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

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1,632 rows where chamber = "Senate" and state = "NM" 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.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/heinrich-vasquez-announce-10-million-to-rebuild-roads-outside-of-wipp-in-carlsbad Heinrich, Vasquez Announce $10 Million to Rebuild Roads Outside of WIPP in Carlsbad 2026-09-28 2026 2026-09 Democrat Senate NM Martin Heinrich H001046 www.heinrich.senate.gov heinrich https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), member of the U.S. Senate Appropriations Committee and Ranking Member of the U.S. Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, and U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (N.M.) announced $10 million in federal funding to repair the US 285 Relief Route, a critical road for freight trucks transporting nuclear materials to the Waste Isolation Pilot Plant (WIPP) near Carlsbad. In January, Heinrich announced he had successfully included $10 million in Fiscal Year 2026 (FY26) Appropriations to improve roads leading to and from WIPP, through recommended payments from the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) to the State of New Mexico. Since joining the Senate Appropriations Committee, Heinrich has been a steadfast advocate for appropriating these funds. This will be the first time that funds have been appropriated for this purpose since 2014. These repairs will improve safety for WIPP workers, shipments, and the surrounding communities. Earlier this year, Heinrich also introduced the WIPP Economic Assistance Assurance Act to amend the WIPP Land Withdrawal Act to ensure sustained, inflation-adjusted funding for New Mexico communities to maintain vital infrastructure projects, such as road maintenance and repairs for the duration of WIPP’s operation. “Last appropriations cycle, I fought like hell to secure this funding – to get New Mexico more of the funding we deserve for our role in maintaining the nation’s only deep geologic repository for radioactive defense waste. I am extremely proud to have succeeded in delivering this $10 million to help rebuild the roads to, from, and around WIPP and strengthen the infrastructure that workers and the Carlsbad community rely on every day,” said Heinrich. “But our work isn’t done. I’ll keep fighting to increase the federal government’s support of road and infrastructure improvements in New Mexico, including through my WIPP Economic Assistance Assurance Act.” “New Mexico and WIPP are the backbone of our nation’s nuclear program,” said V… 1 2026-09-29T11:07:12Z 2026-09-29T11:08:49Z
https://www.lujan.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/lujan-calls-on-senate-leadership-to-establish-bipartisan-select-committee-on-ai/ Luján Calls on Senate Leadership to Establish Bipartisan Select Committee on AI 2026-09-28 2026 2026-09 Democrat Senate NM Ben Ray Luján L000570 www.lujan.senate.gov lujan https://www.lujan.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list scraper Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.) urged Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-S.D.) and Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) to establish a bipartisan Senate Select Committee on Artificial Intelligence (AI) to ensure that Congress can meet the unprecedented pace, scale, and rapidly advancing challenges associated with AI. “AI is accelerating faster than our existing legislative processes, committee structures, and technical capacity can consistently evaluate and respond. The recent news of increasing incidents makes it clear that this is no longer a theoretical concern,” wrote Senator Luján. “A bipartisan Select Committee on AI would complement, not displace, the work of existing committees. This approach would dedicate a platform to develop novel AI policy recommendations, hold hearings, and help coordinate across existing committees,” continued Senator Luján. “Establishing this bipartisan Committee gives Congress the institutional capacity to pull in expertise to understand this technology, drive its benefits, anticipate its consequences, and act with the urgency and responsibility that is demanded of us in our elected roles,” concluded Senator Luján. The full text of the letter is available here and below. Dear Leader Thune and Leader Schumer: I respectfully write today to urge the establishment of a bipartisan Senate Select Committee on Artificial Intelligence (AI) to ensure that Congress can meet the unprecedented pace, scale, and breadth of challenges presented by a rapidly advancing artificial intelligence landscape. AI is accelerating faster than our existing legislative processes, committee structures, and technical capacity can consistently evaluate and respond. The recent news of increasing incidents makes it clear that this is no longer a theoretical concern. In July, AI agents operating during cybersecurity evaluations were not properly maintained within their intended environments, allowing them unauthorized access to external systems. In independent testing by the Unite… 1 2026-09-29T11:07:12Z 2026-09-29T11:08:49Z
https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/heinrich-statement-commemorating-national-public-lands-day Heinrich Statement Commemorating National Public Lands Day 2026-09-26 2026 2026-09 Democrat Senate NM Martin Heinrich H001046 www.heinrich.senate.gov heinrich https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), Ranking Member of the U.S. Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, released the following statement on National Public Lands Day: “Our public lands are part of our shared identity – they are a physical manifestation of our Jeffersonian democracy and belong to all of us, no matter where you come from or how much money you have. “But over the past two years, our public lands have been under relentless attacks. President Trump is trying to rip public lands from public hands, negotiating behind closed doors to sell off our national treasures to private equity firms and foreign mining companies, leaving our public lands behind a for sale sign. “To rub even more salt in the wound: our national parks are facing billions of dollars in deferred maintenance and severe staff shortages, while $1.8 billion of your taxpayer dollars are being spent on President Trump’s D.C. vanity projects. That’s bullshit. “On this National Public Lands Day, go out and enjoy our public lands. Then share why they matter to you and continue to fight to protect these lands for future generations.” As Ranking Member of the U.S. Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, Heinrich is leading the fight in Congress to protect our public lands, expand access to national parks, and hold the Trump administration accountable for its attacks on our treasured places — from efforts to erase history in our national parks to diverting funding to Trump’s vanity projects. This month, Heinrich joined a bipartisan group of 153 lawmakers in urging the Department of the Interior (DOI) to abandon a proposed transfer of federally managed public land within Yosemite National Park that would facilitate private access to and development of an 83-acre parcel adjacent to the park known as Hazel Green Ranch. During a U.S. Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee hearing, Heinrich criticized the Trump administration for its plan to exchange public land in Yosemite National Park for private devel… 1 2026-09-27T10:23:37Z 2026-09-27T10:25:08Z
https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/heinrich-whitehouse-joint-statement-on-permitting-deal-to-deliver-lower-energy-costs-good-paying-jobs-and-responsible-growth Heinrich, Whitehouse Joint Statement on Permitting Deal to Deliver Lower Energy Costs, Good-Paying Jobs, and Responsible Growth 2026-09-25 2026 2026-09 Democrat Senate NM Martin Heinrich H001046 www.heinrich.senate.gov heinrich https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), Ranking Member of the U.S. Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, and U.S. Senator Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.), Ranking Member of the U.S. Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works, issued the following statement on the status of a permitting reform deal: “To be clear: permitting negotiations are ongoing, many of the major hurdles have been overcome, and we believe there is a good deal to be had. We’re focused on getting Americans cheaper energy, good-paying jobs, and responsible growth. To get that right, we need good, strong, legislative text and deliberation. “Our goal is to deliver for Americans struggling to pay their utility bills. And to do that, we must give Senators the opportunity to read and engage with legislation before they’re asked to vote on it. Rushing that process isn’t just unhelpful, it could sabotage the entire effort. “We are talking about major changes to how America builds energy and infrastructure. Getting that right has to matter more than election-year deadlines. We are committed to doing what’s needed to get this across the finish line in this Congress, and we look forward to working with the White House and our fellow Members to do that.” 1 2026-09-26T09:43:57Z 2026-09-26T09:44:55Z
https://www.lujan.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/lujan-legislation-to-secure-americas-satellite-systems-unanimously-passes-senate/ Luján Legislation to Secure America’s Satellite Systems Unanimously Passes Senate 2026-09-25 2026 2026-09 Democrat Senate NM Ben Ray Luján L000570 www.lujan.senate.gov lujan https://www.lujan.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list scraper Washington, D.C. – This week, the U.S. Senate unanimously passed the Secure Space Act, legislation led by U.S. Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.), Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on Telecommunications and Media, and U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), Chair of the Subcommittee on Telecommunications and Media. The bipartisan Secure Space Act would protect America’s satellite systems from foreign threats and strengthen national security. “As satellite technology continues to advance, so do the threats to our national security, and we must act swiftly to safeguard our critical infrastructure,” said Senator Luján. “I’m proud that the Senate unanimously passed my Secure Space Act, legislation that blocks satellite licenses for untrusted entities and protects our skies from foreign adversaries. This legislation is necessary to defend our communications networks from foreign entities that seek to undermine our security and technological leadership.” Background: The Secure Space Act prohibits the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) from granting satellite licenses or U.S. market access for foreign-licensed satellite systems to any entity or its affiliates that produce or provide communications equipment or services deemed a national security risk. The legislation amends the Secure and Trusted Communications Networks Act of 2019 to extend this prohibition to both geostationary and non-geostationary orbit satellite systems, including gateway stations. It applies to new licenses and authorizations issued after the bill’s enactment and requires the FCC to establish implementing regulations within one year. Click here to read text of the bill. ### 1 2026-09-26T09:43:57Z 2026-09-26T09:44:55Z
https://www.lujan.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/lujan-statement-on-trumps-illegal-pocket-recissions-that-strips-nearly-1-billion-from-american-families/ Luján Statement on Trump’s Illegal Pocket Recissions that Strips Nearly $1 Billion From American Families 2026-09-25 2026 2026-09 Democrat Senate NM Ben Ray Luján L000570 www.lujan.senate.gov lujan https://www.lujan.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list scraper Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.) issued the following statement after the Trump administration released an illegal “pocket rescission” that would strip nearly $1 billion in funds meant to support American families: “Donald Trump and Russ Vought are illegally stripping away nearly $1 billion in funding for kids, K-12 students, small businesses, and families across America. “At a time when families are being squeezed by the rising costs of food, fuel, and other essentials, these cuts will only make life harder for New Mexicans. “Senate Democrats will fight back against these illegal cuts, defend Congress’ authority, and lower costs for families.” ### 1 2026-09-29T11:07:12Z 2026-09-29T11:08:49Z
https://www.lujan.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/lujan-moreno-introduce-bipartisan-resolution-to-recognize-september-as-latin-music-appreciation-month/ Luján, Moreno Introduce Bipartisan Resolution to Recognize September as Latin Music Appreciation Month 2026-09-24 2026 2026-09 Democrat Senate NM Ben Ray Luján L000570 www.lujan.senate.gov lujan https://www.lujan.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list scraper Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.) and Bernie Moreno (R-Ohio) introduced a bipartisan resolution to celebrate the contributions of Hispanics and Latinos to the musical heritage of the United States and to designate September 2026 as Latin Music Appreciation Month. The resolution recognizes various Latin music styles, instruments, artists, bands, and journalists who have inspired and influenced American culture for generations. U.S. Representative Joaquin Castro (D-Texas) plans to lead the resolution in the House of Representatives. “As one of the only Hispanics in the United States Senate, I’m honored to introduce this bipartisan resolution that recognizes and celebrates Hispanic and Latino achievements in music and culture,” said Senator Luján. “Across the U.S. and around the world, Hispanic and Latino artists have made significant contributions to musical heritage and driven cultural trends. This month, we can all take a moment to celebrate Hispanic and Latino artists and inspire future generations of artists and performers.” “Latin music is woven into the story of our nation, and its influence reaches communities across the United States and around the world. You can hear it everywhere, from reggaetón at celebrations to Latin ballads at weddings. It is the soundtrack of our lives. That’s why I’ve worked to ensure more Latino artists are a part of the prestigious National Recording Registry at the Library of Congress. Alongside Senator Luján, I look forward to calling September ‘Latin Music Appreciation Month’ to honor the artists who have shaped our nation’s culture,” said Representative Castro. “Latin music is one of the fastest-growing forces in the American music industry, driving streams, filling stadiums, topping the charts, and creating jobs for artists, producers, songwriters, and crews across the country,” said Nathaly Maurice, Founder and President of Operativo, who helped spearhead the effort alongside legendary music producer and executive Emilio Estefan. “This resolution rec… 1 2026-09-25T10:04:52Z 2026-09-25T10:05:46Z
https://www.lujan.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/lujan-statement-on-voting-for-the-14th-time-to-end-trumps-war-with-iran/ Luján Statement on Voting for the 14th Time to End Trump’s War with Iran 2026-09-24 2026 2026-09 Democrat Senate NM Ben Ray Luján L000570 www.lujan.senate.gov lujan https://www.lujan.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list scraper Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.) issued the following statement after voting for the 14th time to end President Trump’s war with Iran: “I just voted for the 14th time to end Donald Trump’s disastrous war with Iran and bring our troops home. “At least 19 servicemembers have lost their lives, many remain in harm’s way, gas is over $4.53 a gallon, and record diesel prices are squeezing our farmers and working families. “I’ve opposed this war since day one, and I won’t stop fighting to bring our troops home and lower costs for New Mexicans.” ### 1 2026-09-25T10:04:52Z 2026-09-25T10:05:46Z
https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/heinrich-introduces-legislation-to-support-investments-to-build-a-more-resilient-reliable-grid Heinrich Introduces Legislation to Support Investments to Build a More Resilient, Reliable Grid 2026-09-23 2026 2026-09 Democrat Senate NM Martin Heinrich H001046 www.heinrich.senate.gov heinrich https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper The bill creates an investment tax credit to boost construction of significant transmission projects across the nation, could create 1 million jobs & help cut electricity costs by 0ver $27 billion annually WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), Ranking Member of the U.S. Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, introduced the Grid Resiliency Tax Credit Act, legislation to incentivize the construction of new electric transmission infrastructure to help meet growing electricity demand, strengthen the grid, and lower costs for customers. The Grid Resiliency Tax Credit Act will provide a targeted 30% investment tax credit (ITC) to support investments in large-scale transmission projects and grid-enhancing technologies that help to provide consumers with low-cost, reliable electricity. At a time when energy costs are already through the roof, Americans need solutions that can bring down the cost of electricity while making sure our grid can keep up with growing demand. According to an analysis by ACORE and Grid Strategies, a 30% investment tax credit for transmission projects would create more than 1 million new American jobs building and maintaining transmission projects. Transmission expansion could save American families and businesses up to $27.7 billion per year on their residential electricity bills, according to Grid Strategies and Americans for a Clean Energy Grid (ACEG). “As our energy demand increases, we need to improve our grid infrastructure and invest in building more transmission lines that deliver on the promise of reliable, affordable, and clean power,” said Heinrich. “At a time when families are already facing sky-high energy costs, we need to make sure our investments in the grid actually help bring those costs down. My Grid Resiliency Tax Credit Act will do just that by incentivizing private investors to put their capital behind building critical energy infrastructure projects, creating long-term certainty, starting from planning to the construction of transmission pro… 1 2026-09-24T09:44:48Z 2026-09-24T09:45:52Z
https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/heinrich-kim-introduce-legislation-to-address-rising-costs-of-school-meals-help-end-childhood-hunger-in-america Heinrich, Kim Introduce Legislation to Address Rising Costs of School Meals, Help End Childhood Hunger in America 2026-09-23 2026 2026-09 Democrat Senate NM Martin Heinrich H001046 www.heinrich.senate.gov heinrich https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), a member of the U.S. Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies, and U.S. Senator Andy Kim (D-N.J.) introduced the Healthy Meals Help Kids Learn Act, legislation to make it easier for students to access quality, nutritious school meals. School meals help shape lifelong healthy eating habits, and research shows that students who participate in school meal programs have better overall diet quality than nonparticipants. But as the cost of food and equipment continues to rise, school districts are struggling to keep up. The Healthy Meals Help Kids Learn Act will give school districts the certainty they need to strengthen their meal programs, provide nutritious meals to students, and plan for the future. “New Mexico has shown that when we make healthy school meals available to every student, we give kids a better chance to focus, learn, and succeed. But schools across the country are facing a financial crisis, with the skyrocketing cost of food, equipment, and labor making it harder to put nutritious meals on the table. My Healthy Meals Help Kids Learn Act will give schools the resources and certainty they need to serve healthy meals, buy more food from local farmers, and make sure every kid in America has the food they need to learn and thrive,” said Heinrich. “Kids can’t learn if they’re hungry, and our schools can’t get them nutritious food if they’re struggling with stretched budgets. As a parent, I know there’s nothing more important than being there for your kid; as a Senator, I know there’s nothing more important than using our voice to stand up for all kids. I’m proud to work with Senator Heinrich to introduce this bill and hope our colleagues join us in standing up for America’s kids,” said Kim. Under federal law, approximately 71% of all New Mexican students qualify for free or reduced-price meals. New Mexico enacted universal free school meals in 2023 when Senate Bill 4 was s… 1 2026-09-24T09:44:48Z 2026-09-24T09:45:52Z
https://www.lujan.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/lujan-cotton-introduce-bipartisan-legislation-to-improve-medicare-patients-access-to-timely-necessary-care/ Luján, Cotton Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Improve Medicare Patients’ Access to Timely, Necessary Care 2026-09-23 2026 2026-09 Democrat Senate NM Ben Ray Luján L000570 www.lujan.senate.gov lujan https://www.lujan.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list scraper Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.) and Tom Cotton (R-Ark.) introduced the Timely Access to Coverage Decisions Act, legislation to improve Medicare patients’ access to timely and medically necessary care by making the Medicare coverage determination process more predictable, transparent, and rooted in medical evidence. National Coverage Determinations (NCDs) and Local Coverage Determinations (LCDs) are the Medicare policies that determine whether specific medical services, procedures, and devices are considered reasonable and necessary for coverage within a Medicare Administrative Contractor’s (MAC) jurisdiction. The current process for issuing and updating coverage decisions can result in lengthy delays and uncertainty for patients and providers, even as medical evidence and technology continue to advance. By establishing clearer timelines, increasing transparency, and improving oversight, the Timely Access to Coverage Decisions Act would help ensure Medicare patients have timely access to medically necessary items and services. “Medicare beneficiaries should not have to wait years for cutting edge treatments while medical science and technology advance rapidly,” said Senator Luján. “Patients deserve a coverage process that is timely, transparent, and informed by qualified health experts. My Timely Access to Coverage Decisions Act will bring greater accountability and certainty to Medicare coverage decisions so patients can access the care they need without unnecessary delays.” “Arkansas seniors deserve access to high-quality medical treatments, and they shouldn’t have to wait on the slow clock of government to obtain coverage for them. Our bill would require Medicare administrators to give seniors prompt, transparent decisions about their coverage, ensuring they can address their health concerns in a timely manner,” said Senator Cotton. Specifically, the Timely Access to Coverage Decisions Act would: Establish a predictable timeframe for coverage decisions: Medicare Administrativ… 1 2026-09-24T09:44:48Z 2026-09-24T09:45:52Z
https://www.lujan.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/lujan-van-hollen-colleagues-push-trump-to-negotiate-ai-guardrails-with-xi/ Luján, Van Hollen, Colleagues Push Trump to Negotiate AI Guardrails with Xi 2026-09-23 2026 2026-09 Democrat Senate NM Ben Ray Luján L000570 www.lujan.senate.gov lujan https://www.lujan.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list scraper Senators’ letter calls for global cooperation on AI development to preserve public safety and human control Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.) joined U.S. Senator Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.) and 15 colleagues in calling on President Donald Trump to negotiate a formal agreement between the U.S. and China on guardrails and global standards for the development, testing, and use of frontier Artificial Intelligence (AI) models with Chinese President Xi Jinping. The lawmakers also urged President Trump to consider enacting a mutual pause in frontier AI development to prevent potential cyberattacks, the development of biological weapons, and other dangerous activities that could threaten humanity. Senators Luján and Van Hollen were joined in sending this letter by Senators Patty Murray (D-Wash.), Maria Cantwell (D-Wash.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), Tim Kaine (D-Va.), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.), Tina Smith (D-Minn.), Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.), Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), Raphael Warnock (D-Ga.), Peter Welch (D-Vt.), and Angela Alsobrooks (D-Md.). The lawmakers begin, “We write concerning public reporting that your administration plans to have discussions about artificial intelligence with China during the upcoming summit with Chinese President Xi Jinping currently planned for September 24, 2026. We support this dialogue and encourage you to have those discussions at the highest level. As extraordinary as the promise of some of AI’s advanced capabilities are, safety incidents make clear that both national and international infrastructure is threatened by unregulated testing and release of AI models. It is incumbent upon both governments to discuss necessary guardrails and global standards for the development, testing, and use of AI in order to mitigate the risks of unfettered advancement. As you prepare for the upcoming summit, we urge you to engage with President Xi directly to discuss efforts … 1 2026-09-24T09:44:48Z 2026-09-24T09:45:52Z
https://www.lujan.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/watch-lujan-delivers-major-win-for-new-mexicos-land-grant-communities-and-traditional-uses/ WATCH: Luján Delivers Major Win for New Mexico’s Land Grant Communities and Traditional Uses 2026-09-23 2026 2026-09 Democrat Senate NM Ben Ray Luján L000570 www.lujan.senate.gov lujan https://www.lujan.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list scraper Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.) led the unanimous Senate passage of the New Mexico Land Grant-Mercedes Historical or Traditional Use Cooperation and Coordination Act, legislation to strengthen cooperation between the federal government and land grant communities. There are 27 community land grant-mercedes that are recognized as political subdivisions under New Mexico law. The legislation was introduced by Senator Luján and U.S. Representative Teresa Leger Fernández (D-N.M.). WATCH: Luján Secures Unanimous Consent Request on U.S. Senate Floor Senator Luján has championed this legislation for years, previously passing it through the House of Representatives while serving in the House and continuing that effort in the Senate. “Land grant communities in New Mexico have cared for our lands, sustained our communities, and preserved traditions deeply rooted in our state’s history and culture,” said Senator Luján. “For too long, these communities have faced unnecessary barriers when working with the federal government. This legislation has been years in the making, and I’m proud that we are one step closer toward making this law. This is about making sure the people who have cared for these lands for generations have a stronger voice in the decisions that affect their communities, livelihoods, and traditions.” “The New Mexico Land Grant Council is excited that Senate Bill 1363, the New Mexico Land Grant-Mercedes Historical or Traditional Use Cooperation and Coordination Act, passed the United States Senate today. The Bill has been in the works for over a decade, and Senator Luján has been a tireless advocate fighting for its passage. The Bill provides a mechanism for land grant-merced communities to get meaningful recognition of their connection to, and traditional use of former common lands now managed by the U.S. Forest Service and Bureau of Land Management in New Mexico,” said Chairman Juan Sánchez, New Mexico Land Grant Council. “El Consejo de Las Mercedes is pleased that the U.S. S… 1 2026-09-24T09:44:48Z 2026-09-24T09:45:52Z
https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/heinrich-demands-trump-admin-immediately-halt-construction-of-trumps-250-foot-arch Heinrich Demands Trump Admin Immediately Halt Construction of Trump’s 250-Foot Arch 2026-09-22 2026 2026-09 Democrat Senate NM Martin Heinrich H001046 www.heinrich.senate.gov heinrich https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), Ranking Member of the U.S. Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, led his Senate colleagues in sending a letter to Department of the Interior (DOI) Secretary Doug Burgum demanding that the Trump administration stop work on President Trump’s commemorative arch on federal property, which federal officials have admitted will harm historic sites on public lands, including Arlington National Cemetery and the Lincoln Memorial. “We write with our continued concern that President Trump’s proposed 250-foot Triumphal Arch will cast a shadow over some of our nation’s most historic monuments and memorials, as indicated in the National Park Service’s (NPS) own assessment, and to renew our call for you to immediately halt work on the project,” the lawmakers began. Late last year, the President unveiled a plan to build a towering arch near a number of historic sites and landmarks, including Arlington National Cemetery and the Lincoln Memorial. In response, Heinrich and his colleagues raised significant concerns about the legality of the arch and its impact on neighboring historic sites—demanding the administration halt construction of the President’s latest vanity project. Those concerns have proven to be accurate. NPS’ own assessment now confirms what we all have known to be true. “Last month—under requirements set forth in section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act—NPS concluded that the President’s illegal arch could adversely affect 37 historic sites in and around the nation’s capital,” the lawmakers continued. “The proposed arch would have the most pronounced impact on the Memorial Avenue Corridor Cultural Landscape, Arlington Memorial Bridge, and Arlington National Cemetery Historic District. Other historic sites built decades ago, such as National Mall, U.S. Capitol, and Washington Monument, would also be affected by the construction of the arch. Section 106 is clear: the administration must seek to “avoid, minimize, or mitigate,” adverse ha… 1 2026-09-23T09:45:16Z 2026-09-23T09:46:14Z
https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/heinrich-joins-bipartisan-congressional-push-to-stop-proposed-yosemite-land-transfer-to-trump-donor Heinrich Joins Bipartisan Congressional Push to Stop Proposed Yosemite Land Transfer to Trump Donor 2026-09-22 2026 2026-09 Democrat Senate NM Martin Heinrich H001046 www.heinrich.senate.gov heinrich https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON — This week, U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), Ranking Member of the U.S. Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, joined a bipartisan group of 153 lawmakers in urging the Department of the Interior (DOI) to abandon a proposed transfer of federally managed public land within Yosemite National Park that would facilitate private access to and development of an 83-acre parcel adjacent to the park known as Hazel Green Ranch. U.S. Senators Alex Padilla (D-Calif.) and Adam Schiff (D-Calif.), along with U.S. Representatives Jim Costa (D-Calif.) and Jared Huffman (D-Calif.), led the effort. In their letter to the Department of the Interior Secretary Doug Burgum, the lawmakers condemned recent reporting that indicated the Trump administration is considering a proposal to exchange or convey an interest in an approximately quarter-mile strip of federally managed public land within Yosemite to facilitate access to private property owned by Kingsbarn, a company whose chief executive officer began making a series of donations to Trump’s campaign and the Republican National Committee in late 2024 — shortly after Kingsbarn acquired the Hazel Green Ranch property. “At its core, this proposal appears to provide a private benefit at the expense of land that belongs to all Americans,” the lawmakers wrote. “Any decision to relinquish public land to private ownership should be supported by a clear and compelling public benefit, not merely the economic interests of a private party.” The lawmakers also raised concerns about the Department’s proposal to use Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) authority to facilitate the exchange. The letter noted that the Senate Interior-Environment Appropriations Subcommittee did not agree to move forward with the project due to congressional objections. “Public lands belong in public hands,” the lawmakers concluded. “Protection of public lands is a bipartisan issue, overwhelmingly supported by the American people from all walks of life.” As Ranking Member of the U.S. Sena… 1 2026-09-23T09:45:16Z 2026-09-23T09:46:14Z
https://www.lujan.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/lujan-statement-on-trumps-unconstitutional-press-ban/ Luján Statement on Trump’s Unconstitutional Press Ban 2026-09-21 2026 2026-09 Democrat Senate NM Ben Ray Luján L000570 www.lujan.senate.gov lujan https://www.lujan.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list scraper Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.), Ranking Member of the Senate Commerce Committee’s Subcommittee on Telecommunications and Media, issued the following statement on President Trump’s decision to ban journalists from CNN, MS NOW, and Politico from the White House: “This is an outrageous attack on the First Amendment. The White House press corps show up to work every day on behalf of the American people to hold public officials accountable. “President Trump doesn’t like when the press report on his countless broken promises and failures, so he is trying to get rid of them. It’s page one in the authoritarian handbook.” ### 1 2026-09-22T09:42:49Z 2026-09-22T09:44:35Z
https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/heinrich-demands-transparency-on-hundreds-of-millions-in-taxpayer-dollars-spent-paying-employees-not-to-work Heinrich Demands Transparency on Hundreds of Millions in Taxpayer Dollars Spent Paying Employees Not to Work 2026-09-18 2026 2026-09 Democrat Senate NM Martin Heinrich H001046 www.heinrich.senate.gov heinrich https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper Recent reporting from POLITICO states that the Interiorspent more than $150 million on administrative leave for employees in 2025 WASHINGTON — Today, U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), Ranking Member of the U.S. Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, sent a letter to the Department of the Interior (DOI) Secretary Doug Burgum demanding more information on why the Interior spent more than $150 million in paid administrative leave last year, according to recent reporting. “I write to request detailed information regarding the Department of the Interior’s (Department or DOI) misguided reductions in workforce under the deferred resignation program (DRP). It is clear from recent reporting that the Department’s downsizing was executed poorly and costly to taxpayers, to say nothing of its impact to the Department’s mission,” Heinrich began. In his letter, Heinrich demanded clarity on the Interior’s use of its deferred resignation program, and the total amount the Interior spent on employees placed on paid administrative leave due to the deferred resignation program since the start of the administration. “More than one year has passed since the Trump administration introduced the DRP, but Congress and the American people still do not know the full extent of its impact,” Heinrich continued. Heinrich specifically requested that the Interior disclose the number of employees placed on paid administrative leave since the start of the Trump administration, the total amount spent on employees placed on paid administrative leave due to the program, and a breakdown on the employees who were offered and accepted the program’s benefits and early retirement. Read the full text of the letter here and below. Secretary Burgum: I write to request detailed information regarding the Department of the Interior’s (Department or DOI) misguided reductions in workforce under the deferred resignation program (DRP). It is clear from recent reporting that the Department’s downsizing was executed poorly and costly to taxpayers, … 1 2026-09-19T09:11:33Z 2026-09-19T09:12:45Z
https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/heinrich-offers-his-grid-savings-act-to-force-ai-data-centers-to-pay-for-grid-upgrades-highlights-how-husted-backed-bill-falls-short Heinrich Offers His GRID Savings Act to Force AI Data Centers to Pay for Grid Upgrades, Highlights How Husted-Backed Bill Falls Short 2026-09-17 2026 2026-09 Democrat Senate NM Martin Heinrich H001046 www.heinrich.senate.gov heinrich https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON — Today, U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), Ranking Member of the U.S. Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, took to the Senate floor to object to Senate passage of the Ratepayer Protection Act, legislation offered by U.S. Senator Jon Husted (R-Ohio), and pass Heinrich's GRID Savings Act instead. While the Husted-backed legislation relies on a voluntary framework and fails to adequately protect American families from AI data center-caused increases in energy costs, Heinrich's legislation forces large load customers—like data centers—to pay for the facilities needed to connect them to the grid. Unfortunately, U.S. Senator Bernie Moreno (R-Ohio) objected to Heinrich's request to pass the GRID Savings Act. “When I open my electricity bill, and read to see how much I owe for the month, it doesn’t say I ‘may’ pay that amount. It doesn’t say I ‘should’ pay that amount. It’s not optional. Just like every other bill-paying American out there, I open that bill and I have to pay it. The same needs to be true for AI data centers,” said Heinrich. “If hyperscalers and other big tech companies need expensive new facilities and more energy, they should pay for it—not our hardworking families and small businesses.” Heinrich continued, “The Senator from Ohio and I agree on that principle. And plenty of big tech companies have said that’s their plan. But it’s not enough to just take their word for it. And it’s not enough for us to just tell states to consider making data centers pay for grid upgrades. Rather than voluntary pledges or suggestions to states, Congress needs to pass real legislation with real teeth.” VIDEO: U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), Ranking Member of the U.S. Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, urges his colleagues to pass his GRID Savings Act to force data centers to pay for their grid upgrades, rather than pass along those costs to families, September 17, 2026. A video of Heinrich’s floor speech can be found here. A transcript of Heinrich’s remarks as delivered i… 1 2026-09-18T09:27:43Z 2026-09-18T09:29:09Z
https://www.lujan.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/200-days-into-trumps-38-billion-war-with-iran-new-mexicans-are-paying-the-price/ 200 Days Into Trump’s $38 Billion War With Iran, New Mexicans Are Paying the Price 2026-09-17 2026 2026-09 Democrat Senate NM Ben Ray Luján L000570 www.lujan.senate.gov lujan https://www.lujan.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list scraper Donald Trump: “It’s small potatoes for us. It’s not a big thing.” 9/4/26 New Mexico Diesel Prices Hit Record-High Under Donald Trump Washington, D.C. — Two hundred days ago, President Trump launched the United States into a reckless war with Iran with no plan, no strategy, and no end game. Although he repeatedly assured the American people of a quick and decisive victory. His timeline has moved again and again: from “total and complete victory” and a war “won” in its “first hour,” to promising success in “two or three days,” “two weeks,” “three weeks,” “four weeks,” “five weeks,” or “six weeks.” He later announced an agreement with Iran that he said achieved “everything we set out to accomplish,” only to declare that agreement “over” just weeks later. Now, 200 days into the war, he’s claiming his war will be over “shortly after” the November election. “New Mexicans are still paying the price for Donald Trump’s 200-day war in Iran, with no end in sight. This war has cost taxpayers nearly $40 billion, driven up prices for families, depleted critical resources, and put our service members in harm’s way,” said Senator Luján. “Yet as this war continues to spiral out of control, Congressional Republicans have repeatedly refused to stand up to President Trump.” “New Mexicans should not have to pay more at the pump and at the grocery store for a war they never wanted,” Senator Luján continued. “I will keep fighting to end this war and stop New Mexico families from being forced to foot the bill for this reckless president.” Americans are paying for every additional day this war drags on. The Congressional Budget Office (CBO) estimated the Department of Defense had already incurred approximately $38 billion in costs as of August 1—before the last month and a half of fighting. CBO estimates that every additional month of this war could add another $2 billion to $3 billion to the price tag, not including costs to repair the vast damage Iran has inflicted on our bases or what it will cost to rebuild our depleted munition… 1 2026-09-18T09:27:43Z 2026-09-18T09:29:09Z
https://www.lujan.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/as-home-heating-season-approaches-lujan-bipartisan-colleagues-urge-trump-admin-to-swiftly-release-liheap-funding/ As Home-Heating Season Approaches, Luján, Bipartisan Colleagues Urge Trump Admin. to Swiftly Release LIHEAP Funding 2026-09-17 2026 2026-09 Democrat Senate NM Ben Ray Luján L000570 www.lujan.senate.gov lujan https://www.lujan.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list scraper Washington, D.C. – With energy costs rising and winter approaching, U.S. Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.) joined U.S. Senators Jack Reed (D-RI), Susan Collins (R-ME), and Lisa Murkowski (R-AK) in leading a bipartisan push for the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to release funds for the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) as swiftly and at the highest level possible. Appropriators worked on a bipartisan basis to make roughly $4 billion in federal LIHEAP funds available for the coming year. Thirty-one U.S. Senators joined in calling on HHS to swiftly distribute LIHEAP aid before winter home-heating bills arrive to help states and eligible households manage their energy costs. LIHEAP provides financial assistance to income-eligible homeowners and renters to help with energy bills and for reconnection of energy service. The program is targeted to assist vulnerable households facing high energy burdens—the share of a household’s income that goes toward their energy bills. Low-income homes generally spend the biggest percentage of their income on utility bills. However, factors such as income, weather, housing stock, fuel type, and energy-efficiency can all impact a household’s energy burden. “As you know, the Continuing Appropriations and Extensions Act for Fiscal Year 2027 (P.L. 119-103) requires the Department of Health and Human Services to distribute no less than 90 percent of its total LIHEAP allotment by November 1, 2026. Given the extraordinary pressure consumers will face this winter, we ask that you make this distribution well before the deadline,” the 31 U.S. Senators wrote. In addition to Luján, Reed, Collins, and Murkowski, the letter was signed by U.S. Senators Angela D. Alsobrooks (D-MD), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), John Hickenlooper (D-CO), Chris Coons (D-DE), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Mark Warner (D-VA), Edward J. Markey (D-MA), Peter Welch (D-VT), Angus S. King, Jr. (I-ME), Mark Kelly (D-AZ), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NM), Chuck … 1 2026-09-18T09:27:43Z 2026-09-18T09:29:09Z
https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/heinrich-eviscerates-trump-admin-official-for-lying-under-oath-about-the-illegal-political-cancelation-of-energy-project-grants-in-states-that-didnt-vote-for-trump-in-2024 Heinrich Eviscerates Trump Admin Official For Lying Under Oath About the Illegal, Political Cancelation of Energy Project Grants in States That Didn’t Vote for Trump in 2024 2026-09-17 2026 2026-09 Democrat Senate NM Martin Heinrich H001046 www.heinrich.senate.gov heinrich https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper Heinrich to Fitzsimmons on his congressional testimony contradicting DOE lawyers admitting projects were canceled for political reasons: “I find your testimony completely uncredible” WASHINGTON – During a U.S. Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee hearing to receive testimony on pending legislation, U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), Ranking Member of the Committee, questioned Alex Fitzsimmons, U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE) Associate Deputy Secretary of Energy, and Dr. Sarah J. Ryker, Associate Director for the Geology, Energy, and Minerals Mission Area at the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), on the Trump administration’s plan to sell off a part of Yosemite National Park to a private equity-owned firm, the Trump administration’s efforts to roll back efficiency standards, and the Trump administration’s illegal cancelation of energy projects grants in states that didn’t vote for President Trump in 2024. VIDEO: Ranking Member Heinrich (D-N.M.), questions Associate Deputy Secretary of Energy Alex Fitzsimmons and Associate Director for the Geology, Energy, and Minerals Mission Area at the (USGS) Dr. Sarah J. Ryker during a U.S. Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee hearing to receive testimony on pending legislation, September 16, 2026. On the Trump Administration’s Plan to Transfer Part of Yosemite National Park to a Private Equity-Owned Property Heinrich began his line of questioning by asking about the Trump administration’s plan to sell off land in Yosemite National Park to a private equity-owned development, “Dr. Riker, the Land and Water Conservation Fund exists to acquire land for public conservation and recreational purposes. It was not authorized to facilitate private commercial development yet. The Department of the Interior is currently considering this land trade within Yosemite National Park, using funds from the Land and Water Conservation Fund to facilitate commercial development. Can you share with this Committee the Department's reasoning behind why they would move forward wi… 1 2026-09-24T09:44:48Z 2026-09-24T09:45:52Z
https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/heinrich-sounds-off-on-trump-admin-plan-to-sell-off-part-of-yosemite-national-park-raises-alarm-on-senate-republicans-attacks-on-energy-efficiency-standards-and-tribal-protections Heinrich Sounds Off on Trump Admin Plan to Sell Off Part of Yosemite National Park, Raises Alarm on Senate Republicans’ Attacks on Energy Efficiency Standards and Tribal Protections 2026-09-17 2026 2026-09 Democrat Senate NM Martin Heinrich H001046 www.heinrich.senate.gov heinrich https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON — This week, during a U.S. Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee Hearing, U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), Ranking Member of the Committee, raised the alarm on the Trump administration’s proposed plan to sell off part of Yosemite National Park to a private equity-owned development, countered legislation proposed by U.S. Senator Mike Lee (R-Utah), Chairman of the Committee, which would dismantle the Department of Energy’s (DOE) Appliance Standards Program and raise consumer costs, and exposed the lack of Tribal protections in proposed hydropower licensing legislation from U.S. Senator Steve Daines (R-Mont.). VIDEO: U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), Ranking Member of the U.S. Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, delivers opening remarks during a Committee hearing to consider pending legislation, September 16, 2026. Heinrich began by expressing serious concern over the Department of the Interior’s (DOI) proposal to exchange public land in Yosemite National Park for private development, requesting $300,000 in funds from the Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) to facilitate the land transfer. “The LWCF exists to protect public lands and waters and expand recreational access nationwide for the public benefit, not to enrich private interests,” said Heinrich. “The protection of public lands is a bipartisan issue, and we will continue to raise our concerns over this proposal and demand that the Department provide transparency.” Heinrich also slammed two bills led by U.S. Senator Mike Lee (R-Utah), Chairman of the U.S. Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, that threaten to repeal energy efficiency standards, make it virtually impossible for DOE to set future standards, and raise consumer costs — S. 5338, the Energy Efficiency Reform Act, and S. 1658, the Liberating Incandescent Technology (LIT) Act, submitting several letters of opposition from consumer advocacy and industry groups into the record. “The Chairman's bill would make it virtually impossible for DOE to s… 1 2026-09-24T09:44:48Z 2026-09-24T09:45:52Z
https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/sen-heinrich-statement-commemorating-hispanic-heritage-month Sen. Heinrich Statement Commemorating Hispanic Heritage Month 2026-09-16 2026 2026-09 Democrat Senate NM Martin Heinrich H001046 www.heinrich.senate.gov heinrich https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON — U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) released the following statement commemorating Hispanic Heritage Month, which is celebrated from September 15 through October 15. Heinrich is a cosponsor of a bipartisan resolution recognizing Hispanic Heritage Month. “As we celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month, we honor the remarkable contributions Hispanics and Latinos have made to our country and our communities. From Senator Dennis Chaves to María Dolores Gonzales to Eva Enciñias, the story of New Mexico is infused with the resilience, connectedness, and brilliance of incredible Hispanic leaders. Hispanic heritage is also embedded in the fabric of our everyday lives — from our traditions, values, and the querencia that connects us to our lands to the food we eat, the art we create, and the collaborative ways we innovate. “Celebrating the richness of this cultural inheritance, in this moment, also must include standing up with Hispanic and Latino communities to protect their rights, dignity, and access to opportunities. Together, we can and must push back against the Trump administration as it continues trying to defund programs for bilingual students and Hispanic-owned small businesses, slashing healthcare and nutrition programs families rely on, and unlawfully targeting Hispanics and Latinos with out-of-control immigration enforcement tactics. “New Mexico families work hard, look out for one another, and build a better future for the next generation together. Resilience and tenacity are who we are. But every family deserves the opportunity to feel secure in their community, provide for the people they love, and build a future here at home. “This month and every month, I’ll continue working to protect the programs New Mexicans rely on, fight back against the Trump administration’s attack on programs that benefit Hispanic and Latino children and businesses, lift up the successes of Hispanic innovators and leaders, and push for the policies that give every family a fair shot at succeed.” ### 1 2026-09-17T09:52:05Z 2026-09-17T09:53:00Z
https://www.lujan.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/icymi-lujan-defends-new-mexico-against-trumps-threats/ ICYMI: Luján Defends New Mexico Against Trump’s Threats 2026-09-16 2026 2026-09 Democrat Senate NM Ben Ray Luján L000570 www.lujan.senate.gov lujan https://www.lujan.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list scraper Santa Fe, N.M. – In Case You Missed It: Following Donald Trump’s threats to rename New Mexico, U.S. Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.) led the New Mexico Congressional Delegation in defending New Mexico’s name and making clear that the President does not have the authority to rename the state unilaterally. Senator Luján led U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) and U.S. Representatives Teresa Leger Fernández (D-N.M.), Melanie Stansbury (D-N.M.), and Gabe Vasquez (D-N.M.) in calling on Apple and Google to publicly commit to keeping New Mexico’s name on Apple Maps and Google Maps, regardless of pressure from President Trump. The push to protect New Mexico’s name garnered national and local coverage. See what they’re saying: Washington Post: New Mexico leaders ask Apple and Google not to use ‘New America’ on their maps New Mexico congressional leaders asked Google and Apple on Thursday not to rename their state “New America” on the platforms’ maps should President Donald Trump demand it. The delegation’s five members, Sens. Ben Ray Luján and Martin Heinrich, and Reps. Melanie Stansbury, Teresa Leger Fernández and Gabe Vasquez, are all Democrats. The Hill: New Mexico Democrats call on Apple, Google to keep state’s name on map A group of Democratic lawmakers who represent New Mexico urged Apple and Google on Thursday not to adopt President Trump’s proposed renaming of the state to “New America” on their map platforms. The Democratic lawmakers behind this request included Sens. Ben Ray Luján and Martin Heinrich and Reps. Melanie Stansbury, Teresa Leger Fernández and Gabe Vasquez. The Washington Sun: New Mexico Lawmakers Urge Apple, Google to Publicly Reject Trump’s ‘New America’ Name New Mexico lawmakers are calling on Apple and Google to keep using New Mexico on their map applications rather than President Donald Trump’s suggested name for the state, “New America.” In a letter sent Thursday, Democratic Sens. Ben Ray Luján and Martin Heinrich and Reps. Teresa Leger Fernández, Melanie Stansbury and Gabe Vasquez urge… 1 2026-09-17T09:52:05Z 2026-09-17T09:53:00Z
https://www.lujan.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/in-the-news-lujan-hits-the-road-in-new-mexico-fighting-for-families-farmers-and-communities/ IN THE NEWS: Luján Hits the Road in New Mexico, Fighting for Families, Farmers, and Communities 2026-09-16 2026 2026-09 Democrat Senate NM Ben Ray Luján L000570 www.lujan.senate.gov lujan https://www.lujan.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list scraper Santa Fe, N.M. – During the August and September state work period, U.S. Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.) traveled thousands of miles across New Mexico to hear directly from New Mexicans and highlight his work to lower costs, protect access to food and health care, support farmers and ranchers, strengthen consumer protections, and deliver for communities across the state. His visits included Albuquerque, Santa Fe, Taos, Gallup, Grants, Las Cruces, Farmington, Derry, Tierra Amarilla, Las Vegas, and communities across New Mexico. Senator Luján met with families, health care providers, farmers, local leaders, advocates, and small businesses to discuss the challenges facing New Mexicans and how he is working to address them in Washington. See what New Mexico media are reporting on Senator Luján’s work across the state: Source NM – New Mexico food banks describe significant increase in demand after federal food aid cuts Officials from New Mexico food banks say recent changes to the federal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, as well as rising grocery costs, have dramatically increased demand at community food distribution centers across the state. A leader of Roadrunner Food Bank, the largest food bank in New Mexico, told U.S. Sen. Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.) during a roundtable Tuesday that demand increased 79% at the food bank between January 2025 and January 2026, which is the most-recent data available. NM Political Report – Luján, hospital leaders talk Medicaid ‘headwinds’ and rural health gaps at Rio Rancho roundtable U.S. Sen. Ben Ray Luján, a Democrat from New Mexico, told hospital administrators at Presbyterian Rust Medical Center that Republican-backed federal Medicaid cuts won’t just hurt New Mexicans enrolled in the program — they’ll raise care and insurance costs for everyone else, too. Cibola Citizen – Luján Visits Grants Pantry as Local Families Brace for SNAP Changes U.S. Sen. Ben Ray Luján visited the Grants Community Pantry Thursday, August 20, meeting with local families, food assistance wo… 1 2026-09-17T09:52:05Z 2026-09-17T09:53:00Z
https://www.lujan.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/lujan-capito-champion-bipartisan-legislation-to-protect-ticket-buyers-from-ticket-scams/ Luján, Capito Champion Bipartisan Legislation to Protect Ticket Buyers from Ticket Scams 2026-09-16 2026 2026-09 Democrat Senate NM Ben Ray Luján L000570 www.lujan.senate.gov lujan https://www.lujan.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list scraper Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.) and Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) introduced the Guaranteeing Honest Ownership in Secondary Ticketing (GHOST) Act, legislation to protect fans and concertgoers from deceptive ticket resale practices by prohibiting resellers from selling tickets they do not actually possess. “I’m proud to introduce this legislation to protect ticket buyers because when New Mexicans spend their hard-earned money on a concert or event, they deserve to know the ticket they are buying actually exists,” said Senator Luján. “Too often, fans are misled into purchasing tickets from resellers who don’t even have them. That’s why I introduced the GHOST Act to protect consumers, hold bad actors accountable, and bring greater transparency and fairness to the ticket marketplace.” “West Virginians who spend their hard-earned money on tickets to see their favorite artist, team, or event should be able to trust that the tickets they’re purchasing actually exist. Unfortunately, deceptive practices in the resale market can leave consumers paying inflated prices for tickets that sellers don’t even possess. I’m proud to support this legislation, which includes commonsense protections that will bring greater transparency and accountability to the ticket marketplace and ensure a fairer ticket-buying experience,” Senator Capito said. Too often, consumers unknowingly purchase “speculative” or “ghost” tickets listed by resellers who do not actually have the tickets they are advertising. In some cases, buyers may not learn until shortly before an event that their tickets are unavailable, leaving them with little time to find legitimate replacements that may be sold out or significantly more expensive. Currently, there is no federal law specifically prohibiting speculative ticketing. The GHOST Act would establish nationwide protections to prevent resellers from advertising and selling tickets they do not possess. Specifically, the GHOST Act would: Ban ticket resellers from selling tickets they do… 1 2026-09-17T09:52:05Z 2026-09-17T09:53:00Z
https://www.lujan.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/lujan-statement-on-partisan-republican-farm-bill/ Luján Statement on Partisan Republican Farm Bill 2026-09-16 2026 2026-09 Democrat Senate NM Ben Ray Luján L000570 www.lujan.senate.gov lujan https://www.lujan.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list scraper GOP No-Shows Previously Derailed Republican Farm Bill, Failed to Earn the Support of Committee Democrats Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.), a member of the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry, issued the following statement after Senate Republicans voted to advance the Republican Farm Bill in committee: “For generations, the Farm Bil has been a bipartisan commitment to our nation’s farmers, ranchers, growers, rural communities, and every family that depends on them to put food on the table. Today, that bipartisan promise was abandoned by Senate Republicans who pushed through a partisan bill. “Families are already struggling with President Trump’s trade war, tariffs, and skyrocketing costs. Farmers and ranchers are paying more to keep their operations running, and families are paying more at the grocery store. This bill does nothing to meet the urgency of this crisis. “After Republicans gutted our nation’s food programs, this bill does nothing to reverse those devastating cuts or meet our responsibility to eliminate hunger in America. And at a time when farmers and ranchers are struggling, it fails to make the investments in agriculture that producers need. “The Farm Bill should be a bipartisan process. It should bring together everyone – Republicans and Democrats – who want to support the people who grow our food, strengthen rural communities, and ensure families don’t go hungry. That is the Farm Bill that New Mexicans deserve, and that is the Farm Bill that I will continue fighting for.” ### 1 2026-09-17T09:52:05Z 2026-09-17T09:53:00Z
https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/heinrich-leads-fight-to-protect-state-and-tribal-gaming-rights-votes-against-advancing-clarity-act Heinrich Leads Fight to Protect State & Tribal Gaming Rights, Votes Against Advancing CLARITY Act 2026-09-15 2026 2026-09 Democrat Senate NM Martin Heinrich H001046 www.heinrich.senate.gov heinrich https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper Heinrich to introduce an amendment to protect Indian Gaming Regulatory Act & Tribal-state compacts & prohibit CFTC-registered entities from online sports betting & casino-style gaming WASHINGTON — U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) released the following statement after voting against advancing the Digital Asset Market Clarity Act (CLARITY Act), legislation that fails to protect state regulatory authority and Tribal gaming rights from prediction markets’ unlawful online sports and casino-style gaming. “The legislation we voted on today undermines Tribal sovereignty and states’ police powers. And it directly threatens Tribes’ gaming revenues, which would mean less government services funding across Indian Country. That’s a lose-lose,” said Heinrich. “Giving prediction markets a free pass to sidestep existing law and Tribal sovereignty is wrong, in every conceivable way. That is not to say I oppose digital asset market structure legislation. But what that legislation absolutely must include is commonsense protections for state and Tribal gaming rights, including an Indian Gaming Regulatory Act and Tribal-state compact savings clause and a ban on prediction contracts that function like sports bets or casino games.” Heinrich plans to introduce an amendment to the CLARITY Act that provides: An Indian Gaming Regulatory Act (IGRA) and Tribal-state compacts savings clause; and Prohibitions on Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC)-registered entities from listing prediction contracts that resemble sports bets or casino-style gaming products. The rapid expansion of sports event contracts and casino-style gaming through prediction markets threatens Tribal gaming revenues and the sovereignty of Tribal nations that rely on gaming to fund essential government services, including health care, public safety, education, housing, and social services. By offering products that function like sports bets while operating outside the regulatory framework governing gaming, prediction markets could divert a significant sha… 1 2026-09-16T09:43:13Z 2026-09-16T09:44:22Z
https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/heinrich-meets-with-cadets-at-new-mexico-youth-challenge-academy-and-new-mexico-military-institute-tours-newly-renovated-health-science-center_expanded-nursing-program-at-eastern-nm-university-roswell Heinrich Meets with Cadets at New Mexico Youth Challenge Academy & New Mexico Military Institute, Tours Newly Renovated Health Science Center & Expanded Nursing Program at Eastern NM University-Roswell 2026-09-15 2026 2026-09 Democrat Senate NM Martin Heinrich H001046 www.heinrich.senate.gov heinrich https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper ROSWELL, N.M. — U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), a member of the U.S. Senate Appropriations Committee, met with cadets at the New Mexico Youth Challenge Academy and the New Mexico Military Institute, and toured Eastern NM University-Roswell's (ENMU-R) newly renovated health science center, automotive and welding technology center, and expanded nursing program. Heinrich toured the New Mexico Youth Challenge Academy campus and met with cadets enrolled at the academy. While there, he also discussed an $87.5 million increase in federal funding he secured for the academy and programs like it across the country to help students earn their high school diploma, while also receiving advanced workforce training in the skilled trades and industry-recognized certifications. U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) meets with cadets at the New Mexico Youth Challenge Academy, September 8, 2026. Heinrich also met with the leadership of the New Mexico Military Institute (NMMI) to discuss federal funding opportunities for the institute, military academy pathways for New Mexicans, and campus modernization needs. Heinrich also met with cadets enrolled at NMMI. Heinrich nominates New Mexicans to the Military Service Academies each year and provides an online informational session and application process for those interested. U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) meets with cadets at the New Mexico Military Institute, September 8, 2026. Additionally, Heinrich toured Eastern New Mexico University-Roswell's (ENMU-Roswell) newly renovated health science center, automotive and welding technology center, and expanded nursing program. ENMU-Roswell's nursing program is ranked first in New Mexico. While there, Heinrich met with Rocio Rugelio from Las Cruces. Rocio participated in ENMU-Roswell's Adult Education Program before enrolling at ENMU-Roswell with the goal of earning a degree in Early Childhood Education and making a positive difference in the lives of young children and families. U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) tours… 1 2026-09-16T09:43:13Z 2026-09-16T09:44:22Z
https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/heinrich-lujan-introduce-privileged-resolution-seeking-answers-on-west-bank-violence Heinrich, Luján Introduce Privileged Resolution Seeking Answers on West Bank Violence 2026-09-15 2026 2026-09 Democrat Senate NM Martin Heinrich H001046 www.heinrich.senate.gov heinrich https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON — U.S. Senators Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) and Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.) introduced a 502B privileged resolution requiring the U.S. Department of State to report to Congress on increasing violence in the West Bank, including the killings of Americans in the West Bank. Nine Americans have been killed in the West Bank in recent years – and more detained – and none have received accountability or justice from either the Israeli or U.S. Governments. The resolution would require the State Department to provide information and assessments related to investigations of the killing of U.S. citizens by violent Israeli settlers or Israeli security forces in the West Bank, as well as an assessment of the human rights situation in the West Bank, specifically related to the detention of Palestinian children. "The United States cannot look the other way when Americans are killed or when Palestinians are subjected to violence and displacement, and neither can Israel. We must send a clear message to the Trump administration and the Israeli government: New Mexicans will not stand by while U.S. citizens are killed by violent Israeli settlers and the Israeli military,” said Heinrich. "We need to end the bloodshed and work toward lasting peace in the region. That starts with holding President Netanyahu accountable for the human rights abuses taking place in the West Bank and making clear that American taxpayers will not provide a blank check for the Israeli government to kill U.S. citizens and kill and displace Palestinians. This resolution will get us closer to real accountability from the Trump Administration and the Israeli Government.” “We have a responsibility to protect Americans abroad and seek justice when Americans are killed,” said Luján. “The escalating violence in the West Bank and lack of accountability for the deaths of American citizens are deeply concerning. This resolution will help us get the answers we need, demand accountability, and ensure that we have a better assessment of the human rights situation in… 1 2026-09-24T09:44:48Z 2026-09-24T09:45:52Z
https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/heinrich-joins-roundtable-with-new-mexico-voices-for-children-and-wk-kellogg-foundation-tours-presbyterian-kaseman-hospitals-food-pharmacy-speaks-at-array-technologies-new-facility-ribbon-cutting-urges-new-mexicans-to-raise-their-voices-for-roadless-rule Heinrich Joins Roundtable with New Mexico Voices for Children and W.K. Kellogg Foundation, Tours Presbyterian Kaseman Hospital’s Food Pharmacy, Speaks at ARRAY Technologies’ New Facility Ribbon Cutting, Urges New Mexicans to Raise Their Voices for Roadless Rule 2026-09-11 2026 2026-09 Democrat Senate NM Martin Heinrich H001046 www.heinrich.senate.gov heinrich https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. — U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), Ranking Member of the U.S. Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, participated in an event in Albuquerque on improving the well-being of children and families, toured Presbyterian Kaseman Hospital’s food pharmacy, joined a ribbon-cutting ceremony for ARRAY Technologies’ solar manufacturing facility, and spoke in support of protecting the Roadless Rule at a New Mexico Wild community event. Heinrich began the day participating in a roundtable event hosted in partnership with New Mexico Voices for Children and the W.K. Kellogg Foundation, along with representatives from the UNM School of Medicine, Changing Women Initiative, Future Focused Education, and Breath of My Heart, to discuss New Mexico Voices for Children’s Roadmap Report and policy solutions to improve the well-being of children and families in New Mexico. U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) joins a roundtable to discuss policy solutions to improve the well-being of children and families in New Mexico, September 9, 2026. “I got involved early in the conversation around universal pre-K and early childhood education in New Mexico because we need to invest in our greatest asset: the next generation,” said Heinrich, a member of the U.S. Senate Appropriations Committee. “Right now, we’re seeing the Trump administration walk away from investing in our children and families. We need to be thinking about the future. That’s why I’ve long championed legislation and funded programs that give our children a strong start and ensure they have access to high-quality care. We’ve done some incredible things here in New Mexico over the last few years, but we’re just getting started. I’ll keep pushing to make sure every child in our state has the opportunity to succeed.” Notably, in 2014, Heinrich was the first member of the New Mexico Congressional Delegation to publicly support unlocking investments from the state’s Land Grant Permanent Fund to sustainably support early childhood education. After the … 1 2026-09-12T09:02:30Z 2026-09-12T09:03:27Z
https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/heinrich-statement-on-the-25th-anniversary-of-the-september-11th-terrorist-attacks Heinrich Statement on the 25th Anniversary of the September 11th Terrorist Attacks 2026-09-11 2026 2026-09 Democrat Senate NM Martin Heinrich H001046 www.heinrich.senate.gov heinrich https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) issued the following statement in recognition of the 25th anniversary of the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks. “Today, we honor and mourn all those who lost their lives at the World Trade Center, in the Pentagon, and in the fields of Western Pennsylvania. We honor the first responders and countless others who risked their lives or made the ultimate sacrifice to help neighbors and strangers in a moment of unfathomable tragedy. “We remember the way our country came together, through the grief, with determined, united resilience. And we honor the military service members who served in Afghanistan, Iraq, and around the world in the years that followed, and the allies and interpreters who supported their work. We know the sacrifices of our service members, their families, and our allies extended far beyond the battlefield. “Now, 25 years following the tragic events of September 11, 2001, we say again: We will never forget. We must always strive to carry the spirit of service, unity, and compassion we witnessed in New York, Virginia, and the skies above Pennsylvania on that day and across the country in the weeks that followed. And we will remember the heavy cost of endless wars as we strive to ensure that future generations do not bear the same burdens.” ### 1 2026-09-12T09:02:30Z 2026-09-12T09:03:27Z
https://www.lujan.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/lujan-statement-on-the-25th-anniversary-of-9-11-terrorist-attacks/ Luján Statement on the 25th Anniversary of 9/11 Terrorist Attacks 2026-09-11 2026 2026-09 Democrat Senate NM Ben Ray Luján L000570 www.lujan.senate.gov lujan https://www.lujan.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list scraper Santa Fe, N.M. – U.S. Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.) issued the following statement on the 25th anniversary of the terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001: “September 11, 2001, remains one of the most tragic days in our nation’s history. Twenty-five years later, we remember the nearly 3,000 people who lost their lives and the families and loved ones whose lives were forever changed. “In the face of unimaginable loss, Americans showed extraordinary courage, compassion, and bravery. First responders and ordinary citizens ran toward danger to save others, while communities across the country came together to support those who were grieving. “Today and every day, we honor the memory of every person who never made it home. We will never forget.” ### 1 2026-09-12T09:02:30Z 2026-09-12T09:03:27Z
https://www.lujan.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/in-southern-new-mexico-lujan-delivers-keynote-at-domenici-public-policy-conference-highlights-support-for-new-mexico-chile-farmers/ In Southern New Mexico, Luján Delivers Keynote at Domenici Public Policy Conference, Highlights Support for New Mexico Chile Farmers 2026-09-10 2026 2026-09 Democrat Senate NM Ben Ray Luján L000570 www.lujan.senate.gov lujan https://www.lujan.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list scraper SOUTHERN NEW MEXICO – This week, U.S. Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.) was in Southern New Mexico to engage with students and community leaders on the issues facing New Mexico and the country and highlight his continued support for New Mexico farmers. Keynote Address at Domenici Public Policy Conference At New Mexico State University on Wednesday, Senator Luján delivered the luncheon keynote address at the Domenici Public Policy Conference and took questions from students on issues impacting New Mexicans and Americans across the country. Senator Luján’s address focused on his work on behalf of New Mexicans and his continued commitment to deliver for communities across the state. “It was an honor to deliver the keynote address at the Domenici Public Policy Conference and speak directly with students about the issues shaping New Mexico and our country,” said Senator Luján. “The Domenici Public Policy Conference exemplifies a commitment to public service and thoughtful debate, and I was proud to join students and community leaders who share a dedication to making life better for New Mexicans. I was especially grateful for the opportunity to hear from students and discuss the work ahead to build a stronger future for New Mexico.” Supporting New Mexico’s Chile Producers During his visit to Derry on Tuesday, Senator Luján visited Ogaz Farms to see firsthand the challenges chile producers are facing. Senator Luján heard directly from local producers about the stresses impacting their operations and discussed his efforts to support specialty crop producers across New Mexico. In June, Senator Luján introduced the Cultivating Horticultural Innovation in Local Economies (CHILE) Act, legislation to strengthen support for specialty crop producers, including New Mexico farmers who grow chile and other specialty crops that are vital to the state’s agricultural economy. “This week in Derry, I had the honor of meeting with New Mexico chile producers at the height of harvest season,” said Senator Luján. “I heard directly from … 1 2026-09-11T09:25:29Z 2026-09-11T09:27:08Z
https://www.lujan.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/lujan-n-m-delegation-call-on-apple-google-to-keep-new-mexicos-name-on-mapping-services/ Luján, N.M. Delegation Call on Apple, Google to Keep New Mexico’s Name on Mapping Services 2026-09-10 2026 2026-09 Democrat Senate NM Ben Ray Luján L000570 www.lujan.senate.gov lujan https://www.lujan.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list scraper N.M. Delegation Demands Commitment Following Trump’s Post to Rename New Mexico “New America” Luján’s Reaction Following Trump’s Post: It’s New Mexico, always has been and always will be. Just like how you’ll always be a sinvergüenza and corrupt. Santa Fe, N.M. – Today, U.S. Senators Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.) and Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), and U.S. Representatives Teresa Leger Fernández (D-N.M.), Melanie Stansbury (D-N.M.), and Gabe Vasquez (D-N.M.) called on Apple and Google to publicly commit to keeping New Mexico’s name on their mapping services following President Trump’s threatening post that the state be renamed “New America.” In a letter to Apple CEO John Ternus and Google CEO Sundar Pichai, Senator Luján and the New Mexico Delegation clearly state that President Trump does not have the legal authority to unilaterally rename New Mexico and calls on the companies to commit to continuing to identify the state as New Mexico on Apple Maps and Google Maps, regardless of pressure from the Trump administration. Over Labor Day weekend, President Trump published a series of erratic social media posts, including posts suggesting that New Mexico be renamed “New America.” President Trump has previously directed the federal government to use new names for geographic features, including the Gulf of Mexico, Denali, and Lake Ontario. “Let us be clear: the President has no legal authority to rename New Mexico. Our state’s name belongs to the people of New Mexico and is rooted in our history and our Constitution, which clearly states that ‘the name of this state is New Mexico,’” wrote the lawmakers. “We ask each of you to publicly commit that Apple Maps and Google Maps will continue to identify the State of New Mexico as New Mexico, regardless of what the President posts on social media, what executive order he attempts to issue, or what pressure he puts on your companies,” continued the lawmakers. Full text of the letter is available here and below. Dear Mr. Ternus and Mr. Pichai: This weekend, rather than addressing t… 1 2026-09-11T09:25:29Z 2026-09-11T09:27:08Z
https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/as-oil-hits-100-a-barrel-heinrich-details-how-trumps-war-in-iran-will-continue-to-harm-working-families As Oil Hits $100 a Barrel, Heinrich Details How Trump’s War in Iran Will Continue to Harm Working Families 2026-09-09 2026 2026-09 Democrat Senate NM Martin Heinrich H001046 www.heinrich.senate.gov heinrich https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper Report outlines how Trump’s war in Iran continues to strain the United States’ Strategic Petroleum Reserve, threatening to further hike gasoline prices WASHINGTON — Today, U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), Ranking Member of the U.S. Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, released a report detailing how draining the United States’ oil reserves to historic lows as a result of President Trump’s ongoing war in Iran — a war that financially benefits him — will cause prices at the pump to continue to rise. In the report, Heinrich spells out how the historically low U.S. Strategic Petroleum Reserve (SPR) endangers critical energy infrastructure, risking the United States’ ability to release more oil from the SPR and threatening our energy security. As President Trump’s war with Iran continues, a depleted SPR could cause gasoline prices to potentially rise to $6 per gallon according to oil executives, putting a greater financial strain on working families. This report follows the Joint Economic Committee’s (JEC) August 2026 report, which found that Trump is financially benefitting from his ongoing war in Iran and has gained $15.5 million from oil and gas stocks. “Instead of tackling rising energy prices or ending his war in Iran, President Trump is irresponsibly draining our fuel reserves. That's making things worse, not better. And working families could be forced to pay more at the pump as a result,” said Heinrich. The SPR was created in 1975 to mitigate the impacts of global crises on consumers, protecting the economy from severe oil shortages and price surges. It’s designed to hold up to 713.5 million barrels of crude oil spread across 60 salt caverns in Texas and Louisiana and is the largest reported government-owned stockpile in the world. In April 2026, the U.S. — at the direction of President Trump — released 172 million barrels of crude oil from the SPR. The decision to release oil came as Trump’s war with Iran caused gas prices to surge from $3 per gallon to over $5 per gallon in some parts of… 1 2026-09-10T09:25:58Z 2026-09-10T09:27:09Z
https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/heinrich-celebrates-first-ever-permit-issued-under-his-good-samaritan-mine-cleanup-law Heinrich Celebrates First-Ever Permit Issued Under His Good Samaritan Mine Cleanup Law 2026-09-09 2026 2026-09 Democrat Senate NM Martin Heinrich H001046 www.heinrich.senate.gov heinrich https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON — U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), Ranking Member of the U.S. Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, today celebrated the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) issuance of the first-ever permit under the Good Samaritan Remediation of Abandoned Hardrock Mines Pilot Program — established by legislation he authored and championed alongside U.S. Senator Jim Risch (R-Idaho) to remove a longstanding legal barrier to cleaning up abandoned mines. The House companion legislation was led by U.S. Representatives Celeste Maloy (R-Utah), Mary Peltola (D-Alaska), and Susie Lee (D-Nev.). The permit authorizes Trout Unlimited to move forward with the Bodie Mine Project in Okanogan County, Washington, marking the first time a Good Samaritan has received federal authorization under the pilot program created by Heinrich’s bipartisan Good Samaritan Remediation of Abandoned Hardrock Mines Act, which was signed into law in December 2024. For decades, nonprofits, state and local governments, and other groups willing to clean up abandoned hardrock mines faced a major obstacle: under existing environmental liability laws, organizations could potentially become legally liable for pollution they did not create simply by attempting to remediate it. Heinrich’s legislation created a new permitting pathway that provides eligible Good Samaritans with protections from certain liability risks while they carry out approved cleanup projects. “This is a landmark moment — and proof that our Good Samaritan law is working. After more than 25 years of hard work to break down the legal barriers standing in the way of abandoned mine cleanup, we are finally seeing volunteers get to work restoring polluted lands and waters without taking on liability for contamination they didn’t cause,” said Heinrich. “The first Good Samaritan permit has now been issued, and this is just the beginning. We can now use this new tool to clean up more abandoned mines, improve water quality, and make communities across New Mexico and the West safer… 1 2026-09-10T09:25:58Z 2026-09-10T09:27:09Z
https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/news-ballistics-technology-heinrich-secured-helps-law-enforcement-identify-suspect-in-roswell-murders NEWS: Ballistics Technology Heinrich Secured Helps Law Enforcement Identify Suspect in Roswell Murders 2026-09-09 2026 2026-09 Democrat Senate NM Martin Heinrich H001046 www.heinrich.senate.gov heinrich https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper Heinrich secured more than $1 million to expand NIBIN technology across New Mexico, including a new machine in Roswell that investigators used to connect ballistic evidence in multiple homicides ROSWELL, N.M. — U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) today highlighted the critical role that new ballistics testing machines he secured helped law enforcement identify and arrest a suspect accused of two murders in the community. According to the New Mexico Department of Justice, the Roswell Police Department used the National Integrated Ballistic Information Network (NIBIN) machine to identify a connection between ballistic evidence recovered in two of the homicides and a firearm recovered from the suspect’s home. “This is exactly why I fought to bring this technology to communities like Roswell,” said Heinrich. “When someone commits a violent crime with a firearm, law enforcement needs every possible tool to identify that weapon, connect it to other crimes, and get a dangerous criminal off the streets before they can hurt anyone else. That is what these investments are designed to do — help law enforcement solve crimes faster and keep New Mexicans safe.” In the Fiscal Year (FY) 2024 Appropriations process, Heinrich secured more than $1 million to purchase four new NIBIN machines for law enforcement agencies in Roswell, Las Cruces, Farmington, and Gallup. The investment expanded access to advanced ballistic intelligence beyond Albuquerque and Santa Fe and established a statewide network connecting local law enforcement agencies with the New Mexico Department of Justice’s Crime Gun Intelligence Center. Before Heinrich secured the funding, New Mexico had only three NIBIN machines — two in Albuquerque and one in Santa Fe. The new Roswell machine has given law enforcement in southeastern New Mexico direct access to the technology, eliminating the need to transport evidence long distances for testing. NIBIN machines use highly technical imaging to analyze the markings left on spent cartridge casings and determine whet… 1 2026-09-10T09:25:58Z 2026-09-10T09:27:09Z
https://www.lujan.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/icymi-lujan-n-m-delegation-call-on-doj-inspector-general-to-expand-investigation-into-dea-fentanyl-practices-in-new-mexico/ ICYMI: Luján, N.M. Delegation Call on DOJ Inspector General to Expand Investigation into DEA Fentanyl Practices in New Mexico 2026-09-08 2026 2026-09 Democrat Senate NM Ben Ray Luján L000570 www.lujan.senate.gov lujan https://www.lujan.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list scraper NEW MEXICO – In Case You Missed It: U.S. Senators Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.) and Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), and U.S. Representatives Teresa Leger Fernández (D-N.M.), Melanie Stansbury (D-N.M.), and Gabe Vasquez (D-N.M.) called on the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) Office of Inspector General (OIG) to expand its recently announced review of federal fentanyl investigations to examine Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) practices dating back before 2024, with a specific focus on the DEA’s fentanyl practices in New Mexico. The Delegation’s request follows whistleblower complaints alleging that DEA agents allowed large quantities of fentanyl to reach New Mexico communities instead of seizing the drugs. On August 17th, the DOJ OIG announced a review of federal fentanyl investigations, including cases where investigators allowed fentanyl shipments to continue rather than seizing them. In the letter, the lawmakers point to whistleblower allegations that raise concerns that DEA’s practice of allowing fentanyl to “walk” may extend further than the OIG’s current two-year review period. Additionally, the lawmakers call on the DOJ OIG to examine whether the DEA’s decisions led to increased overdose deaths throughout New Mexico. “One of the whistleblowers claims that the DEA surveilled a drug trafficker ‘who made repeated deliveries of fentanyl from Phoenix to Albuquerque between 2022 and 2023.’ There is reason to suspect that the DEA’s policies of allowing fentanyl to ‘walk’ stretches back before 2023. For that reason, we believe the OIG should expand its scope of review.” wrote the lawmakers. “The people of New Mexico deserve answers as to why the agency charged with seizing drugs instead allowed deadly pills to flood their streets. We ask that the DOJ OIG conduct a full and thorough investigation to bring some measure of accountability to actions carried out by DEA,” continued the lawmakers. In July, the New Mexico Delegation demanded answers from U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Administrator Terrance Cole on … 1 2026-09-09T09:27:09Z 2026-09-09T09:29:04Z
https://www.lujan.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/lujan-statement-on-celebration-of-labor-day/ Luján Statement on Celebration of Labor Day 2026-09-07 2026 2026-09 Democrat Senate NM Ben Ray Luján L000570 www.lujan.senate.gov lujan https://www.lujan.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list scraper Santa Fe, N.M. – U.S. Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.) issued the following statement recognizing New Mexico workers in honor of Labor Day: “This Labor Day, we recognize the hardworking New Mexicans who keep our communities strong. We celebrate the generations of New Mexican workers who have fought for fair pay, safer workplaces, and better opportunity for working families. “As the son of a union ironworker and a public school administrator, I understand the dignity of hard work, the importance of a good-paying job, and the necessity for a safe workplace. I remain committed to standing up to protect workers’ rights, expand opportunity, and ensure every New Mexican can build a better future for themselves.” ### 1 2026-09-08T09:24:24Z 2026-09-08T09:26:10Z
https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/heinrich-statement-honoring-labor-day Heinrich Statement Honoring Labor Day 2026-09-07 2026 2026-09 Democrat Senate NM Martin Heinrich H001046 www.heinrich.senate.gov heinrich https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON — U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) released the following statement honoring Labor Day. “Today we honor the skilled workers who built our country and keep it running. We recognize all those, past and present, who have fought for labor protections and the right to organize. And we commit to creating an economy where hard work pays off. “As the son of an IBEW lineman and a wheel factory worker, I know how hard my parents worked to provide for our family. And I know that it was my dad’s union job that gave us a ticket to the middle class. “But even as union workers across New Mexico are building a future for their families and supporting our communities — lighting our homes, schools, and offices, and building the clean energy infrastructure that will power our economy for generations — too many others are working harder and falling further behind — asked to do more with far less. “I am committed to delivering policies that bring costs down and support the folks working hard for our communities. And I will continue holding President Trump accountable for the rising prices caused by his tariffs, war with Iran, and other reckless economic policies.” ### 1 2026-09-09T09:27:09Z 2026-09-09T09:29:04Z
https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/heinrich-nm-delegation-press-va-secretary-to-ensure-new-mexico-veterans-are-not-harmed-by-agency-reorganization Heinrich, N.M. Delegation Press VA Secretary to Ensure New Mexico Veterans Are Not Harmed by Agency Reorganization 2026-09-04 2026 2026-09 Democrat Senate NM Martin Heinrich H001046 www.heinrich.senate.gov heinrich https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON — U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) and members of the N.M. Congressional Delegation, including U.S. Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.), and U.S. Representatives Teresa Leger Fernández (D-N.M.), Melanie Stansbury (D-N.M.), and Gabe Vasquez (D-N.M.), sent a letter pressing U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Secretary Doug Collins to ensure New Mexico veterans’ unique needs are not diminished in the agency’s planned reorganization of the Veterans Integrated Services Network (VISN) structure into five regional networks under the VA RISE Initiative. New Mexico is home to more than 125,000 veterans, many of whom live in rural communities where access to healthcare is already limited. Veterans across the state face unique challenges, including long distances to VA medical centers, shortages of specialty care providers, and limited broadband access for telehealth services. New Mexico also has a disproportionately high share of Native American, Hispanic, and Latino veterans, whose healthcare needs are best served through culturally competent care and strong partnerships with Tribal governments and the Indian Health Service (IHS). New Mexico also has a particular need for local decision-making and resources that reflect the unique needs of veterans in geographically isolated areas. “While we appreciate the Department's efforts to modernize its healthcare delivery system, any restructuring must improve —not weaken — the quality, accessibility, and responsiveness of care for veterans living in rural communities,” the N.M. Congressional Delegation wrote to VA Secretary Collins. While New Mexico was previously aligned under VISN 22 and 17, veterans and stakeholders repeatedly expressed concerns that the state's priorities were overshadowed by larger population centers within the VISN. Resource allocation, executive attention, and operational decision-making often favored larger facilities, leaving New Mexico veterans underrepresented despite facing some of the greatest barriers to care. Differences in geog… 1 2026-09-05T08:49:07Z 2026-09-05T08:50:44Z
https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/heinrich-releases-fact-sheet-highlighting-how-clean-energy-is-keeping-the-lights-on-during-extreme-heat Heinrich Releases Fact Sheet Highlighting How Clean Energy is Keeping the Lights on During Extreme Heat 2026-09-04 2026 2026-09 Democrat Senate NM Martin Heinrich H001046 www.heinrich.senate.gov heinrich https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), Ranking Member of the U.S. Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, released a new fact sheet detailing how clean energy and energy storage resources have lessened the likelihood of power outages this summer and strengthened the reliability of the nation’s electric grid. This summer, as our grid is constrained the most due to increased energy usage, communities across the United States have faced dangerous, record-breaking heat, making reliable electricity a matter of public health and safety. During extreme heat, power outages can leave people without air conditioning for hours or even days, putting older adults, children, and other vulnerable Americans at serious risk. Despite clean energy being the cheapest, fastest source to deploy, the Trump administration has continuously blocked clean energy projects from connecting to the grid. If those actions continue, over 90% of planned new electricity generation capacity could be prevented from coming online in the next several years, straining our energy grid even further and increasing the likelihood of power outages. “Extreme heat is putting more pressure on our electric grid, and Americans need to know that when they flip the switch, the power will be there. Clean, American-made energy can help us meet growing demand, lower energy costs, strengthen the grid, and keep the lights and air conditioning on,” said Heinrich. “That is why it makes no sense that President Trump continues to block and stall new clean energy projects from connecting to the grid. Every summer, our grid faces an increase in demand, leaving communities across the country at risk of power outages that can be life-threatening. We should be building more reliable, affordable energy – not putting up more roadblocks.” The fact sheet finds that clean energy resources are already helping meet growing electricity demand and improve grid reliability. Between June 2025 and May 2026, as more clean energy sources connected to the grid, t… 1 2026-09-05T08:49:07Z 2026-09-05T08:50:44Z
https://www.lujan.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/lujan-n-m-delegation-call-on-doj-inspector-general-to-expand-investigation-into-dea-fentanyl-practices-in-new-mexico/ Luján, N.M. Delegation Call on DOJ Inspector General to Expand Investigation into DEA Fentanyl Practices in New Mexico 2026-09-04 2026 2026-09 Democrat Senate NM Ben Ray Luján L000570 www.lujan.senate.gov lujan https://www.lujan.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list scraper NEW MEXICO – Today, U.S. Senators Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.) and Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), and U.S. Representatives Teresa Leger Fernández (D-N.M.), Melanie Stansbury (D-N.M.), and Gabe Vasquez (D-N.M.) called on the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) Office of Inspector General (OIG) to expand its recently announced review of federal fentanyl investigations to examine Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) practices dating back before 2024, with a specific focus on the DEA’s fentanyl practices in New Mexico. The Delegation’s request follows whistleblower complaints alleging that DEA agents allowed large quantities of fentanyl to reach New Mexico communities instead of seizing the drugs. On August 17th, the DOJ OIG announced a review of federal fentanyl investigations, including cases where investigators allowed fentanyl shipments to continue rather than seizing them. In the letter, the lawmakers point to whistleblower allegations that raise concerns that DEA’s practice of allowing fentanyl to “walk” may extend further than the OIG’s current two-year review period. Additionally, the lawmakers call on the DOJ OIG to examine whether the DEA’s decisions led to increased overdose deaths throughout New Mexico. “One of the whistleblowers claims that the DEA surveilled a drug trafficker ‘who made repeated deliveries of fentanyl from Phoenix to Albuquerque between 2022 and 2023.’ There is reason to suspect that the DEA’s policies of allowing fentanyl to ‘walk’ stretches back before 2023. For that reason, we believe the OIG should expand its scope of review.” wrote the lawmakers. “The people of New Mexico deserve answers as to why the agency charged with seizing drugs instead allowed deadly pills to flood their streets. We ask that the DOJ OIG conduct a full and thorough investigation to bring some measure of accountability to actions carried out by DEA,” continued the lawmakers. In July, the New Mexico Delegation demanded answers from U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Administrator Terrance Cole on why the DEA allo… 1 2026-09-05T08:49:07Z 2026-09-05T08:50:44Z
https://www.lujan.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/n-m-delegation-presses-va-secretary-to-ensure-new-mexico-veterans-are-not-harmed-by-agency-reorganization/ N.M. Delegation Presses VA Secretary to Ensure New Mexico Veterans Are Not Harmed by Agency Reorganization 2026-09-04 2026 2026-09 Democrat Senate NM Ben Ray Luján L000570 www.lujan.senate.gov lujan https://www.lujan.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list scraper WASHINGTON — U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) and members of the N.M. Congressional Delegation, including U.S. Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.), and U.S. Representatives Teresa Leger Fernández (D-N.M.), Melanie Stansbury (D-N.M.), and Gabe Vasquez (D-N.M.), sent a letter pressing U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Secretary Doug Collins to ensure New Mexico veterans’ unique needs are not diminished in the agency’s planned reorganization of the Veterans Integrated Services Network (VISN) structure into five regional networks under the VA RISE Initiative. New Mexico is home to more than 125,000 veterans, many of whom live in rural communities where access to healthcare is already limited. Veterans across the state face unique challenges, including long distances to VA medical centers, shortages of specialty care providers, and limited broadband access for telehealth services. New Mexico also has a disproportionately high share of Native American, Hispanic, and Latino veterans, whose healthcare needs are best served through culturally competent care and strong partnerships with Tribal governments and the Indian Health Service (IHS). New Mexico also has a particular need for local decision-making and resources that reflect the unique needs of veterans in geographically isolated areas. “While we appreciate the Department’s efforts to modernize its healthcare delivery system, any restructuring must improve —not weaken — the quality, accessibility, and responsiveness of care for veterans living in rural communities,” the N.M. Congressional Delegation wrote to VA Secretary Collins. While New Mexico was previously aligned under VISN 22 and 17, veterans and stakeholders repeatedly expressed concerns that the state’s priorities were overshadowed by larger population centers within the VISN. Resource allocation, executive attention, and operational decision-making often favored larger facilities, leaving New Mexico veterans underrepresented despite facing some of the greatest barriers to care. Differences in geog… 1 2026-09-05T08:49:07Z 2026-09-05T08:50:44Z
https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/heinrich-armstrong-introduce-legislation-to-give-tribes-more-flexibility-to-hire-qualified-native-language-educators-preserve-native-languages Heinrich, Armstrong Introduce Legislation to Give Tribes More Flexibility to Hire Qualified Native Language Educators, Preserve Native Languages 2026-09-03 2026 2026-09 Democrat Senate NM Martin Heinrich H001046 www.heinrich.senate.gov heinrich https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON — U.S. Senators Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) and Alan Armstrong (R-Okla.) introduced the Native Language Educators in Classrooms Act, bipartisan legislation to give Tribal Head Start programs greater authority to determine how qualified educators can meet Head Start teaching requirements — helping Tribes hire more Native language educators and bring more fluent Native language speakers into the classroom. Tribal Head Start programs play a critical role in preserving and promoting Native languages, cultures, and traditions. But federal credentialing requirements can prevent Tribal programs from hiring qualified educators — particularly in communities with limited access to higher education. “Preserving Native languages is essential to maintaining cultural identity,” said Heinrich. “But today, federal requirements can prevent Tribal Head Start programs from hiring the people best equipped to pass those languages, cultures, and traditions on to the next generation. My Native Language Educators in Classrooms Act will give Tribes more flexibility to determine who is qualified to teach in their own communities and create more pathways for fluent Native language speakers and other qualified educators to enter the classroom. This is about making sure Tribal communities have the authority and resources they need to keep their languages and cultures strong for generations to come.” “Native languages are at the heart of Tribal culture, identity, and community. I’m proud to work across the aisle to strengthen Tribal Head Start programs and open more pathways for teachers to enter the classroom, helping Tribes preserve their languages and pass them on to the next generation,” said Armstrong. According to a recent U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO) study, nearly all Tribal Head Start programs report difficulty hiring and retaining staff. These staffing challenges can limit programs’ ability to enroll eligible children and provide Native language education. New Mexico is at a critical junction when it comes … 1 2026-09-04T09:19:37Z 2026-09-04T09:20:58Z
https://www.lujan.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/in-tierra-amarilla-lujan-meets-with-local-leaders-to-fight-back-against-trump-administration-attacks-on-public-lands/ In Tierra Amarilla, Luján Meets with Local Leaders to Fight Back Against Trump Administration Attacks on Public Lands 2026-09-03 2026 2026-09 Democrat Senate NM Ben Ray Luján L000570 www.lujan.senate.gov lujan https://www.lujan.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list scraper Tierra Amarilla, N.M. – On Wednesday, U.S. Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.) met with community leaders and public lands advocates in Tierra Amarilla to hear directly about the impact of the Trump administration’s attacks on New Mexico’s public lands and highlight his efforts to protect New Mexico’s public lands. During the discussion, Senator Luján met with community leaders and public lands advocates from Northern Rio Arriba County to discuss their policy priorities and concerns regarding the Trump administration’s recent attacks on public lands, including concerns about efforts to increase oil, gas, and mining development on public lands. Senator Luján heard directly about how these changes could impact Northern New Mexico communities and shared updates on his work in the Senate to push back against policies that threaten New Mexico’s public lands. “New Mexico’s public lands are central to our way of life,” said Senator Luján. “In Tierra Amarilla, I heard directly from local leaders and advocates about their concerns with the Trump administration’s attacks on our public lands. From drilling and mining proposals to the rollback of protections that New Mexicans depend on, we’ve seen this administration go after lands that have meant so much to generations of New Mexicans. I will continue fighting back against these attacks and working alongside our communities to protect New Mexico’s cherished lands and water for generations to come.” Senator Luján has long fought to protect New Mexico’s public lands and cherished sites. Recently, Senator Luján introduced the Chama Basin Watershed Protection Act, legislation to permanently withdraw certain federal lands in the Rio Chama Watershed from mineral development. Additionally, Senator Luján has fought to establish permanent protections for Chaco Canyon. ### 1 2026-09-04T09:19:37Z 2026-09-04T09:20:58Z
https://www.lujan.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/lujan-bennet-hickenlooper-demand-trump-administration-comply-with-injunction-to-ensure-prompt-approvals-of-wind-and-solar-energy-projects/ Luján, Bennet, Hickenlooper Demand Trump Administration Comply with Injunction to Ensure Prompt Approvals of Wind and Solar Energy Projects 2026-09-03 2026 2026-09 Democrat Senate NM Ben Ray Luján L000570 www.lujan.senate.gov lujan https://www.lujan.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list scraper Santa Fe, N.M. — U.S. Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.), a member of the Senate Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry Committee, joined U.S. Senators Michael Bennet (D-Colo.), Ranking Member of the Senate Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry Committee’s Rural Development and Energy Subcommittee, and John Hickenlooper (D-Colo.) in demanding Interior Secretary Doug Burgum and the Department of the Interior (DOI) comply with a preliminary injunction and ensure covered wind and solar permitting reviews are conducted promptly and without illegal bureaucratic roadblocks. In July 2025, the DOI released an order requiring Secretary Burgum’s personal approval for routine wind and solar energy project permitting decisions, which led to massive delays in power projects across the West. In November 2025, Luján, Bennet, and Hickenlooper sent a letter demanding answers to the DOI’s order and highlighting its harmful effects to energy prices and reliability, but never received a response. In April 2026, the U.S. District Court issued a preliminary injunction to prohibit the DOI and its officials from applying the July 2025 order and other internal DOI orders that make wind and solar permitting processes needlessly delayed and difficult while the court case proceeds. Since then, numerous wind and solar developers report that DOI personnel have illegally continued to force project applicants to repeatedly document and prove their eligibility for these court protections. “[…] Applicants also report that DOI staff have received little or no internal guidance regarding implementation of the Court’s injunction. These reports are not isolated or short-lived: developers continue to describe these delays more than three months after the injunction took effect, indicating an ongoing pattern of noncompliance rather than a transitional implementation issue. DOI’s actions are creating severe regulatory uncertainty, threatening to permanently sideline projects at a time when Western families, farmers, and businesses are facing rising energy d… 1 2026-09-04T09:19:37Z 2026-09-04T09:20:58Z
https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/heinrich-speaks-at-national-conference-of-tribal-historic-preservation-officers-visits-spiritus-pilot-facility-on-nambe-pueblo-meets-with-community-leaders-in-canjilon-to-protect-northern-new-mexico-from-uranium-mining Heinrich Speaks at National Conference of Tribal Historic Preservation Officers, Visits Spiritus Pilot Facility on Nambé Pueblo, Meets with Community Leaders in Canjilon to Protect Northern New Mexico from Uranium Mining 2026-09-02 2026 2026-09 Democrat Senate NM Martin Heinrich H001046 www.heinrich.senate.gov heinrich https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper ALBUQUERQUE & ABIQUIÚ, N.M. — U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) attended the 26th Annual Conference of the National Association of Tribal Historic Preservation Officers (NATHPO), where he advocated for increased funding for Tribal Historic Preservation Offices and meaningful consultation; toured Spiritus Direct Air Capture pilot facility at Nambé Pueblo; and visited Canjilon in northern New Mexico to meet with community members opposed to a potential uranium mine. On Tuesday, August 25, Heinrich joined U.S. Representative Teresa Leger Fernández (D-N.M.) at the NATHPO Conference for a discussion moderated by Santo Domingo Pueblo Governor Raymond Aguilar, Jr., and Acoma Governor Charles Riley. The discussion focused on the need for greater federal investment in Tribal historic preservation, and the importance of meaningful Tribal consultation in federal decision-making. Heinrich highlighted Tribal Historic Preservation Officers’ role in protecting and preserving cultural, historical, archaeological, and traditional Tribal resources, and called for the Historic Preservation Fund to be made permanent, adequately funded, and expanded. He has previously introduced legislation establishing a goal of $300 million annually for the Fund and requiring at least 20 percent of funding for Tribal Historic Preservation Officers — providing at least $60 million annually for Tribal Historic Preservation Offices. “We need to make the Historic Preservation Fund permanent. We need to adequately resource the fund as a whole. And we especially need to make sure that we're dedicating more of those funds to Tribal Historic Preservation Officers, so that you can expand your efforts and do the work that we all know has to get done,” said Heinrich. U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) speaking with Acoma Governor Charles Riley, Santo Domingo Pueblo Governor Raymond Aguilar, Jr., and U.S. Representative Teresa Ledger Fernández (D-N.M.) at the Annual NATHPO Conference, August 25, 2026. During the conversation, Heinrich also emphasize… 1 2026-09-03T09:29:33Z 2026-09-03T09:31:32Z
https://www.lujan.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/in-las-vegas-lujan-meets-with-hospital-leaders-highlights-fight-to-protect-rural-health-care-for-new-mexicans/ In Las Vegas, Luján Meets with Hospital Leaders, Highlights Fight to Protect Rural Health Care for New Mexicans 2026-09-02 2026 2026-09 Democrat Senate NM Ben Ray Luján L000570 www.lujan.senate.gov lujan https://www.lujan.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list scraper Las Vegas, N.M. – On Tuesday, U.S. Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.) joined hospital leaders from Northern New Mexico at Alta Vista Regional Hospital to hear directly about the challenges facing rural health care. During the visit, Senator Luján met with leaders from Alta Vista Regional Hospital, Union County General Hospital, New Mexico Behavioral Health Institute, and Miners Colfax Medical Center. Senator Luján and the hospital leaders discussed the state of rural health care in Northern New Mexico and examined how cuts to Medicaid and other critical health programs impact their ability to provide care to rural communities. “New Mexicans in rural communities deserve ready access to quality, affordable health care, but Republican cuts to Medicaid and other critical health programs threaten the hospitals and services that families depend on,” said Senator Luján. “This week in Las Vegas, I heard directly from hospital leaders about the challenges they are facing and their concerns about what these cuts will mean for the patients and communities they serve. Rural hospitals are lifelines for communities across New Mexico, and I will continue fighting back against these devastating cuts and working to protect access to care across our state.” During the conversation, Senator Luján also provided an update on his work in the Senate to protect access to health care and highlighted his continued efforts to fight back against cuts that threaten rural hospitals and the New Mexicans they serve. Following Republican cuts to critical health care programs, Senator Luján introduced legislation to reverse all of the Republican health care cuts. ### 1 2026-09-03T09:29:33Z 2026-09-03T09:31:32Z
https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/trump-gains-155-million-from-oil-and-gas-stocks-amid-his-war-in-iran-meanwhile-new-mexicans-pay-526-million-more-for-gas Trump Gains $15.5 Million From Oil & Gas Stocks Amid His War in Iran, Meanwhile New Mexicans Pay $526 Million More for Gas 2026-09-01 2026 2026-09 Democrat Senate NM Martin Heinrich H001046 www.heinrich.senate.gov heinrich https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), Ranking Member of the U.S. Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee and a member and former Chairman of the U.S. Congress Joint Economic Committee, highlighted a new analysis finding that New Mexicans have spent an additional $526.2 million on gas since the start of President Trump’s Iran War — an average of $666 per New Mexico household. Meanwhile, according to the Joint Economic Committee’s analysis, President Trump’s portfolio of $45.6 million in oil and gas stocks has gone up since the end of 2025 by up to $61.1 million. That’s due to the sky-high oil and gas profits and stock prices tied to Trump’s war in Iran. And in just the first three months of 2026 – a period that covers both the U.S. operation in Venezuela and the start of the Iran War – the Committee found that Trump bought as much as $3.6 million in additional oil and gas stocks. “President Trump continues to put his personal financial interests and the interests of his ultrawealthy friends ahead of New Mexico families – folks who are already struggling with higher costs created by the President’s tariffs and reckless, illegal war in Iran,” said Heinrich. “New Mexicans shouldn’t have to pay more at the pump while Donald Trump and oil and gas executives rake in record returns.” Heinrich continued, “When a President uses the power of his office to benefit himself and his wealthy friends while working families are left to foot the bill, that’s corruption — plain and simple. We need energy policies that actually lower costs for families, not actions that pad the pockets of the President and his friends and family.” As detailed in the new Joint Economic Committee report, throughout his campaign and early in his term, Trump received millions in donations from oil company executives, and his administration began to enact favorable rules and regulations for the industry – including billions in tax giveaways. These companies have seen massive profits since the President launched his war with Iran. R… 1 2026-09-02T09:19:58Z 2026-09-02T09:20:51Z
https://www.lujan.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/in-taos-lujan-hosts-roundtable-on-ticketing-marketplace-unveils-new-legislation-to-protect-ticket-buyers-from-ticket-scams/ In Taos, Luján Hosts Roundtable on Ticketing Marketplace, Unveils New Legislation to Protect Ticket Buyers from Ticket Scams 2026-09-01 2026 2026-09 Democrat Senate NM Ben Ray Luján L000570 www.lujan.senate.gov lujan https://www.lujan.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list scraper Taos, N.M. – On Monday, at Taos Mothership, U.S. Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.) unveiled the Guaranteeing Honest Ownership in Secondary Ticketing (GHOST) Act, legislation to protect fans and concertgoers from deceptive ticket resale practices by prohibiting resellers from selling tickets they do not actually possess. During the event, Senator Luján held a roundtable conversation with nonprofit promoters, small venue leaders, artists, and community members to hear directly about the challenges they face in the ticketing marketplace. Senator Luján discussed speculative ticketing, local and federal ticketing issues, and his efforts to protect consumers while supporting artists and independent venues. “This week in Taos, I was proud to announce my new legislation to protect ticket buyers because when New Mexicans spend their hard-earned money on a concert or event, they deserve to know the ticket they are buying actually exists,” said Senator Luján. “Too often, fans are misled into purchasing tickets from resellers who don’t even have them. I was grateful for the conversation and the opportunity to hear directly from local leaders about the challenges facing fans, artists, and venues. That’s why I introduced the GHOST Act to protect consumers, hold bad actors accountable, and bring greater transparency and fairness to the ticket marketplace.” Too often, consumers unknowingly purchase “speculative” or “ghost” tickets listed by resellers who do not actually have the tickets they are advertising. In some cases, buyers may not learn until shortly before an event that their tickets are unavailable, leaving them with little time to find legitimate replacements that may be sold out or significantly more expensive. Currently, there is no federal law specifically prohibiting speculative ticketing. The GHOST Act would establish nationwide protections to prevent resellers from advertising and selling tickets they do not possess. Specifically, the GHOST Act would: Ban ticket resellers from selling tickets they do not have a… 1 2026-09-02T09:19:58Z 2026-09-02T09:20:51Z
https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/heinrich-joins-grand-opening-of-dreamtrees-new-resource-center-and-housing-shelter-in-taos-made-possible-with-15-million-he-secured Heinrich Joins Grand Opening of DreamTree’s New Resource Center & Housing Shelter in Taos, Made Possible with $1.5 Million He Secured 2026-08-31 2026 2026-08 Democrat Senate NM Martin Heinrich H001046 www.heinrich.senate.gov heinrich https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper PHOTOS TAOS, N.M. — U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), a member of the U.S. Senate Appropriations Committee, joined a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the grand opening of DreamTree’s NEST Resource Center, a new space in Taos dedicated to helping New Mexicans access emergency housing, basic necessities and internet access, employment opportunities, connections to healthcare providers, case management services, and help navigating federal and state benefits. Heinrich secured a $1.5 million Congressionally Directed Spending (CDS) grant in Fiscal Year 2026 (FY26) appropriations funding for DreamTree to complete the final phase of renovations to the NEST Resource Center and purchase land for future on-site permanent supportive housing. U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), a member of the U.S. Senate Appropriations Committee, joins a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the grand opening of DreamTree’s NEST Resource Center, August 28, 2026. “This economy has been pretty tough. A lot of folks are having a hard time, and they're having to make some really difficult decisions here in Taos and around the country. And that is where an incredible organization like DreamTree comes in – by breaking the stigma of receiving support in the first place. Through a culture of care and compassion, DreamTree is taking care of hundreds of Taoseños and helping them find clean clothing and warm food, and, most importantly, a pathway to stability,” said Heinrich. Heinrich continued, “Throughout my career, I've always advocated for funding to address housing and homelessness. It's because I truly believe that as a society, that we should be judged by how we treat those who are most in need, and I believe that every person deserves dignity and a real shot at a stable life, including the basics like food and shelter.” Heinrich continues to lead efforts to lower housing costs, help New Mexico families become first-time homeowners, and expand housing options for New Mexicans experiencing homelessness: Last month, Heinrich announced that the 21… 1 2026-09-01T09:48:49Z 2026-09-01T09:49:51Z
https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/heinrich-wyden-klobuchar-demand-answers-from-trump-official-who-diverted-federal-firefighting-resources-to-private-ranch Heinrich, Wyden, Klobuchar Demand Answers from Trump Official Who Diverted Federal Firefighting Resources to Private Ranch 2026-08-31 2026 2026-08 Democrat Senate NM Martin Heinrich H001046 www.heinrich.senate.gov heinrich https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper Amid record wildfire season in Western U.S., top Trump official at USDA diverted scarce firefighting resources to a 7 acre fire near his private ranch in Idaho WASHINGTON — U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), Ranking Member of the Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources, joined U.S. Senators Ron Wyden (D-Ore.) and Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.) in sending a letter to U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Secretary Brooke Rollins demanding answers from the Trump administration following reports that USDA Undersecretary of Agriculture for Natural Resources and Environment Michael Boren diverted federal firefighting resources away from active wildfires, in order to fight a seven acre fire near his personal ranch in Idaho. “Mr. Boren’s actions constitute potentially a misuse of taxpayer funds and put American families at further risk by diverting scarce resources from high-priority wildfires threatening communities elsewhere in the region and country,” the Senators wrote. “We request a full investigation into the nature and extent of Boren’s involvement in response to the Cabin Creek Fire and a detailed accounting of the safeguards the agency has implemented or plans to implement to prevent political interference and conflicts of interest in wildfire response.” Earlier this month, it was reported that Mr. Boren used his position to pressure U.S. Forest Service personnel to divert already scarce firefighting resources away from other fires to suppress a small fire near his 480-acre ranch in the Sawtooth National Forest. Nine aircraft were reportedly assigned to the fire, an extremely high number for a fire of this size. Western states are already facing a shortage of firefighting personnel and resources as a direct result of the Trump administration’s staffing and funding cuts. During this record setting fire season, fires of much larger size threatening American lives and homes have not received even a fraction of the same commitment of resources. In their letter, the Senators requested details on how the D… 1 2026-09-01T09:48:49Z 2026-09-01T09:49:51Z
https://www.lujan.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/lujan-colleagues-oppose-ice-rollout-of-electric-shock-gloves/ Luján, Colleagues Oppose ICE Rollout of Electric Shock Gloves 2026-08-28 2026 2026-08 Democrat Senate NM Ben Ray Luján L000570 www.lujan.senate.gov lujan https://www.lujan.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list scraper Santa Fe, N.M. – U.S. Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.) joined U.S. Senator Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.) and 14 Senate colleagues in calling on the Trump Administration to abandon its reckless plan to outfit U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers with gloves that deliver painful electric shocks. Their letter also demands that if ICE proceeds with this purchase, it first provide Congress with answers and documentation for over 30 questions about how these devices will be used, the protocol for using them, safety guardrails, and accountability measures. On August 10, 2026, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) published a notice concerning ICE’s planned acquisition of the CTG-5 G.L.O.V.E., a glove designed to deliver a painful electric shock. The notice estimates the potential value of the acquisition between $10 million and $20 million. “We write to express deep concern about U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) plans to spend up to $20 million on gloves that deliver electric shocks,” the Senators began. “…The blatant and tragic misuse of force in Los Angeles, Chicago, Minneapolis, Houston, Maine, and other locations around the country raises significant skepticism about the agency’s professional capability to safely deploy a new tool that could be used to harm Americans without cause. Therefore, we urge ICE to cancel the contract and reconsider the purchase.” “The proposed acquisition raises serious questions about necessity, proportionality, medical safety, training, accountability, and constitutional rights,” the Senators continued. “Those questions are particularly important given the significant public scrutiny surrounding ICE’s excessive use of force. A device capable of delivering an electrical shock through direct contact with an individual presents substantial risks if deployed during civil arrests – even more so if it is deployed without clear limits, appropriate training, and comprehensive oversight.” “At a time when the American people have demanded de-escalation in i… 1 2026-08-28T17:11:49Z 2026-08-28T17:13:14Z
https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/heinrich-colleagues-urge-blm-to-stop-rollback-of-waste-prevention-rule Heinrich, Colleagues Urge BLM to Stop Rollback of Waste Prevention Rule 2026-08-28 2026 2026-08 Democrat Senate NM Martin Heinrich H001046 www.heinrich.senate.gov heinrich https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON — U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), Ranking Member of the U.S. Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, joined U.S. Senator Michael Bennet (D-Colo.), and U.S. Representative Jared Huffman (D-Calif.), Ranking Member of the U.S. House Natural Resources Committee, in opposing BLM’s proposal to overturn the 2024 Waste Prevention, Production Subject to Royalties, and Resource Conservation rule (the 2024 Waste Prevention Rule). The BLM’s reversal of this commonsense rule will increase pollution on public lands, reduce domestic energy supply, expose nearby communities to avoidable health risks, and waste publicly owned natural gas, costing Americans tens of millions in foregone revenue. “Reversing these common-sense standards will waste publicly owned natural gas, cost the American people tens of millions in foregone revenue, and increase pollution on our public lands,” the lawmakers wrote. “We strongly urge BLM to reject this proposed rescission and maintain the 2024 Waste Prevention rule. The oil and gas resources on these lands belong to the American public and Tribal nations, and they deserve to benefit from the full value and benefits of responsible resource stewardship,” the lawmakers continued. Read the full text of the letter HERE and below. Dear Secretary Burgum and Director Pearce, We write to express our strong opposition to the Bureau of Land Management’s (BLM) proposed rule to overturn the 2024 Waste Prevention, Production Subject to Royalties, and Resource Conservation rule (the “2024 Waste Prevention Rule”). Reversing these common-sense standards will waste publicly owned natural gas, cost the American people tens of millions in foregone revenue, and increase pollution on our public lands. Between 2012 and 2021, operators lost an estimated 300 billion cubic feet of natural gas on federal lands to flaring and venting, valued at nearly $950 million, and resulting in a loss of between $76 and $135 million in potential taxpayer revenue. Routine venting and flaring of natural gas i… 1 2026-08-29T11:31:28Z 2026-08-29T11:32:37Z
https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/heinrich-visits-boundary-waters-canoe-area-wilderness-meets-with-local-nonprofits-advocates-and-tribal-leaders-vows-to-continue-to-fight-to-protect-public-lands Heinrich Visits Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, Meets with Local Nonprofits, Advocates, and Tribal Leaders, Vows to Continue to Fight to Protect Public Lands 2026-08-28 2026 2026-08 Democrat Senate NM Martin Heinrich H001046 www.heinrich.senate.gov heinrich https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper PHOTOS HERE ELY, MINN. — Last week, U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), Ranking Member of the U.S. Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, visited gateway communities to the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW), where he met with local advocates, volunteers, non-profit leaders, and the Three Chippewa Bands, on how Senate Republicans and President Trump’s plan to allow sulfide-ore copper mining near the BWCAW will open up the pristine wilderness to permanent pollution, harming Tribes, local communities, and businesses in the area. Heinrich saw the proposed mining sites firsthand and observed how the mining pollution would affect the community and the watershed. Heinrich’s visit comes as Minnesota Governor Tim Walz announced that his administration is taking steps to constrain future sulfide-ore copper mining development in the Rainy River Headwaters, slowing Twin Metals’ path forward to mine near the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. “I come from a mining family. I'm not against every mine everywhere. My dad worked for Anaconda Copper, and my grandfather was a gold miner. But I learned, negotiating with big companies over natural resource damages, that there are smart places to put mines — and there are places where they really don't belong. And you don't know which is which unless you get out on the landscape and see it. I think it's really hard to look at maps and listen to rhetoric in Washington, D.C., and make a good decision,” said Heinrich. Heinrich continued, “To put a mine where we went this week just seems insane to me. It would put at risk one of the last great wilderness areas in North America — not just the Boundary Waters, but the Boundary Waters, Quetico and Voyageurs. This is one of those last great landscapes in North America. I don't think these battles are ever won in one fell swoop. It takes decades. But I can tell from the passion of people on the ground, the polling I’m seeing in Minnesota, and the elected leaders who have stepped up and staked out a position that t… 1 2026-08-29T11:31:28Z 2026-08-29T11:32:37Z
https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/heinrich-visits-frijoles-fire-command-center-meets-with-firefighters-and-incident-commanders Heinrich Visits Frijoles Fire Command Center, Meets with Firefighters and Incident Commanders 2026-08-28 2026 2026-08 Democrat Senate NM Martin Heinrich H001046 www.heinrich.senate.gov heinrich https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper PHOTOS and VIDEOS SANTA FE, N.M. — This week, U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), Ranking Member of the U.S. Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, visited the Frijoles Fire Command Center to receive a briefing on the operations and status of the fire and meet with Incident Commanders, firefighters, first responders, and support staff working to contain the blaze. The Frijoles Fire has burned 15,333 acres and is 59% contained, with 803 personnel currently engaged in the firefighting effort. “I’m grateful to the firefighters, Incident Commanders, and support and medical crews who are working around the clock to protect New Mexico communities from the Frijoles Fire,” said Heinrich. “I also want to extend my deepest condolences to the family of Randy Lupe, who tragically lost his life supporting the response. Everyone who responds to wildfires puts themselves in harm’s way to keep our communities safe, and we have a responsibility to make sure they have the resources, equipment, and support they need to do their jobs safely and effectively.” U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), Ranking Member of the U.S. Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, meets with firefighters and emergency responders at the Frijoles Fire Incident Command Center, August 27, 2026. During the visit, Heinrich received a briefing from the Southwest Complex Incident Management Team 4, which is managing the firefighting operations, and met with crews and support staff. BACKGROUND: Heinrich has led efforts to strengthen the nation’s wildland firefighting workforce, improve wildfire preparedness and response, and ensure New Mexico communities have the federal resources they need in wildfire emergencies. Last month, Heinrich sent a letter urging the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to ensure that communities in New Mexico and nationwide receive the federal resources they need to respond to and prevent wildfires, including by promptly approving and distributing Fire Management Assistance Grant and post-fire mitigati… 1 2026-08-29T11:31:28Z 2026-08-29T11:32:37Z
https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/heinrich-cosponsors-bipartisan-legislation-to-advance-responsible-international-nuclear-energy-cooperation Heinrich Cosponsors Bipartisan Legislation to Advance Responsible, International Nuclear Energy Cooperation 2026-08-25 2026 2026-08 Democrat Senate NM Martin Heinrich H001046 www.heinrich.senate.gov heinrich https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), Ranking Member of the U.S. Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, along with Senators Chris Coons (D-Del.) and Ted Budd (R-N.C.), introduced the Foundational Infrastructure for Responsible Use of Small Modular Reactor Technology (FIRST) Act to codify the U.S. State Department’s FIRST program advocating for the responsible deployment of civil nuclear energy around the world. “Nuclear energy is an important part of our clean energy future, and the United States should lead in advancing its safe and responsible deployment around the world. By working with our allies and partners through the FIRST program, we can strengthen energy security, support American innovation, and promote the highest standards for nuclear safety and nonproliferation,” said Heinrich. “Nuclear energy is a source of clean and abundant power, and its growth in the U.S. and around the world will lower costs for consumers and combat climate change,” said Coons. “Right now, too many nations that want to embrace nuclear power need to buy Chinese and Russian technology at huge cost, trapping them in debt. The United States should offer an alternative that keeps us on the cutting edge, strengthens our relationships around the world and keeps Americans safe.” “The responsible development of civil nuclear energy, on an international scale, contributes to U.S. national security and bolsters our economy. The FIRST program has been a productive way for our nation to partner with good-faith actors who are building their nuclear arsenals, and continuing to leverage these public and private partnerships will help us advance our own energy dominance. Since North Carolina is a leader in next-generation nuclear technology, I am proud to partner with Senator Coons to bring this bipartisan solution forward and codify this program that will expand markets for our great innovators into law,” said Budd. Launched in 2019, the FIRST program has worked to leverage U.S. public-private partnerships and expand… 1 2026-08-26T05:33:32Z 2026-08-26T05:34:56Z
https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/heinrich-joins-colleagues-in-fight-against-rescission-of-key-energy-leasing-that-will-harm-access-to-americas-public-lands Heinrich Joins Colleagues in Fight Against Rescission of Key Energy Leasing That Will Harm Access to America’s Public Lands 2026-08-25 2026 2026-08 Democrat Senate NM Martin Heinrich H001046 www.heinrich.senate.gov heinrich https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON — U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), Ranking Member of the U.S. Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, joined U.S. Senator Michael Bennet (D-Colo.) and U.S. Representative Jared Huffman (D-Calif.), Ranking Member of the U.S. House Natural Resources Committee, in denouncing the BLM’s proposal to rescind the 2024 Fluid Mineral Leases and Leasing Process rule (the 2024 Onshore Leasing Rule). The recission, if approved, will harm public lands, reduce community input, increase pollution, and raise taxpayer costs. The 2024 Onshore Leasing Rule ensured that the concerns of states, Tribes, and local communities were included in decision-making and was a long-overdue correction to decades of BLM policies that favored oil and gas development over other uses and led to tens of thousands of dangerous abandoned wells that became the financial responsibility of taxpayers instead of the oil and gas companies. This rule had immense public support and established a balanced framework that saved taxpayer money, ensured multi-use management of public lands, and protected cultural resources and rural communities that depend on public lands. In this letter, the lawmakers ask that the administration specifically reconsider oil and gas bonding requirements; public participation, Tribal consultation, and landowner involvement; and leasing preference criteria. “We write to express our strong opposition to the Bureau of Land Management’s (BLM) proposal to rescind the 2024 Fluid Mineral Leases and Leasing Process rule (“2024 Leasing Rule”). The proposed replacement undermines the agency’s multiple-use mandate, promotes irresponsible oil and gas leasing, and fails to protect American taxpayers and private landowners,” the lawmakers began. “[…] BLM’s newly proposed rule threatens to dismantle this common-sense progress. We are deeply concerned that the proposed changes shift cleanup liabilities back to the public, restrict community and private landowner participation, and distort the balance required to manage Ame… 1 2026-08-26T05:33:32Z 2026-08-26T05:34:56Z
https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/heinrich-joins-ribbon-cutting-for-new-blackve-headquarters-and-manufacturing-facility-highlights-job-training-for-new-mexicans-living-with-disabilities-joins-groundbreaking-celebration-for-new-pacific-fusion-facility_leads-panel-with-former-google-ceo-on-unlocking-americas-clean-energy-future Heinrich Joins Ribbon-Cutting for New BlackVe Headquarters & Manufacturing Facility, Highlights Job Training for New Mexicans Living with Disabilities, Joins Groundbreaking Celebration for New Pacific Fusion Facility & Leads Panel with Former Google CEO on Unlocking America’s Clean Energy Future 2026-08-25 2026 2026-08 Democrat Senate NM Martin Heinrich H001046 www.heinrich.senate.gov heinrich https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. — Today, U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), Ranking Member of the U.S. Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, joined events in Albuquerque celebrating BlackVe’s new 30,000-square-foot headquarters and satellite manufacturing facility at MaxQ and Pacific Fusion’s new $1 billion state-of-the-art facility that positions New Mexico at the forefront of the emerging fusion energy industry. Heinrich began the day at BlackVe’s new facility, which will support the rapid design, production, integration, and operation of next-generation spacecraft — creating 200 high-quality jobs and strengthening New Mexico’s leadership in the space industry. ABOVE: U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) attends a ribbon-cutting ceremony to officially open BlackVe’s new 30,000-square-foot headquarters and satellite manufacturing facility, August 25, 2026. Additional pictures here. |“BlackVe is a homegrown company committed to staying, building, and growing right here in New Mexico. Its brand-new manufacturing facility in Albuquerque will produce satellites and defense technology that will help keep our country safe, while creating more than 200 high-quality jobs New Mexicans can build their families around,” said Heinrich. “As a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, I’ll continue working to bring more investments to New Mexico that strengthen our leadership in space and defense technologies, grow our local workforce and businesses, and give the next generation the opportunity to build their careers right here at home.” Heinrich’s support of BlackVe includes continued funding for U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) satellite and space technology at Kirtland Air Force Base, helping the company expand local manufacturing in New Mexico, and meetingwith BlackVe workers. Prior to the ribbon-cutting ceremony, Heinrich joined students from the Albuquerque Sign Language Academy (ASLA) to highlight a $300,000 Congressionally Directed Spending (CDS) grant he secured to develop the Adult Workforce Training Progr… 1 2026-08-26T05:33:32Z 2026-08-26T05:34:56Z
https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/heinrich-releases-statement-on-110th-anniversary-of-the-national-park-service-celebrates-national-park-week Heinrich Releases Statement on 110th Anniversary of the National Park Service, Celebrates National Park Week 2026-08-25 2026 2026-08 Democrat Senate NM Martin Heinrich H001046 www.heinrich.senate.gov heinrich https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), Ranking Member of the U.S. Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, released the following statement celebrating the 110th anniversary of the National Park Service (NPS) today, August 25, 2026, during National Park Week, which runs from August 22 to August 30 this year. All entrance fees to national parks are waived for U.S. citizens and residents today, August 25, 2026. “110 years ago, President Woodrow Wilson signed the law creating the National Park Service to protect some of the most treasured places in our country and ensure they belong to all Americans. “Our national parks and public lands are part of our shared identity. They are literally the anvil on which our collective identity was forged. They preserve the stories of generations who came before us, give everyone a place to explore and connect with the outdoors, and serve as an economic engine for communities across the country. In 2024 alone, visitors to our national parks spent $29 billion in communities near parks, supporting 340,000 jobs and generating more than $56 billion in economic activity. “But as the National Park Service celebrates 110 years, our parks face a $24 billion maintenance backlog and severe staffing shortages. The Trump administration has forced out thousands of employees, proposed deep cuts to the agency, and taken steps to erase history at our parks. “Instead of working to address these maintenance needs and keep visitors safe and our parks accessible, the administration is making hundreds of millions of taxpayer dollars available for the President’s vanity projects. That’s bullshit. We should be investing in the national parks that belong to all of us – not a golden ballroom for the President. “This week, I encourage every American to get outside, enjoy a national park or public land, and help protect these national treasures for generations to come.” As Ranking Member of the U.S. Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, Heinrich is leading the fight … 1 2026-08-26T05:33:32Z 2026-08-26T05:34:56Z
https://www.lujan.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/in-northwest-new-mexico-lujan-highlights-efforts-to-strengthen-care-for-seniors-and-protect-nutrition-assistance-for-new-mexicans/ In Northwest New Mexico, Luján Highlights Efforts to Strengthen Care for Seniors and Protect Nutrition Assistance for New Mexicans 2026-08-24 2026 2026-08 Democrat Senate NM Ben Ray Luján L000570 www.lujan.senate.gov lujan https://www.lujan.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list scraper NORTHWEST NEW MEXICO – Last week in Farmington and Grants, U.S. Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.) held events highlighting his efforts to expand access to home and long-term care for older New Mexicans and people with disabilities and protect nutrition assistance for New Mexico families. “Whether it’s making sure our parents and grandparents can receive care in the place they call home or ensuring families have enough food on the table, New Mexicans deserve the support they need to live healthy lives with dignity,” said Senator Luján. “Last week, I heard directly from local leaders and providers about the challenges facing families in Northwest New Mexico. I’ll continue fighting to strengthen home-based care, support caregivers, and protect SNAP from attacks that would make it harder for families to get the food they need.” Supporting Care for Older New Mexicans in Farmington In Farmington at the Native American Disability Law Center, Senator Luján met with local leaders and providers to learn more about their work providing home- and community-based care in San Juan County. Senator Luján heard directly from providers about the challenges facing rural and Tribal communities and discussed how his recently introduced Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) Access Act would expand access to long-term care for older adults and people with disabilities. Fighting to Protect Nutrition Assistance in Grants In Grants at the Grants Community Pantry, Senator Luján met with local food and nutrition leaders to discuss the impact of Republican cuts to SNAP on families and communities in Northwest New Mexico. During the event, Senator Luján heard directly about the challenges facing SNAP recipients and the local organizations that serve them. Senator Luján also highlighted his efforts to fight back against cuts to nutrition assistance and protect SNAP for New Mexico families, including families in rural and Tribal communities. ### 1 2026-08-25T05:31:37Z 2026-08-25T05:33:09Z
https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/icymi-ranking-member-heinrich-on-supreme-court-allowing-continued-construction-for-president-trumps-ballroom ICYMI: Ranking Member Heinrich on Supreme Court Allowing Continued Construction for President Trump’s Ballroom 2026-08-24 2026 2026-08 Democrat Senate NM Martin Heinrich H001046 www.heinrich.senate.gov heinrich https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper MEMORANDUM To: Reporters and Editors From: Caty Payette, Office of U.S. Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee Ranking Member Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) Date: August 24, 2026 Re: ICYMI: Ranking Member Heinrich on Supreme Court Allowing Continued Construction for President Trump’s Ballroom WASHINGTON — U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), Ranking Member of the U.S. Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, published the following post online, reacting to the news that the Supreme Court has allowed President Trump to continue construction for his $400 million ballroom: “This doesn’t change the fact that Congress never authorized spending YOUR hard-earned taxpayer dollars on Trump’s golden ballroom. “I’ll keep fighting to ensure taxpayers aren’t footing the bill for Trump’s vanity projects while the cost of everyday expenses continues to soar.” Ranking Member Heinrich has led the fight to prevent taxpayer dollars from being used to fund President Trump’s ballroom. Earlier this month, Heinrich sent a letter to the Government Accountability Office (GAO) Acting Comptroller General Orice Williams Brown, calling for the GAO to audit and assess the full scope and cost of the White House ballroom project. In June, Heinrich sent a letter demanding answers from U.S. Department of the Interior Secretary Doug Burgum on the Trump administration redirecting tens of millions of dollars from fees paid to the National Park Service (NPS) to fund President Trump’s vanity projects in Washington, D.C. – including redirecting funds collected at New Mexico sites such as Carlsbad Caverns National Park and Bandelier National Monument. In May, Heinrich?successfully blocked Senate Republicans from funding Trump’s ballroom project through their partisan reconciliation budget bill, arguing it violated the Byrd Rule — a Senate rule designed to prevent unrelated policy provisions from being jammed into reconciliation bills that can pass with a simple majority instead of the usual 60-vote threshold. Last October, Heinrich … 1 2026-08-26T05:33:32Z 2026-08-26T05:34:56Z
https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/heinrich-cosponsors-legislation-to-combat-maternal-health-crisis Heinrich Cosponsors Legislation to Combat Maternal Health Crisis 2026-08-20 2026 2026-08 Democrat Senate NM Martin Heinrich H001046 www.heinrich.senate.gov heinrich https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M) joined U.S. Senators Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) and Cory Booker (D-N.J.), alongside U.S. Representatives Gwen Moore (D-Wis.), Debbie Dingell (D-Mich.), Alma Adams (D-N.C.), Lauren Underwood (D-Ill.), and Ayanna Pressley (D-Mass.) in reintroducing the Mamas First Act, legislation that would address the maternal mortality crisis by expanding Medicaid coverage to include prenatal, delivery, and postpartum care provided by doulas, midwives, Tribal midwives, and lactation support providers. These services have been proven to reduce C-sections, decrease maternal anxiety, and improve communication between pregnant women and their health care providers. "By expanding access to trusted providers like doulas, midwives, Tribal midwives, and lactation support professionals, this legislation can help make sure mothers get the care they need. That’s especially important in New Mexico, where more than half of all births are covered by Medicaid,” said Heinrich.“The Mamas First Act will particularly help mothers in rural and Tribal communities to access quality care before, during, and after childbirth – because every mother deserves the support she needs to have a healthy pregnancy and a safe delivery.” “Instead of slashing healthcare for millions of Americans like Republicans in Congress are hellbent on doing, we should be expanding access to care to protect every momma and baby,” said Warren. “It’s unthinkable that the richest country in the world would also have one of the highest maternal mortality rates. The Mamas First Act will help fix this crisis by improving access to high-quality care and rooting out the deep disparities and systemic racism in our health care system.” “The Mamas First Act meets a crisis that is costing mothers their lives—especially Black and Indigenous women who walk into delivery rooms carrying risks no family should bear,” said Booker. “By ensuring Medicaid reimburses doulas, midwives, tribal midwives, and lactation support professionals, this bil… 1 2026-08-21T05:30:57Z 2026-08-21T05:32:22Z
https://www.lujan.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/in-gallup-lujan-holds-forum-to-raise-awareness-of-expanded-reca-compensation-for-new-mexicans/ In Gallup, Luján Holds Forum to Raise Awareness of Expanded RECA Compensation for New Mexicans 2026-08-20 2026 2026-08 Democrat Senate NM Ben Ray Luján L000570 www.lujan.senate.gov lujan https://www.lujan.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list scraper Gallup, N.M. – On Wednesday, U.S. Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.) led a public outreach forum in Gallup to raise awareness about expanded compensation available through the Radiation Exposure Compensation Act (RECA) and help New Mexicans understand how they can apply for the compensation they deserve. During the forum, Senator Luján joined local leaders and advocates to provide information about expanded eligibility under RECA and the resources available to help New Mexicans apply for compensation. The forum included a presentation on how eligible individuals can submit claims through the U.S. Department of Justice and access resources to assist with the application process. “For generations, New Mexicans have carried the burden of our nation’s nuclear legacy, and for far too long, many were denied the recognition and compensation they deserved,” said Senator Luján. “After fighting alongside survivors, uranium workers, and their families, we secured a historic expansion of RECA to finally deliver justice to more New Mexicans. Now, we have to make sure every eligible New Mexican has the resources they need to apply. I will continue working to ensure no New Mexican who sacrificed for our national security is left behind.” More information regarding RECA eligibility and the application process can be found here. Since being elected to Congress, Senator Luján has played a leading role in advancing legislation to strengthen the RECA program, introducing RECA legislation in every Congress and twice passing it through the Senate. In January, Senator Luján announced that DOJ launched a new online portal for RECA claims. In September of last year, Senator Luján and the New Mexico Delegation sent an open letter to New Mexico’s holders of health care records, birth and death records, tax records, school records and any other necessary records to request their full cooperation in delivering long overdue justice for New Mexicans exposed to radiation. Last year, Senator Luján announced that he secured clear guidance to pro… 1 2026-08-21T05:30:57Z 2026-08-21T05:32:22Z
https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/heinrich-statement-condemning-trump-administration-proposal-to-repeal-the-roadless-rule-remove-protections-for-millions-of-acres-of-public-lands Heinrich Statement Condemning Trump Administration Proposal to Repeal the Roadless Rule, Remove Protections for Millions of Acres of Public Lands 2026-08-19 2026 2026-08 Democrat Senate NM Martin Heinrich H001046 www.heinrich.senate.gov heinrich https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON — U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), Ranking Member of the U.S. Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, released the following statement reacting to the Trump administration’s announcement that the U.S. Forest Service (USFS) has filed a proposed rule to rescind the Roadless Rule. Established more than 20 years ago, the Roadless Rule protects nearly 45 million acres of public lands administered by the USFS. The Trump administration is proposing to repeal the Roadless Rule, which would increase the risk of wildfires in these areas, carve up wildlife habitat, degrade opportunities for recreation, and threaten the headwaters that communities across the country rely on for clean drinking water. The public has until September 21 to submit comments on the Trump administration’s proposed rule. This comment period is the last chance for Americans to voice their opposition to the Trump administration’s proposal to repeal the Roadless Rule before it is enacted, and help keep millions of acres of public lands in public hands. "Hunters, anglers, and public land lovers of all stripes will not take the Trump administration’s assault on the Roadless Rule sitting down. These are our backcountry campsites, our wild trout streams, and the security habitat where we chase elk in the fall,” said Heinrich. “These roadless areas are irreplaceable, and the Roadless Rule is what protects them. Americans have been clear – repeatedly and across party lines – that we don’t want President Trump screwing with our public lands. Someone needs to tell him to get out of his golf cart and touch some grass.” As Ranking Member of the U.S. Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, Heinrich is leading the fight in Congress to protect the Roadless Rule and keep public lands in public hands. Earlier this summer, Heinrich hosted a press conference on Senate Republicans’ efforts to repeal the Roadless Rule and spoke out against the Trump administration’s efforts to rescind the Roadless Rule. Additionally, Heinrich wrote an … 1 2026-08-20T05:28:41Z 2026-08-20T05:29:58Z
https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/heinrich-wyden-demand-accountability-from-doi-following-report-that-agency-officials-destroyed-official-records Heinrich, Wyden Demand Accountability From DOI Following Report that Agency Officials Destroyed Official Records 2026-08-19 2026 2026-08 Democrat Senate NM Martin Heinrich H001046 www.heinrich.senate.gov heinrich https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON — Today, U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), Ranking Member of the U.S. Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, and U.S. Senator Ron Wyden (D-Ore.) sent a letter to the Department of the Interior (DOI) Secretary Doug Burgum demanding answers on whether DOI complies with federal records retention requirements, calling for accountability and transparency regarding the agency’s records preservation processes. The letter follows reporting that DOI officials have destroyed official documents and used encrypted mobile applications with disappearing message configurations to avoid preserving records. These actions would violate the Federal Records Act, which requires the head of each federal agency to properly preserve all records documenting the organization, policies, and functions of the agency. “We write to request information regarding the Department of the Interior’s compliance with federal records retention requirements. We are deeply concerned by recent reports that officials at the Department have reportedly engaged in actions in violation of the Federal Records Act,”the Senators began. “It is imperative that all employees at the Department – regardless of title or position – understand and comply with federal records retention requirements. Government must be transparent and accountable to the American people,” the Senators continued. The Senators concluded the letter by demanding Burgum provide clarity on DOI's record retention policies and procedures, how these procedures relate to encrypted mobile devices and mobile applications on government devices, and whether he has ever directed, ordered, or been aware of any DOI official destroying or concealing federal records. Read the full text of the letter here and below. Secretary Burgum: We write to request information regarding the Department of the Interior’s compliance with federal records retention requirements. We are deeply concerned by recent reports that officials at the Department have reportedly engaged in actions in violat… 1 2026-08-20T05:28:41Z 2026-08-20T05:29:58Z
https://www.lujan.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/lujan-statement-on-trump-administration-rescinding-roadless-rule/ Luján Statement on Trump Administration Rescinding “Roadless Rule” 2026-08-19 2026 2026-08 Democrat Senate NM Ben Ray Luján L000570 www.lujan.senate.gov lujan https://www.lujan.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list scraper Santa Fe, N.M. – U.S. Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.) issued the following statement on the Trump administration’s announcement that it will end the 2001 Roadless Area Conservation Rule: “New Mexicans are facing another devastating fire season, and the Trump administration needs to listen to the communities living with these impacts every day. The Roadless Rule protects nearly 1.6 million acres, preserving our forests and the outdoor recreation economy that supports nearly 30,000 jobs and brings billions of dollars to our state. As fires continue to threaten our state, adding roads and increasing development could make communities even more vulnerable to the impacts of wildfire. New Mexicans must be heard.” 1 2026-08-26T05:33:32Z 2026-08-26T05:34:56Z
https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/heinrich-joins-schiff-senate-colleagues-in-demanding-epa-drop-efforts-to-weaken-health-protections-for-millions-of-americans Heinrich Joins Schiff, Senate Colleagues in Demanding EPA Drop Efforts to Weaken Health Protections for Millions of Americans 2026-08-17 2026 2026-08 Democrat Senate NM Martin Heinrich H001046 www.heinrich.senate.gov heinrich https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper ALBUQUERQUE, N.M.– U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) joined U.S. Senator Adam Schiff (D-Calif.) in sending a letter to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) demanding the agency withdraw their proposal to roll back drinking water protections – which, if finalized, would remove federal public health limits on the amount of certain PFAS compounds in drinking water. The senators emphasized in the letter to EPA administration Lee Zeldin that removing these health limits will expose Americans to unsafe levels of chemical that have been linked to kidney and testicular cancer, immune suppression problems, developmental harm, thyroid disease, pregnancy complication, and liver damage. “Safe drinking water is not a partisan issue. Families across the country expect that when they turn on the tap, their water is safe to drink. Congress enacted the Safe Drinking Water Act to ensure EPA relies on the best available science to protect public health – not to weaken existing protections once the sciences has been established,” the senators wrote. Despite the Trump administration’s ‘Make America Healthy Again’ agenda, if enacted, EPA’s proposal would rescind the 2024 National Primary Drinking Water Regulations for PFAS and delay compliance for the PFOA and PFOS standard until 2031, putting the health of millions of Americans at risk. “As far back as the 1950s, scientists observed that PFAS compound could accumulate in human bloodstreams. It took decades of advocacy and heroic scientific research to reach the historic moment in 2024 when EPA finally promulgated the very first national drinking water standards for PFAS compounds. We cannot afford to go backwards and make Americans’ health worse,” the senators concluded. Heinrich has led efforts to protect New Mexicans from PFAS contamination. Most recently, Heinrich introduced legislation to support the development of next-generation, PFAS-free protective gear to better protect firefighters from the dangers of their work. In February, Heinrich announced he had successf… 1 2026-08-18T05:27:41Z 2026-08-18T05:29:06Z
https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/heinrich-huffman-thompson-and-hernandez-want-answers-on-puerto-ricos-water-crisis-from-government-watchdog Heinrich, Huffman, Thompson, and Hernandez Want Answers on Puerto Rico’s Water Crisis from Government Watchdog 2026-08-14 2026 2026-08 Democrat Senate NM Martin Heinrich H001046 www.heinrich.senate.gov heinrich https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON – This week, U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), Ranking Member of the U.S. Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, U.S. Representatives Jared Huffman (D-Calif.), Ranking Member of the House Natural Resources Committee, and Bennie Thompson (D-Miss.), Ranking Member of the House Homeland Security Committee, along with Pablo José Hernández (D-P.R.), Resident Commissioner of Puerto Rico, sent a letter to the Government Accountability Office (GAO) requesting a briefing and a full investigation into Puerto Rico’s drinking water shortage, the condition of its water and wastewater systems, and what federal agencies are doing to help. “Puerto Rico is experiencing drinking water supply shortages and service interruptions affecting households and economic activity,” the lawmakers wrote. “Failing pipelines and infrastructure regularly leak about half of the territory’s treated water.” Almost 3.2 million people on the island depend on that system for the water they drink, cook with, and bathe their kids in. Half of what gets cleaned and treated for them leaks away before it reaches a single home, and nine years of federal repair funding has yet to stop it. The lawmakers point to nearly a decade of federal spending that has yet to produce a reliable system. Puerto Rico’s water utility, the Puerto Rico Aqueduct and Sewer Authority (PRASA) runs 21,000 miles of pipeline along with dams, filter plants, and tanks that supply most of the island. Since Hurricane Maria in 2017, the U.S. Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), and the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) “have provided almost $9 billion to pay for much of the PRASA infrastructure repair,” while earthquakes in 2020 and additional hurricanes in 2022 and 2023 further damaged facilities and contributed to delaying repairs. The utility finished a strategic plan, a Capital Investment Plan, and a new rate structure in 2025. The lawmakers w… 1 2026-08-15T05:23:20Z 2026-08-15T05:24:50Z
https://www.lujan.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/this-week-lujan-highlights-fight-to-lower-costs-protect-nutrition-assistance-and-expand-access-to-health-care-across-albuquerque/ This Week, Luján Highlights Fight to Lower Costs, Protect Nutrition Assistance, and Expand Access to Health Care Across Albuquerque 2026-08-14 2026 2026-08 Democrat Senate NM Ben Ray Luján L000570 www.lujan.senate.gov lujan https://www.lujan.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list scraper Albuquerque, N.M. – This week, U.S. Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.) held a series of events across Albuquerque to highlight how he is fighting to protect nutrition assistance, expand affordable housing, and defend access to health care for New Mexicans. “From putting food on the table to finding an affordable place to call home and accessing quality health care, New Mexicans deserve the support and resources they need to thrive,” said Senator Luján. “This week, I heard directly from local leaders about the challenges facing our communities and highlighted how I’m fighting in Washington to lower costs and deliver for New Mexico. I will continue fighting to protect SNAP, expand access to affordable housing, and defend quality, affordable health care for all New Mexicans.” At the South Valley Economic Development Center, Senator Luján met with local nutrition and agricultural organizations to examine the impact of Republican cuts to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) in New Mexico and highlight his efforts to protect and expand nutrition assistance for New Mexico families. During the event, Senator Luján highlighted his efforts to protect SNAP and reinforced his commitment to working on the Senate Agriculture Committee to deliver a Farm Bill that addresses devastating cuts to nutrition assistance and supports families, farmers, and ranchers. In the Senate, Senator Lujan leads legislation to reverse the devastating Republican cuts to SNAP. At Calle Cuarta Apartments, Senator Luján toured affordable housing units and met with housing leaders, experts, and advocates to discuss solutions to lower housing costs and increase access for New Mexicans. During the visit, Senator Luján heard from housing leaders and highlighted his efforts to deliver more affordable housing for New Mexico, including helping pass the 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act, affordable housing legislation that President Trump refused to sign into law. At Presbyterian Rust Medical Center, Senator Luján met with hospital leadership a… 1 2026-08-15T05:23:20Z 2026-08-15T05:24:50Z
https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/heinrich-calls-for-a-full-gao-audit-of-trumps-ballroom-project Heinrich Calls for a Full GAO Audit of Trump’s Ballroom Project 2026-08-13 2026 2026-08 Democrat Senate NM Martin Heinrich H001046 www.heinrich.senate.gov heinrich https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. — Today, U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), Ranking Member of the U.S. Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, joined top Senate Democrats in sending a letter to the Government Accountability Office (GAO) Acting Comptroller General Orice Williams Brown to audit and assess the full scope and cost of the White House ballroom project. After Heinrich successfully defeated Republicans’ attempt to gift President Trump $1 billion in federal funding through their partisan reconciliation bill in June, and although President Trump repeatedly claimed that the ballroom and demolition of the East Wing would be privately funded, reporting shows that the administration has inappropriately and illegally diverted more than $300 million in federal funding for the President’s White House ballroom project. “Congress has neither authorized nor appropriated funding for the ‘East Wing Modernization Project,’ nor has Congress been provided any planning details or justifications that would allow for informed consideration of the White House’s plans that would be a prerequisite for authorization or appropriation of funds. The lack of congressional authorization has been central to the ongoing litigation challenging the ballroom project, National Trust for Historic Preservation in the United States v. National Park Service. This month, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit affirmed that President Trump lacks the legal authority to construct a White House ballroom without congressional authorization,” the Senators wrote. “Simply put, no president has the authority to unilaterally demolish and remodel the country’s White House in such a significant manner without congressional approval,” the Senators continued. “The Trump administration has not provided transparency into the use of federal funds for the East Wing project, and they have limited congressional oversight, meaningful public input, and adherence to established federal processes,” the Senators wrote. The ballroom is part of a larger White … 1 2026-08-14T06:13:05Z 2026-08-14T06:14:08Z
https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/ranking-members-heinrich-and-huffman-call-for-gao-investigation-into-potential-conflicts-of-interest-and-preferential-treatment-in-trump-administrations-financing-of-private-mining-investments Ranking Members Heinrich and Huffman Call for GAO Investigation into Potential Conflicts of Interest and Preferential Treatment in Trump Administration’s Financing of Private Mining Investments 2026-08-12 2026 2026-08 Democrat Senate NM Martin Heinrich H001046 www.heinrich.senate.gov heinrich https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), Ranking Member of the U.S. Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, and U.S. Representative Jared Huffman (D-Calif.), Ranking Member of the U.S. House Natural Resources Committee, called on the U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO) to investigate use of taxpayer dollars to acquire financial stakes in private mining companies and the potential conflicts that could arise when the federal government serves as both an investor in and regulator of those companies. Since the implementation of Executive Order 14241 and the passage of President Trump’s Big, Bad Bill, the federal government has actively acquired financial stakes in several mining firms. In their letter, Heinrich and Huffman raised concerns about whether the administration is adequately assessing the financial risks of those investments, protecting taxpayer dollars, and preventing conflicts of interest – particularly when these mining operations involve public lands. “The government’s expanded use of these new financial tools has raised concerns that we request the U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO) examine, including whether and how the federal government is assessing financial risks, protecting taxpayer funds, and managing potential conflicts between its roles as investor and regulator,” Heinrich and Huffman began. “Citing Executive Order 14241, federal agencies have waived standard disclosure rules, which legally require public mining companies to demonstrate commercial viability. By bypassing these disclosures, agencies may be committing billions in taxpayer funds to speculative mining projects on federal lands without objective, documented verification of their economic viability,” the lawmakers continued. “These equity acquisitions also create potential conflicts of interest for federal agencies because a significant portion of the planned mining operations are located on federal lands... As billions of public dollars flow into these private ventures, oversight is needed to … 1 2026-08-13T06:17:16Z 2026-08-13T06:18:13Z
https://www.lujan.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/lujan-appointed-to-the-board-of-the-institute-of-american-indian-arts/ Luján Appointed to the Board of the Institute of American Indian Arts 2026-08-12 2026 2026-08 Democrat Senate NM Ben Ray Luján L000570 www.lujan.senate.gov lujan https://www.lujan.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list scraper Santa Fe, N.M. – U.S. Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.), a member of the Senate Committee on Indian Affairs, issued the following statement on being appointed to the Board of the Institute of American Indian Arts (IAIA) by U.S. Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.): “As the Senator for New Mexico, and as the longtime U.S. Representative for IAIA’s home in Santa Fe, I’m honored to be appointed to this important leadership position. I’ve secured funding for IAIA’s academic programs, fought back against dangerous budget cuts from the Trump administration, and I’ll continue to be a strong advocate for this institution. “The innovation and creativity that IAIA inspires to solve some of our greatest challenges – both here at home and around the world – is why I’m so proud to support this institution.” ### 1 2026-08-13T06:17:16Z 2026-08-13T06:18:13Z
https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/heinrich-leads-letter-opposing-interiors-wilderness-policy-review-another-ploy-by-the-trump-administration-to-weaken-public-lands-protections Heinrich Leads Letter Opposing Interior’s Wilderness Policy Review, Another Ploy by the Trump Administration to Weaken Public Lands Protections 2026-08-11 2026 2026-08 Democrat Senate NM Martin Heinrich H001046 www.heinrich.senate.gov heinrich https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper Heinrich, colleagues: “Given this administration’s obsession with development and disposal of public lands, it seems clear that this comment period is really just a ploy to weaken protections for public lands” WASHINGTON — Today, U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), Ranking Member of the U.S. Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, led nine colleagues in sending a letter to U.S. Department of the Interior Secretary Doug Burgum strongly opposing Interior’s wilderness management policy review, which may threaten the wilderness character of public lands and disqualify them for future designation by Congress — undermining Congress’ role in wilderness management, and placing nearly 200 million acres of public land at risk. Heinrich was joined by U.S. Senators Adam Schiff (D-Calif.), Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), John Hickenlooper (D-Colo.), Michael Bennet (D-Colo.), Ron Wyden (D-Ore.), Jeffrey Merkley (D-Ore.), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.), Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.), and Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.). “Lands with wilderness characteristics, wilderness study areas, and designated wilderness areas protect millions of acres of intact habitat, watersheds, ecological and cultural resources, scenic and backcountry values. The undisturbed nature of the entire wilderness system protects whole swaths of habitat and protects migration corridors that aid in the protection of endangered species from the Canada Lynx to the Red-Cockaded Woodpecker,” Heinrich and his colleagues wrote. “These areas are some of the best places to fish, hunt, hike, or backpack. They are unparalleled and protected for the sake of solitude or primitive and unconfined recreation and are beloved lands.” Since the passage of the Wilderness Act of 1964, Congress has had the authority to designate wilderness areas to protect and conserve some of this country’s wildest places. Congress also has the authority to decide not to designate certain areas as wilderness and release them for general use. The agencies under Burgum’s jurisdiction can identify lands with w… 1 2026-08-12T06:18:38Z 2026-08-12T06:20:33Z
https://www.lujan.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/in-albuquerque-lujan-highlights-key-new-mexico-investments-at-rotary-club-unveils-new-legislation-to-strengthen-stroke-prevention-at-unmh/ In Albuquerque, Luján Highlights Key New Mexico Investments at Rotary Club, Unveils New Legislation to Strengthen Stroke Prevention at UNMH 2026-08-11 2026 2026-08 Democrat Senate NM Ben Ray Luján L000570 www.lujan.senate.gov lujan https://www.lujan.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list scraper Albuquerque, N.M. – On Monday, U.S. Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.) joined the Rotary Club of Albuquerque and UNM Hospital & Health Sciences leadership to discuss critical investments he secured for New Mexico and unveil new legislation to strengthen stroke prevention in New Mexico and across the country. “In Albuquerque, I was honored to visit the Rotary Club and UNMH to hear from leaders and highlight how I am fighting for New Mexicans in Washington, D.C.,” said Senator Luján. “At both the Rotary Club and UNMH, I was proud to speak with local leaders who are committed to improving the lives of those in their communities. From boosting funding for businesses developing next-generation technologies to championing legislation to strengthen stroke prevention, I was grateful for the opportunity to share some of the work I’m leading in Washington to improve the lives of New Mexicans.” At the Rotary Club of Albuquerque, Senator Luján met with local business owners, nonprofit leaders, and professionals and delivered remarks highlighting critical investments he secured for New Mexico. Additionally, Senator Luján highlighted legislative efforts he is leading to bolster scientific innovation and boost broadband access in every corner of New Mexico. At UNMH, Senator Luján, a stroke survivor, met with UNM Hospital & Health Sciences leadership and staff to spotlight his recently introduced Stroke Act, legislation that would improve stroke prevention, treatment, recovery, and data collection in New Mexico and across the United States. The legislation would invest in research, strengthen emergency response and rehabilitation services, expand access to care, and help people recognize stroke symptoms and seek lifesaving treatment. Additionally, Senator Luján discussed how Republican cuts to critical health programs are creating new barriers for New Mexicans to access care and highlighted his efforts to fight back against these cuts and protect and expand access to health care. ### 1 2026-08-12T06:18:38Z 2026-08-12T06:20:33Z
https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/heinrich-leads-whitehouse-van-hollen-fetterman-and-king-in-urging-usda-secretary-to-reverse-course-on-efforts-to-slow-walk-clean-energy-development Heinrich Leads Whitehouse, Van Hollen, Fetterman, and King in Urging USDA Secretary to Reverse Course on Efforts to Slow-Walk Clean Energy Development 2026-08-10 2026 2026-08 Democrat Senate NM Martin Heinrich H001046 www.heinrich.senate.gov heinrich https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), Ranking Member of the U.S. Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, led U.S. Senators Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.), Ranking Member of the U.S. Senate Environment and Public Works Committee, Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), John Fetterman (D-Pa.), and Angus King (I-Maine), in sending a letter to U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Secretary Brooke Rollins, urging the Secretary to make changes to the proposed Agricultural Foreign Investment Disclosure Act of 1978 (AFIDA) rule that would dramatically expand federal reporting requirements for land and infrastructure projects, including clean energy development, causing energy and food prices to go up further and risking our national security. The Senators raised concerns that USDA’s proposed rule goes far beyond AFIDA’s original purpose of increasing transparency around foreign ownership of agricultural land by dramatically expanding the definition of “agricultural land” to include renewable energy facilities, pipeline corridors, conservation lands, and other infrastructure. They argued the proposal would create unnecessary barriers for energy developers, rural communities, and investors while doing little to improve national security. “On June 25, 2026, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) published a proposed rule (Docket No. USDA-2026-0001) to update the regulations governing the Agricultural Foreign Investment Disclosure Act of 1978 (AFIDA). If finalized, the proposed rule could have damaging consequences for national and energy security. We urge USDA to make changes to the proposed rule to address these serious impacts,” the Senators began. In the letter, the Senators acknowledged the importance of ensuring AFIDA provides transparency into foreign ownership of U.S. agricultural land and helps protect against potential threats from foreign adversaries. However, they warned that USDA’s proposed changes could impact national security and undermine efforts to address rising energy and food prices. T… 1 2026-08-11T05:54:29Z 2026-08-11T05:56:25Z
https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/heinrich-lujan-durbin-lead-colleagues-in-opposing-trumps-move-to-strip-protections-from-bears-ears-and-grand-staircase-escalante-national-monuments Heinrich, Luján, Durbin Lead Colleagues in Opposing Trump’s Move to Strip Protections From Bears Ears & Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monuments 2026-08-10 2026 2026-08 Democrat Senate NM Martin Heinrich H001046 www.heinrich.senate.gov heinrich https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), Ranking Member of the U.S. Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.), and Dick Durbin (D-Ill.) led 34 Senators in a letter to President Trump expressing strong opposition to his executive order reducing the boundaries and stripping protections from the Grand Staircase-Escalante and Bears Ears National Monuments in southern Utah. In the letter, the senators highlight how the executive order places irreplaceable cultural, historic, scientific, ecological, and recreational resources at risk of destruction and loss. “By attempting, yet again, to eliminate vast portions of these monuments, your Administration invites needless uncertainty to the stability that local communities, Tribes, land managers, scientists, recreation users, and businesses need. Not just in Utah, but for all local communities that rely on the stability of our national monuments,” the Senators wrote. “The Bears Ears and Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monuments are national treasures. The American people deserve public lands policy grounded in law, science, respect for Tribal sovereignty, and stewardship—not political decisions against the desires of the vast majority of Americans,” the Senators concluded. In addition to Heinrich, Luján, and Durbin, the letter was signed by Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) and U.S. Senators Mark Kelly (D-Ariz.), Ruben Gallego (D-Ariz.), Maria Cantwell (D-Wash.), Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), Michael Bennet (D-Colo.), Ed Markey (D-Mass.), Angela Alsobrooks (D-Md.), Chris Coons (D-Del.), Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.), Tina Smith (D-Minn.), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Brian Schatz (D- Hawai‘i), Ron Wyden (D-Ore.), Patty Murray (D-Wash.), Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), Andy Kim (D-N.J.), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.), Adam Schiff (D-Calif.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Cory Booker (D-N.J.), Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.), John Hickenlooper (D-Colo.), Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-Del.), Jacky Rosen (D-N… 1 2026-08-11T05:54:29Z 2026-08-11T05:56:25Z
https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/heinrich-statement-opposing-todd-blanches-nomination-for-attorney-general Heinrich Statement Opposing Todd Blanche’s Nomination for Attorney General 2026-08-08 2026 2026-08 Democrat Senate NM Martin Heinrich H001046 www.heinrich.senate.gov heinrich https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON — U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) released the following statement in response to the Senate’s confirmation of Todd Blanche, President Trump’s former personal lawyer, to be the U.S. Attorney General. “I voted against Mr. Blanche’s nomination because he has repeatedly shown that his loyalty is to Donald Trump – not to the Constitution or the American people. “He has transformed the Department of Justice into the President’s personal law firm, using it to enrich and protect Donald Trump and his family. Mr. Blanche also helped establish a nearly $2 billion slush fund that rewards President Trump’s allies, including violent criminals who attacked cops on January 6. And he has withheld critical information related to Jeffrey Epstein’s crimes at Zorro Ranch by refusing to provide full, unredacted investigative records from the Department of Justice to New Mexico law enforcement authorities. Time and again, Mr. Blanche has put politics and personal loyalty ahead of justice. “The Attorney General’s job is to uphold the rule of law, deliver on public safety, and ensure that justice is applied fairly and independently. The American people deserve an Attorney General they can trust to do that. Todd Blanche has made it abundantly clear that he is not that person.” Heinrich recently pressed Jay Clayton, former U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of New York and current Director of National Intelligence (DNI), to provide evidence related to Jeffrey Epsein’s alleged crimes at Zorro Ranch in New Mexico to the New Mexico Attorney General. Heinrich also questioned Clayton about his role in the unconscionable, improper public release of sensitive information belonging to Epstein survivors and his comments about President Trump’s attempt to use a $1.8 billion slush fund to compensate violent criminals who beat up cops on January 6, 2021. Heinrich’s questioning of Clayton followed a recent letter from New Mexico Attorney General Raúl Torrez to Acting U.S. Attorney General Todd Blanche and Associate Deputy At… 1 2026-08-09T05:47:57Z 2026-08-09T05:49:40Z
https://www.lujan.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/lujan-statement-on-voting-against-trumps-personal-attorney-to-serve-as-ag/ Luján Statement on Voting Against Trump’s Personal Attorney to Serve as AG 2026-08-08 2026 2026-08 Democrat Senate NM Ben Ray Luján L000570 www.lujan.senate.gov lujan https://www.lujan.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list scraper Blanche Recently Caught on Tape Saying He Will Restrict Reproductive Rights Nationwide Luján Introduced Epstein Files Transparency Act II and No Trump Immunity Act Ahead of Blanche’s Confirmation Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.) issued the following statement after voting against Todd Blanche to serve as Attorney General: “The Attorney General’s duty is to uphold the rule of law, defend the Constitution, and ensure that justice is applied fairly and equally to every American. Todd Blanche’s record makes it clear that he cannot carry out those responsibilities independently of President Trump. “The survivors of Jeffrey Epstein’s horrific crimes — and the American people — deserve transparency and accountability, not continued efforts to withhold information or shield those in positions of power. Under Todd Blanche’s leadership, the DOJ will continue putting President Trump’s personal and political interests ahead of justice and accountability for victims. “Todd Blanche’s confirmation will only further erode public trust in one of our nation’s most important institutions. I will continue fighting to protect the independence of the DOJ and ensure that no one is above the law.” ### 1 2026-08-09T05:47:57Z 2026-08-09T05:49:40Z
https://www.lujan.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/lujan-statement-on-voting-for-a-continuing-resolution-to-keep-the-government-funded/ Luján Statement on Voting for a Continuing Resolution to Keep the Government Funded 2026-08-08 2026 2026-08 Democrat Senate NM Ben Ray Luján L000570 www.lujan.senate.gov lujan https://www.lujan.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list scraper Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.) issued the following statement after voting to pass a Continuing Resolution to keep the federal government funded through December 11, 2026: “This continuing resolution averts another Republican government shutdown, provides stability for families and communities, and gives Congress time to negotiate bipartisan funding bills. “Critically, it also prevents Trump from further politicizing and disrupting federal grants that communities across New Mexico rely on. I will continue fighting for a final funding agreement that protects critical investments, holds the administration accountable, and delivers for New Mexicans.” ### 1 2026-08-09T05:47:57Z 2026-08-09T05:49:40Z
https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/heinrich-demands-doe-preserve-all-documents-and-records-regarding-the-illegal-cancellation-of-energy-project-grants-in-democratic-led-states Heinrich Demands DOE Preserve All Documents and Records Regarding the Illegal Cancellation of Energy Project Grants in Democratic-Led States 2026-08-07 2026 2026-08 Democrat Senate NM Martin Heinrich H001046 www.heinrich.senate.gov heinrich https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON — Today, U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), Ranking Member of the U.S. Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, sent a letter to U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Secretary Chris Wright demanding the Department preserve all documents and records of the Trump administration's cancellation of more than $7.5 billion of energy project grants in Democratic-led states. “I write to demand that you preserve all records and communications related to the administration’s cancellation of more than $7.5 billion of energy project grants,” Heinrich began. “Following reports that the Trump administration acknowledged in court filings that it terminated more than $7.5 billion of energy grants due to political motivations, I wrote to you along with 38 senators demanding the administration restore funding to those projects that were illegally canceled,” Heinrich continued. “Today, I write to request that you preserve all documents, communications, and records related to the termination of those energy projects. As you know, under the law, you are required to comply with records preservation requirements.” In his letter, Heinrich demands that the DOE preserve all forms of communications (including, but not limited to, e-mails, electronic documents, and data) since January 20, 2025, related to the termination of the above-mentioned energy projects. The letter also requests that all former DOE employees who may have access to such records are immediately identified and notified. Heinrich is leading the effort to secure accountability and transparency into DOE’s illegal cancellation of energy project grants. Last week, following the Trump administration's admission that it canceled projects in states that did not vote for President Trump in the 2024 election, Heinrich led 38 Senators in demanding that funding be restored. In October 2025, following the news that the Trump administration illegally canceled clean energy project grants, Heinrich led 36 of his Senate colleagues in sending a letter to DOE Secretary … 1 2026-08-08T05:41:38Z 2026-08-08T05:43:24Z
https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/heinrich-introduces-legislation-ending-outdated-tax-breaks-for-oil-and-gas-companies-to-drill-overseas Heinrich Introduces Legislation Ending Outdated Tax Breaks for Oil and Gas Companies to Drill Overseas 2026-08-07 2026 2026-08 Democrat Senate NM Martin Heinrich H001046 www.heinrich.senate.gov heinrich https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), Ranking Member of the U.S. Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, introduced the American Energy Independence & Tax Fairness Act, legislation to repeal outdated tax breaks that allow major oil and gas companies to reduce their U.S. tax obligations for overseas oil and gas production. The legislation would ensure the tax code no longer rewards companies for investing abroad instead of here at home, while strengthening American energy security and requiring some of the world’s most profitable corporations to pay their fair share. This legislation comes as the largest oil and gas companies continue to rake in record profits while American families feel the squeeze from rising energy costs. President Trump’s reckless and costly war has driven up global oil prices and increased pressure on consumers at the pump, while outdated tax breaks continue to give some of the world’s most profitable companies special treatment for overseas oil and gas production. Recent analysis by the FACT Coalition found that from 2017 to 2025, major U.S. oil companies paid $135 billion in foreign taxes while only paying $29 billion in U.S. taxes. At the same time, the oil and gas industry continues to report record profits. The disparity is driven by U.S. tax provisions that benefit overseas extraction. During this quarter, Exxon and Chevron alone reported more than $26 billion in combined net income, with Exxon doubling its profits and Chevron reporting one of its most profitable quarters ever. "Oil majors shouldn’t get a tax break for going overseas to produce energy, but that’s essentially what our current tax policy does. That’s where my American Energy Independence & Tax Fairness Act comes in. It will help put American energy development on an even playing field with energy development that’s happening in the Middle East or anywhere else,” said Heinrich. “At a time when oil majors are making billions in profits per quarter, they can afford to pay their fair share.” H… 1 2026-08-08T05:41:38Z 2026-08-08T05:43:24Z
https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/heinrich-lujan-announce-committee-passage-of-legislation-to-transfer-a-portion-of-the-former-albuquerque-indian-school-campus-to-pueblos-for-the-indian-pueblo-cultural-center Heinrich, Luján Announce Committee Passage of Legislation to Transfer a Portion of the Former Albuquerque Indian School Campus to Pueblos for the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center 2026-08-07 2026 2026-08 Democrat Senate NM Martin Heinrich H001046 www.heinrich.senate.gov heinrich https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON — U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) and U.S. Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.), a member of the U.S. Senate Committee on Indian Affairs, announced the Committee passage of their Albuquerque Indian School Act of 2026, legislation that places portions of the former Albuquerque Indian School campus and buildings, currently managed by the General Services Administration (GSA), into trust for the benefit of the 19 Pueblos of New Mexico. The legislation is led by Heinrich and cosponsored by Luján in the Senate and led by U.S. Representative Melanie Stansbury (D-N.M.) and cosponsored by U.S. Representative Teresa Leger Fernández (D-N.M.) in the House. “Our legislation will help the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center expand its reach, create more economic opportunity, foster entrepreneurship, and support local small businesses,” said Heinrich. “Those are important wins for the 19 Pueblos and everyone who calls New Mexico home. Now that my bill has passed out of Committee, I will continue working to get it across the finish line and signed into law.” “Expanding economic development and cultural education opportunities for the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center is critical for the 19 New Mexico Pueblos it serves. That is why I partnered with Senator Heinrich to introduce the Albuquerque Indian School Act, legislation that will help the center grow, support job creation, and generate new revenue for New Mexico’s Pueblos and our communities,”said Luján, a member of the U.S. Senate Committee on Indian Affairs. “I'm proud to see this legislation advance out of the Indian Affairs Committee, a vital step toward getting this bill across the finish line. I will continue working to ensure it passes the Senate and is signed into law.” The Albuquerque Indian School Act now heads to the full Senate for consideration. The Albuquerque Indian School Act of 2026 builds upon a longstanding, bipartisan effort to transfer the former Albuquerque Indian School campus and surrounding buildings to the 19 Pueblos in New Mexico for the deve… 1 2026-08-08T05:41:38Z 2026-08-08T05:43:24Z
https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/heinrich-votes-to-sanction-russia Heinrich Votes to Sanction Russia 2026-08-07 2026 2026-08 Democrat Senate NM Martin Heinrich H001046 www.heinrich.senate.gov heinrich https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON — U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), a member of the U.S. Senate Select Committee on Intelligence, released the following statement after securing Senate passage of the Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia Act, bipartisan legislation he cosponsored to impose sanctions on Russian President Valdimir Putin, senior Russian political and military leaders, oligarchs, state-owned enterprises, and foreign companies for supporting and financing Russia’s war against Ukraine. “New Mexicans stand with the Ukrainian people,” said Heinrich. “With this bill, we are sending a clear message to Vladimir Putin: You reap what you sow. End this war, work to achieve lasting peace with Ukraine, or face the consequences. The United States must continue to stand with Ukraine as it defends its freedom, its people, and the democratic values we share.” The bill now heads to the U.S. House of Representatives for consideration. Specifically, the Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia Act deprives Vladimir Putin of the revenue financing Russia’s war against Ukraine by imposing mandatory sanctions on Russia’s political leadership, financial institutions, energy sector, and sanctions evasion networks, while using narrowly scoped tariffs to pressure the world’s largest purchasers of Russian energy to reduce their dependence on Moscow. The legislation is led by U.S. Senator Darline Graham (R-S.C.). Alongside Heinrich, the bill is cosponsored by U.S. Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Roger Wicker (R-Miss.), Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.), James Risch (R-Idaho), Chris Coons (D-Del.), Tom Cotton (R-Ark.), Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), Katie Britt (R-Ala.), Angus King (I-Maine), Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), Michael Bennet (D-Colo.), Tim Sheehy (R-Mont.), Mark Kelly (D-Ariz.), Pete Ricketts (R-Neb.), Tim Kaine (D-Va.), Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska), Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.), James Lankford (R-Okla.), John Fetterman (D-Pa.), John Curtis (R-Utah), Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.), Gary Peters… 1 2026-08-08T05:41:38Z 2026-08-08T05:43:24Z
https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/heinrich-wyden-reintroduce-legislation-to-expand-pathways-to-health-careers-and-address-healthcare-provider-shortages Heinrich, Wyden Reintroduce Legislation to Expand Pathways to Health Careers & Address Healthcare Provider Shortages 2026-08-07 2026 2026-08 Democrat Senate NM Martin Heinrich H001046 www.heinrich.senate.gov heinrich https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON — This National Health Center Week, U.S. Senators Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) and Ron Wyden (D-Ore.), Ranking Member of the U.S. Senate Committee on Finance, reintroduced their Pathways to Health Careers Act, legislation to create pathways to in-demand, high-quality healthcare careers and help address provider shortages in New Mexico, Oregon, and nationwide. In New Mexico, 32 out of 33 counties are designated as Health Professional Shortage Areas (HPSAs) for primary care, behavioral health, and/or dental health. New Mexico needs at least an additional 5,000 healthcare workers to address the current provider shortage. The Pathways to Health Careers Act aims to address this shortage by restarting and modernizing the Health Profession Opportunity Grant (HPOG) program, which has a proven track record of preparing workers for jobs in the healthcare industry by providing career coaching, job placement, and a range of other support services. “The healthcare provider shortage in New Mexico isn’t theoretical. It’s an everyday reality. New Mexicans are being forced to either endure months-long appointment wait times or, if they can, paying the high costs of traveling out of state or going to the ER to get the health care they need, when they need it. Families in our state deserve better,” said Heinrich. “Our Pathways to Health Careers Act helps address the healthcare provider shortage by strengthening the pipeline to high-quality healthcare careers, to get more New Mexicans the care they need to live healthy lives.” “In June 2026 alone, nearly 900 health care workers across 11 states were laid off due to Republicans’ shameful budget cuts,” said Wyden. “At a time when communities are facing health care workforce shortages, it has never been more important to invest in the next generation of health professionals. This legislation would provide families in Oregon and nationwide with the resources they need — including job training, childcare, transportation and more — to begin well-paying careers in health care.” … 1 2026-08-08T05:41:38Z 2026-08-08T05:43:24Z
https://www.lujan.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/lujan-kaine-lead-legislation-to-expand-access-to-home-and-community-based-care-for-older-adults-and-people-with-disabilities/ Luján, Kaine Lead Legislation to Expand Access to Home and Community-Based Care for Older Adults and People with Disabilities 2026-08-07 2026 2026-08 Democrat Senate NM Ben Ray Luján L000570 www.lujan.senate.gov lujan https://www.lujan.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list scraper Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.) and Tim Kaine (D-Va.) introduced the Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) Access Act, legislation to ensure older adults and people with disabilities have a real choice between receiving long-term care at home or in institutional settings. The legislation would make home and community-based care a mandatory Medicaid benefit, gradually eliminate waiting lists for services, strengthen the home and community-based care workforce, and provide greater support for family caregivers. Under current Medicaid policy, many older adults and people with disabilities have access to nursing homes and other institutional care, but if they want to remain in their home and community, access to home and community-based services often depends on state waiver programs that can leave people waiting years — or even decades — for the care they need. The HCBS Access Act would expand access to home and community-based care and ensure that people who want to stay in their home and receive care can. “Every American deserves the opportunity to receive care in the place they call home,” said Senator Luján. “Far too many older adults and people with disabilities are forced into getting care in a setting far from home, not because it’s what they want, but because it’s the only option they have. My legislation would give families the freedom to choose the care that best meets their needs, while strengthening the caregiving workforce and providing critical support for family caregivers.” “Many Virginians want to age with dignity in their homes, where they can remain connected with their family, friends, and community,” said Senator Kaine. “The HCBS Access Act will help give millions of people the opportunity to receive essential at-home services, while boosting support for the family caregivers and direct care workers who make independent living possible. I’m proud to support this legislation to help put at-home care within reach for more Virginians.” Specifically, the Home and Commu… 1 2026-08-08T05:41:38Z 2026-08-08T05:43:24Z
https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/heinrich-cosponsors-cows-act-to-reduce-greenhouse-emissions-support-sustainable-waste-practices Heinrich Cosponsors COWS Act to Reduce Greenhouse Emissions, Support Sustainable Waste Practices 2026-08-07 2026 2026-08 Democrat Senate NM Martin Heinrich H001046 www.heinrich.senate.gov heinrich https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) a member of the Senate Appropriations subcommittee on Agriculture, Rural Development and Food and Drug Administration today cosponsored the Converting Our Waste Sustainably Act (COWS Act) reintroduced by U.S. Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), a member of the Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works. The COWS Act would help producers reduce greenhouse gas emissions, improve air and water quality, and implement more sustainable alternative manure management practices. U.S. Representative Jim Costa (D-Calif.) introduced companion legislation in the U.S. House of Representatives. “New Mexico is the ninth-largest dairy milk producer in the country, and fifth in cheese production. It’s important that our dairy and livestock producers have access the innovative alternative manure management tools they need to be resilient, support our local economies, and help us keep healthy and nutritious food on our tables,” said Heinrich. “The COWS Act will help equip New Mexico producers with cost-effective sustainable manure management practices that protect our air and water while strengthening their operations for years to come.” “As California continues to provide food for families across the country, it’s critical we equip our producers with resources and tools to ensure sustainable and cost-effective practices,” said Padilla. “Yet, today’s climate crisis demands that we adopt a more sustainable agricultural model. This bill would invest in long-term and low-cost pasture management treatments – ultimately supporting our family dairies, improving the quality of the air we breathe, protecting our environment, and keeping California’s cows happy.” The COWS Act supports the adoption of manure management conservation practices, that will help the New Mexico livestock industry achieve three goals: (1) modernize technologies for manure management that help boost profitability; (2) improve water and soil quality; and (3) reduce methane and nitrogen oxide emissions by fosteri… 1 2026-08-13T06:17:16Z 2026-08-13T06:18:13Z
https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/heinrich-leads-letter-urging-doe-to-withdraw-proposed-rule-for-the-efficiency-standards-program-that-would-raise-energy-prices-for-american-families Heinrich Leads Letter Urging DOE to Withdraw Proposed Rule for the Efficiency Standards Program that would Raise Energy Prices for American Families 2026-08-06 2026 2026-08 Democrat Senate NM Martin Heinrich H001046 www.heinrich.senate.gov heinrich https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON — Today, U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), Ranking Member of the U.S. Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, led a letter to U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Secretary Chris Wright urging DOE to abandon a proposal that would hamstring its long-standing efficiency standards program—a move that could raise utility bills for American families by an estimated $150 a year. DOE claims that the proposed revision to the Appliance and Equipment Standards Program process rule, issued in July 2026, would effectively end the federal program that has helped lower energy bills and improve the efficiency of home appliances for nearly 40 years. Heinrich was joined by U.S. Senators Michael Bennet (D-Colo.), Catherine Cortez-Masto (D-Nev.), John Hickenlooper (D-Colo.), Mazie Hirono (D-Hawai‘i), Angus King (I-Maine), Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), Ron Wyden (D-Ore.), Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.), Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), Jack Reed (D-R.I.), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Edward Markey (D-Mass.), Peter Welch (D-Vt.), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), and Cory Booker (D-N.J.). “At a time when energy prices are skyrocketing, this administration should be focused on making energy affordable and increasing grid capacity — not hamstringing a program that has consistently reduced bills for American families,” the Senators began. “Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory estimates that existing standards have reduced total U.S. energy consumption by 6.5 percent and saved the average households $576 per year. By eliminating this program going forward, the Trump administration would increase utility bills for households by $150 each year, increase peak electricity demand by 32 gigawatts (GW) in 2040, and increase cumulative CO2 emissions by nearly 1 billion metric tons through 2050,” the Senators continued. “The law requires DOE to adopt standards ‘designed to achieve the maximum improvement in energy efficiency..., which the Secretary determines is technologically feasible and economical… 1 2026-08-07T06:11:19Z 2026-08-07T06:12:42Z
https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/heinrich-lujan-leger-fernandez-introduce-legislation-to-protect-chama-watershed-from-uranium-mining Heinrich, Luján, Leger Fernández Introduce Legislation to Protect Chama Watershed from Uranium Mining 2026-08-06 2026 2026-08 Democrat Senate NM Martin Heinrich H001046 www.heinrich.senate.gov heinrich https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON– Today, U.S. Senator U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), Ranking Member of the U.S. Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, U.S. Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.), a member of the U.S. Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry, and U.S. Representative Teresa Leger Fernández (D-N.M.), a member of the U.S. House Committee on Natural Resources, introduced the Chama Basin Watershed Protection Act, legislation to permanently withdraw the federal lands of the Rio Chama Watershed in Northern New Mexico from all forms of location, entry, and patent under the mining laws. The Chama Basin Watershed Protection Act responds directly to a proposal by the Canadian-based uranium company, Gamma Resources Ltd. to conduct exploratory uranium drilling in the Carson National Forest near Canjilon — the first step in the company’s publicly stated plan to extract uranium from a four-mile stretch of the Chama Basin. The bill will prevent new mining claims across the watershed, protecting the headwaters that sustain acequia communities, Tribal Nations, land grant communities, ranchers, and downstream water users throughout the Rio Grande system and ensuring these waters are never put at risk for the benefit of a speculative foreign mining venture. “We will not allow a foreign mining company to threaten the Chama Watershed with radioactive uranium waste. That is unacceptable,” said Heinrich. “Our Chama Basin Watershed Protection Act sends a clear message: Back off. The Chama Watershed belongs to the acequia parciantes, Tribal communities, ranchers, and rural families who care for and depend on this landscape and its water — not a foreign mining company looking to exploit it for profit.” “The communities of the Chama Valley – acequia farmers, Land Grant communities, Tribal members, ranchers, and rural families – have cared for their land and water for generations,” said Luján. “These cherished lands and waters must be protected for future generations. That is why I’m leading this legislation to permanent… 1 2026-08-07T06:11:19Z 2026-08-07T06:12:42Z
https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/heinrich-nm-congressional-delegation-demand-answers-from-secretary-hegseth-on-the-dods-involvement-in-new-mexico-medical-plane-crash Heinrich, N.M. Congressional Delegation Demand Answers from Secretary Hegseth on the DoD’s Involvement in New Mexico Medical Plane Crash 2026-08-06 2026 2026-08 Democrat Senate NM Martin Heinrich H001046 www.heinrich.senate.gov heinrich https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON — U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) and members of the N.M. Congressional Delegation, including U.S. Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.), and U.S. Representatives Teresa Leger Fernández (D-N.M.), Melanie Stansbury (D-N.M.), and Gabe Vasquez (D-N.M.) sent a letter demanding answers from U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) Secretary Pete Hegseth on the Department’s involvement in and response to the tragic May 13, 2026, medical plane crash in Lincoln County, New Mexico. Just before midnight on May 13, a Beechcraft King Air medical plane with a crew of four — two pilots and two flight nurses — took off from Roswell heading to Sierra Blanca Regional Airport in Ruidoso for patient pickup and transport to Albuquerque. According to reports, because the aircraft’s GPS was jammed by U.S. military activities in the region, the flight overshot their landing pattern by 10 miles, leading the plane to crash into the side of the Capitan Mountains. As a result, all four crew members died, and the crash sparked a wildfire that took three weeks to contain. By the time that wildfire was contained, it had burned 31,860 acres and at its peak had over 1,000 personnel assigned utilizing 7 helicopters, numerous bulldozers, water tenders and fixed-wing air tankers. This fire was New Mexico’s first incident of the fire season that required a Complex Incident Management Team, and one of only two such complex fires this year. There were no structures lost but the fire forced evacuation orders that remained in place for several weeks, which cost taxpayers an estimated $37.7 million in fire suppression activities. “By any account, this crash was tragic. While this is reportedly the first time GPS jamming activities by the U.S. military have caused or contributed to the crash of a civilian plane, that does little to comfort the families of those lost in that crash or impacted by the wildfire it triggered,” the lawmakers wrote to DoD Secretary Hegseth. The lawmakers continued, “As the prevalence of drone warfare and electronic warfar… 1 2026-08-07T06:11:19Z 2026-08-07T06:12:42Z
https://www.lujan.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/lujan-heinrich-leger-fernandez-introduce-legislation-to-protect-chama-watershed-from-uranium-mining/ Luján, Heinrich, Leger Fernández Introduce Legislation to Protect Chama Watershed from Uranium Mining 2026-08-06 2026 2026-08 Democrat Senate NM Ben Ray Luján L000570 www.lujan.senate.gov lujan https://www.lujan.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list scraper Coalition of Local Leaders, Advocates, and Lawmakers Back Luján Push to Protect the Chama Watershed and Surrounding Communities in Northern New Mexico Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.), a member of the U.S. Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry, U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), Ranking Member of the Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources, and U.S. Representative Teresa Leger Fernández (D-N.M.), a member of the House Committee on Natural Resources, introduced the Chama Basin Watershed Protection Act. The legislation would permanently withdraw the federal lands of the Rio Chama Watershed in Northern New Mexico from all forms of location, entry, and patent under the mining laws. The Chama Basin Watershed Protection Act responds directly to a proposal by the Canadian-based uranium company, Gamma Resources Ltd. to conduct exploratory uranium drilling in the Carson National Forest near Canjilon — the first step in the company’s publicly stated plan to extract uranium from a four-mile stretch of the Chama Basin. The bill would prevent new mining claims across the watershed, protecting the headwaters that sustain acequia communities, Tribal Nations, land grant communities, ranchers, and downstream water users throughout the Rio Grande system and ensuring these waters are never put at risk for the benefit of a speculative foreign mining venture. “The communities of the Chama Valley – acequia farmers, Land Grant communities, Tribal members, ranchers, and rural families – have cared for their land and water for generations,” said Senator Luján. “These cherished lands and waters must be protected for future generations. I will not stand by and allow a foreign mining company to threaten the communities of the Chama Valley and disregard the respect these communities deserve. That is why I’m leading this legislation to permanently withdraw the Chama Watershed from mineral development. I remain committed to protecting the communities and waters of Northern New Mex… 1 2026-08-07T06:11:19Z 2026-08-07T06:12:42Z
https://www.lujan.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/lujan-murray-advocates-sound-the-alarm-on-trumps-latest-attack-on-head-start-vow-to-save-head-start/ Luján, Murray, Advocates Sound the Alarm on Trump’s Latest Attack on Head Start, Vow to Save Head Start 2026-08-06 2026 2026-08 Democrat Senate NM Ben Ray Luján L000570 www.lujan.senate.gov lujan https://www.lujan.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list scraper Earlier This Week, Luján Introduced Legislation to Support and Strengthen New Mexico’s Early Childhood Education Workforce *** WATCH PRESS CONFERENCE HERE, DOWNLOAD HERE*** Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-NM), one of two Head Start graduates to serve in the U.S. Senate, joined U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), Vice Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, and advocates for a virtual press conference in response to the Notice of Proposed Rulemaking issued today by the Department of Health and Human Services that guts Head Start by shredding basic standards that keep kids safe and advance their education. The rule removes most of Head Start’s 133 pages of requirements for math and literacy curriculums, class sizes, medical screenings, home visits and more. “I know the value of Head Start, it got me to the U.S. Senate,” said Senator Luján. “Since President Trump took office, he and his administration have made it harder and harder for young children to get an early education. Now, he is moving forward with a proposed rule to gut Head Start and strip basic education, health, and safety standards our kids rely on. That is why I joined Senator Murray and advocates today and will continue to fight to protect Head Start.” “Your child’s safety should not depend on their zip code. That has been the entire point of Head Start since 1965. If they wanted to serve more kids, they could ask Congress for more funding. I’d write that bill this afternoon. Instead, they’re saying they might be able to serve more children by promising each child less. Nobody should pretend this came out of nowhere. President Trump has all but declared war on Head Start,” said Senator Murray. “This rule is not final. There is a public comment period. I want parents to weigh in. I want teachers to weigh in. Because I have seen what happens when enough ordinary people refuse to let something get ripped away from them. And on my end: I will press administration officials when they come before Congress. I will sound the a… 1 2026-08-07T06:11:19Z 2026-08-07T06:12:42Z
https://www.lujan.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/lujan-republican-farm-bill-fails-to-meet-the-needs-of-new-mexico-families-and-farmers/ Luján: Republican Farm Bill Fails to Meet the Needs of New Mexico Families and Farmers 2026-08-06 2026 2026-08 Democrat Senate NM Ben Ray Luján L000570 www.lujan.senate.gov lujan https://www.lujan.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list scraper Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.), a member of the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry, issued the following statement after voting against advancing the Republican Farm Bill in committee: “The Farm Bill must meet the needs of families and farmers in New Mexico and across America. This Republican bill fails to do so. We need a Farm Bill that addresses devastating cuts to SNAP and delays the cost shift to states while delivering the support families, farmers, and ranchers deserve. “Unfortunately, during today’s markup, my Republican colleagues rejected efforts to strengthen the Farm Bill, including my CHILE Act to strengthen emergency assistance and provide much-needed aid to New Mexico’s chile, pecan, and other specialty crop growers. “Farmers, ranchers, and families across the country are hurting. This is our opportunity to support families, strengthen rural America, and ensure our producers have the tools they need to succeed. I remain committed to working with my colleagues to advance a bipartisan Farm Bill that delivers for New Mexico and communities across the country.” ### 1 2026-08-07T06:11:19Z 2026-08-07T06:12:42Z
https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/heinrich-merkley-padilla-shaheen-schiff-rosen-cortez-masto-wyden-klobuchar-cftc-must-rein-in-wildfire-bets-on-prediction-markets Heinrich, Merkley, Padilla, Shaheen, Schiff, Rosen, Cortez Masto, Wyden, Klobuchar: CFTC Must Rein in Wildfire Bets on Prediction Markets 2026-08-05 2026 2026-08 Democrat Senate NM Martin Heinrich H001046 www.heinrich.senate.gov heinrich https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON – This week, U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M), Ranking Member of the U.S. Senate and Natural Resources Committee, joined U.S. Senators Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), Adam Schiff (D-Calif.), Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.), Ron Wyden (D-Ore.), and Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.) to press the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) on its plans to crack down on prediction markets now offering event contracts for individuals to bet on wildfires. As wildfires burn across the nation, the Senators are demanding action from the CFTC following the public safety and insider trading concerns of allowing prediction market platforms to offer bets on natural disasters such as wildfires. “Offering bets on destructive wildfires threatens to minimize communities’ suffering all so the rich and powerful can profit,” the Senators wrote in a letter to CFTC Chair Michael Selig. “There’s also the heightened risk – according to state and local fire officials – that individuals could be tempted to commit arson in order to make sure their bets are successful. By offering contracts on fires, prediction market sites run the risk of encouraging people to influence fires that have already started, creating additional concerns around public safety and insider trading.” The Senators pressed the CFTC to swiftly tackle unrestricted betting on wildfires and put in place common-sense guardrails to prevent gamblers from making a profit as wildfires threaten communities nationwide. Heinrich has previously sounded the alarm on the dangers of prediction markets and the threat the industry poses to New Mexicans. Previously, he urged the leadership of the U.S. Senate Committees on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs; and Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry to rein in prediction markets offering nationwide sports and event wagering, which abuse federal commodity and derivatives rules, infringe on state regulatory powers, and violate Tribal gaming rights and sovereignty. Read… 1 2026-08-06T07:37:31Z 2026-08-06T07:38:34Z
https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/heinrich-whitehouse-call-for-interior-inspector-general-investigation-into-trump-administrations-handling-of-failed-lincoln-memorial-reflecting-pool-project Heinrich, Whitehouse Call For Interior Inspector General Investigation into Trump Administration's Handling of Failed Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool Project 2026-08-05 2026 2026-08 Democrat Senate NM Martin Heinrich H001046 www.heinrich.senate.gov heinrich https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), Ranking Member of the U.S. Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, and U.S. Senator Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.), Ranking Member of the U.S. Senate Environment and Public Works Committee, sent a letter requesting that the Department of the Interior (DOI) Deputy Inspector General Caryl Brzymialkiewicz investigate what Department officials knew – and when they knew it – about engineering failures at the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool and whether DOI employees withheld evidence from federal prosecutors. The request follows explosive new court filings from the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia, which moved to dismiss felony vandalism charges against the three-time Olympian David Hearn after acknowledging that DOI had failed to provide prosecutors with information showing the Reflecting Pool’s lining was already peeling because of a rushed and flawed installation process before Hearn was arrested. “We write to request that the Office of Inspector General investigate what employees of the Department of the Interior (DOI) knew—and when they knew it—regarding the peeling of the coating and other engineering issues at the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool. On July 31, 2026, the U.S. Attorneys’ Office for the District of Columbia (USAO-DC) filed a voluntary motion to dismiss felony vandalism charges against David Hearn, noting in its pleading that documents it received from DOI after the indictment ‘indicated a rushed and flawed installation process, with repeated failures of the lining during the installation process, and extensive peeling of the lining throughout the Reflecting Pool.’ Additional details provided in the motion—and prior (and continuing) contradictory statements by DOI leadership — deserve immediate scrutiny,’” the Senators began. The Senators note that the DOJ’s filing states prosecutors relied on incomplete and faulty information from DOI and only obtained critical evidence after repeatedly requesting documents from th… 1 2026-08-06T07:37:31Z 2026-08-06T07:38:34Z
https://www.lujan.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/lujan-champions-legislation-to-strengthen-stroke-prevention-treatment-and-recovery/ Luján Champions Legislation to Strengthen Stroke Prevention, Treatment, and Recovery 2026-08-05 2026 2026-08 Democrat Senate NM Ben Ray Luján L000570 www.lujan.senate.gov lujan https://www.lujan.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list scraper Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.), a stroke survivor, introduced the Stroke Act, legislation to improve stroke prevention, treatment, recovery, and data collection across the United States. The legislation would invest in research, strengthen emergency response and rehabilitation services, expand access to telestroke care, establish a national stroke registry, and launch a nationwide public education campaign to help people recognize stroke symptoms and seek lifesaving treatment. Stroke remains one of the nation’s most pressing public health challenges. Someone in the United States experiences a stroke every 40 seconds, making stroke the fourth-leading cause of death and a leading cause of serious long-term disability. Rapid identification and treatment significantly improve survival and recovery outcomes, yet the quality and availability of stroke care continue to vary across communities. These disparities are particularly severe in rural and underserved areas, where patients often face limited access to specialized stroke care, rehabilitation services, coordinated systems of care, and telestroke technology. “Every second matters when someone experiences a stroke. As a stroke survivor, I know firsthand how critical it is to receive the right care at the right time. Yet far too many Americans, especially in our rural and underserved communities, continue to face barriers to timely, high-quality care,” said Senator Luján. “My Stroke Act invests in research, strengthens emergency response systems, and equips communities with the tools they need to improve stroke care from prevention through recovery. This legislation will help save lives, reduce preventable disability, and ensure more Americans can access the care they need when every minute counts.” “This legislation would increase our understanding of stroke care, improve the quality of stroke treatment delivered to communities nationwide and ultimately save lives,” said Mark Schoeberl, Executive Vice President of Advocacy of the American … 1 2026-08-06T07:37:31Z 2026-08-06T07:38:34Z
https://www.lujan.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/lujan-introduces-legislation-to-support-and-strengthen-new-mexicos-early-childhood-education-workforce/ Luján Introduces Legislation to Support and Strengthen New Mexico’s Early Childhood Education Workforce 2026-08-05 2026 2026-08 Democrat Senate NM Ben Ray Luján L000570 www.lujan.senate.gov lujan https://www.lujan.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list scraper Introduction Comes as Trump Looks to Gut Critical Early Childhood Education Programs Like Head Start Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.) – one of two Head Start graduates to serve in the U.S. Senate – introduced the Early Childhood Educator Professional Improvement Act of 2026, legislation to strengthen our nation’s early childhood workforce by creating a federal grant program for states to prepare, develop and support early childhood educators. U.S. Representative Grace Meng (D-N.Y.) leads companion legislation in the House of Representatives. Early childhood educators are essential to children’s learning and development, yet challenges continue to strain the workforce and reduce access to child care for families. The Early Childhood Educator Professional Improvement Act would strengthen the early childhood workforce by investing in professional development, expanding career pathways, and improving educator recruitment and retention. “As one of only two Senators who attended Head Start, I know firsthand the lasting impact early childhood education can have on a child’s future,” said Senator Luján. “To ensure our next generation is prepared for success, we must invest to support and strengthen our early childhood workforce. I’m proud to champion this legislation to strengthen the early childhood workforce in New Mexico and across the country by expanding career pathways, professional development, and the support educators need.” The Early Childhood Educator Professional Improvement Act specifically would: Establish a five-year, renewable state grant program to support comprehensive early childhood professional development systems. Require states to develop and submit a workforce plan in partnership with key stakeholders—including State Advisory Councils on Early Childhood Education, State Education Agencies, Head Start State Directors, institutions of higher education, and early childhood educator organizations—that outlines educator standards, career pathways, higher education par… 1 2026-08-06T07:37:31Z 2026-08-06T07:38:34Z
https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/icymi-ranking-member-heinrich-and-energy-secretary-granholm-interview-with-heatmap-news-on-energy-costs-permitting-reform-and-ai-data-centers ICYMI: Ranking Member Heinrich and Energy Secretary Granholm Interview with Heatmap News on Energy Costs, Permitting Reform, and AI Data Centers 2026-08-04 2026 2026-08 Democrat Senate NM Martin Heinrich H001046 www.heinrich.senate.gov heinrich https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON – During an interview with Heatmap News’ Robinson Meyer, U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), Ranking Member of the U.S. Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, was joined by former U.S. Department of Energy Secretary Jennifer Granholm to discuss President Trump’s actions that are skyrocketing gas and energy costs on families and small businesses, permitting reform, Heinrich’s Grid Connection and Congestion Management Act, AI data centers, and lessons learned from the Inflation Reduction Act. “This is an administration that has chosen to take actions that have negatively impacted prices in so many different sectors. And I hear about that at the grocery store, at the gas station, wherever I go. Energy prices are going up across the board,” said Heinrich. “What Democrats should always keep in their minds is that you cannot create and manage the energy transition on the backs of consumers,” continued Heinrich. “They already have their plates full. They're doing everything they can to make our economy work. We can't ask them to do more, especially in this environment. That doesn't mean we quit managing that transition, and it just means we can't ask consumers to pay for it.” U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), Ranking Member of the U.S. Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, answers questions on energy costs, permitting reform, AI data centers, and the Inflation Reduction Act, August 3, 2026. On President Trump’s War with Iran and High Gas Prices Meyer asked, “Yesterday, Defense Secretary, as it were, announced that the cost of Iran was $37 billion, and we've already seen fuel prices go up. I know you wanted to start the conversation by talking about the huge spikes in energy costs that your constituents have seen, and I just wanted to ask at the beginning, you know, what are you hearing here? Because it does seem to me that at this point, there was an initial spike after the war, went back down, and now they're steadily climbing up again, and so you know, obviously New Mexico is a… 1 2026-08-05T07:37:37Z 2026-08-05T07:38:44Z

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