Joins Murphy, Van Hollen, Schatz, Welch, Merkley, Colleagues to Call for Fuel Deliveries to Hospitals and Water Treatment Centers in Gaza 2023-10-27 2023 2023-10 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) joined Senators Chris Murphy (D-CT), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Brian Schatz (D-HI), Peter Welch (D-VT), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), and 19 of their Senate colleagues to release the following statement: “We condemn Hamas’ horrific terrorist attacks against Israel, for which Israel must hold Hamas accountable. In the course of that endeavor, every effort must be made to protect innocent civilians. Right now, hospitals in Gaza are hours away from running out of fuel that powers ventilators, incubators for babies, and other lifesaving equipment, and diseases are rapidly spreading without power to treat and pump clean drinking water. To prevent a potential health crisis and help save countless lives, we believe it is possible to transport fuel directly to these hospitals, desalination plants, and water pumping stations with full transparency to prevent diversion to Hamas. There are extensive oversight mechanisms in place that will track the fuel deliveries directly to the intended sites where they can be used immediately to prevent the deaths of innocent civilians, including babies and children. We encourage the Biden administration to work with our Israeli, Egyptian, and UN partners to enable these lifesaving deliveries.” U.S. Senators Booker, Murphy, Van Hollen, Schatz, Welch, Merkley were joined by Senators Tim Kaine (D-Va.), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.), Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.), Debbie Stabenow (D-Mich.), Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), Tom Carper (D-Del.), Mark Kelly (D-Ariz.), John Hickenlooper (D-Colo.), Patty Murray (D-Wash.), Ed Markey (D-Mass.), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), Angus King (I-Maine), Chris Coons (D-Del.), Tina Smith (D-Minn.), and Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.). 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T00:49:26Z
https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-hawley-introduce-bipartisan-preventing-child-labor-exploitation-act-to-hold-corporations-accountable-for-labor-law-violations Booker, Hawley Introduce Bipartisan Preventing Child Labor Exploitation Act to Hold Corporations Accountable for Labor Law Violations 2023-10-26 2023 2023-10 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 Josh Hawley (R-MO) introduced the bipartisan Preventing Child Labor Exploitation Act, legislation that would leverage the multi-billion dollars in federal procurement contracts to hold corporations accountable for the exploitation of child workers. The bill would prohibit federal agencies from contracting with companies that have violated federal child labor laws or employ vendors that have failed to address child labor infractions. Since 2018, the U.S. Department of Labor has seen a 69 percent increase in the illegal employment of children by companies. Recent reporting from NY Times has continued to expose the ongoing child labor exploitation of major corporations, detailing an eighth grader who was killed on the cleaning shift at a Mar-Jac plant in Mississippi in July, a 14-year-old who was hospitalized in Alabama after being overworked at a chicken operation, a 17-year-old in Ohio who had his leg torn off at the knee while cleaning a Case Farms plant, another child who lost a hand in a meat grinder at a Michigan operation, and a 14-year-old who was maimed while working an overnight shift. “Exploitation of children by big corporations to drive profit is an abhorrent practice, but is not a new one,” said Senator Booker. "Across the country, major corporations are relying on children to clean dangerous machinery, handle toxic chemicals, and work exhausting overnight shifts in their facilities for low wages and no benefits. Often, this work is done in violation of existing federal labor laws, but employers have shielded themselves from any accountability by relying on third-party vendors with long records of labor infractions. Despite efforts by Congress and this Administration to challenge these bad practices, too few companies have taken significant steps to address the ongoing child labor issues in their facilities. That’s why today I am joining Senator Hawley to say that, at a bare minimum, there is no reason that the federal government should c… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T00:49:26Z
https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/senate-adopts-booker-tuberville-amendment-to-boost-funding-for-low-income-households-to-install-wastewater-systems Senate Adopts Booker, Tuberville Amendment to Boost Funding for Low-Income Households to Install Wastewater Systems 2023-10-26 2023 2023-10 Democrat Senate NJ Cory A. Booker B001288 www.booker.senate.gov booker https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – The U.S. Senate adopted an amendment authored by U.S. Senators Cory Booker (D-NJ) and Tommy Tuberville (R-AL) that would increase funding for the Rural Decentralized Water Systems Program – funding that will allow more low-income Americans in rural communities to access grants and loans to install or repair household sewage systems. The increased funding will now be included in the so-called Minibus Appropriations bill currently being considered by the Senate. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, over a million homes in the United States lack adequate plumbing, with nearly 200,000 having no sewage system at all. Often this leads to the piping of raw sewage from homes directly into their back yards, with substantial negative impacts on public health and the environment. To address this issue, Senators Booker and Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV) introduced legislation to provide grants to low-income households in rural areas for installing and maintaining individually-owned decentralized wastewater systems. This legislation was included in the 2018 Farm Bill as an amendment to an existing USDA program, and the USDA Rural Decentralized Water Systems Program is now authorized to provide loans and grants of up to $15,000 to low-income households in rural areas for the construction, refurbishing, and servicing of individual household water well systems and individually-owned household decentralized wastewater systems. "No American should go without access to basic sanitation,” said Senator Booker. “The Senate’s adoption of our bipartisan amendment will increase funding for decentralized wastewater systems, so we can better safeguard public health, protect the environment, and improve the quality of life for our most vulnerable communities.” “The American people should have access to safe drinking water and sanitary waste disposal systems, regardless of where they live,” said Senator Tuberville. “Right now, many Alabamians in the Black Belt region do not have access to public sewer systems, and instead… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T00:49:26Z
https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-and-bipartisan-senate-delegation-return-to-us-after-trip-to-saudi-arabia-israel-and-egypt Booker and Bipartisan Senate Delegation Return to US after Trip to Saudi Arabia, Israel, and Egypt 2023-10-24 2023 2023-10 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), a member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, and a bipartisan Senate delegation have returned to the United States after a four-day trip to Saudi Arabia, Israel, and Egypt to discuss current affairs in the region with a focus on the conflict between Israel and Hamas, including support for Israel’s right to self-defense, the need to ensure the protection of innocent Palestinians and the continuous flow of life-saving humanitarian resources into Gaza, and efforts to release all hostages held by Hamas. Diplomatic meetings also focused on preventing expansion of the conflict and reinforcing the importance of not allowing Hamas to derail progress on normalization between Saudi Arabia and Israel, regional integration, and the prospects for a two-state solution. In addition to Senator Booker, the bipartisan delegation included Senators Lindsey Graham (R-SC), Ben Cardin (D-MD), Jack Reed (D-RI), Susan Collins (R-ME), John Thune (R-SD), Chris Coons (D-DE), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Dan Sullivan (R-AK), and Katie Britt (R-AL). Senator Booker and the delegation met with high-level officials in each of the nations they visited. Senator Booker said, “Hamas’ unconscionable acts of violence, kidnapping, and terror targeting Israeli families, children, the elderly, and other civilians must be met with unwavering international condemnation. Israel has the right to defend itself against terrorist attacks and to ensure that something like October 7th never happens again. Palestinian civilians are not to blame for Hamas’s terror and are also victims of Hamas’ brutality. We must all prioritize the protection of innocent Palestinian civilians caught in the crossfire and ensure that life-saving humanitarian assistance is able to enter Gaza and reach those in need.” Senator Booker continued, “Hamas’s unprecedented attacks against Israel came at a time when new normalization conversations and new opportunities to lay the groundwork for a two-state solution were occurring. I… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T00:49:26Z
https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-pressley-reintroduce-mommies-act-to-improve-maternal-health-outcomes Booker, Pressley Reintroduce MOMMIES Act to Improve Maternal Health Outcomes 2023-10-19 2023 2023-10 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 U.S. Representative Ayanna Pressley (D-MA) reintroduced the Maximizing Outcomes for Moms through Medicaid Improvement and Enhancement of Services (MOMMIES) Act, legislation that would seek to improve maternal health outcomes, reverse the trend of rising maternal mortality rates, and close disparities that put Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) communities and their kids at greater risk. The bill would expand coverage for pregnant people covered by Medicaid -- which covers nearly half of all births in the U.S. -- by extending postpartum coverage from two months to a full year after childbirth; ensuring that all pregnant and postpartum people have full Medicaid coverage, rather than coverage that can be limited to pregnancy-related services; and increasing access to primary care providers and reproductive health providers. "The United States spends more on health care than any other nation, but we still have the highest rate of maternal mortality among our peer countries," said Senator Booker. “We must ensure that no person, regardless of their background, faces inequities or disparities when accessing or receiving maternal care. This legislation is an important step towards addressing our nation’s health disparities and promoting equitable maternal healthcare for all. I urge my colleagues in the Senate to pass this critical bill." "My paternal grandmother died in the 1950s while giving birth, and it is absolutely damning that decades later, the Black maternal morbidity crisis in America is still killing our loved ones and destabilizing our families,” said Representative Pressley. “With the Supreme Court’s cruel Dobbs decision only exacerbating this crisis, Congress must pass our bill to promote community-based, holistic approaches to maternity and post-partum care so that every pregnant person is treated with the dignity and respect they deserve during and after their pregnancy. Maternal health justice is a racial justice issue and a matt… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T00:49:26Z
https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-whitehouse-blumenthal-padilla-introduce-new-supreme-court-term-limit-bill Booker, Whitehouse, Blumenthal, Padilla Introduce New Supreme Court Term Limit Bill 2023-10-19 2023 2023-10 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), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), and Alex Padilla (D-CA) introduced new legislation, the Supreme Court Biennial Appointments and Term Limits Act, to establish 18-year term limits and regularized appointments for Supreme Court justices. Senators Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Peter Welch (D-VT), and Brian Schatz (D-HI) also cosponsored the legislation. Under the senators’ legislation, a new justice would take the bench every two years and spend 18 years participating in all Supreme Court cases, after which the justice would be limited to hearing a small number of constitutionally required cases. “The Supreme Court is facing a crisis of legitimacy that is exacerbated by radical decisions at odds with established legal precedent, ethical lapses of sitting justices, and politicization of the confirmation process,” said Senator Booker. “This crisis has eroded faith and confidence in our nation’s highest court. Fundamental reform is necessary to address this crisis and restore trust in the institution. Setting term limits for Supreme Court justices will restore accountability and depoliticize the confirmation process, and term limits are a commonsense change that an overwhelming majority of Americans support. I’m proud to stand with my colleagues to champion this effort.” “An organized scheme by right-wing special interests to capture and control the Supreme Court, aided by gobs of billionaire dark money flowing through the confirmation process and judicial lobbying, has resulted in an unaccountable Court out of step with the American people. Term limits and biennial appointments would make the Court more representative of the public and lower the stakes of each justice’s appointment, while preserving constitutional protections for judicial independence,” said Senator Whitehouse, Chairman of the Senate Judiciary Courts Subcommittee. “As Congress considers multiple options to restore the integrity of this scandal-plagued Court… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T00:49:26Z
https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-murphy-colleagues-call-for-providing-humanitarian-aid-to-address-emergency-needs-in-gaza Booker, Murphy, Colleagues Call for Providing Humanitarian Aid to Address Emergency Needs in Gaza 2023-10-18 2023 2023-10 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-N.J.) and Chris Murphy (D-CT) on Wednesday urged the Biden administration to lead the international community in contributing to the United Nations’ emergency appeal of $294 million to address the immediate humanitarian needs in the West Bank and Gaza. “As a result of the ongoing conflict in Israel and Gaza prompted by Hamas’ horrific terror attacks, more than 1.2 million people are in urgent need of lifesaving humanitarian assistance. More than one million people have fled the violence, stretching the already strained ability of the United Nations and humanitarian partners on the ground to provide the food, medical treatment, and shelter they need to survive,” the Senators wrote. The Senators continued: “We support Israel’s right to defend its people against the brutal attacks carried out by Hamas. Hamas knew that the Israeli government would have to respond to the unconscionable murder and hostage-taking of its citizens and thus bears the blame for initiating this conflict. We also know there are many innocent Palestinians in Gaza who do not support Hamas and urgently need help as they seek to flee the fighting.” The senators highlighted the dire situation facing innocent civilians in Gaza: “More than one million people in Gaza have fled their homes in search of safety, with nearly half of those taking shelter in UN facilities. The United Nations estimates that Gaza will run out of food and water within days. Healthcare facilities are overwhelmed, running desperately short on supplies and impacted by the lack of electricity. The humanitarian needs on the ground have dramatically increased over the past week, and conditions will likely continue to deteriorate in the days and weeks ahead.” “We therefore urge you to join the international community in answering the call from the United Nations by contributing toward this lifesaving $294 million appeal, and ask that you work with the UN and its partners to ensure that the assistance reaches the intended recipients… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T00:49:26Z
https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-rosen-introduce-bipartisan-senate-resolution-demanding-safe-release-of-hostages-from-hamas Booker, Rosen Introduce Bipartisan Senate Resolution Demanding Safe Release of Hostages from Hamas 2023-10-18 2023 2023-10 Democrat Senate NJ Cory A. Booker B001288 www.booker.senate.gov booker https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press scraper WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senators Cory Booker (D-NJ) and Jacky Rosen (D-NV), joined by Senators Todd Young (R-IN), Marco Rubio (R-FL), Foreign Relations Committee Chairman Ben Cardin (D-MD), Bill Cassidy (R-LA), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), and Mitt Romney (R-UT) introduced a bipartisan resolution condemning Hamas’s brutal terrorist attacks on Israel and demanding that Hamas release all hostages and allow for their safe return home. It is estimated that Hamas is holding close to 200 people hostage including children, women, seniors, and American citizens. “Hamas must immediately and unconditionally release all hostages, including American citizens,” said Senator Booker. “The United States must continue working with our Israeli and regional partners and offer whatever support necessary to get these hostages safely out of harm’s way.” “In Israel, our bipartisan delegation met with the family members of those who were abducted by Hamas. As the only Jewish mother serving in the Senate, these conversations were gut wrenching, and I promised them I’d lead the efforts to ensure these hostages were returned safely to their families,” said Senator Rosen. “This bipartisan resolution cements our support for the Israeli people, strongly condemns the atrocities carried out by Hamas, and demands the immediate release of the hundreds of hostages, including Americans, being held by this terrorist organization. The Senate must use its voice to call for the swift release of these innocent people.” “As part of its terrorist attacks on Israel, Hamas took hostage innocent Americans and Israelis, including children and the elderly,” said Senator Young. “We strongly condemn these barbaric actions and call on Hamas to immediately and unconditionally free all hostages. The world must join together and pressure Hamas terrorists to release these innocent civilians.” “Following the barbaric attacks of terrorism by Iran-backed Hamas in Israel, this bipartisan resolution sends a clear message of our support to our most important ally in the Middl… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T00:49:26Z
https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/following-i-95-collapse-booker-fetterman-introduce-bill-to-make-fta-emergency-response-program-work-better Following I-95 Collapse, Booker, Fetterman Introduce Bill to Make FTA Emergency Response Program Work Better 2023-10-18 2023 2023-10 Democrat Senate NJ Cory A. Booker B001288 www.booker.senate.gov booker https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press scraper WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senators Cory Booker (D-NJ) and John Fetterman (D-PA), along with thirteen Senate colleagues, today introduced the Transit Emergency Relief Act, a new bill to improve the Federal Transit Administration’s (FTA) Emergency Response (ER) Program. The bill would bring the FTA ER program into parity with the Federal Highway Administration’s (FHWA) program that serves the same purpose for America’s highways and road infrastructure. The Transit Emergency Relief Actwould provide a consistent funding source for FTA emergency response and grant flexibility to FTA in how funds are allocated so that transit emergencies can receive appropriate funding. "This vital legislation will ensure that our transit systems have the support and flexibility they need to respond swiftly and effectively to emergencies,” said Senator Booker. “Americans rely on transit agencies to keep our public transport running, even after natural disasters. This bill is about improving emergency responses, providing relief to transit agencies, and safeguarding the critical services that our communities rely on." “The bottom line is that emergencies should be met with emergency level responses. The collapse and twelve day rebuild of I-95 showed what is possible when we get federal dollars out the door quickly,” said Senator Fetterman. “Currently, FTA Emergency Response can take months, if not years, to get to transit agencies that need it. Because of this, when disaster strikes, agencies— which are often already strapped for cash—are forced to foot the bill and hope FTA can reimburse later. The Federal Emergency Relief Act is a simple fix to make a federal program work better and bring real relief to the transit operators that Pennsylvanians rely on.” FTA ER funds currently take months if not years get to transit operators after natural disasters and other emergencies that negatively impact transit infrastructure, which impedes transit agencies’ abilities to effectively respond to these emergencies. This is in large part because FTA… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T00:49:26Z
https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-ernst-urge-president-biden-to-do-everything-in-his-power-to-rescue-american-hostages Booker, Ernst Urge President Biden to Do Everything in His Power to Rescue American Hostages 2023-10-17 2023 2023-10 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-N.J.) and Joni Ernst (R-IA), co-chairs of the Abraham Accords Caucus, are leading 47 colleagues in urging President Biden to continue putting his full attention on the freeing of American hostages that were taken by Hamas during the terrorist organization’s October 7thattacks on Israel and supporting Israel’s efforts to dismantle the threat of Hamas. In the letter, the lawmakers wrote: “We appreciate that you have sent the U.S. Deputy Special Envoy for Hostage Affairs to Israel to assist in the recovery of the hostages, and we urge you to do everything in your power to secure their safe release. “Hamas has already killed 30 Americans and likely injured many more…The terrorists responsible for these atrocities hide behind human shields while they threaten to livestream the execution of hostages. Hamas has also reportedly demanded the mass release of prisoners in exchange for freeing its hostages and could use the hostages to push for a ceasefire. With several U.S. citizens still missing in the aftermath of the terror group’s brutal attack, we urge you to continue putting your full attention on the freeing of American hostages. Every day must be treated with a sense of urgency. “As a result, we urge the United States to continue supporting Israel’s urgent efforts to dismantle the threat of Hamas, provide the necessary resources for Israel’s defense, and continue offering whatever support necessary to immediately and safely rescue kidnapped Americans, with particular attention to those who require urgent medical care. “We urge you to encourage our allies and partners in the region to place pressure on Hamas to allow the International Committee of the Red Cross to have access to the hostages while the United States and Israel work to secure their release.” The letter is cosigned by U.S. Senators Ricketts (R-Neb.), Tuberville (R-Ala.), Tillis (R-N.C.), Britt (R-Ala.), Boozman (R-Ark.), Barrasso (R-Wyo.), Graham (R-S.C.), Grassley (R-Iowa), Capito (R-W.Va.), Cassidy … 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T00:49:26Z
https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-murphy-britt-rosen-capito-call-for-increased-funding-to-nonprofit-security-grant-program Booker, Murphy, Britt, Rosen, Capito Call for Increased Funding to Nonprofit Security Grant Program 2023-10-11 2023 2023-10 Democrat Senate NJ Cory A. Booker B001288 www.booker.senate.gov booker https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – Amid heightened concerns about the safety and security of the American Jewish community following this weekend’s attacks on Israel, U.S. Senators Cory Booker (D-N.J.), Chris Murphy (D-CT), Katie Britt (R-AL), Jacky Rosen (D-NV), and Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.V.) on Tuesday called for additional funding for FEMA’s Nonprofit Security Grant Program (NSGP) to be included in any supplemental funding package Congress may consider. The NSGP, which is funded through the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, provides funding support for target hardening and other physical security enhancements to nonprofit organizations, including synagogues and other places of worship, that are at high risk of terrorist attack. “The harrowing images coming out of Israel and the rising toll of confirmed deaths and number of civilians being held hostage by Hamas -- including American citizens -- are devastating and remind us that we cannot ignore the rise in antisemitism around the world or here at home. It’s crucial that we take every precaution to keep all of our religious communities safe. In addition to providing security assistance to Israel, Congress should increase funding for the Department of Homeland Security’s Nonprofit Security Grant Program, which provides important resources to safeguard nonprofits that are at an increased risk of violence, including Jewish houses of worship and other religious-affiliated groups across the country,” said Senator Booker. “The horrific images and videos we are seeing out of Israel are unspeakable, and I am doing everything in my power to ensure Israel gets the support it needs to defend itself. As Chairman of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Homeland Security, I am also focused on making sure our Jewish community at home is protected from a potential rise in anti-Semitic threats. As Congress considers emergency supplemental legislation in the coming weeks, we must include increased funding for DHS’s Nonprofit Security Grant Program to help safeguard the Jewish Comm… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T00:49:26Z
https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-calls-for-congressional-action-in-wake-of-hamas-attacks-against-israel Booker Calls for Congressional Action in Wake of Hamas Attacks Against Israel 2023-10-09 2023 2023-10 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), a member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, is calling on Congress to immediately pass additional security assistance to Israel, confirm key diplomatic and military appointments, and boost resources for programs that support the security of nonprofits that may be at increased risk here at home in the wake of violence in Israel. “The harrowing images coming out of Israel and the rising toll of confirmed deaths and number of civilians being held hostage by Hamas -- including American citizens -- are devastating,” said Senator Booker. “We must do all we can to support the people of Israel who are facing unimaginable pain, innocent Palestinian civilians who are also victims of violence, and American families who have lost or are missing loved ones. Booker continued, “In the wake of Hamas’ unprecedented and ongoing attacks and acts of terror, it is critical that Congress act quickly to pass additional security funding for our ally Israel, including Iron Dome replenishment. “Additionally, the Senate must swiftly confirm nominees to key diplomatic roles in the region that have been stalled, including ambassador roles in Israel, Egypt, Lebanon, Oman, and Kuwait; the State Department’s Coordinator for Counterterrorism; and USAID’s Assistant Administrator for the Middle East. The unreasonable obstruction in the Senate holding up more than 300 US military nominees, including top officers who would command US forces in the Middle East, must end. At a time when hostilities abroad are escalating, America can ill-afford to have our military readiness and capability compromised in any way. “We also cannot ignore the rise in antisemitism or threats to American religious communities, and we must take extra precaution here at home to ensure their safety and security. That is why Congress should increase funding for the Department of Homeland Security’s Nonprofit Security Grant Program, which provides important resources to safeguard nonprofits that are at an increased … 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T00:49:26Z
https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/statement-on-senator-bookers-departure-from-israel Statement on Senator Booker’s Departure from Israel 2023-10-08 2023 2023-10 Democrat Senate NJ Cory A. Booker B001288 www.booker.senate.gov booker https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – Maya Krishna-Rogers, a spokesperson for Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ), issued the following statement: “On Friday, October 6, Senator Booker arrived in Israel for several days of planned meetings and site visits ahead of the start of an Abraham Accords-focused N7 summit on regional economic integration in Tel Aviv, at which he was scheduled to speak on Tuesday. Senator Booker and accompanying staff were in Jerusalem when Hamas launched their attacks against Israel on Saturday, and sheltered in place for their safety. We are grateful that Senator Booker and our colleagues were able to safely depart Israel earlier today.” Booker is a member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee. 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T00:49:26Z
https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-statement-on-israel Booker Statement on Israel 2023-10-07 2023 2023-10 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), a member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, issued the following statement: “I emphatically condemn Hamas' horrific acts of violence, kidnapping and terror targeting Israeli families, children and other civilians in towns and cities across the nation of Israel. I stand with the people of Israel and the families of those who have lost loved ones.” 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T00:49:26Z
https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-statement-on-azerbaijan Booker Statement on Azerbaijan 2023-10-05 2023 2023-10 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-N.J.), a member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, issued the following statement: “The world has watched as Azerbaijan has committed unconscionable abuses against ethnic Armenians in Nagorno-Karabakh. From the inhumane blockade of humanitarian assistance, the use of military force to take over Nagorno-Karabakh, the detention of political leaders, and now the mass displacement of Armenians—it is clear that these systematic acts of oppression and violence towards Armenians meet the benchmark of ethnic cleansing. “I strongly support an immediate halt and reevaluation of all United States assistance to Azerbaijan, and urge the Aliyev regime to immediately allow access to independent observers. We must also work to prevent further military action by Azerbaijan. “The United States must step up our existing efforts to provide humanitarian assistance to the tens of thousands of ethnic Armenians who have been forced from their homes in Nagorno-Karabakh. Over one hundred years have passed since the Armenian genocide—the United States and international community have a moral responsibility to ensure that history does not repeat itself.” 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T00:49:26Z
https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-applauds-nomination-of-edward-kiel-to-us-district-court-of-new-jersey Booker Applauds Nomination of Edward Kiel to U.S. District Court of New Jersey 2023-10-04 2023 2023-10 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, a member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, applauded President Biden’s nomination of Judge Edward Kiel to the U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey. “Judge Edward Kiel is an outstanding nominee who is highly qualified and committed to upholding the law,” said Senator Booker. “I’m confident he will serve the people of New Jersey and the country with integrity, bringing his wealth of legal experience and knowledge to our federal bench. I thank President Biden for this nomination, and I look forward to Judge Kiel’s hearing before the Judiciary Committee and confirmation by the Senate.” Judge Edward S. Kiel has been a United States Magistrate Judge for the District of New Jersey since 2019. Previously, Judge Kiel was a partner at Cole Schotz, P.C. from 2002 to 2019. Before that, he was an associate at Cole Schotz from 1998 to 2001, at Beattie Padovano from 1994 to 1998, and at Jamieson Moore Peskin & Spicer from 1992 to 1994. Judge Kiel served as a law clerk on the Superior Court of New Jersey, Somerset County from 1991 to 1992. He received his J.D. from Notre Dame Law School in 1991 and his B.A. in Economics and B.S. in Electrical Engineering from Rutgers University in 1988. President Joe Biden has nominated and the Senate has confirmed eight judges to the U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey: Julien X. Neals, Zahid Quraishi, Christine O’Hearn, Karen Williams, Georgette Castner, Evelyn Padin, Michael Fabiarz, and Robert Kirsch. Last month, President Biden nominated Jamel Semper to the court, and Booker spoke today in support of Semper’s nomination as he was introduced to the Senate Judiciary Committee. 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T00:49:26Z
https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-cruz-introduce-bipartisan-legislation-to-target-online-sales-of-illicit-drugs-laced-with-fentanyl Booker, Cruz Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Target Online Sales of Illicit Drugs Laced with Fentanyl 2023-10-03 2023 2023-10 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 Ted Cruz (R-TX) introduced the Targeting Online Sales of Fentanyl Act, legislation that would address the online sale of counterfeit pills laced with fentanyl. Specifically, the legislation would require the Government Accountability Office (GAO) to investigate the methods used to enable the online sale of fentanyl and assess the efforts of federal law enforcement and online providers in combatting the issue. The legislation comes as more Americans died from drug overdoses in 2022 than any year prior, and an alarming number of those fatalities stemmed from the online sale of counterfeit pills laced with fentanyl. During just a two-month period in 2021, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) identified 76 cases where traffickers advertised drugs on social media. The National Association of Boards of Pharmacy (NABP) discovered that nearly 95% of the 35,000 online pharmacies operated illegally and experts detect over 10,000 new drug-related accounts on social media every month. “The online sale of illicit drugs laced with fentanyl has had a devastating effect: drug overdoses now surpass suicide, traffic accidents, and gun violence as one of the leading causes of preventable death among people aged 18 to 45,” said Senator Booker. “This legislation will provide answers of how best to disrupt online drug distribution channels, helping lawmakers craft evidence-based solutions that effectively address the issue.” “Our nation’s drug overdose crisis—fueled by fentanyl—has claimed upwards of 70,000 American lives,” said Senator Cruz. “This fentanyl is often marketed and sold online. I am proud to work with Sen. Booker to introduce bipartisan legislation that scrutinize exact numbers underlying this crisis and allow us to work towards comprehensive solutions to the fentanyl pandemic.” The Targeting Online Sales of Fentanyl Act would require the GAO to provide a report within one year on the following areas: the business models and techniques employed by online f… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T00:49:26Z
https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-statement-on-senate-vote-to-avert-government-shutdown Booker Statement on Senate Vote to Avert Government Shutdown 2023-09-30 2023 2023-09 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. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) issued the following statement after voting for stopgap funding legislation to avert a disastrous government shutdown: “I’m relieved that a crisis manufactured by Republicans in the House is on track to be narrowly avoided. I’m beyond frustrated that it came to this, at the 11th hour. “Times like these demand leadership that puts our country first. Not party, not position, but country. The kind of leadership that’s been missing among too many House Republicans. “The people of Ukraine are on the front lines of the fight for democracy and freedom. Our commitment to standing by Ukraine and our shared values will continue to be unwavering. I am confident the Senate will continue to support sustained funding and assistance for Ukraine as they continue the fight to defend their homeland from Putin’s unjust and illegal war. “I’m encouraged that Democrats and Republicans in the Senate joined together in efforts to prevent a shutdown. I’m proud that House Democrats stood up to extremists to preserve essential programs that Americans count on. And I look forward to voting on a Ukraine supplemental bill as soon as possible.” 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T00:37:48Z
https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-scott-sickle-cell-disease-awareness-month-resolution-passes-the-senate Booker, Scott Sickle Cell Disease Awareness Month Resolution Passes the Senate 2023-09-27 2023 2023-09 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. SCD is an inherited blood disorder that leads to numerous medical complications, including anemia, jaundice, gallstones, strokes, and chronic pain episodes. In the United States, about 100,000 individuals grapple with the challenges posed by SCD, and an estimated 1,000 babies are born with SCD each year, disproportionately affecting Black infants. "Designating September as Sickle Cell Disease Awareness Month is a crucial step toward raising awareness around SCD and combatting this devastating disease,” said Senator Booker. “Sickle cell disease is the most common inherited blood disorder in our country, affecting mostly those from marginalized communities. I applaud my Senate colleagues for passing this important resolution, which serves as an opportunity to raise awareness and push for more research and support for those living with SCD." “Sickle cell continues to affect thousands of Americans, oftentimes those without access to specialized care,” said Senator Scott. “This resolution raises awareness for this debilitating disease and fights to provide access to treatment so those affected can manage their healthcare and, eventually, have access to future cures.” With more than 3,000,000 individuals in the United States carrying the sickle cell trait and approximately 1 in 13 Black or African Americans carrying the trait, there is an urgent need for increased awareness and support. Sickle cell anemia significantly reduces life expectancy by more than 20 years. SCD is also a leading cause of childhood stroke, making early screening and preventive measures paramount. The resolution is cosponsored by U.S. Senators Raphael Warnock (D-GA), Debbie Stabenow (D-MI), Sherrod Brown (D-OH), Dianne Feinstein (D-CA), Alex Padilla (D-CA), Tom Carper (D-DE), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), James Lankford (R-OK), Marco Rubio (R-FL)… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T00:37:48Z
https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-mullin-introduce-bipartisan-prescription-information-modernization-act Booker, Mullin Introduce Bipartisan Prescription Information Modernization Act 2023-09-26 2023 2023-09 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) and Markwayne Mullin (R-OK) introduced the bipartisan Prescription Information Modernization Act, legislation that would enable the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to implement a rule that allows drug manufacturers to transmit prescribing information electronically in order to reduce waste, improve efficiency, and ensure that healthcare professionals have access to the latest drug information. Prescribing information is crucial for healthcare professionals to make informed decisions about drug prescriptions. However, under current regulations, this information is required to be printed which leads to excessive paper use and the distribution of outdated materials. "Our health care system has been slow to adopt the latest technology that can help make our health care more efficient,” Senator Booker. “By ensuring our healthcare system embraces digital innovation, we can help reduce waste and prioritize access to accurate information. I am proud to introduce this bipartisan legislation that will modernize our health care practices and help improve patient outcomes." “Current prescription information distribution is outdated for the digital age,” said Senator Mullin. “Electronic prescriptions will simplify how providers access and manage prescription data, improving efficiency without compromising patient care quality. I am confident this change will help medical professionals provide the most up-to-date, accurate care to their patients." The legislation is cosponsored by the following organizations: The Alliance to Modernize Prescribing Information, Academy of Managed Care Pharmacy (AMCP), Allergy & Asthma Network, American Pharmacists Association, AmGen, Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, Association for Accessible Medicines, Beyond Type 1, Biotechnology Innovation Organization, BioNJ, BioUtah, Boomer Esiason Foundation, Environmental Paper Network, Georgia Bio, Healthcare Distribution Alliance, HealthCare Institute of New Jersey, LUNGevity Fou… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T00:37:48Z
https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-statement-on-senator-robert-menendez Booker Statement on Senator Robert Menendez 2023-09-26 2023 2023-09 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. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) issued the following statement: “For nearly a decade, I’ve worked in the Senate alongside Senator Menendez. As New Jersey’s junior Senator, I imagine that I’ve had more professional experiences with him than most others, and I’ve witnessed his extraordinary work and boundless work ethic. I’ve consistently found Senator Menendez to be intellectually gifted, tough, passionate, and deeply empathic. We have developed a working relationship and a friendship that I value and believe has furthered our effectiveness in serving New Jersey. “Senator Menendez is again facing a federal indictment, one that contains shocking allegations of corruption and specific, disturbing details of wrongdoing. I’ve found the allegations hard to reconcile with the person I know. “It is not surprising to me that Senator Menendez is again determined to mount a vigorous defense. And I still believe he, like anyone involved with our criminal justice system, deserves our presumption of innocence until proven guilty. A jury of his peers will make the ultimate decision as to whether he is criminally guilty. “There is, however, another higher standard for public officials, one not of criminal law but of common ideals. As Senators, we operate in the public trust. That trust is essential to our ability to do our work and perform our duties for our constituents. “The details of the allegations against Senator Menendez are of such a nature that the faith and trust of New Jerseyans as well as those he must work with in order to be effective have been shaken to the core. “As Senator Menendez prepares to mount his legal defense, he has stated that he will not resign. Senator Menendez fiercely asserts his innocence and it is therefore understandable that he believes stepping down is patently unfair. But I believe this is a mistake. “Stepping down is not an admission of guilt but an acknowledgment that holding public office often demands tremendous sacrifices at great personal cost. Senator Menendez… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T00:37:48Z
https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-lee-urge-usda-for-greater-transparency-in-dairy-programs Booker, Lee Urge USDA for Greater Transparency in Dairy Programs 2023-09-25 2023 2023-09 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. Senators Cory Booker (D-N.J.) and Mike Lee (R-UT) expressed concern in a letter to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) over its failure to publish annual reports to Congress on its dairy checkoff programs and urged the Department to take immediate action. Federal law – enacted by the Dairy Production Stabilization Act of 1983 -- mandates that the USDA submit annual reports on the dairy checkoff to Congress. The reports need to detail the activities conducted, account for the receipt and disbursement of funds, and include an independent analysis of the effectiveness of the dairy checkoff program. However, the USDA has not provided reports for 2021 and 2022, and only published 2020’s report last week, hours after receiving Booker and Lee’s letter. “We write to express deep concern regarding the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) ongoing failure to publish annual reports to Congress on the National Dairy Promotion and Research Program and the National Fluid Milk Processor Promotion Program,” wrote Senators Booker and Lee to USDA Secretary Thomas Vilsack. Further, Senators Booker and Lee raised concerns about the lack of transparency in how dairy producer's dollars are spent since the last report was submitted to Congress. “America’s dairy farmers have paid nearly $1 billion in mandatory checkoff fees [since 2019] to the National Dairy Promotion and Research Program. At the same time, we have witnessed the loss of more than 6,000 dairy operations across our rural communities. The time is now for your Department to disclose how these dollars were spent and evaluate the effectiveness of those efforts,” continued the Senators. Senators Booker and Lee concluded the letter by requesting the release of the outstanding reports. They also requested a written justification by September 29, 2023 if the USDA continues to fail to publish these reports. The letter is cosigned by U.S. Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-MA); U.S. Representatives Nancy Mace (R-SC), Dina Titus (D-NV), Thomas Massie (… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T00:37:48Z
https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-wyden-clarke-introduce-bicameral-bill-to-regulate-use-of-artificial-intelligence-to-make-critical-decisions-like-housing-employment-and-education Booker, Wyden, Clarke Introduce Bicameral Bill to Regulate Use of Artificial Intelligence to Make Critical Decisions like Housing, Employment and Education 2023-09-21 2023 2023-09 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-N.J.) and Ron Wyden (D-OR) and U.S. Representative Yvette Clarke (D-N.Y.) introduced the bicameralAlgorithmic Accountability Act of 2023, to create new protections for people affected by AI systems that are already impacting decisions affecting housing, credit, education and other high-impact uses. The bill applies to new generative AI systems used for critical decisions, as well as other AI and automated systems. “We know of too many real-world examples of AI systems that have flawed or biased algorithms: automated processes used in hospitals that understate the health needs of Black patients; recruiting and hiring tools that discriminate against women and minority candidates; facial recognition systems with higher error rates among people with darker skin; and more. The Algorithmic Accountability Act would require that automated systems be assessed for biases, hold bad actors accountable, and ultimately help to create a safer AI future,” said Senator Booker. “AI is making choices, today, about who gets hired for a job, whether someone can rent an apartment and what school someone can attend. Our bill will pull back the curtain on these systems to require ongoing testing to make sure artificial intelligence that is responsible for critical decisions actually works, and doesn’t amplify bias based on where a person lives, where they go to church or the color of their skin,”said Senator Wyden. “Americans do not forfeit their civil liberties when they go online. But when corporations with vast resources continue to allow their AI systems to carry biases against vulnerable groups, the reality is that countless have and will continue to face prejudice in digital spaces,” said Representative Clarke. “No longer can lines of code remain exempt from our anti-discrimination laws. My bill recognizes that every algorithm has an author and every bias has an origin and that, through proper regulation, we can ensure safety, inclusion, and equity are truly priorities in c… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T00:37:48Z
https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-statement-on-safer-banking-act Booker Statement on SAFER Banking Act 2023-09-20 2023 2023-09 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. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) issued the following statement: “With the assurance of Majority Leader Schumer that the HOPE Act, which will support states with grants so they can seek to expunge cannabis records, will be incorporated into this legislation on the Senate floor, I’m cosponsoring the SAFER Banking Act to begin the process of reforming our broken federal cannabis laws. “This bill will take cannabis banking out of the shadows and give access to the banking system to thousands of small businesses. With the addition of HOPE, it will take a needed step toward restorative justice. For too long, our laws involving marijuana have undermined the ability for small businesses and entrepreneurs from all backgrounds to succeed on a more level playing field with the wealthy and highly capitalized corporations. And for too long, the prohibition on marijuana has disproportionately targeted low-income, minority, and disadvantaged communities. Finally, we have a bill that is moving us in the right direction and making meaningful strides toward justice. “I’m grateful to my colleagues for working with me to ensure key provisions were included in this bill that will increase access to capital for small and minority-owned businesses and increase banking services for underserved communities. Even after this bill is passed, there will be a lot more work to do to reverse the many injustices of our nation’s failed marijuana policies but the SAFER Banking Act will represent a first step down the long road of redemption.” 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T00:37:48Z
https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-boozman-introduce-bipartisan-legislation-to-improve-prostate-cancer-detection Booker, Boozman Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Improve Prostate Cancer Detection 2023-09-14 2023 2023-09 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-N.J.) and John Boozman (R-AR) introduced the bipartisan Prostate-Specific Antigen Screening for High-risk Insured Men Act, legislation that would require private health insurance plans to cover preventive prostate cancer screenings without imposing any cost sharing requirements for men who are at high risk of developing prostate cancer. Prostate cancer affects 1 in 8 American men in their lifetime. Further, individuals who have at least one close family member diagnosed with the disease are at least twice as likely to be diagnosed themselves. The risk increases with each additional family member affected. Additionally, prostate cancer disproportionately affects African-American men as they are 1.8 times more likely to receive a prostate cancer diagnosis and 2.2 times more likely to die from the disease. Currently, the Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) test is the most effective tool for detecting prostate cancer. In many cases, prostate cancer is initially identified through this test as it measures the levels of PSA in the blood—a substance produced by the prostate that can be elevated in individuals with prostate cancer. Prostate cancer detected in Stage 1 is almost 100% survivable, compared to below 30% if caught at a later stage. "Costs shouldn’t impose a barrier between people and lifesaving health screening services,” said Senator Booker. “Prostate cancer is a serious health concern, especially for African-American men and men with family history of this disease as they are more likely to face diagnosis and mortality. This bipartisan legislation would make prostate cancer screenings are more accessible to all high-risk men, so we can reduce health disparities and increase early detection to save lives." “Diagnosing prostate cancer early is imperative to successful treatment. I know from personal experience in my own family the impact this disease has on patients and their loved ones. Increasing access to early screening for at-risk men will save lives… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T00:37:48Z
https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-hayes-grijalva-introduce-bicameral-legislation-to-strengthen-environmental-education-and-sustainability-literacy-in-schools Booker, Hayes, Grijalva Introduce Bicameral Legislation to Strengthen Environmental Education and Sustainability Literacy in Schools 2023-09-14 2023 2023-09 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-N.J.) and U.S. Representatives Jahana Hayes (D-CT) and Raúl Grijalva (D-AZ) introduced the bicameral Green Ribbon Act, legislation that would promote environmental education, health and wellness, and sustainability literacy in schools across the United States. The legislation would build upon the ED-Green Ribbon Schools Program, which was established in 2011 by the U.S. Department of Education. The U.S. Department of Education Green Ribbon Schools (ED-GRS) is a public engagement initiative for school sustainability that is structured as a federal recognition award. ED-GRS celebrates these schools, districts, postsecondary institutions, and early learning centers’ cost-saving, health-promoting, and performance-enhancing sustainability practices by bringing more attention to their work. Since its inception, the ED-Green Ribbon Schools Program has been recognizing schools that excel in environmental leadership, health and wellness, and sustainability literacy. With over 700 schools awarded, including more than 40% from resource-constrained areas, the program has been incentivizing the adoption of environmentally friendly practices within the country’s educational system. "We must ensure schools are better able to adopt environmentally friendly practices which will help foster a healthier learning environment for our children," said Senator Booker. "This bicameral legislation will expand on the successes of the ED-Green Ribbon Schools Program so more schools, especially those from underserved communities, can provide all students with access to facilities that promote a better environment for health and learning. By recognizing the vital role of sustainability practices and incentivizing schools to adopt environmentally friendly standards, we can help create a greener future for all." “Making long-term investments in building a cleaner, healthier future now is more critical than ever. Since 2013, 20 Connecticut schools have been recognized as Green Ribbon Schoo… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T00:37:48Z
https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-delauro-introduce-bicameral-legislation-to-better-protect-americans-from-foodborne-illnesses Booker, DeLauro Introduce Bicameral Legislation to Better Protect Americans from Foodborne Illnesses 2023-09-13 2023 2023-09 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-N.J.) introduced the bicameral Expanded Food Safety Investigation Act (EFSIA), legislation that would grant the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) the authority to collect microbial samples from concentrated animal feeding operations (CAFOs) during outbreaks or when there is a public health need. U.S. Representative Rosa DeLauro (D-CT) introduced the bill in the House. According to the CDC, 1 in 6 Americans fall victim to foodborne diseases each year, resulting in 128,000 hospitalizations and 3,000 deaths. The CDC also reports that many of these foodborne illnesses are caused by bacteria and other microbes originating in animal agriculture. Further, over 55 percent of foodborne Salmonella illnesses are attributed to animals and animal products. And the harmful bacteria from animal production facilities can contaminate fields of produce, posing an ongoing threat to consumers. For example, during a 2018 romaine lettuce E. coli outbreak investigation, the FDA traced the strain of outbreak E. coli to an irrigation canal near a concentrated animal feeding operation (CAFO) with 100,000 cattle. The FDA also determined that nearby cattle were likely the source of E. coli outbreaks linked to romaine lettuce in 2019. The extensive use of antibiotics in animal agriculture could also contribute to the development of antibiotic-resistant bacteria, further endangering public health. CAFOs exacerbate these issues with sewage accumulation and runoff, along with a significant volume of antibiotic use. Despite these dangers posed to public health by the animals in the country’s food system, public health agencies like the FDA and CDC face limitations in their ability to fully investigate and understand the problem since they lack the authority to enter farms and conduct microbial sampling. The animal industry has also impeded investigators from accessing farms during outbreaks which further hinder their efforts to ident… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T00:37:48Z
https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-joins-colleagues-to-urge-congress-to-fight-child-poverty-expand-the-child-tax-credit Booker Joins Colleagues to Urge Congress to Fight Child Poverty, Expand the Child Tax Credit 2023-09-13 2023 2023-09 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-N.J.) joined Senators Michael Bennet (D-CO) and Sherrod Brown (D-OH) and Representatives Rosa DeLauro (D-CT) and Suzan DelBene (D-WA) — members of a group often referred to as the ‘CTC Six’ —to hold a press conference to highlight the skyrocketing child poverty rate and urge Congress to restore the expanded, enhanced Child Tax Credit (CTC). Yesterday, the U.S. Census Bureau released its annual Supplemental Poverty Measure revealing that the child poverty rate rose from 5.2 percent to 12.4 percent between 2021 and 2022, an almost 140 percent increase in a single year. Video of Senator Booker’s remarks can be found below. [CLICK HERE FOR SENATOR BOOKER’S REMARKS] 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T00:37:48Z
https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-statement-on-appointment-of-tahesha-way-as-lieutenant-governor Booker Statement on Appointment of Tahesha Way as Lieutenant Governor 2023-09-08 2023 2023-09 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. Senator Cory Booker (D-N.J.) issued the following statement: “I celebrate Tahesha Way’s appointment as New Jersey’s lieutenant governor. In Secretary Way, Gov. Murphy has chosen an exceptional leader, someone whose love of our state is manifest in her exemplary record of public service. “As New Jersey’s top election official and the first Black person to lead the National Association of Secretaries of State, Secretary Way has worked tirelessly to protect the integrity of our elections and ensure access to the ballot box. She has also been a powerful force in supporting New Jersey’s tourism and leisure industries and building a stronger economy. “I’m excited to work with Secretary Way in her new role as we serve the people of New Jersey with renewed purpose and dedication in honor of the remarkable life and legacy of the late Lt. Gov. Sheila Oliver.” 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T00:37:48Z
https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-menendez-applaud-nomination-of-jamel-semper-to-us-district-court-of-new-jersey Booker, Menendez Applaud Nomination of Jamel Semper to U.S. District Court of New Jersey 2023-09-06 2023 2023-09 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. Senators Cory Booker, a member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, and Bob Menendez (both D-N.J.) today applauded President Joe Biden’s nomination of Mr. Jamel Semper to the U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey to succeed District Judge John Michael Vazquez. Semper has received support from both New Jersey senators throughout the nomination process as a qualified nominee that serves with a sense of justice and empathy. “Jamel Semper is a highly qualified nominee with a distinguished legal career and years of service to New Jersey at the state and federal levels. I’m confident in his ability to preside over cases fairly and impartially. I thank President Biden for nominating Jamel Semper, and I look forward to his hearing before the Judiciary Committee and confirmation by the Senate,” said Senator Booker. “I am thrilled that President Biden heeded our recommendation to nominate Jamel Semper to an open seat on the U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey. He is an extremely well-qualified nominee to ascend to the federal bench — an alumnus of Rutgers University School of Law, a longtime prosecutor in Union and Essex Counties, and currently the Chief of the Organized Crime and Gang Unit at the New Jersey U.S. Attorney’s Office,” said Senator Menendez. “For years, Mr. Semper has served the Garden State with fairness and compassion, dedicating his career to keeping New Jerseyans safe. Thanks to his community-focused approach to law enforcement, he enjoys the strong support of major voices and organizations within New Jersey’s diverse communities of color. Should he be confirmed, Mr. Semper would further our collective effort to diversify our federal bench and help ensure that all individuals regardless of their background have access to equal justice under the law. I look forward to supporting Mr. Semper’s confirmation on the Senate floor and urge my colleagues to do the same.” Jamel Semper has been a prosecutor for nearly his entire career, and previously served as Di… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T00:37:48Z
https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-concludes-2023-jersey-summer-road-trip Booker Concludes 2023 Jersey Summer Road Trip 2023-08-31 2023 2023-08 Democrat Senate NJ Cory A. Booker B001288 www.booker.senate.gov booker https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press scraper NEWARK, N.J. — Over seven days, U.S. Senator Cory Booker visited all 21 of New Jersey’s counties, hearing from an array of constituents—educators, veterans, incarcerated people, farmers, firefighters, seniors, small-business owners, and more—as he highlighted his efforts to invest in and expand justice for New Jerseyans. Booker’s annual summer road trips began when he was first elected to the U.S. Senate 10 years ago and are aimed at discussing the Garden State’s priorities, shine a light on the everyday New Jerseyans serving others, and show the senator’s support for local organizations, businesses, and industries. “I’m filled with gratitude and Jersey pride as I end my 2023 summer road trip,” said Senator Booker. “Every year, I learn more about our state and spend time with extraordinary New Jerseyans—humble heroes in our midst who serve their communities. It’s an honor to represent New Jersey in the U.S. Senate, and my conversations over the past few days will stay with me as I continue to fight for our state in Washington.” Booker began his road trip at Bergen New Bridge Medical Center in Paramus. He announced legislation to combat the opioid epidemic by expanding access to drug test trips, affordable and effective lifesaving devices that prevent drug overdoses. Days later, he visited the Camden County Jail, a national model in expanding treatment for populations that are disproportionately affected by addiction and mental health issues, to discuss his legislation to provide comprehensive substance abuse treatment to people who are incarcerated. In Newark, he hosted the Essex County Community Violence Intervention Summit with New Jersey’s urban mayors to discuss the gun violence epidemic that continues to grip cities across the country and highlight community-based intervention solutions to tackle this crisis. During the summit, Booker announced the introduction of the bicameral Break the Cycle of Violence Act, legislation that would provide federal grants to communities for evidence-based gun violence in… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T00:30:18Z
https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-hosts-community-violence-intervention-summit-announces-bicameral-legislation-to-break-the-cycle-of-gun-violence Booker Hosts Community Violence Intervention Summit, Announces Bicameral Legislation to Break the Cycle of Gun Violence 2023-08-31 2023 2023-08 Democrat Senate NJ Cory A. Booker B001288 www.booker.senate.gov booker https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press scraper NEWARK, N.J. — Today, U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-N.J.) hosted a Community Violence Intervention Summit with New Jersey’s urban mayors to discuss the gun violence epidemic that continues to grip communities across the country and to highlight community-based intervention solutions to tackle this crisis. During the summit, Senator Booker announced the introduction of the bicameral Break the Cycle of Violence Act, legislation that would provide federal grants to communities for evidence-based gun violence intervention and prevention programs designed to interrupt cycles of gun violence. U.S. Representative Steven Horsford (D-NV), Chairman of the Congressional Black Caucus, introduced the bill in the House of Representatives. The Community Violence Intervention Summit was cohosted by the New Jersey Urban Mayors Association at the New Jersey Institute of Technology. The discussion brought together government leaders with leaders from several New Jersey-based CVI organizations that receive federal grants: Newark Community Street Team, Prevention Education, HMH Hospitals Corporation, Acenda, and the Community Based Public Collective. Several urban mayors were present at today’s event, including Mayor Ras Baraka of Newark, President of the New Jersey Urban Mayors Association; Mayor Adrian Mapp of Plainfield; Mayor Ted Green of East Orange; Mayor Reed Gusciora of Trenton; and Mayor Helmin Caba of Perth Amboy. Representatives from member municipalities were also present, including Jersey City, Irvington, Bridgeton, and Orange were also attendance. Research has shown that community-oriented intervention programs combined with common-sense gun violence prevention policies can dramatically reduce gun violence rates. In particular, Newark has become national leader in implementing a broad array of strategies to combat gun violence, including community violence intervention programs. These efforts have yielded clear results: in 2022, Newark saw a 32 percent reduction in shootings and gunshot victims, reaching a level that w… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T00:30:18Z
https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-announces-rural-energy-for-america-program-reap-grants-in-new-jersey Booker Announces Rural Energy for America Program (REAP) Grants in New Jersey 2023-08-30 2023 2023-08 Democrat Senate NJ Cory A. Booker B001288 www.booker.senate.gov booker https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press scraper NEWARK, N.J. – Today, U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-N.J.), along with USDA Rural Development Deputy Under Secretary Farah Ahmad and New Jersey State Director Jane Asselta, visited Eastern Fresh Growers Inc. in Cumberland County to announce grants awarded to recipients through the Rural Energy for America Program (REAP). More than $3.3 million in funding was awarded to 17 New Jersey rural small business and agricultural producers to make investments in renewable energy and energy efficiency improvements that will lower their energy costs, generate new income, and strengthen the resilience of their operation. "Today, I am thrilled to announce the Rural Energy for America Program grants, which will benefit small businesses and farms across Cumberland County and our state,” said Senator Booker. “This federal investment from the Inflation Reduction Act will empower rural enterprises to embrace renewable energy solutions and be more energy efficient. This funding will go a long way to not only lower energy costs, but also foster a cleaner, more sustainable future for all our communities.” “Supporting renewable energy and energy-saving systems helps the people of rural America create thriving, livable communities,” said Farah Ahmad, USDA Deputy Under Secretary of Rural Development. “These initiatives are critical to the future of our economy, and the grants announced in New Jersey demonstrate how the Inflation Reduction Act lowers energy costs and provides clean, reliable energy that ultimately keeps more income in the hands of businesses and producers.” “Hearing firsthand that the nearly $1 million grant funding will help Eastern Fresh Growers more quickly recoup their investment and offset nearly all their energy costs is important in appreciating the impact of President Biden’s economic agenda to strengthen our economy and invest in rural businesses. New Jersey’s farmers and rural small businesses have several more opportunities to apply for grant funding so they can save on their energy costs too,” said USDA Rural … 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T00:30:18Z
https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-coons-joint-statement-on-gabon Booker, Coons Joint Statement on Gabon 2023-08-30 2023 2023-08 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-N.J.) and Chris Coons (D-Del.) released the following statement in response to recent developments in Gabon: “The apparent seizure of power by Gabon’s military is part of an alarming trend in West and Central Africa of military-backed coups. The Gabonese people – and people everywhere – deserve civilian-led, democratic governance. Despite Gabon’s flawed elections, no group of military officers has the right to unilaterally reverse an election, suspend the government, and impose their will upon the people. We call on the Armed Forces of Gabon to release President Bongo from house arrest and return to civilian control. Only then can a just, democratic civilian government be established.” Senator Booker is a member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee and Chair of the Subcommittee on Africa and Global Health Policy. Senator Coons is a member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee and Chair of the Senate State, Foreign Operations, and Related Programs (SFOPS) Appropriations Subcommittee. 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T00:30:18Z
https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-hosts-town-hall-in-atlantic-county-to-discuss-veterans-affairs Booker Hosts Town Hall in Atlantic County to Discuss Veterans Affairs 2023-08-29 2023 2023-08 Democrat Senate NJ Cory A. Booker B001288 www.booker.senate.gov booker https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press scraper NEWARK, N.J. – Today, U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) and Under Secretary of Veterans Affairs for Health Dr. Shereef Elnahal hosted a town hall with Atlantic County veterans to listen to their concerns and discuss critical issues that impact them and to highlight the benefits now available to toxic-exposed veterans under the PACT Act. The PACT Act is the largest expansion in benefits and care to veterans in decades, providing support to generations of veterans exposed to toxic burn pits and other environmental hazards such as Agent Orange. Since its passage one year ago, over 909,000 disability claims have been filed under the PACT Act, and over 373,000 have already been approved. The VA has completed over 4 million toxic exposure screenings since the PACT Act passed–screenings that will save lives by helping doctors catch toxic-related diseases earlier. During the Town Hall, Senator Booker also discussed his efforts to expand access to community care for veterans in South Jersey, expand mental health resources for veterans to combat the epidemic of veteran suicide, expand eligibility for services to combat veteran homelessness, and to expand gender specific health care for women veterans. “Veterans are the backbone of this country and have sacrificed immensely to protect our freedoms,” said Senator Booker. “As we continue to honor those who have served, we must ensure that all veterans have access to quality, affordable healthcare, including mental health services, housing, job opportunities, and educational benefits.” “I love veterans because they have made a commitment that nobody else in America has,” said Marco Polo Smigliani, Atlantic County Veterans Advisory Board. “They are owed greater debt and gratitude than they receive. I appreciate Senator Booker and Under Secretary Elnahal hearing from us today and for working together with us to improve our support to veterans.” Throughout his time in the Senate, Booker has tirelessly advocated for the nearly 400,000 veterans who call New Jersey home. In 2021,… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T00:30:18Z
https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/in-clayton-booker-announces-715000-in-funding-for-the-boroughs-fire-department In Clayton, Booker Announces $715,000 in Funding for the Borough’s Fire Department 2023-08-29 2023 2023-08 Democrat Senate NJ Cory A. Booker B001288 www.booker.senate.gov booker https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press scraper NEWARK, N.J. – Today, U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) visited the Borough of Clayton’s fire department in Gloucester County to announce a $715,000 congressionally directed spending (CDS) award to purchase a new ladder truck. This funding was secured by Senators Booker and Robert Menendez (D-NJ). In addition to the CDS grant announcement, Senator Booker congratulated the Clayton Fire Company for being awarded Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) and Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) grants this year. These are two FEMA grant programs that are designed to provide additional funding assistance to fire departments. Since 2001, AFG has helped firefighters and other first responders obtain critically needed equipment, protective gear, emergency vehicles, training, and other resources to protect the public and emergency personnel from fire and related hazards. Specifically, New Jersey received $9.9 million in AFG grant funding in 2022; Clayton has received a $946,000. SAFER is a grant program geared toward assisting fire departments with personnel costs like increasing and maintaining the number of trained, front-line firefighters. New Jersey received $11.6 million in SAFER grant funding in 2022; $69,000. “Throughout the country and here in New Jersey, fire and emergency medical services departments are experiencing critical staffing and resource shortages—this situation is even more acute for smaller communities like Clayton,” said Senator Booker. “Federal grant funding from CDS, AFG, and SAFER all provide needed resources for personnel and equipment that helps protect lives and makes communities safer. I’m proud of my work to secure federal funding for Clayton and many other fire departments across New Jersey and will continue fighting for these resources.” “I’m proud to have worked with Sen. Booker to deliver the funds being announced today to purchase a new firetruck, equipped with a ladder, for the Clayton Volunteer Fire Company that will bolster and support the services provided every… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T00:30:18Z
https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-calls-for-renewal-of-childcare-funding-during-visit-to-childcare-center-in-passaic-county Booker Calls for Renewal of Childcare Funding During Visit to Childcare Center in Passaic County 2023-08-28 2023 2023-08 Democrat Senate NJ Cory A. Booker B001288 www.booker.senate.gov booker https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press scraper NEWARK, N.J. — Today, U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-N.J.) visited the Children’s Day Preschool in Passaic to bring attention to the critical need for renewing federal childcare funding. During his visit, Senator Booker engaged with childcare providers to discuss the upcoming funding cliff that threatens the stability of childcare centers and the well-being of countless families. Beginning September 30, states are set to face a drastic reduction in federal childcare investment, a “childcare cliff” that experts warn will have dire consequences—unless Congress takes swift action to renew childcare funding. More than three million children nationwide are projected to lose access to childcare, with an estimated 70,000 childcare programs at risk of closing their doors. This impending crisis threatens to disrupt the lives of families and harm the nation’s economy. "The looming childcare cliff threatens the well-being of our children, the livelihoods of working families, and the stability of our communities,” said Senator Booker. “We must not allow childcare providers to close their doors and families to lose access to essential services at a time when many Americans are struggling to meet ends meet. This is why I'm committed to fighting for the renewal of childcare funding in Congress so we can support our children and working parents, and ensure our economy can thrive." “Childcare was deemed ‘essential’ during the pandemic, and it remains that way for every parent relying on care to go to work,” said Cynthia C. Rice, Esq., Senior Policy Analyst at Advocates for Children of NJ. “Its future, however, is in jeopardy as we face a steep drop off in critical federal funding. Inadequate federal support will likely result in child care centers throughout our state closing, which will mean fewer care options for parents. Right now, we are facing the working families’ version of ‘too big to fail.’ Congress must recognize that child care is a public good that benefits us all and should be treated and funded that way.” In July, … 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T00:30:18Z
https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-sherrill-foster-broad-collaboration-on-economic-opportunities-from-heritage-tourism-in-new-jersey Booker, Sherrill Foster Broad Collaboration on Economic Opportunities from Heritage Tourism In New Jersey 2023-08-28 2023 2023-08 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. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) and U.S. Representative Mikie Sherrill (NJ-11) today hosted a discussion at Washington’s Headquarters Museum with local, state, and federal officials, historical organizations, and other key stakeholders focused on preparations to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the United States in 2026 and the economic opportunity it poses for New Jersey heritage tourism. “Morris County and New Jersey played a pivotal role in our nation’s fight for independence,” said Senator Booker. “I celebrate the efforts to spotlight the Garden State’s unique revolutionary heritage for visitors from around the world. The 250th anniversary of our nation’s founding will be a moment to celebrate New Jersey’s place in history, reflect on our bedrock values of liberty and justice for all, and honor the sacrifices made by generations of Americans to secure our freedom.” “In 2026, we as a nation will be coming together to celebrate 250 years of American independence and democracy. Too often the important role New Jersey played in the American Revolution is overlooked and undersold—despite being the site of numerous encampments and pivotal battles led by General Washington. As the 250th anniversary fast approaches, there is great economic opportunity attainable from heritage tourism at sites like the Morristown National Historical Park. I want to thank Senator Booker for joining me today as we received an update on current planning and learned about ways we can advocate for support on the federal level,” said Representative Sherrill. The panel discussion included updates from: Carrie Fellows, Executive Director, Crossroads of the American Revolution Sara Cureton, Executive Director, New Jersey Historical Commission Thomas Ross, Superintendent, Morristown National Historical Park Craig Schlosser, President & CEO Morris County Economic Development Alliance & MC Tourism Bureau Local elected officials who joined included LD-25 Assemblywoman Aura Dunn, Morris County Commissioner Deputy Director C… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T00:30:18Z
https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-visits-camden-county-jail-announces-bipartisan-bicameral-legislation-expanding-access-to-mental-health-and-substance-use-services-for-people-who-are-incarcerated Booker Visits Camden County Jail, Announces Bipartisan, Bicameral Legislation Expanding Access to Mental Health and Substance Use Services for People Who are Incarcerated 2023-08-28 2023 2023-08 Democrat Senate NJ Cory A. Booker B001288 www.booker.senate.gov booker https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press scraper NEWARK, N.J. – Today, U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) visited the Camden County Jail to discuss the importance of providing comprehensive substance abuse treatment to individuals who are incarcerated. During the discussion with the warden and people who are incarcerated, Senator Booker announced that he will be introducing the bipartisan, bicameral Rehabilitation and Recovery During Incarceration Act, legislation that would break down barriers that prevent individuals who are incarcerated from accessing essential mental health and substance use services. U.S. Representatives Annie Kuster (D-NH) and Don Bacon (R-NE) will introduce the bill in the House. "Today, I had the opportunity to engage in an important dialogue at the Camden County Jail to better understand the challenges that people who are incarcerated face when accessing vital mental health and substance abuse services," said Senator Booker. "Failing to provide medical coverage for these treatments for people while incarcerated exacerbates health disparities and heightens their risk of serious illness and injury. Ensuring this access to treatment isn’t just the right thing to do based on our values, but it’s in the best interest of our communities and our public safety—this program is giving people a fighting chance at a successful reentry post-incarceration.That is why I will be introducing this bicameral and bipartisan legislation that would ensure comprehensive coverage for mental health and substance use services throughout the time a person is incarcerated to disrupt the cycle of recidivism and provide them with the help they need. Ensuring that our criminal justice system focuses on rehabilitation will save taxpayer dollars and make our communities safer and stronger." “Mental health and substance use disorders are additional obstacles for justice-involved individuals as they leave incarceration and rejoin their communities. That’s why it is so important that we expand access to treatment and recovery resources during incarceration, so people can … 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T00:30:18Z
https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-visits-hunterdon-county-emergency-services-training-center Booker Visits Hunterdon County Emergency Services Training Center 2023-08-28 2023 2023-08 Democrat Senate NJ Cory A. Booker B001288 www.booker.senate.gov booker https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press scraper NEWARK, N.J. — Today, U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-N.J.) visited the Hunterdon County Emergency Services Training Center in Annandale, New Jersey. During the visit, Senator Booker toured the facility and highlighted his ongoing efforts to secure federal funding for the training center in order to enhance vital fire safety training for first responders. The facility will also directly improve safety within Hunterdon County by providing back-up countywide 911 services. The funding, pending Congressional passage of the FY24 federal budget, is for $3.192 million and will support the next phase of the Hunterdon County Emergency Services Training Center’s expansion. "The Hunterdon County Emergency Services Training Center plays an essential role in equipping our dedicated firefighters and emergency personnel with the skills they need to respond effectively to crises and keep our communities safe,” said Senator Booker. “I am working to secure vital funding for the Hunterdon County Emergency Services Training Center so we can bolster the capabilities of our first responders and enhance public safety for all residents in Hunterdon County." “We appreciate Senator Booker taking the time to visit the Hunterdon County Emergency Services Training Center and for his ongoing support for federal funding toward this important public safety project,” said Hunterdon County Commissioner Deputy Director Jeff Kuhl. “Hunterdon County’s Emergency Services Training Center provides numerous lifesaving training courses for not only local volunteer fire departments and EMS squads, but also for the surrounding region. Our first responders are deserving of a modern facility that helps to meet today’s training needs and we appreciate Senator Booker coming to see that firsthand.” Today’s visit to the Hunterdon County Emergency Services Training Center was part of Booker’s 2023 Jersey Summer Road Trip, a series of stops highlighting New Jersey’s 21 counties. The road trip will focus on Booker’s efforts to secure congressionally directed funding… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T00:30:18Z
https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/in-somerset-booker-attends-sunday-church-service-at-first-baptist-church-of-lincoln-gardens In Somerset, Booker Attends Sunday Church Service at First Baptist Church of Lincoln Gardens 2023-08-27 2023 2023-08 Democrat Senate NJ Cory A. Booker B001288 www.booker.senate.gov booker https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press scraper NEWARK, N.J. – Today, U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-N.J.) attended a Sunday Service at the First Baptist Church of Lincoln Gardens. Senator Booker’s video remarks can be found below. [CLICK HERE TO WATCH SENATOR BOOKER’S REMARKS] Senator’s remarks begin on the 57th minute of the video Today’s visit to the First Baptist Church of Lincoln Gardens was part of Booker’s 2023 Jersey Summer Road Trip, a series of stops highlighting New Jersey’s 21 counties. The road trip will focus on Booker’s legislative priorities, including his work to protect civil rights, address the opioid epidemic, counter the scourge of gun violence, and serve New Jersey veterans; his efforts to secure congressionally directed funding for critical projects in the state; and his support of local businesses and organizations. 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T00:30:18Z
https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-joins-jersey-city-pride-for-lgbtq-equality-march Booker Joins Jersey City Pride for LGBTQ+ Equality March 2023-08-26 2023 2023-08 Democrat Senate NJ Cory A. Booker B001288 www.booker.senate.gov booker https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press scraper NEWARK, N.J. – Today, U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) joined the LGBTQ+ community and allies for Jersey City Pride’s Equality March. After participating in the march, Booker offered remarks to attendees reaffirming his support for the LGBTQ+ community. [LINK TO SENATOR BOOKER’S REMARKS] “It was a joy to celebrate love today with Jersey City Pride,” said Senator Booker. “It has been a privilege to represent our state’s strong and resilient LGBTQ+ community in the United States Senate. I am committed to fighting for justice and equality for all, no matter one’s sexual orientation or who they love, and will continue my advocacy for LGBTQ+ Americans back in the halls of our nation’s capitol to ensure they are protected from discrimination, harassment, and hate.” “Jersey City Pride is more than an event; it’s a movement,” said Eduardo Baez and Joseph Cameron, Co-Producers of the Jersey City LGBTQ+ Pride Festival. “We celebrate the diversity of the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transexual, queer, intersex, and asexual communities and allies of Hudson County and host our event in August to support local businesses at a time when they need much-needed revenue. We thank Senator Booker for joining us today for our Pride Equality March and for his words of support.” Today’s event was part of Booker’s 2023 Jersey Summer Road Trip, a series of stops highlighting New Jersey’s 21 counties. The road trip will focus on Booker’s legislative priorities, including his work to protect civil rights, address the opioid epidemic, counter the scourge of gun violence, and serve New Jersey veterans; his efforts to secure congressionally directed funding for critical projects in the state; and his support of local businesses and organizations. 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T00:30:18Z
https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-highlights-warren-community-colleges-precision-agriculture-technology-project Booker Highlights Warren Community College’s Precision Agriculture Technology Project 2023-08-25 2023 2023-08 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. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ), a member of the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry, today visited Warren Community College to see its Precision Agriculture Technology Project, an initiative of the college’s Unmanned Systems Program, that addresses agriculture industry needs in the region by improving farm land management. Booker has been an advocate for the project and for the inclusion of nearly $700,000 in federal funding in the draft Senate appropriations bill for Fiscal Year 2024. Warren Community College first launched its Unmanned Systems Program in 2018. The college is at the forefront of drone industry education, and on Friday, Booker heard from educators and officials about the college’s initiative to equip students to deploy drone technology to improve farm management and sustainability. Warren Community College has invested significantly in a state-of-the-art outdoor flight training center, procured a fleet of more than 75 unmanned aircraft systems, and received numerous authorizations from the Federal Aviation Administration to train operators. Its new initiative seeks to expand the Unmanned Systems Program by launching career pathway options in agriculture, including precision agriculture, which has the potential to transform current farm management practices and increase profitability. “Incredible work is taking place at Warren Community College, with their program that trains students for high-paying jobs in agriculture,” said Senator Booker. “I am excited to see the advancement that students and dedicated experts can make for local farmers, to help them save money, increase crop yields, and manage their land more efficiently. I was proud to advocate for this program to receive federal funding, and will fight to ensure that it is funded in a final congressional appropriations bill.” “Warren County Community College is very fortunate to receive this Congressional Appropriation with the assistance of Senator Booker,” said Dr. William Austin, President of Warre… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T00:30:18Z
https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-joins-letter-calling-on-department-of-justice-to-rescind-its-support-for-corecivic-lawsuit Booker Joins Letter Calling on Department of Justice to Rescind its Support for CoreCivic Lawsuit 2023-08-25 2023 2023-08 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, a member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, joined Congresswoman Bonnie Watson Coleman (NJ-12), and 9 other members of the New Jersey delegation to send a letter to Attorney General Merrick Garland calling on the Department of Justice to rescind its support for CoreCivic, a private prison company, in its lawsuit against the State of New Jersey to overturn a 2021 law which prohibits state and local entities from entering into agreements with private detention facilities to detain noncitizens. The law, AB 5207, was signed by Governor Phil Murphy in August 2021 with the goal of ending the use of private immigration detention facilities in the state. The letter reads in part, “This legislation answered the call of local communities,concerned citizens, and advocacy groups that promote the interests of New Jerseyans over for-profit prison companies to permanently close the Elizabeth Detention Center (EDC), a facility with a history of poor sanitation, crumbling infrastructure, and complaints of physical and verbal abuse.” “CoreCivic, in contract with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), has held hundreds of immigrants in poor conditions at EDC despite sustained protests and legal battles calling for a range of interventions, including improved conditions, closure of the facility, and freedom for detainees,” wrote Booker, Watson Coleman, and the group to Attorney General Garland. “Based on reports from detained individuals and legal advocates, inhumane conditions at EDC include a lack of proper air quality, sanitation violations, overcrowding, inadequate medical and mental health care, and incidents of retaliation and abusive treatment by guards and staff. Despite extensive complaints, lawsuits, protests, and calls for action, ICE and CoreCivic are seeking to renew their contract for the sixth time and extend operations at the EDC after the expiration of their current contract on August 31, 2023. “We respectfully request that the DOJ rescind its statement of i… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T00:30:18Z
https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/in-elizabeth-booker-highlights-federal-programs-to-improve-air-quality-in-environmental-justice-communities In Elizabeth, Booker Highlights Federal Programs to Improve Air Quality in Environmental Justice Communities 2023-08-25 2023 2023-08 Democrat Senate NJ Cory A. Booker B001288 www.booker.senate.gov booker https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press scraper NEWARK, N.J. – Today, U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) visited the City of Elizabeth to highlight two federally funded programs to monitor air quality in Environmental Justice communities through the United States Environmental Protection Agency. The Environmental Justice Small Grants Program and the American Rescue Plan Enhanced Air Quality Monitoring for Communities Grant are funding projects in New Jersey to monitor and enhance air quality in underserved communities and alert residents to take appropriate shelter or precautions in the event of poor air quality. The monitors detect the amount of Particulate Matter 2.5 (PM 2.5), fine inhalable particles that can penetrate the lungs and bloodstream and pose severe risks to human health. In 2021, a $75,000 grant was awarded to Groundwork Elizabeth, a local organization,through EPA’s Ports Initiative in partnership with EPA’s Environmental Justice Small Grant program. The funding was used to form a Climate Safe Task Force with youth involvement, host six community meetings, install five air sensors to collect data, form a collaborative partnership with Rutgers to analyze the results, and produce a final report on potential health risks. Booker has long been a been a leader for environmental justice in Congress. In March of this year, he introduced the Environmental Justice for All Act, legislation that would direct federal policy to achieve environmental justice, health equity, and climate justice for underserved communities. He has also introduced legislation that would invest $100 billion to clean up legacy pollution and would prohibit granting major source air pollution permits in vulnerable communities already suffering harm from high levels of air pollution. As part of his visit to Elizabeth today, Booker hosted a discussion with EPA officials, local stakeholders, and residents benefitting from the air quality monitors. “For environmental justice communities like the one I visited in Elizabeth today, poor air quality is a routine occurrence,” said Senator Bo… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T00:30:18Z
https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/in-paramus-booker-announces-legislation-to-expand-access-to-drug-test-strips-and-combat-opioid-epidemic In Paramus, Booker Announces Legislation to Expand Access to Drug Test Strips and Combat Opioid Epidemic 2023-08-25 2023 2023-08 Democrat Senate NJ Cory A. Booker B001288 www.booker.senate.gov booker https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press scraper NEWARK, N.J. – Today, U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) and U.S. Representative Josh Gottheimer (D-NJ-5th) announced the Preventing Overdoses with Test Strips Act,legislation to combat the opioid epidemic by expanding access to drug test strips, affordable and effective lifesaving devices that prevent drug overdoses. The newly announced bill follows Booker’s Expanding Nationwide Access to Test Strips Act, legislation he introduced last month that would decriminalize drug test strips nationwide. Booker and Gottheimer’s announcement followed a tour of the Substance Use Disorder Treatment Program at the Bergen New Bridge Medical Center, where he spoke with medical professionals about the variety of evidence-based care and medical detox they provide to patients at the facility. He was joined by New Bridge Medical Center President and CEO Deborah Visconi and Bergen County Executive James Tedesco. More than 109,000 Americans died to drug overdoses in 2022, surpassing 2021 as the deadliest year on record. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, synthetic opioids, primarily fentanyl, were involved in 67% of these fatalities, and 92% of these deaths were unintentional. In recent years, the United States has also seen a rapid increase in drug overdose deaths involving fentanyl mixed with xylazine—in 2022, about 23% of fentanyl powder and 7% of fentanyl pills contained xylazine. The presence of xylazine is especially pronounced in South Jersey due to its proximity to Philadelphia, where 9 out of 10 samples of lab-tested drugs tested positive for xylazine. These statistics, and the stories of Americans lost to the opioid epidemic, serve as a reminder of a harsh reality: Far too often, individuals are unaware that their drugs are laced with substances such as fentanyl and xylazine, and this lack of awareness results in deaths that are entirely preventable. The Preventing Overdoses with Test Strips Act amends current federal legislation to ensure that certain grant programs can cover expenses related to … 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T00:30:18Z
https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-announces-2023-jersey-summer-road-trip Booker Announces 2023 Jersey Summer Road Trip 2023-08-24 2023 2023-08 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. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) today announced his 2023 Jersey Summer Road Trip, a series of stops highlighting New Jersey’s 21 counties and his commitment, as he marks 10 years in the U.S. Senate later this year, to fighting – and delivering – for the state’s priorities in Washington, D.C. Booker’s road trip will focus on his efforts to secure congressionally directed funding for critical projects; legislative priorities, such as addressing the opioid epidemic, countering the scourge of gun violence, and honoring New Jersey’s veterans; and his support of local businesses and organizations. The road trip is scheduled to begin tomorrow, August 25th, with stops in Bergen, Warren, and Union counties before continuing over the weekend and into next week. The final day of Booker’s tour will include an event in Newark on August 31st to discuss community violence intervention strategies with the New Jersey Urban Mayors Association. “My summer road trips are among the great joys of this job that New Jersey first elected me to nearly 10 years ago,” said Sen. Booker. “Hearing from people across our state fills me with energy and determination to fight every day for justice and opportunity for all New Jerseyans.” 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T00:30:18Z
https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-statement-on-the-retirement-of-governor-richard-codey Booker Statement on the Retirement of Governor Richard Codey 2023-08-15 2023 2023-08 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 today released the following statement: “New Jersey owes Gov. Codey a huge debt of gratitude for his five decades of service—in the New Jersey Assembly and Senate, and as our state's 53rd Governor. In fighting to make our state stronger, fairer, and more compassionate, he consistently chose action over doubt, courage over despair, empathy over indifference. With his work on mental health, indoor smoking, stem cell research, gun violence, and much more, he leaves behind a legacy that will be felt by New Jerseyans long after he leaves the halls of government. I'm deeply grateful for Gov. Codey for his service and wish him the best in retirement.” 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T00:30:18Z
https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-statement-on-passing-of-lieutenant-governor-sheila-y-oliver Booker Statement on Passing of Lieutenant Governor Sheila Y. Oliver 2023-08-01 2023 2023-08 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. Senator Cory Booker (D-N.J.) issued the following statement: “I am deeply saddened to hear of the passing of the Honorable Lieutenant Governor Sheila Y. Oliver, a trailblazer and dedicated public servant. “Lt. Governor Oliver’s legacy of service and devotion to the people of New Jersey will never be forgotten. She spent 27 years in public office, where she fought tirelessly for social justice, affordable housing, and economic opportunity for New Jerseyans, and especially for communities too often left out and left without a voice. I was fortunate enough to have benefited from Sheila’s leadership and advocacy throughout my career as Mayor of Newark, where she was born and raised, and again as U.S. Senator. I will miss her and her inspiring leadership and yet her legacy will live on for countless generations to come. “Lt. Governor Oliver made history as the first Black woman to serve as Assembly speaker and the first to win a statewide election in New Jersey. Because of her, young women all across our state know it is possible to reach new heights while also serving others. “My heart is heavy, and my condolences and prayers are with Lt. Governor Oliver’s family, friends, and the people of New Jersey as we grieve this immeasurable loss.” 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T00:30:18Z
https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-casten-introduce-legislation-banning-inequitable-calculations-of-civil-damages Booker, Casten Introduce Legislation Banning Inequitable Calculations of Civil Damages 2023-07-28 2023 2023-07 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 U.S. Representative Sean Casten (D-IL-6th) introduced the Fair Calculations in Civil Damages Act, legislation that would make our legal system more just and equal by prohibiting the consideration of race, ethnicity, gender, religion, or actual or perceived sexual orientation when calculating damages in civil lawsuits. Concerning studies and news reports have shown that state and federal courtrooms across the country consider race, ethnicity, and gender when calculating damages. Courts often award women and people of color significantly less than white men even in comparable civil cases. In these instances, a person of color may, for example, be presumed to have less lifetime earning potential than a similarly situated white counterpart, leading to the low and unfair appraisal of damages. The Fair Calculations in Civil Damages Act outlaws discriminatory damage calculations in federal courts and prevents courts from determining that victims in civil cases should be awarded less in damages on the basis of their race, ethnicity, gender, religion, or actual or perceived sexual orientation. “Alarming studies show that minorities and women are granted lower civil damages than white men in comparable cases,” said Senator Booker. “That is an affront to the ideal of ‘equal justice under the law’ that we strive for in this nation. The Fair Calculations in Civil Damages Act will level the playing field by banning these discriminatory practices, ensuring that victims in civil cases receive fair compensation regardless of their race, ethnicity, gender, or sexual orientation.” "It is unacceptable that our courts often award less in damages to women and people of color than white men in comparable civil cases,” said Representative Casten. "In doing so, our courts are declaring that some Americans' lives are worth less based on lifetime earning potential statistics borne of racism and sexism. I'm proud to join Senator Booker in introducing the Fair Calculations Act to outl… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T00:18:03Z
https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-heinrich-young-rounds-introduce-bipartisan-bicameral-bill-to-expand-access-to-artificial-intelligence-research Booker, Heinrich, Young, Rounds Introduce Bipartisan, Bicameral Bill to Expand Access to Artificial Intelligence Research 2023-07-28 2023 2023-07 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.), Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), Founder and Co-Chair of the Senate Artificial Intelligence Caucus, Todd Young (R-IN), and Mike Rounds (R-S.D.), Co-Chair of the Senate AI Caucus, introduced the bipartisan Creating Resources for Every American To Experiment with Artificial Intelligence Act of 2023 (CREATE AI Act). The CREATE AI Act establishes the National Artificial Intelligence Research Resource (NAIRR) as a shared national research infrastructure that provides AI researchers and students with greater access to the complex resources, data, and tools needed to develop safe and trustworthy artificial intelligence. U.S. Representative Anna Eshoo (D-CA), Co-Chair of the House Artificial Intelligence Caucus, introduced the House companion bill, along with Representatives Michael McCaul (R-TX), Don Beyer (D-VA), and Jay Obernolte (R-CA). “We have enormous scientific and technical talent distributed across the United States – academics and innovators who can help us solve some of society’s most pressing problems using artificial intelligence responsibly,” said Senator Booker. “However, the high costs of data and infrastructure are a barrier for many seeking to contribute to AI research and development. The NAIRR will expand access and allow us to tap into our country’s strengths to drive progress in AI that serves the public good and protect against negative outcomes.” “We know that AI will be enormously consequential. If we develop and deploy this technology responsibly, it can help us augment our human creativity and make major scientific advances, while also preparing American workers for the jobs of the future. If we don't, it could threaten our national security, intellectual property, and civil rights," said Senator Heinrich. “The bipartisan CREATE AI Act will help us weigh these challenges and unleash American innovation by making the tools to conduct important research on this cutting-edge technology available to the best and brightest minds in our country. It … 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T00:18:03Z
https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-jayapal-barragan-introduce-bicameral-legislation-to-lift-barriers-to-health-care-for-immigrants Booker, Jayapal, Barragán Introduce Bicameral Legislation to Lift Barriers to Health Care for Immigrants 2023-07-28 2023 2023-07 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-N.J.), along with U.S. Representatives Pramila Jayapal (WA-07) and Nanette Diaz Barragán (CA-44), introduced the bicameral Health Equity and Access under Law (HEAL) for Immigrant Families Act, legislation that removes cruel and unnecessary barriers to health care for immigrants of all statuses. The bill would allow states to include undocumented immigrants in Medicaid and CHIP and remove the 5-year waiting period for Medicare benefits for lawfully-present immigrants. Immigrants are significantly more likely than U.S. Citizens to be uninsured, leaving them at a higher risk for both adverse health and financial consequences. In 2024, immigrants will account for an estimated 8 percent of the population yet will make up a disproportionate 31 percent of the non-elderly uninsured population. Data shows that uninsured people incur greater health care costs, and that these costs are often ultimately passed down to taxpayers. Insuring more people will result in healthier people and savings for the government and ultimately taxpayers. “Everyone, regardless of their immigration status, deserves access to comprehensive, quality health care,” said Senator Booker. “By creating a more equitable health care system, we can create healthier communities and a stronger, more resilient economy.” “We must finally guarantee health care to everyone as a human right — regardless of immigration status, income, employment, or anything else,” said Representative Jayapal. “As a proud immigrant who came to this country alone at the age of 16, I know that the HEAL Act is an urgent, necessary, and just first step to eliminating senseless barriers to health care, making our communities healthier, and ensuring all immigrants get the care they need.” “Every person deserves healthcare, no matter their immigration status,” said Representative Barragán. “Healthcare is a human right, and we must remove the unnecessary barriers that prevent immigrant families from the medical care they need to live and… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T00:18:03Z
https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-statement-on-fy-2024-national-defense-authorization-act Booker Statement on FY 2024 National Defense Authorization Act 2023-07-28 2023 2023-07 Democrat Senate NJ Cory A. Booker B001288 www.booker.senate.gov booker https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press scraper Washington, DC -- Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) issued the following statement: “I strongly support many elements of the Fiscal Year 2024 National Defense Authorization Act, including provisions that honor our selfless service members with a well-deserved pay raise; improve access to housing, health care, and other resources for our troops and their families; and continue to support our allies in Ukraine fighting to preserve and protect their democracy from Vladimir Putin’s illegal and unjust war. “At the same time, there is a better way to support our troops and protect our national security than continuing a pattern of annually increasing the Pentagon’s budget beyond what the Department of Defense requests and without completing a comprehensive audit to reduce existing levels of financial waste and mismanagement. Congress cannot continue to resist strengthening oversight, increasing transparency, and improving accountability at the Pentagon. In addition, I remain concerned about the disconnect between unchecked military spending and the lack of investments in -- and even proposed cuts to -- diplomacy abroad and programs that help the American people here at home. Our constituents deserve robust investments in our schools, health care, and housing. “Furthermore, it defies common sense that this legislation would limit the Department’s ability to promote greater diversity in its ranks, particularly in senior positions in the military, when our enlisted force is increasingly diverse. Diversity is a source of strength at every level of the military. “We must do better in delivering a defense authorization bill that responsibly protects and promotes the United States’ interests and values.” 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T00:18:03Z
https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-watson-coleman-omar-reintroduce-bicameral-legislation-to-establish-model-for-federal-jobs-guarantee-program-in-high-unemployment-communities Booker, Watson Coleman, Omar Reintroduce Bicameral Legislation to Establish Model for Federal Jobs Guarantee Program in High-Unemployment Communities 2023-07-28 2023 2023-07 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 U.S. Representatives Bonnie Watson Coleman (D-NJ) and Ilhan Omar (D-MN) reintroduced the bicameral Federal Jobs Guarantee Development Act, legislation that would establish a model federal jobs guarantee program in up to 15 high-unemployment communities and regions across the United States. The model federal jobs guarantee program will: Select up to 15 sites across the country facing high unemployment based on local need and assets, ensuring that work would advance critical local and national priorities that the private sector under-provides, like child and elder care, infrastructure, and community revitalization; Guarantee that every adult with residence in a pilot community may participate in a guaranteed job. Jobs will include a minimum wage phasing in to $17/hour, paid family and sick leave, and health coverage like that enjoyed by Members of Congress; Require that each pilot community creates a “Community Job Bank” website, which will feature high-impact jobs sourced primarily by local communities, as well as Federal agencies, based on their needs and priorities; Expand the Work Opportunity Tax Credit to incentivize private employers to recruit and hire participants out of the pilot program; and Authorize a rigorous evaluation of the program’s implementation and impact across a number of metrics, including unemployment rates, private sector wages, safety net spending, and incarceration rates. “Every adult should have access to a job with a living wage, good benefits, and safe working conditions,” said Senator Booker. “Thanks to President Biden, Americans are seeing the highest wage increases in decades and employed at historic levels. However, nearly 15 million American workers remain on the sidelines.A federal job guarantee program will bring more people into the labor force and help address the labor shortages within key sectors that are currently underserved. I am proud to join my colleagues in reintroducing this important legislation that will … 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T00:18:03Z
https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-introduces-legislation-to-protect-farmland-from-corporate-consolidation Booker Introduces Legislation to Protect Farmland from Corporate Consolidation 2023-07-27 2023 2023-07 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) introduced the Farmland for Farmers Act, legislation that would address rising rates of corporate farmland investment by limiting future ownership and leasing by corporate investors to ensure that farmland in the United States stays in the hands of farmers. Farmland ownership has long been a source of wealth and power in rural America. However, as large corporations continue to gobble up agricultural land as part of their investment strategy, family farmers are forced out of business and rural communities are hollowed out. The number of institutionally owned properties rose three-fold from 2009 to 2022, and the market value of that property increased from less than $2 billion dollars to over $14 billion in the same time period. The legislation would address several issues within our agriculture sector: Protecting Rural Communities: With over 400 million acres of U.S. farmland projected to change hands in the next decade, the bill would take a stand against corporate consolidation that threatens rural communities' autonomy. If farmland continues to fall under corporate control, it could shut down thousands of family farms and small businesses, eliminate opportunities to live in rural communities, and erode essential public and social infrastructure such as schools and hospitals. Curbing Speculative Investments: The bill would prevent corporations and hedge funds from treating farmland as a speculative investment to mitigate market volatility. Rising farmland prices have created challenges for small and beginning farmers to access land, leading to the unfair advantage of corporate interests over independent family farmers. Bringing Transparency in Land Ownership: Corporations use multi-level subsidiary structures to conceal their investments in farmland. The legislation would bring transparency to land ownership. Strengthening Federal Land Policies: The bill would address the lack of existing federal oversight, as Wall Street investment in farmland soa… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T00:18:03Z
https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-rubio-kim-castor-joyce-kelly-reintroduce-bipartisan-bicameral-legislation-to-reduce-us-stillbirth-rate Booker, Rubio, Kim, Castor, Joyce, Kelly Reintroduce Bipartisan, Bicameral Legislation to Reduce U.S. Stillbirth Rate 2023-07-27 2023 2023-07 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) and Marco Rubio (R-FL) reintroduced the bipartisan, bicameral Stillbirth Health Improvement and Education (SHINE) for Autumn Act, legislation that would reduce the alarmingly high U.S. stillbirth rate. Named after Autumn Joy, a New Jersey baby who was stillborn in 2011, the bill would provide critical resources to states, local public health departments, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and other related federal agencies to improve data collection and increase education and awareness of stillbirth in the United States. U.S. Representatives Young Kim (CA-40), Kathy Castor (FL-14), Dave Joyce (OH-14), and Robin Kelly (IL-02) introduced the House version of the bill. Despite medical innovations, 21,000 babies are stillborn every year in the United States—that is 57 babies dying every day. There are also longstanding disparities in stillbirth rates among racial and ethnic groups, with Black families experiencing stillbirth at more than two times the rate of their white counterparts. Nearly 1 in 4 stillbirths are potentially preventable. “It is unacceptable that despite being the wealthiest country in the world, the United States continues to see high stillbirth rates, resulting in thousands of families grappling with the unthinkable,” said Senator Booker. “We must do more to address this crisis by raising awareness and ensuring our health care providers have the resources they need to address preventable deaths. This bipartisan legislation is an important step to improve data collection on stillbirth and enhance research, training, and awareness to help put an end to this crisis.” “The U.S. stillbirth rate is unacceptable and must be addressed. Losing a child is an unimaginable tragedy, and we should use all resources available to prevent this devastating loss of life. I am proud toreintroducethisbipartisan legislation that would employ resources to significantly lower the number of stillborn babies in the United States,” said Senator … 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T00:18:03Z
https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-statement-on-niger Booker Statement on Niger 2023-07-27 2023 2023-07 Democrat Senate NJ Cory A. Booker B001288 www.booker.senate.gov booker https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. - Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ), a member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee and chair of the Foreign Relations Subcommittee on Africa and Global Health Policy, issued the following statement: “I condemn in the strongest terms efforts by military forces in Niger to overthrow the country’s democratically elected president. This forceful subversion of Niger’s constitutional order is an affront to the will of the Nigerien people, democratic principles, and the rule of law, and brazenly threatens peace and stability in Niger and the Sahel Region. President Mohamed Bazoum must be immediately released and democratic governance immediately restored.” 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T00:18:03Z
https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-murkowski-introduce-bipartisan-legislation-to-provide-pregnant-veterans-access-to-doula-services Booker, Murkowski Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Provide Pregnant Veterans Access to Doula Services 2023-07-26 2023 2023-07 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) and Lisa Murkowski (R-AK) introduced the Delivering Optimally Urgent Labor Access for Veterans Affairs Act of 2023 (DOULA Act), legislation that would establish a pilot program to provide doula services to support veterans experiencing pregnancy. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the U.S. maternal mortality rate increased significantly from 17.4 deaths per 100,000 live births in 2018 to 20.1 deaths per 100,000 live births in 2019. Studies show that veterans who experience pregnancy encounter additional challenges. A 2010 report found that pregnant veterans returning from Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom were twice as likely to have a diagnosis of depression, anxiety, posttraumatic stress disorder, bipolar disorder, or schizophrenia. Providing expectant mothers with doulas has been shown to lead to better birth outcomes. Doulas are support providers, trained to provide physical, emotional, and informational support for women throughout the pregnancy and postpartum period. “As the number of veterans who rely on maternity services from the VA continues to increase, it’s important that we provide our former servicemembers with the support they need during their pregnancy,” said Senator Booker. “By integrating doula support services into the VA, this bipartisan legislation will improve health outcomes for pregnant veterans and their children.” “I’m proud to join Senator Booker in supporting pregnant veterans by expanding access to doula support services. This effort takes a holistic approach to improving maternal health among our veterans. By ensuring that pregnant veterans have access to doulas, we are ultimately supporting women and families who served our country,” said Senator Murkowski. “The DOULA for VA ACT is essential for women veterans,” said Lucy Del Gaudio, US Army Veteran, NJ SOS Veterans Stakeholders Board Member. “The importance of this act would bring an enormous health benefit to millions.” … 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T00:18:03Z
https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-warren-nadler-correa-reintroduce-bicameral-bill-to-crack-down-on-collusive-no-poach-agreements Booker, Warren, Nadler, Correa Reintroduce Bicameral Bill to Crack Down on Collusive "No Poach" Agreements" 2023-07-26 2023 2023-07 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) and Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), along with U.S. Representatives Jerrold Nadler (D-NY) and Lou Correa (D-CA), reintroduced the bicameral End Employer Collusion Act, legislation that would crack down on collusive "no-poach" agreements that are often used by large franchisors to prohibit franchisees from hiring each other’s workers. When two or more employers agree not to hire each other’s current or former employees they engage in a no-poach agreement. Oftentimes employees are not even made aware of these agreements that deprive workers of competitive wages and benefits. Economists at Princeton University argue that no-poach agreements are chiefly intended to limit competition and turnover, suppressing wages. In 2022, the US Treasury Department published a study revealing that US workers are paid 20% less than they would be in a fully competitive market. “Businesses shouldn’t be allowed to collude to suppress workers’ wages,” said Senator Booker. “Corporations already employ a variety of anti-competitive practices and no-poach agreements, often kept hidden from employees, are particularly predatory and serve to keep wages down and limit job opportunities. It’s time to ban these harmful agreements and protect the rights of all workers.” “These illegal ‘no-poaching’ agreements give big corporations the power to limit workers’ mobility, job opportunities, and wage growth,” said Senator Warren. “I’m glad to join Senator Booker once again to introduce the End Employer Collusion Act to eliminate these anti-worker, anti-market clauses.” “Over the past several decades, waves of consolidation throughout the economy have imperiled the financial security of American workers. As a result, employers have immense power to restrict the wages and mobility of workers, and to justify anticompetitive mergers under the guise of corporate restructuring—which we all know means layoffs and unemployment,” said Representative Nadler (D-NY), Ranking Member of the House Judiciary Co… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T00:18:03Z
https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-welch-introduce-legislation-to-expand-access-to-test-strips-prevent-drug-overdoses-and-deaths Booker, Welch Introduce Legislation to Expand Access to Test Strips, Prevent Drug Overdoses and Deaths 2023-07-25 2023 2023-07 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) and Peter Welch (D-VT) introduced the Expanding Nationwide Access to Test Strips Act, legislation that would expand access to and decriminalize drug test strips nationwide in order to prevent drug overdoses and deaths. The legislation is cosponsored by U.S. Senators Hirono, Blumenthal, Ossoff, Feinstein, Padilla, Whitehouse, and Markey. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than 109,000 Americans died from a drug-related overdose in 2022, with 67% of those deaths caused by synthetic opioids like fentanyl. Additionally, 92% of the deaths were unintentional, and many victims were unaware that their drugs were laced with these dangerous substances. One of the ways to reduce this staggeringly high number of deaths is to encourage the use of drug test strips that can detect the presence of fentanyl, xylazine, and other adulterants in various types of drugs and forms. The possession of drug test strips is already legal under federal law, and there has been a surge of support to decriminalize fentanyl test strips, with 16 states legalizing these strips as of January of this year. However, several states still criminalize test strips as drug paraphernalia, thereby limiting their access. Additionally, only a few states have been able to keep up with the emergence of new drugs and decriminalize test strips for these substances. “Drug test strips have been proven to be an effective and affordable way to prevent drug overdoses and, in some cases, help reduce drug usage overall. We should encourage their use to prevent accidental overdoses and deaths,” said Senator Booker. “As new drugs surface, it’s essential that we get ahead of the crisis and expand access to test strips. This legislation takes a critical next step in tackling the opioid crisis and will help save lives.” “Vermonters know that harm reduction tools play a critical role in preventing accidental drug overdose,” said Senator Welch. “However, in many parts of this country,… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T00:18:03Z
https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-cardenas-kamlager-dove-reintroduce-bicameral-juvenile-justice-legislative-package Booker, Cárdenas, Kamlager-Dove Reintroduce Bicameral Juvenile Justice Legislative Package 2023-07-24 2023 2023-07 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 U.S. Representatives Tony Cárdenas (D-CA) and Sydney Kamlager-Dove (D-CA) reintroduced the bicameral Second Chance for Justice Package, bills that would reform the United States’ criminal and juvenile justice system. Studies have proven that locking up children does not reduce crime or the rate of juvenile recidivism - it has the opposite effect. While incarcerated, children often receive with inadequate education instruction, limited access to health care, and insufficient counseling services. This puts them at greater risk of maltreatment, physical and psychological abuse, sexual assault, and suicide. Kids in the juvenile justice systems are disproportionately identified as having special needs and are disproportionately low-income, LGBTQ+, Black and Latino. Many of these children have no knowledge of their rights, no means to contact a lawyer, and lack the financial resources to afford legal fees. “The past few decades have made one thing clear: our juvenile justice system is broken and in need of serious reform,” said Senator Booker. “Instead of equipping youth with the tools to succeed, our system too often traps young people, disproportionally Black and Brown, into never-ending cycles of debt and punishment. This not only squanders public resources but also undermines public safety. This package of bills takes a different approach by providing crucial, community-based supports to young people that have been proven to work. These bills bring our nation closer to a future where young people – regardless of their race, gender, or neighborhood – can realize their full potential, even when they have made mistakes.” “I saw lives ruined by our broken criminal and juvenile justice system growing up in Pacoima,” said Representative Cárdenas. “Kids in my neighborhood were in a perpetual cycle of incarceration, and the system didn’t just harm them – it also took a toll on their families and still affects their children and grandchildren to this day. We all make… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T00:18:03Z
https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-blumenthal-moran-announce-bipartisan-discussion-draft-of-legislation-to-protect-college-athletes-health-education-and-economic-rights Booker, Blumenthal, Moran Announce Bipartisan Discussion Draft of Legislation to Protect College Athletes’ Health, Education, & Economic Rights 2023-07-20 2023 2023-07 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), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), and Jerry Moran (R-KS) announced a bipartisan discussion draft of legislation to reform college athletics and prioritize athletes’ health, education, and economic rights. The College Athletes Protection & Compensation Act would set national standards for name, image, and likeness (NIL), establish a Medical Trust Fund to provide care to injured athletes, prioritize athletes’ educational outcomes, and safeguard athletes’ health and wellness. With student-athletes now able to benefit from NIL and states responding with a patchwork of rules and regulations, the bipartisan framework would set national standards to give athletes the economic and educational opportunities they deserve. “Being a college athlete was one of the greatest gifts of my life – it opened doors of opportunity and offered lessons I carry with me to this day,” said Senator Booker. “But it also opened my eyes to some deep, systemic injustices in the system – a system that, to this day, continues to put profits over athletes. This bipartisan proposal represents a major step forward, and I’m grateful for the partnership with Senators Blumenthal and Moran. It would make college athletics fairer, safer, and more just, and empower more young people to succeed in sports and beyond.” “This bipartisan framework is a milestone step forward for college athletes—protecting sports heroes whose blood, sweat and sacrifice drive a multibillion dollar industry,”said Senator Blumenthal.“They need a level playing field with guarantees of economic opportunities, educational outcomes, and essential health care. For far too long the NCAA and powerful special interests have held sway, putting athletes second to dollars. Athletes deserve national NIL standards, a Medical Trust Fund, scholarship safeguards, protection against mistreatment and abuse, and more. America’s athletes—all 500,000—deserve these basic rights. I thank my colleagues Senators Booker and Moran for all the hard wor… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T00:18:03Z
https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-salinas-blumenauer-introduce-bicameral-bill-to-boost-crop-insurance-coverage-for-small-farms-and-specialty-crop-farms Booker, Salinas, Blumenauer Introduce Bicameral Bill to Boost Crop Insurance Coverage for Small Farms and Specialty Crop Farms 2023-07-20 2023 2023-07 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-N.J.) and U.S. House Representatives Andrea Salinas (OR-06) and Earl Blumenauer (OR-03) introduced the Insuring Fairness for Family Farmers Act, legislation that would reform federal crop insurance subsidies to better incentivize crop insurance agents to provide coverage to small farms and specialty crop farmers. Right now, specialty crop farms and small farms have much lower rates of coverage than large, commodity crop farms. This under-coverage is driven by the federal subsidies that provide crop insurance agents with commissions for each policy that they sell. These commissions are currently based on a percentage of the premium of the policy sold. Crop insurance policies for larger farms have larger premiums, strongly incentivizing agents to write policies for the largest farms instead of small farms. In 2022, agents selling the top 3% of largest policies collected an enormous, disproportionate 37% of total agent commissions. Further, specialty crop farms often require insurance that is more labor-intensive to write and service than commodity crop farms, which means crop insurance agents are dis-incentivized from writing policies for specialty crops, since they are not compensated for the extra time they spend on them. The Insuring Fairness for Family Farmers Act (IFFFA) would revise how crop insurance agent commissions are calculated to level the playing field for small farms. IFFFA would make agent compensation be based on how much effort selling or servicing the policy requires for the agent. This would level the playing field for farms of all sizes to get assistance from agents and ensure that agents are fairly compensated for writing policies for small farms and specialty crop farms. The bill would also give bonuses to agents who write policies for farms that have not been covered before, and bonuses to those who write policies to cover small farms and certain specialty crop farms. The changes to agent incentives would be revenue-neutral, meaning th… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T00:18:03Z
https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-cornyn-announce-reintroduction-of-bipartisan-legislation-to-expand-access-to-tutoring-for-underserved-students Booker, Cornyn Announce Reintroduction of Bipartisan Legislation to Expand Access to Tutoring for Underserved Students 2023-07-19 2023 2023-07 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) and John Cornyn (R-TX) announced the reintroduction of the bipartisan Partnering Aspiring Teachers with High-Need Schools (PATHS) to Tutor Act, legislation that would expand access to one-on-one and small group tutoring in underserved communities. The legislation will also strengthen the pipeline of future teachers by placing teacher-candidates into tutoring roles. According to the 2023 National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) conducted by the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP), reading and mathematics assessments revealed a declining trend among 13-year-old students in the 2022-23 school year. The data showed a decrease of 4 points in reading and 9 points in mathematics compared to the previous assessment in 2019-20, with an overall drop of 7 points in reading and 14 points in mathematics over the past decade. The racial disparities were exacerbated, as Black students experienced a 13-point decrease compared to a 6-point decrease among White students, widening the White-Black score gap from 35 points in 2020 to 42 points in 2023. Notably, the last time that 13-year-olds performed as low in math was in 1990 and 2004 for reading. “We must work towards a more equitable education system that allows all students to reach their full potential and ensures the next generation of educators have the resources they need to succeed,” said Senator Booker. “As we see an alarming decline in academic performance among students in New Jersey and across the United States, particularly among students of color and students from low-income communities, it is crucial we prioritize equitable access to quality education for all children. This bipartisan legislation will help bridge the opportunity gap by expanding access to one-on-one and small group high-quality tutoring for underserved students, while also strengthening the teacher preparation pipeline for our future educators.” “Sadly, far too many students in Texas do not receive the educational to… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T00:18:03Z
https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-delauro-reintroduce-bicameral-legislation-to-increase-access-to-infertility-treatment Booker, DeLauro Reintroduce Bicameral Legislation to Increase Access to Infertility Treatment 2023-07-19 2023 2023-07 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) and U.S. Representative Rosa DeLauro (D-CT) reintroduced the bicameral Access to Infertility Treatment and Care Act, legislation that 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 prevalent medical condition, but treatments are often cost prohibitive for many and few health insurance plans cover them,” said Senator Booker. “We must not allow financial constraints dictate who gets the opportunity to start or grow a family. I am proud to join Representative DeLauro in introducing this bill that will require more insurance plans to cover treatment for infertility and fertility preservation services, so everyone has access to the care they need to grow their families.” “When people do not have insurance coverage for infertility treatment and care, they are forced to make impossible choices between essentials like food, clothing, and housing or paying out of pocket for the chance to have a child,”said Representative DeLauro. “The emotional and physical toll of infertility should not be intensified by the financial burden that can come with treatment. This bill will ensure that American families get the insurance coverage they deserve and the opportunity to grow their family.” “Too many people in the U.S. struggle to build their family, with out-of-pocket medical costs creating the biggest barrier. We need to prioritize family building, and that means policy change that allows for everyone to access the medical care they need to build their family. Our community applauds Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro and Senator Cory Booker on being champions for families by introducing the ‘Access to Infertility Treatment and Care Act’,” said Barbara Collura, President/CEO, RESOLVE: The National Infertility Association. "Infertility care is health care. Polycystic ovary synd… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T00:18:03Z
https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-rubio-introduce-bipartisan-snap-legislation-to-measure-and-improve-nutrition-security-and-diet-quality Booker, Rubio Introduce Bipartisan SNAP Legislation to Measure and Improve Nutrition Security and Diet Quality 2023-07-14 2023 2023-07 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-NJ) and Marco Rubio (R-FL) introduced the bipartisan SNAP Nutrition Security Act, legislation that would amend the Food and Nutrition Act of 2008 to prioritize, measure and improve diet quality and nutrition security in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), especially for children. Diet-related chronic diseases such as diabetes, obesity, heart disease, stroke, and certain cancers are the leading causes of death and disability in the United States. At present, half of U.S. adults have prediabetes or type 2 diabetes, and 3 in 4 are overweight or obese. Poor diet and obesity are estimated to account for as much as 30 percent of cancer deaths in the U.S. These conditions create a heavy burden for individuals and society, negatively impacting quality of life, increasing health care costs, reducing productivity, and impacting military readiness. The leading risk factor for chronic disease development is poor nutrition. The economic cost of nutrition-related chronic diseases has been estimated at $16 trillion over the period from 2011 to 2020. SNAP is the largest food safety net program and provides food assistance to low-income families, helping to reduce poverty and food insecurity. However, less is known about SNAP’s impact on improving nutrition security, defined as consistent and equitable access to healthy, safe, affordable foods essential to optimal health and wellbeing. Nutrition security builds on food security by emphasizing the coexistence of hunger and diet-related chronic disease that disproportionately impacts Americans with low incomes. Nutrition security focuses on access to nutritious food, where food security focuses on access to all foods. Both food and nutrition security are critical, complementary measures for understanding SNAP’s impact, identifying ways to mitigate hunger and malnutrition, and improving access to healthy food to mitigate chronic disease disparities. “SNAP plays a crucial role in alleviating poverty and food insecur… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T00:18:03Z
https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-capito-reintroduce-bipartisan-bicameral-legislation-to-tackle-uterine-fibroids-through-research-and-education Booker, Capito Reintroduce Bipartisan, Bicameral Legislation to Tackle Uterine Fibroids through Research and Education 2023-07-13 2023 2023-07 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) and Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV) reintroduced the bipartisan Stephanie Tubbs Jones Uterine Fibroid Research and Education Act, legislation that would expand research and raise awareness through public education programs to support women suffering from uterine fibroids. The legislation is named after the late U.S. Representative Stephanie Tubbs Jones of Ohio, who championed this issue. U.S. Representatives Yvette Clarke (D-NY), Bonnie Watson Coleman (D-NJ), and Robin Kelly (D-IL) introduced the bill in the House. “Millions of Americans, especially Black women, are living with uterine fibroids and suffering from its devastating health impacts,” said Senator Booker. “We must continue raising awareness and investing in diagnostic and treatment options to alleviate the burden of uterine fibroids. I am proud to join my colleagues in introducing this important legislation that will expand research efforts, improve public awareness, and promote evidence-based care for uterine fibroids. We must empower women with the knowledge and resources they need to make informed decisions about their health." “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,” said Senator Capito. “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. Making investments in research and education efforts is a critical step in supporting individuals who suffer from this condition across our country.” “In a nation where approximately 25 percent of all Black women will suffer from uterine fibroids before their 25th birthday, there exists a glaring, tragic health inequity that must be addressed,” said Representative Clarke. “Fibroids have ravaged the lives of women — particularly in the Black community — across the country, and increasing funding for research and public education r… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T00:18:03Z

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