Press releases
Data license: MIT · Data source: dwillis/congress-press
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82 rows where chamber = "Senate", state = "PA" and year = 2025 sorted by date descending
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| url | title | date ▲ | year | month | party | chamber | state | member_name | bioguide_id | domain | scraper | source | date_source | text | has_text | collected_at | updated_at |
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| https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/fetterman-mccormick-joint-statement-on-passage-of-whole-milk-for-healthy-kids-act-now-heads-to-presidents-desk/ | Fetterman, McCormick Joint Statement on Passage of Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act, Now Heads to President’s Desk | 2025-12-17 | 2025 | 2025-12 | Democrat | Senate | PA | John Fetterman | F000479 | www.fetterman.senate.gov | fetterman | https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/press-release/ | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – After clearing the U.S. Senate by unanimous consent, the U.S. House of Representatives passed the Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act, legislation to allow schools participating in the National School Lunch Program to serve whole and reduced fat milk. The bill passed on Monday and now heads to the president’s desk. Pennsylvania’s U.S. Senators John Fetterman (D-PA) and Dave McCormick (R-PA) released the following joint statement: “Whole milk IS BACK in America’s schools. “This is a commonsense bill that benefits everyone. PA farmers supply the country with some of the best milk year-round, and instead of limiting choices in our schools, this will expand the nutritious and healthy options for our kids. | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T20:09:11Z |
| https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/fetterman-budd-introduce-legislation-to-create-first-national-network-of-ai-enabled-automated-labs/ | Fetterman, Budd Introduce Legislation to Create First National Network of AI-Enabled, Automated Labs | 2025-12-15 | 2025 | 2025-12 | Democrat | Senate | PA | John Fetterman | F000479 | www.fetterman.senate.gov | fetterman | https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/press-release/ | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – Last week, U.S. Senators John Fetterman (D-PA) and Ted Budd (R-NC) introduced the National Programmable Cloud Laboratories Network Act to create a national network of six remotely accessible programmable cloud laboratories (PCLs) for academic research, led by the National Science Foundation (NSF). By knitting together existing laboratory data processing power, this bill would help researchers use their time and financial resources more effectively through automation and integration of large data sets. In 2024, Carnegie Mellon University in Pittsburgh, PA launched a major initiative to establish a programmable, automated laboratory environment on a university campus. This effort positions CMU as a pioneer in advancing remote, software-driven experimentation and is already generating encouraging early results in areas such as chemical and materials research. The legislation builds on this emerging model and supports the development of similar capabilities at a national scale. “Pennsylvania is home to thousands of academic and industry researchers that are expanding the boundaries of human knowledge and developing the products of the future,” said Senator Fetterman. “We can help cut barriers researchers face and supercharge America’s innovation engine with a national network of PCLs. This has never been built before, and I’m proud to partner with Senator Budd to make this a reality.” “Integrating our nation’s world class laboratories will increase the rate of breakthroughs, streamline and better automate the research process, and reduce the barriers and costs that throttle experimentation. North Carolina is at the cutting edge of innovation, and I am glad to work with Senator Fetterman to help our great institutions push the boundaries of discovery even further,” said Senator Budd. The high cost of building and maintaining laboratory infrastructure creates barriers for smaller, less endowed academic institutions and small businesses to conduct cutting-edge scientific research or develop innova… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T20:09:11Z |
| https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/fetterman-colleagues-demand-trump-administration-to-stop-stalling-toxic-chemical-cleanups-protect-military-families-and-nearby-communities/ | Fetterman, Colleagues Demand Trump Administration to Stop Stalling Toxic Chemical Cleanups, Protect Military Families and Nearby Communities | 2025-11-20 | 2025 | 2025-11 | Democrat | Senate | PA | John Fetterman | F000479 | www.fetterman.senate.gov | fetterman | https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/press-release/ | scraper | Trump Administration Delaying Toxic PFAS Chemical Cleanup at Approximately 150 Military Installations, Putting Remediation Efforts on Hold for Nearly a Decade in Some Cases WASHINGTON, D.C. – Yesterday, U.S. Senator John Fetterman (D-PA) joined 27 Senate Democratic colleagues in demanding the Trump administration reverse its decision to delay the cleanup of toxic chemicals at military installations across the country and take action to protect military families and nearby communities by addressing contamination at the affected sites. In a letter to Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, the senators called on the Trump administration to immediately restore the previous timetable for remediating per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) contamination at U.S. military bases and to reverse plans that would further delay long-overdue cleanups. “For years, communities contaminated by PFAS from nearby DOD installations in our states have waited for the DOD to take action. We request that the Department reverse its decision, return to the previous timetable released in December 2024, and accelerate efforts to remediate confirmed PFAS contamination,” the senators wrote. At least 700 military sites in the United States are known or suspected to have PFAS contamination from Department of Defense (DOD) activities. DOD’s delayed timetable would postpone cleanup efforts at approximately 150 of them, in some cases for nearly a decade. Specifically, DOD pushed back the time frame of the Remedial Investigation/Feasibility Study (RI/FS) phase for these bases, which involves collecting detailed information on the nature and extent of the PFAS contamination and conducting a study to evaluate potential options for cleanup. PFAS chemicals are widespread contaminants found in many industrial applications and especially around U.S. military installations. PFAS exposure is linked to an array of health problems, including various cancers, reduced immune function, reproductive challenges, birth defects, thyroid issues, and more. The use… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T19:52:45Z |
| https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/icymi-fetterman-colleagues-introduce-bicameral-bill-expanding-social-security-benefits-for-seniors/ | ICYMI: Fetterman, Colleagues Introduce Bicameral Bill Expanding Social Security Benefits for Seniors | 2025-11-05 | 2025 | 2025-11 | Democrat | Senate | PA | John Fetterman | F000479 | www.fetterman.senate.gov | fetterman | https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/press-release/ | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – Last week, U.S. Senator John Fetterman (D-PA) joined U.S. Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), and Ruben Gallego (D-AZ), and U.S. Representative Nikki Budzinski (D-IL), to introduce the bicameral Boosting Benefits and COLAs for Seniors Act, legislation to protect and expand Social Security benefits for older adults. Each year, Social Security benefits are adjusted by the Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA) formula. But in recent years, benefits have failed to keep up with rising costs and inflation, especially for older Americans. This year’s COLA was announced last week as 2.8 percent — a number that three out of four Americans aged 50 and older say is not enough. The Boosting Benefits and COLAs for Seniors Act directs the Social Security Administration to adjust benefits based on the Consumer Price Index for Americans aged 62 or older (CPI-E), whereas current benefits are based on the Consumer Price Index for Urban Wage Earners (CPI-W). The CPI-E takes into account more of the costs incurred by older Americans, such as medical expenses—making it a more accurate index to use when calculating benefits. “It’s simple, part of the American bargain is the ability to retire with dignity. When we have seniors choosing between medication and basic needs because their Social Security benefits aren’t keeping up with rising costs, we have a serious problem,” said Senator Fetterman. “If you spend a lifetime working and paying into Social Security, you deserve to see those earned benefits. I have always supported our seniors, and our Boosting Benefits and COLAs for Seniors Act builds on that commitment to do right by them.” “This overdue measure makes necessary adjustments to Social Security benefits—more accurately accounting for rising prices and inflation—to better support older Americans,” said Senator Blumenthal. “Our nation’s seniors are struggling to afford basic necessities like food, medication, and clothing, and the overall cost of living index may not reflect their par… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T19:52:45Z |
| https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/icymi-fetterman-colleagues-introduce-bicameral-legislation-to-provide-farmers-with-the-right-to-repair/ | ICYMI: Fetterman, Colleagues Introduce Bicameral Legislation to Provide Farmers with the Right to Repair | 2025-11-03 | 2025 | 2025-11 | Democrat | Senate | PA | John Fetterman | F000479 | www.fetterman.senate.gov | fetterman | https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/press-release/ | scraper | Legislation would restore farmers’ autonomy to fix their own equipment, boost competition in the agricultural repair market WASHINGTON, D.C. – Last week, U.S. Senator John Fetterman (D-PA) joined Senators Peter Welch (D-VT) and Elizabeth Warren (D-MA)in introducing the Freedom for Agricultural Repair and Maintenance Act (FARM Act), bicameral legislation togive farmers the right to repair their own equipment and restore competition in the agricultural repair market. The lawmakers’ bill would require farm equipment manufacturers to share documentation, parts, and software with farmers and independent repair shops, giving farmers back the autonomy to fix their own equipment and support their farms. The bill is led in the House by Representative Marie Gluesenkamp Perez (D-WA-03) and cosponsored by Representative Joe Neguse (D-CO-02). “For farmers across Pennsylvania, a broken tractor right before a harvest can ruin months of hard work. Time is money,” said Senator Fetterman. “Our farmers should have the freedom to repair their own equipment without having to travel hours on hours to the nearest approved service center or being price gouged on repair software subscriptions. I’m proud to join my colleagues on this bill so we can help protect farmers and their right to repair.” “Farmers are fixers. It only makes sense that farmers should have the right to repair their own equipment, which is vital to saving money and maintaining operations. But right now, lack of a federal right to repair means that farmers in Vermont have to waste valuable time and resources getting someone else to fix their equipment–even if they can do it themselves,” said Senator Welch. “Our bicameral legislation will help protect farmers from rip-offs and ensure they have the right to fix their own equipment.” “Farmers work tirelessly to feed this country. They shouldn’t have to wait for weeks on end and pay sky-high prices for a manufacturer to fix essential farm equipment that farmers already know how to repair themselves,” said Senator Warr… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T19:52:45Z |
| https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/fetterman-statement-on-vote-to-consider-houses-defense-appropriations-bill/ | Fetterman Statement on Vote to Consider House’s Defense Appropriations Bill | 2025-10-16 | 2025 | 2025-10 | Democrat | Senate | PA | John Fetterman | F000479 | www.fetterman.senate.gov | fetterman | https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/press-release/ | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator John Fetterman (D-PA) voted to consider H.R.4016, the Department of Defense Appropriations Act, 2026. Senator Fetterman released the following statement: “I voted YES to start considering the House’s defense spending bill because I believe the men and women in our military, who put their lives at risk for our country, should not have to worry about their paycheck coming through. “To be clear, we should be considering the Senate’s bill because it’s the better version, and I worked hard to secure key investments for Pennsylvania in it. “Regardless, this bill would still make sure our servicemembers get paid, and I will continue to vote to end this shutdown and reopen our federal government so all workers can move on from this chaos.” Since the government shut down, Senator Fetterman has continued to cast his vote to put politics aside and open the government. He has cast his vote seven times for the Democratic Continuing Resolution to extend the Affordable Care Act enhanced tax credits and has cast his vote nine times for the Republican Continuing Resolution to fund our government. Both Continuing Resolutions have failed to reach the sixty-vote threshold. | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T19:32:54Z |
| https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/fetterman-ernst-reintroduce-bipartisan-bill-to-combat-mislabeling-of-egg-alternatives/ | Fetterman, Ernst Reintroduce Bipartisan Bill to Combat Mislabeling of Egg Alternatives | 2025-10-03 | 2025 | 2025-10 | Democrat | Senate | PA | John Fetterman | F000479 | www.fetterman.senate.gov | fetterman | https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/press-release/ | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – This week, U.S. Senators John Fetterman (D-PA) and Joni Ernst (R-IA) reintroduced the Consistent Egg Labels Act to enforce better market terms for eggs and their alternatives. This bipartisan, bicameral bill requires the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to prohibit egg “alternatives” from using misleading terms in their branding. “Pennsylvania’s egg farmers work hard to provide people with an affordable, easy-to-find, and healthy source of protein,” said Senator Fetterman. “Our commonwealth is a leading egg producing state, and they are an important part of both our farms and our economy. The Consistent Egg Labels Act will help farmers and shoppers by making sure eggs are labeled clearly and fairly in grocery stores.” “In the age-old debate between the chicken or the egg, one thing is for sure: eggs don’t come from plants. While Iowa farmers work hard to put healthy and affordable eggs on our tables, labeling plant-based products as ‘eggs’ undermines that work,” said Senator Ernst. “The integrity of our eggs is no joke, which is why I’m taking a crack at ensuring there’s no question between the real deal and imitation!” Many Americans rely on eggs and egg products as an affordable, healthy source of protein. Nutritional research from the Department of Agriculture finds that eggs are the lowest cost source of protein, vitamin A, vitamin B12, iron, and riboflavin. Plant-sourced protein found in egg product alternatives does not contain essential amino acids in levels as concentrated as in eggs. Egg product alternatives are relatively new on the market and have potential to mislead consumers if such products are not properly labeled. Consumers who need to purchase alternatives should be assured of labeling that is truthful and not misleading. Currently, there are no requirements for egg alternatives to be clearly distinguished from eggs and egg products, despite not having the nutritional value of eggs. This bill would require the FDA to issue guidance for nationwide enforcement of mislabele… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T19:32:54Z |
| https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/fetterman-colleagues-reintroduce-the-billionaires-income-tax-act/ | Fetterman, Colleagues Reintroduce the Billionaires Income Tax Act | 2025-09-30 | 2025 | 2025-09 | Democrat | Senate | PA | John Fetterman | F000479 | www.fetterman.senate.gov | fetterman | https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/press-release/ | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – Senator John Fetterman (D-PA), Ranking Member Ron Wyden (D-OR) and 19 other colleagues reintroduced the Billionaires Income Tax Act, legislation that would close loopholes and ensure billionaires pay their fair share in taxes. Congressman Steve Cohen (D-TN -9), and Congressman Don Beyer (D-VA-8) introduced identical legislation in the House of Representatives, making this the first Congress in which the Billionaires Income Tax Act is a bicameral proposal. “It’s time for billionaires to pay their fair share in taxes so we can bring down the debt, keep our promise to seniors on Medicare and Social Security, and cut taxes for working Pennsylvanians,” said Senator Fetterman. “Working Pennsylvanians already face high and rising prices, while billionaires and mega-corporations game the system to pay next to nothing in taxes. This bill is about basic fairness – if you’re a billionaire, you shouldn’t pay less in taxes than your secretary.” “While people like nurses and firefighters pay taxes straight out of every paycheck, there’s a thicket of little-known tricks and accounting rules that allow billionaires to opt out of paying a fair share of tax on the income they enjoy,” said Senator Wyden. “Billionaires and Republicans are going to offer up the same set of trickle-down arguments to pretend this proposal would bring about the end of western civilization. The only time you hear billionaires claim they can’t scrounge together any cash is when somebody brings up taxes, and odds are a lot of these mega-wealthy individuals are crying poverty from their yachts and private islands. This is a carefully designed proposal that draws on accounting methods already used in the tax code and raises revenue without increasing any tax rates.” “The ultrawealthy pay very low tax rates because their affluence derives primarily from the soaring value of their assets. Our current tax code lets billionaires avoid taxes on gains unless and until they sell their assets,” said Congressman Cohen. “So while working families… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T19:10:29Z |
| https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/fetterman-mccormick-release-application-for-judicial-nominations-for-eastern-district-of-pa/ | Fetterman, McCormick Release Application for Judicial Nominations for Eastern District of PA | 2025-09-30 | 2025 | 2025-09 | Democrat | Senate | PA | John Fetterman | F000479 | www.fetterman.senate.gov | fetterman | https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/press-release/ | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators John Fetterman (D-PA) and Dave McCormick (R-PA) released the application for candidates to be considered for judicial appointments to the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania. “The Eastern District is home to Philly and some of the most hardworking, diverse communities in Pennsylvania. These judges make decisions that impact people’s lives every single day,” said Senator Fetterman. “We need judges on the bench who are fair, qualified, and get what justice means for real people in our commonwealth.” “The Eastern District is home to our commonwealth’s biggest city and a diverse range of families, businesses, and communities that are essential to the fabric of Pennsylvania,” said Senator McCormick. “These applications are critical to ensuring that we have qualified judges in the Eastern District who are faithful to our Constitution and the rule of law.” | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T19:10:29Z |
| https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/fetterman-statement-on-government-shutdown/ | Fetterman Statement on Government Shutdown | 2025-09-30 | 2025 | 2025-09 | Democrat | Senate | PA | John Fetterman | F000479 | www.fetterman.senate.gov | fetterman | https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/press-release/ | scraper | “It’s a sad day for our nation. “Our government shuts down at midnight. “I voted AYE to extend ACA tax credits because I support them—but I won’t vote for the chaos of shuttering our government. “My vote was for our country over my party. | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T19:10:29Z |
| https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/fetterman-cosponsors-bill-to-protect-veterans-and-low-income-families-from-housing-discrimination/ | Fetterman Cosponsors Bill to Protect Veterans and Low-Income Families from Housing Discrimination | 2025-09-24 | 2025 | 2025-09 | Democrat | Senate | PA | John Fetterman | F000479 | www.fetterman.senate.gov | fetterman | https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/press-release/ | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – Last week, U.S. Senator John Fetterman (D-PA) cosponsored the bicameral Fair Housing Improvement Act of 2025, introduced by Senators Tim Kaine (D-VA) and Adam Schiff (D-CA). This bill aims to make it easier for veterans and low-income families, two groups of Americans disproportionately harmed by housing discrimination, to find safe and affordable homes through expanding protections of the Fair Housing Act of 1968. Currently, 2.3 million veterans and low-income households use Housing Choice Vouchers to help pay rent, but there are no federal protections to prevent individuals from being denied housing based on using that voucher. Across Pennsylvania and the country, many veterans and low-income families have reported being turned away by landlords due to their veteran status or when using vouchers, clearly demonstrating the need for federal action. “Honoring our veterans means moving past the talk and taking real action for the men and women who put their lives on the line for our nation. We owe them stronger support,” said Senator Fetterman. “It’s hard enough to find an affordable place to call home. Every veteran and every family struggling to keep a roof over their head deserve dignity and our support, not discrimination based upon their service or if they use a voucher.” “As a fair housing attorney, I’ve seen firsthand the impact that accessing safe, affordable housing can have on families and communities,” said Senator Kaine. “In Virginia, we’ve already witnessed the impact that banning discrimination based on source of income or veteran status can have, and I’m proud to introduce this legislation to ensure all veterans, military families, and low-income individuals are protected from discrimination.” “Everyone deserves access to safe, affordable housing, and families should not be denied a home due to their source of income. I am proud to partner with Senator Time Kaine and Congressman Scott Peters to ensure that low-income families, veterans, and servicemembers are protected from dis… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T19:10:29Z |
| https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/fetterman-houlahan-back-court-fight-against-trump-admin-cuts-to-usda-farm-and-food-programs/ | Fetterman, Houlahan Back Court Fight Against Trump Admin Cuts to USDA Farm and Food Programs | 2025-09-22 | 2025 | 2025-09 | Democrat | Senate | PA | John Fetterman | F000479 | www.fetterman.senate.gov | fetterman | https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/press-release/ | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – Last week, U.S. Senator John Fetterman (D-PA) and Congresswoman Chrissy Houlahan (D-PA-06) filed an amicus brief in support of a multi-state lawsuit against the Trump administration. The lawsuit challenges the administration’s decision to cut billions of dollars in funding for key U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) programs. The lawsuit, New Jersey et al. v. Vought et al., argues that the administration misused a federal rule—2 C.F.R. § 200.340(a)(4)—to cancel programs it claims “no longer match the agency’s priorities.” Fetterman and Houlahan’s filing says this move is unconstitutional. By leaning on a little-known regulation, the administration is trying to overrule laws passed by Congress—hurting farmers, food banks, and rural communities in Pennsylvania and across the country. The Constitution makes clear that only Congress has the power to pass laws and decide how federal money is spent. Courts have long held that agencies cannot ignore laws or funding decisions approved by Congress. “Farmers in Pennsylvania and across the country plan their seasons and run their businesses around these programs. Pulling the rug out from under them isn’t just wrong, it’s destructive,” said Senator Fetterman. “It tells every farmer, food bank, and rural community that the federal government can’t be trusted as a reliable partner. I won’t stand for that.” “These programs are a vital lifeline both for farmers and for hungry families. The Trump Administration’s reckless decision to walk away from the commitments it made through these programs is simply cruel”, said Congresswoman Houlahan. “I’m proud to join my colleagues in the Pennsylvania delegation who are standing up against the administration’s illegal actions.” To illustrate the real-world harm these cuts are causing, the brief points to the termination of the Local Food Purchase Assistance Cooperative Agreement Program (LFPA), which had supported farmers and food banks across Pennsylvania. The loss of the LFPA program severed vital local partners… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T19:10:29Z |
| https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/with-federal-workers-under-attack-fetterman-joins-legislation-to-repeal-union-busting-executive-orders/ | With Federal Workers Under Attack, Fetterman Joins Legislation to Repeal Union-Busting Executive Orders | 2025-09-18 | 2025 | 2025-09 | Democrat | Senate | PA | John Fetterman | F000479 | www.fetterman.senate.gov | fetterman | https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/press-release/ | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – Yesterday, U.S. Senator John Fetterman helped introduce a bipartisan legislation to repeal two union-busting executive orders and restore collective bargaining rights and workplace protections for federal workers. The Protect America’s Workforce Act, cosponsored by Senators Mark R. Warner (D-VA), Lisa Murkowski (R-AK), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Chuck Schumer (D-NY), Brian Schatz (D-HI), Alex Padilla (D-CA), Angela Alsobrooks (D-MD), and Tim Kaine (D-VA), comes in response to two executive orders issued earlier this year by President Trump that revoked collective bargaining rights for a majority of federal employees. These rights are essential in protecting public servants from retaliation, discrimination, and illegal firings, while also providing resources and support for whistleblowers, veterans, and others. “Federal workers do tough jobs that help every community across Pennsylvania, and they deserve full collective bargaining rights,” said Senator Fetterman. “Pennsylvania has more than 60,000 federal workers, and I will continue to advocate for their rights and safeguard the union way of life.” Senator Fetterman is a strong and vocal supporter of federal workers. Earlier this year, Senator Fetterman successfully pushed the Office of Personnel Management to end a decades-long pay disparity affecting more than 2,100 hourly federal workers in Pennsylvania. Senator Fetterman has also cosponsored the VA Employee Fairness Act, a billto expand and protect collective bargaining for VA health workers, whose rights are being threatened by the Trump administration. “From the gutting of essential government agencies to the politization of nonpartisan government jobs, there’s never been a tougher time to be a federal worker,” said Senator Warner. “As the Trump administration continues to terrorize the federal workforce, I’m proud to introduce legislation to safeguard the longstanding protections that federal employees need right now.” “Every day our patriotic, merit-based civil servants provide essen… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T19:10:29Z |
| https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/fetterman-colleagues-urge-administration-to-reinstate-fair-pay-rule-for-workers-with-disabilities/ | Fetterman, Colleagues Urge Administration to Reinstate Fair Pay Rule for Workers with Disabilities | 2025-09-11 | 2025 | 2025-09 | Democrat | Senate | PA | John Fetterman | F000479 | www.fetterman.senate.gov | fetterman | https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/press-release/ | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C – Yesterday, U.S. Senator John Fetterman (D-PA) and eight of his Senate colleagues urged the U.S. Department of Labor to reverse its July decision to cancel a proposed rule to end the subminimum wage program, which allows employers to pay American workers with disabilities below the federal minimum wage. In their letter to U.S. Labor Secretary Lori Chavez-DeRemer, the lawmakers stress that the subminimum wage represents a denial of these workers’ rights to equal opportunity amid a decades-long expansion of initiatives that help equip people with disabilities with the tools and skills to compete in the workforce for fair pay. Senator Fetterman (D-Pa.) was joined on this letter by Senators Van Hollen (D-MD), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.), Tim Kaine (D-Va.), Patty Murray (D-Wash.), Jack Reed (D-R.I.), Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), and Ron Wyden (D-Ore.). The letter builds on Senator Fetterman’s longstanding commitment to ensuring that people with disabilities earn a dignified wage. At a February 2024 hearing for the Senate’s Special Committee on Aging, Senator Fetterman spoke about his experience working in the Senate with his disability and advocated for an end to the subminimum wage. “The fact is that we have people being paid $1.50 an hour simply because they have a disability, and that is outrageous,” said Senator Fetterman. “I would like to point out that I have a disability, and I am not getting paid any less than my colleagues here in the Senate.” “We write today to express our grave disappointment in your Department’s decision to withdraw the proposed rule that would phase out remaining special certificates under Section 14(c) of the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA). As long as the subminimum wage program is allowed to continue, people with disabilities are denied their fundamental right to equal opportunity by being paid less than half the federal minimum wage on average with some making pennies per hour,” the Senators began. “In the past ten years alone, sixteen states… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T19:10:29Z |
| https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/fetterman-colleagues-urge-usda-to-restore-lgbtqi-nondiscrimination-protections-in-school-meal-programs/ | Fetterman, Colleagues Urge USDA to Restore LGBTQI+ Nondiscrimination Protections in School Meal Programs | 2025-08-28 | 2025 | 2025-08 | Democrat | Senate | PA | John Fetterman | F000479 | www.fetterman.senate.gov | fetterman | https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/press-release/ | scraper | Washington, D.C. – On August 25, Senators Fetterman (D-PA) and Schatz (D-HI), and Representatives Takano (D-CA) and Craig (D-MN) urged the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to reverse recent guidance that weakens nondiscrimination protections for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and intersex (LGBTQI+) people in federal nutrition programs, warning it will leave vulnerable children and families at risk of going hungry. The letter argues that USDA’s decision will create new barriers for LGBTQI+ students and families who already face higher rates of food insecurity and highlights survey data showing that LGBTQI+ youth are more likely to go hungry when they feel unsafe in school cafeterias. The lawmakers stress that removing protections will directly harm vulnerable students at a time when Republican legislation has already cut SNAP for 22.3 million families. The signers request that USDA reverse its guidance immediately—reverting to prior guidance from 2022 that provided clear protections for LGBTQI+ people—and provide answers on how it intends to prevent discrimination in school meal programs. In the letter, the Members write: “USDA’s anti nondiscrimination policy manufactures new barriers, creating an explicitly hostile environment for hungry LGBTQI+ students, just because some people perceive them to be different. All students deserve access to food at schools. We should not be encouraging discrimination against any student, including LGBTQI+ students, who need food assistance.” “The goal of NSLP and SBP is to provide free or reduced-price meals for our neediest students and to reduce or eliminate barriers that our students may face. USDA’s discriminatory policy manufactures new barriers, creating an explicitly hostile environment for hungry LGBTQI+ students, just because some people perceive them to be different. All students deserve access to food at schools. We should not be encouraging discrimination against any student, including LGBTQI+ students, who need food assistance.” Senator Fetterma… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T19:02:47Z |
| https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/fetterman-mccormick-introduce-legislation-to-target-prc-financial-firms-protect-u-s-economic-security/ | Fetterman, McCormick Introduce Legislation To Target PRC Financial Firms & Protect U.S Economic Security | 2025-08-06 | 2025 | 2025-08 | Democrat | Senate | PA | John Fetterman | F000479 | www.fetterman.senate.gov | fetterman | https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/press-release/ | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – Senators John Fetterman (D-PA) and Dave McCormick (R-PA) introduced S. 2552, the PRC Broker-Dealers and Investment Advisers Moratorium Act,to protect Pennsylvanians, U.S. markets, and national economic security. This legislation is in response to growing concerns regarding the unequal regulatory landscape between the United States and the People’s Republic of China (PRC) that exposes U.S. financial markets and consumer data to risk from Chinese Communist Party (CCP)-linked firms. “Pennsylvanians don’t want their hard‑earned savings snooped on or manipulated by the Chinese Communist Party. This bipartisan bill slams the brakes on CCP‑linked broker‑dealers and investment advisers until our regulators can give them a full, no‑nonsense inspection,” said Senator Fetterman. “Protecting American investors and our economic security isn’t a partisan fight, and I’m proud to team up with Senator McCormick to get it done.” “The PRC Broker-Dealers and Investment Advisers Moratorium Act recognizes that CCP-linked firms pose an inherent risk to our financial system,” said Senator McCormick. “This bill gives the financial regulators necessary time to evaluate the impact on U.S. consumer protection and protects the U.S. retail investor.” While China restricts access of U.S. firms to its retail financial market, U.S. markets are more fully open for business to Chinese affiliates. These Chinese affiliates have access to millions of Americans’ personally identifiable information and sensitive data. Further, U.S. regulators, including the SEC and FINRA, do not have the authority to conduct enforcement actions or examinations in mainland China. With the landscape of retail investing and market innovations quickly changing, the U.S. must act quickly to guard against the further intrusion of CCP-linked entities into our markets. | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T19:02:47Z |
| https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/the-philadelphia-inquirer-a-bipartisan-senate-housing-bill-includes-a-national-version-of-a-pa-home-repair-program/ | The Philadelphia Inquirer: A bipartisan Senate housing bill includes a national version of a Pa. home repair program | 2025-07-30 | 2025 | 2025-07 | Democrat | Senate | PA | John Fetterman | F000479 | www.fetterman.senate.gov | fetterman | https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/press-release/ | scraper | Sen. John Fetterman has sought to replicate state Sen. Nikil Saval’s Whole Home Repairs policy, which created a grant program for homeowners and small landlords to fix their properties. By Jake Blumgart Washington, D.C. Tuesday saw a rare act of bipartisan comity in Washington D.C., as the Senate Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs unanimously voted for an omnibus housing policy bill that includes a national version of a Pennsylvania program. The bill, crafted by Committee Chairman Sen. Tim Scott (R., N.C.) and Ranking Member Sen. Elizabeth Warren (D., Mass.), includes provisions based on state Sen. Nikil Saval’s (D., Philadelphia) Whole Home Repairs policy, which created a grant program for income-qualifying homeowners and small landlords to fix their properties. Sen. John Fetterman (D., Pa.) has sought to replicate the policy at the national level in Congress since 2024 as a means to addressing the housing crisis. The Senate version includes $30 million for a national pilot program. “I’ve been pushing Whole-Home Repairs since day one because it’s a tested solution to the housing crisis that’s already delivered real results in Pennsylvania,” said Fetterman. “The Banking Committee’s unanimous vote to advance it today proves that everyone, regardless of party, recognizes this crisis demands real solutions, not half-measures.” The Renewing Opportunity in the American Dream to Housing Act is notable for advancing with bipartisan support on a deeply divided Capitol Hill, and because Congress rarely addresses housing policy, usually leaving the issue to states and localities. The bill is a grab bag of existing and new housing legislation, which seeks to make home building and preservation easier by lowering federal regulatory barriers, incentivizing local governments to address exclusionary zoning, and authorizing the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to create new programs including a federal version of Whole Home Repairs. Sens. Dave McCormick (R., Pa.) and Andy Kim (D., N.J.) sit… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T18:48:13Z |
| https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/fetterman-colleagues-introduce-legislation-to-crack-down-on-money-laundering-and-terror-financing-in-the-art-market/ | Fetterman, Colleagues Introduce Legislation to Crack Down on Money Laundering and Terror Financing in the Art Market | 2025-07-23 | 2025 | 2025-07 | Democrat | Senate | PA | John Fetterman | F000479 | www.fetterman.senate.gov | fetterman | https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/press-release/ | scraper | Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators John Fetterman (D-PA), Chuck Grassley (R-IA), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), Bill Cassidy (R-LA), Andy Kim (D-NJ), and David McCormick (R-PA), introduced the Art Market Integrity Act, bipartisan legislation that would require art dealers and auction houses to comply with anti-money-laundering (AML) and counter-terrorism financing regulations under the Bank Secrecy Act (BSA). Currently, the art market, a $25 billion industry in the United States and the largest of its kind globally, is one of the last major markets not required to meet these standards, making it vulnerable to exploitation by sanctioned individuals, terrorist financiers, and other criminals. “Art should be for art-lovers, not terrorists and criminals,” said Senator Fetterman. “For too long, loopholes have allowed Russian criminal kingpins to evade sanctions and terrorists like Hezbollah to funnel money through art deals. I’m grateful to Senators Grassley, Whitehouse, McCormick, Kim, and Cassidy for working across the aisle to require art dealers and auction houses to perform basic due diligence. This needs to stop now.” “For decades, criminal enterprises have used America’s multibillion-dollar art industry as a personal piggy bank for money laundering schemes, terrorist financing and other nefarious activities. By requiring our nation’s art market to comply with existing anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing laws, this bipartisan legislation would keep art, and millions of dollars, out of the wrong hands,” said Senator Grassley. “Kleptocrats, foreign adversaries, and other bad actors abuse the opaque nature of the high-end art market to evade American sanctions and stow their loot behind the rule of law,” said Senator Whitehouse. “There is bipartisan interest in shining light into the murky world of art dealing.” “Criminals and terrorists use art sales to fund their crimes,” said Dr. Cassidy. “We have similar rules for jewelry, precious metals, real estate, and more. Let’s do it for art too.”… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T18:48:13Z |
| https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/fetterman-backs-effort-to-rein-in-corporate-greed-and-cut-costs-for-pennsylvania-families/ | Fetterman Backs Effort to Rein in Corporate Greed and Cut Costs for Pennsylvania Families | 2025-07-21 | 2025 | 2025-07 | Democrat | Senate | PA | John Fetterman | F000479 | www.fetterman.senate.gov | fetterman | https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/press-release/ | scraper | Text of Bill (PDF) | Bill One-Pager (PDF) Washington, D.C. — Last week, U.S. Senator John Fetterman (D-PA) co-sponsored the Price Gouging Prevention Act, a bill that helps the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and state attorneys general stop big corporations from using high prices to pass tariffs onto consumers. Senator Fetterman previously co-sponsored this legislation when it was introduced in the 118th Congress. Pennsylvanians know that the prices they are seeing throughout the Commonwealth are both unreasonable and unjustifiable. The last five years have repeatedly shown us that giant corporations will take advantage of inflation and supply chain disruptions to expand their profit margins by raising prices higher than necessary to cover cost increases. President Trump’s on-again, off-again tariffs have created yet another opportunity for corporate price gouging. “Trump’s chaotic tariff policies handed large companies a free pass to jack up prices on the goods and services we rely on every day. As a result, hard-working Americans are being forced to take a smaller slice of the pie while corporate executives line their pockets,” said Senator Fetterman. “The Price Gouging Prevention Act gives regulators the teeth to shut this down. It forces big companies to be honest about why they’re raising prices, and it’ll bring relief at the grocery store and the pump to families across the Commonwealth.” The legislation was led by U.S. Senators Elizabeth Warren (D-MA) and Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), along with Representatives Jan Schakowsky (D-IL-9) and Chris Deluzio (D-PA-17). “Donald Trump’s reckless tariff policies are giving companies cover to squeeze families and raise prices more than necessary. My bill is an opportunity for Congress to stand up for families by cracking down on price gouging and fighting back against corporate abuse,” said Senator Warren. “The biggest corporations in our country jack up the cost of everyday household items, take in record profits, and give their executives huge bonuses – all on the ba… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T18:48:13Z |
| https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/fetterman-cramer-introduce-bipartisan-bill-to-preserve-payment-choice/ | Fetterman, Cramer Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Preserve Payment Choice | 2025-07-17 | 2025 | 2025-07 | Democrat | Senate | PA | John Fetterman | F000479 | www.fetterman.senate.gov | fetterman | https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/press-release/ | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators John Fetterman (D-PA) and Kevin Cramer (R-ND) introduced the Payment Choice Act to preserve payment options for consumers. This legislation ensures customers can use cash as a form of payment and are able to do so without being charged higher prices. “It’s simple: if you’re open for business in America, you should take U.S. dollars,” said Senator Fetterman. “I’m proud to introduce the bipartisan Payment Choice Act with Senator Cramer because every American should be able to use paper currency if they choose. We have millions of people in this country who don’t have access to bank accounts, and they must be able to go shopping with their hard-earned dollars.” “Cash is still legal tender in the United States, despite some businesses’ exclusive acceptance of electronic payments,” said Senator Cramer. “Forcing the use of credit and debit cards or imposing premium prices on goods and services paid for with cash limits consumer choice. Americans should have the option of using cards or cash, but they should be the ones who make that choice.” “Ensuring cash remains a viable payment option is vital for small businesses across the country, not to mention the millions of underbanked Americans who rely on consumer choice in payment for goods and services,” said Amusement & Music Operators Association President Brian Brotsch. “The National ATM Council (NAC) extends its sincerest thanks and appreciation to Senator Cramer and Senator Fetterman for their outstanding leadership and commitment to preserving the role of U.S. currency as legal tender and as a payment option for in-person purchases of basic goods and services,” said Bruce Renard, NAC’s Executive Director. “The continued vitality and universality of cash in America is essential to maintaining the US Dollar’s position abroad as the world’s premier fiat currency, while also preserving personal financial freedom of choice and purchasing privacy for us all here at home.” While the majority of American households have access to… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T18:48:13Z |
| https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/fetterman-demands-answers-for-victims-of-sunoco-pipeline-leak-in-bucks-county/ | Fetterman Demands Answers for Victims of Sunoco Pipeline Leak in Bucks County | 2025-07-17 | 2025 | 2025-07 | Democrat | Senate | PA | John Fetterman | F000479 | www.fetterman.senate.gov | fetterman | https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/press-release/ | scraper | Nominee to the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration commits to visiting site and holding Sunoco accountable if confirmed Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator John Fetterman (D-PA) is demanding answers and action for residents of Bucks County whose drinking water has been contaminated by jet fuel from a leak in Sunoco’s Twin Oaks Pipeline. During yesterday’s Senate Commerce Committee hearing, Senator Fetterman pressed Paul Roberti, the nominee to lead the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA), on the agency’s investigation into this leak. PHMSA oversees more than 3.4 million miles of pipelines nationwide. Fetterman invited Kristine Wojnovich, a constituent from Upper Makefield Township to the hearing. Like others in this community, her family’s water has been contaminated by jet fuel. Holding up bottles of murky water collected from her home, Senator Fetterman addressed Mr. Roberti directly: “It honestly smells like straight-up fuel, I wouldn’t want to put a flame around it. I want to work together to find a solution,” said Senator Fetterman. “My friend and colleague, Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick, and I are pushing to do whatever’s necessary to figure out what is happening here. As I said in my office, if you’re willing to extend a commitment to work together, I’m here to extend a commitment to vote for you.” PHMSA is responsible for enforcing pipeline safety regulations at the Twin Oaks Pipeline, a 105-mile jet fuel line running through parts of southeastern Pennsylvania. In 2023, residents of Upper Makefield began smelling gasoline in their homes, but Sunoco dismissed those concerns and told the community that the smell was attributable to “bacteria.” A year later, jet fuel began appearing in private wells and drinking water. It wasn’t until January 31, 2025, that Sunoco publicly confirmed a leak in the pipeline. Senator Fetterman’s questioning led to an explicit promise from Mr. Roberti that “if confirmed, I would like to go to the accident scene with [Senator Fetter… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T18:48:13Z |
| https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/fetterman-van-hollen-introduce-bill-to-protect-consumers-from-online-subscription-traps/ | Fetterman, Van Hollen Introduce Bill to Protect Consumers from Online Subscription Traps | 2025-07-16 | 2025 | 2025-07 | Democrat | Senate | PA | John Fetterman | F000479 | www.fetterman.senate.gov | fetterman | https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/press-release/ | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – This week, U.S. Senators John Fetterman (D-PA) and Chris Van Hollen (D-MD) reintroduced the Consumer Online Payment Transparency and Integrity (Consumer OPT-IN) Act, bicameral legislation to protect consumers from online “free trial” scams and hard-to-cancel recurring-payment programs. The lawmakers’ bill puts the responsibility on companies, rather than consumers, when it comes to subscriptions and memberships, including requiring a shift from “opt-out” conditions to “opt-in.” “It should be just as easy to cancel a subscription as it is to start one, plain and simple. For too long, corporations have tricked consumers into paying for their services for longer than they wanted, whether it’s through deceptive free trials or hard-to-end recurring payments. I’ve been there just like too many other Pennsylvanians, sitting on hold trying to cancel a subscription,” said Senator Fetterman. “I’m proud to join my colleagues to introduce the Consumer OPT-IN Act to hold these companies accountable and put consumers back in charge of their hard-earned money.” “While companies have made it easier than ever to sign up for subscription-based services, too many Americans know the frustration of jumping through endless hoops to get out of them. Corporate special interests are pushing to preserve the status quo so they can pad their profits by keeping consumers locked into unwanted subscriptions, but we will keep fighting back. Our legislation puts consumers in control – offering them an easy way out of subscription traps and holding companies accountable for these deceptive practices,” said Senator Van Hollen. This reintroduction comes after the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Eight Circuit last week vacated the Federal Trade Commission’s (FTC) 2023 “click to cancel” rule, which would have taken effect today and complemented this legislation by making it easier to get out of unwanted subscriptions. As a result of this ruling, businesses are free to continue using deceitful practices that trap consumers into mak… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T18:48:13Z |
| https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/philadelphia-inquirer-senate-to-vote-on-cuts-to-npr-and-pbs-heres-how-whyy-and-other-pa-stations-would-be-impacted/ | Philadelphia Inquirer: Senate to vote on cuts to NPR and PBS. Here’s how WHYY and other Pa. stations would be impacted. | 2025-07-16 | 2025 | 2025-07 | Democrat | Senate | PA | John Fetterman | F000479 | www.fetterman.senate.gov | fetterman | https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/press-release/ | scraper | “Mr. Rogers, a Pittsburgh icon, taught us kindness and empathy. My wife, Gisele, learned English watching PBS,” said U.S. Sen. John Fetterman (D., Pa.), who opposes the federal cuts. By: Rob Tornoe Washington, D.C. – With Republicans on the verge of cutting off federal funding for NPR and PBS, one public media executive in Pennsylvania predicts local stations in rural areas will end up becoming “collateral damage” to President Donald Trump’s agenda. “We got sucked into a fight we’re not a part of,” said Terry O’Reilly, the president and CEO of Pittsburgh Community Broadcasting, which operates NPR affiliate WESA. O’Reilly thinks the cuts have little to do with balancing the federal budget and are simply “retribution” for NPR’s honest reporting on the Trump administration. “Public media is one one-hundredth of 1% of the federal budget,” O’Reilly said. “It’s a rounding error.” Senators are expected to vote Wednesday on a proposal that would cut all federal funding to the Corporation for Public Broadcasting, despite having just passed a budget bill that allocated $535 million to the government-funded organization. The proposal, known as a rescission request, would take back funding from the Corporation for Public Broadcasting allocated over two years, totaling $1.1 billion. The organization says more than 70% of that goes directly to National Public Radio and Public Broadcasting System stations across the country, including WHYY in Philadelphia. If passed, the money flowing from the federal government to local stations would dry up in October. WHYY is in a position to weather the cuts, according to president and CEO Bill Marrazzo. About 7% of WHYY’s budget comes from government funding, and cuts would affect the organization’s ability to grow and innovate but would not immediately threaten its future. “We believe strongly in our mission and the 70 years of impact we have had in our region and plan to continue serving our audiences for years to come,” WHYY said in a statement. The same goes for WESA in Pitts… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T18:48:13Z |
| https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/fetterman-votes-hell-no-on-gops-big-beautiful-bill/ | Fetterman Votes “HELL NO” on GOP’s Big Beautiful Bill | 2025-07-01 | 2025 | 2025-07 | Democrat | Senate | PA | John Fetterman | F000479 | www.fetterman.senate.gov | fetterman | https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/press-release/ | scraper | Reconciliation Bill Blows Up Debt, Guts Medicaid and SNAP, Hands Tax Breaks to the Top 0.1% Washington, D.C. — Today, with the United States deadlocked 50–50 final vote, Vice President Vance cast the tie-breaking vote to pass reconciliation bill H.R. 1, One Big Beautiful Bill Act. U.S. Senator John Fetterman (D-PA) voted against it and released the following statement: “Millions thrown off health care? ✅ “Hungry kids denied food? ✅ “Huge tax cuts for billionaires? ✅ “National debt headed for $40 trillion? ✅ “This bill is a disaster, which is why I voted HELL NO. The GOP will own the consequences.” For 26 hours straight, Senator Fetterman joined his democratic colleagues in voting for dozens of amendments to counteract the GOP’s attack on low-income and middle-class Americans. Some key impacts of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act for Pennsylvanians include: Adds over $4 trillion to the national debt, raising mortgage payments by nearly $1,000 a year and small-business loan costs by over $800. Slashes $930 billion from Medicaid, impacting the 39% of children in Pennsylvania who depend on Medicaid or CHIP. Kicks 450,000 Pennsylvanians off their health insurance and threatens over 300 rural hospitals and 500 nursing homes nationwide. Raises grocery costs for 40 million Americans and jeopardizes food assistance for the nearly 2 million Pennsylvanians who rely on SNAP to put food on the table. | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T18:48:13Z |
| https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/on-3rd-anniversary-of-dobbs-decision-overturning-roe-fetterman-senate-democrats-work-to-restore-abortion-access-nationwide/ | On 3rd Anniversary of Dobbs Decision Overturning Roe, Fetterman, Senate Democrats Work to Restore Abortion Access Nationwide | 2025-06-24 | 2025 | 2025-06 | Democrat | Senate | PA | John Fetterman | F000479 | www.fetterman.senate.gov | fetterman | https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/press-release/ | scraper | “A woman’s right to make her own health care decisions is sacred and non-negotiable. Period.” Washington, D.C. – Today, on the third anniversary of the U.S. Supreme Court decision overturning Roe v. Wade, U.S. Senator John Fetterman (D-PA) joined the entire Senate Democratic caucus in introducing the Women’s Health Protection Act of 2025, legislation to guarantee access to abortion across the country and to restore the right to comprehensive reproductive health care for millions of Americans. “A woman’s right to make her own health care decisions is sacred and non-negotiable. Period. In the years since Roe was overturned, we’ve seen the terrifying reality of abortion bans,” said Senator Fetterman. “These laws have cost lives and caused unnecessary suffering for so many families. We must restore abortion access nationwide, and I’m proud to join my colleagues to introduce this bill that would do just that.” Three years ago, the Republican-appointed Supreme Court majority released their decision in Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization, overturning nearly 50 years of precedent and giving state legislatures a green light to strip reproductive rights away from millions of Americans. Today, President Trump and Congressional Republicans continue to make it more difficult to access reproductive health care across the nation. Even in states like Pennsylvania, where abortion is still legal, a nationwide abortion ban, or the Republican reconciliation bill that guts Planned Parenthood funding, would have devastating impacts for women trying to access the safe, reliable health care they need. The Women’s Health Protection Act creates federal rights for patients and providers to protect abortion access. Specifically, the Women’s Health Protection Act would: Prohibit states from imposing restrictions that jeopardize access to abortion earlier in pregnancy, including many of the state-level restrictions in place prior to Dobbs, such as arbitrary waiting periods, medically unnecessary mandatory ultrasounds, or require… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T18:34:38Z |
| https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/fetterman-cornyn-cortez-masto-ernst-introduce-legislation-making-tax-filing-easier-for-survivors-of-domestic-abuse/ | Fetterman, Cornyn, Cortez Masto, Ernst Introduce Legislation Making Tax Filing Easier for Survivors of Domestic Abuse | 2025-06-19 | 2025 | 2025-06 | Democrat | Senate | PA | John Fetterman | F000479 | www.fetterman.senate.gov | fetterman | https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/press-release/ | scraper | Washington, D.C. – Yesterday, U.S. Senators John Fetterman (D-PA), John Cornyn (R-TX), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV), and Joni Ernst (R-IA) introduced the Survivors Assistance for Fear-free and Easy Tax Filing (SAFE Tax Filing) Act of 2025. By making it easier for survivors of spousal abuse or abandonment to file their taxes, the SAFE Tax Filing Act will help survivors rebuild their lives and is another step towards stopping economic coercion in abusive marriages. “We can and should do everything we can to make life easier for survivors of domestic abuse,” said Senator Fetterman. “I’m proud to partner with Senators Cornyn, Cortez Masto, and Ernst to introduce this bill to allow survivors file their taxes and receive the biggest refund they can under law, without being forced to contact their abusers. It’s really the least we can do. Let’s get this done.” “Survivors of abuse have endured unimaginable adversity and deserve financial freedom,” said Senator Cornyn. “By allowing victims of domestic violence to file taxes independently, this legislation would empower survivors and give them a renewed sense of agency and self-worth on their path to healing.” “Survivors of domestic violence should not have to worry about contacting their abuser – putting themselves and their children at risk of serious physical harm – just to file their taxes,” said Senator Cortez Masto. “This commonsense, bipartisan legislation will help keep Nevada families safe and help survivors on the road to recovery.” “I’m honored to stand up for survivors of domestic violence and ensure they aren’t trapped or penalized by the tax code through the SAFE Tax Filing Act,” said Senator Ernst. “This bipartisan bill offers a commonsense path to ensure the system works for survivors, not against them.” The SAFE Tax Filing Act allows spousal abuse survivors to file their taxes as if they are unmarried. Currently, laws require survivors to either file their taxes jointly with their abuser or to file as Married Filing Separately, a disadvantageous stat… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T18:34:38Z |
| https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/fetterman-hagerty-padilla-hawley-introduce-bill-to-fully-support-families-of-fallen-federal-workers/ | Fetterman, Hagerty, Padilla, Hawley Introduce Bill to Fully Support Families of Fallen Federal Workers | 2025-06-17 | 2025 | 2025-06 | Democrat | Senate | PA | John Fetterman | F000479 | www.fetterman.senate.gov | fetterman | https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/press-release/ | scraper | Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator John Fetterman (D-PA), Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on Border Management, Federal Workforce and Regulatory Affairs, led Senators Bill Hagerty (R-TN), Alex Padilla (D-CA), and Josh Hawley (R-MO) in introducing the Honoring Civil Servants Killed in the Line of Duty Act. This legislation would modernize the death gratuity payment system to ensure that loved ones of civil servants who make the ultimate sacrifice receive the full benefits they deserve. “Our laws have failed the families of federal workers killed in the line of duty. So many Americans are struggling with outdated benefits that barely even cover their loved one’s funeral costs,” said Senator Fetterman. “It’s long past time that our laws reflect our national values and profound appreciation for federal workers who gave the ultimate sacrifice. I’m proud to join Senators Hagerty, Padilla, and Hawley to introduce legislation that would do just that.” “Law enforcement put their lives on the line every day and deserve our highest honor and recognition,” said Senator Hagerty. “I’m pleased to join this bipartisan legislation that will help families heal and provide resources that will help them cover everyday expenses.” Today, only certain survivors of Federal Civil Servants who die in the line of duty are eligible for a one-time benefit of $10,000 and a funeral expense of $800. These benefit amounts were set decades ago and barely cover the cost of a funeral in 2025. The Honoring Civil Servants Killed in the Line of Duty Act raises these payments to $100,000 and $8,800, respectively, expands access to these payments to the survivors of all federal workers, and makes sure federal workers have a say in designating the beneficiary of their choosing. The Honoring Civil Servants Killed in the Line of Duty Act is endorsed by the Federal Law Enforcement Officers Association (FLEOA), National Treasury Employees Union (NTEU), National Border Patrol Council (NBPC), FBI Agents Association (FBIAA), National Federal of Feder… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T18:34:38Z |
| https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/fetterman-statement-on-upmc-magee-womens-hospital-nurses-fight-to-unionize/ | Fetterman Statement on UPMC Magee-Womens Hospital Nurses’ Fight to Unionize | 2025-06-13 | 2025 | 2025-06 | Democrat | Senate | PA | John Fetterman | F000479 | www.fetterman.senate.gov | fetterman | https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/press-release/ | scraper | Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator John Fetterman (D-PA) released the following statement in support of nurses and advanced practice professionals fighting for their right to unionize at UPMC Magee-Womens Hospital: “I’m proud to stand with the nurses at Magee-Womens Hospital who are fighting for the union way of life. The decision to form a union is sacred and should be made by the nurses alone – full stop. “Any attempt to deny, delay, or disrupt the election process needs to be called out for what it is: a waste of resources that will put additional stress on an already overburdened workforce and distract from the delivery of essential patient care. | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T18:34:38Z |
| https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/icymi-fetterman-duckworth-colleagues-demand-answers-on-un-american-transgender-military-ban/ | ICYMI: Fetterman, Duckworth, Colleagues Demand Answers on Un-American Transgender Military Ban | 2025-06-10 | 2025 | 2025-06 | Democrat | Senate | PA | John Fetterman | F000479 | www.fetterman.senate.gov | fetterman | https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/press-release/ | scraper | Washington, D.C. – On June 5, 2025, U.S. Senators John Fetterman (D-PA) and Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) joined 21 of their Senate Democratic colleagues in urging Defense Secretary Hegseth to reverse course and not implement the Trump Administration’s un-American transgender military service ban. This policy would unfairly attack honorable servicemembers for who they are, compromise good order and discipline, and jeopardize our national security. In the senators’ letter, the group demands answers from Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, including the specific data being used to back up the outrageous claim that transgender servicemembers are not in the “interests of national security,” and how much it will cost taxpayers to train the replacements for the perfectly capable transgender servicemembers being forced out of our military. After Senators Fetterman and Duckworth joined over a dozen of their colleagues in April pushing back against the ban, Secretary Hegseth’s response to their letter utterly failed to answer many of the questions that were asked about the short- and long-term impacts of the ban on servicemembers, readiness and national security, as well as taxpayer cost. “Transgender servicemembers are not political props; they are patriotic Americans serving honorably,” wrote the senators. “Banning them from service will compromise good order and discipline, take deployable servicemembers out of the fight and create national security risks felt for years to come. Your recent implementation guidance makes matters worse.” Additionally, the lawmakers admonished the Trump Administration’s latest guidance for implementing the ban, which requires military commanders to report servicemembers in their unit who they think display any signs of gender dysphoria. “By stating that unit commanders ‘will direct’ reviews of the medical records of servicemembers under their command, despite the fact that they are not equipped to do so, you are requiring them to perform a duty—for purely political reasons—that is far outside th… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T18:34:38Z |
| https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/icymi-fetterman-britt-reintroduce-bill-to-require-mental-health-warning-labels-on-social-media-platforms/ | ICYMI: Fetterman, Britt Reintroduce Bill to Require Mental Health Warning Labels on Social Media Platforms | 2025-06-04 | 2025 | 2025-06 | Democrat | Senate | PA | John Fetterman | F000479 | www.fetterman.senate.gov | fetterman | https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/press-release/ | scraper | “As a senator, but more importantly, as a dad to three young kids, I feel a duty to address how dangerous unchecked social media use can be for our mental health.” Washington, D.C. – On May 22, 2025, U.S. Senators John Fetterman (D-PA) and Katie Britt (R-AL) reintroduced the bipartisan Stop the Scroll Act, legislation that would require social media platforms to display clear mental health warning labels to users. The bill, introduced during Mental Health Awareness Month, aims to raise awareness of the well-documented risks social media poses to mental health and help connect people—especially kids and teens—with the resources they need. The senators have been building support for the bill since last year, adding two new cosponsors this week. “As a senator, but more importantly, as a dad to three young kids, I feel a duty to address how dangerous unchecked social media use can be for our mental health. I’ve experienced it in my own life, and the evidence is right in front of us – addiction, anxiety, depression, and suicide rates are on the rise, and it’s directly linked to these platforms,” said Senator Fetterman. “I’m proud to partner with Senator Britt to reintroduce the Stop the Scroll Act so our laws catch up to the reality we find ourselves in. By providing resources to people experiencing mental health crises due to social media, it will ensure all Americans can access the help they need.” “Senator Fetterman and I are taking action during Mental Health Awareness Month on an issue that’s directly correlated to our nation’s deteriorating mental health – the rise of social media. The Stop the Scroll Act follows through on the Surgeon General’s call last year to create a warning label for social media platforms,” said Senator Britt.“Knowing how critical it is to provide help to individuals struggling with the challenges of social media, we also require the warning label to point users to mental health resources. Equipped with the knowledge of the dangers and empowered with the resources to address it, this s… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T18:34:38Z |
| https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/icymi-fetterman-warner-marshall-introduce-bill-to-improve-seniors-access-to-care/ | ICYMI: Fetterman, Warner, Marshall Introduce Bill to Improve Seniors’ Access to Care | 2025-06-04 | 2025 | 2025-06 | Democrat | Senate | PA | John Fetterman | F000479 | www.fetterman.senate.gov | fetterman | https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/press-release/ | scraper | Washington, D.C. – On May 20, 2025, U.S. Senators John Fetterman (D-PA), Mark Warner (D-VA) and Roger Marshall, M.D., (R-KS) reintroduced the Improving Seniors’ Timely Access to Care Act – bipartisan, zero-cost legislation to improve access to care for seniors enrolled in Medicare Advantage (MA) plans. The bill focuses on streamlining the often cumbersome and time-consuming prior authorization process, ultimately allowing healthcare providers to spend more time on patient care rather than administrative burdens. This legislation would help physicians better serve and improve care for the 32.8 million Americans who have MA plans. “Seniors in Pennsylvania must be able to access the health care they need without having to jump through unnecessary hoops like prior authorization,” said Senator Fetterman. “This is a commonsense, bipartisan bill that will help our seniors receive the medical treatment they need more quickly and give our doctors and nurses more time to see and treat their patients. I’m proud to join Senators Warner and Marhsall to introduce this legislation, and I hope to see it passed soon.” Senators Fetterman, Warner, and Marshall were joined by Senators Maggie Hassan (D-NH), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Bill Cassidy (R-LA), Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), John Hickenlooper (D-CO), James Lankford (R-OK), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Marsha Blackburn (R-TN), Cynthia Lummis (R-WY), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-MS), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Mike Rounds (R-SD), Alex Padilla (D-CA), Bill Hagerty (R-TN), Andy Kim (D-NJ), John Boozman (R-AK), Dick Durbin (D-IL), John Cornyn (R-TX), Patty Murray (D-WA), Jerry Moran (R-KS), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Maria Cantwell (D-WA), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Thom Tillis (R-NC), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Tina Smith (D-MN), Peter Welch (D-VT), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), Ted Budd (R-NC), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV), Tim Sheehy (R-MT), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Pete Ricketts (R-NE), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), John Hoeven (R-ND), Rick Scott (R-FL),… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T18:34:38Z |
| https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/fetterman-mccormick-applaud-progress-on-whole-milk-for-healthy-kids-act-call-for-increased-school-meal-flexibility/ | Fetterman, McCormick Applaud Progress on Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act, Call for Increased School Meal Flexibility | 2025-06-03 | 2025 | 2025-06 | Democrat | Senate | PA | John Fetterman | F000479 | www.fetterman.senate.gov | fetterman | https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/press-release/ | scraper | Washington, D.C. – Today, the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition and Forestry overwhelming passed the Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act by voice vote. United States Senator Fetterman (D-PA), a member of the committee, was proud to vote for the bill, which he cosponsored alongside his fellow Pennsylvania senator, Senator Dave McCormick (R-PA). “If we want to make sure our kids can learn, grow, and thrive, we must make sure they’re receiving healthy school meals that fit their needs – that’s why I’ve been working to increase flexibility under the National School Lunch Program throughout my time in the Senate. I’m proud to support the Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act, as amended, to allow whole milk back in schools and include necessary flexibilities for non-dairy alternatives,” said Senator Fetterman. “I hope this committee will also consider my Freedom in School Cafeterias and Lunches (FISCAL) Act in the future to further expand our kids’ access to the beverage option that works best for them. No two kids are the same, and we have to make sure our school lunch options serve all of America’s children equally.” “Our incredible dairy industry is the backbone of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania,” said Senator McCormick. “I’m proud to join Senator Fetterman and our colleagues to support this commonsense bill that is a clear win for our hardworking dairy farmers and the well-being of our children.” Throughout his time in Congress, Senator Fetterman has pushed to expand flexibility under the National School Lunch Program (NSLP). In addition to supporting the Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act, which would allow schools to begin offering whole milk in school lunches, he is also the lead sponsor of the Freedom in School Cafeterias and Lunches (FISCAL) Act, which would add non-dairy beverage options as well. The full text of the Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act is available here. | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T18:34:38Z |
| https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/fetterman-demands-answers-as-trump-admin-encourages-max-200k-pay-for-political-appointees-while-firing-veterans-cancer-researchers-more/ | Fetterman Demands Answers as Trump Admin Encourages Max $200k Pay for Political Appointees While Firing Veterans, Cancer Researchers, & More | 2025-05-30 | 2025 | 2025-05 | Democrat | Senate | PA | John Fetterman | F000479 | www.fetterman.senate.gov | fetterman | https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/press-release/ | scraper | “Padding the pockets of political operatives while firing food safety inspectors is nothing short of an egregious abuse of taxpayer dollars.” Washington, D.C. – On May 28, 2025, U.S. Senator John Fetterman (D-PA) joined his colleagues in a letter to the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) calling out its recent memo encouraging agencies to ignore the recommendations of agency HR offices and offer the maximum available salary of $195,200 to Schedule C political appointees. As the Trump administration fires dedicated federal employees en masse across government, the senators demanded information about the Trump administration’s hiring of Schedule C political appointees, their salaries, the number of appointees making the maximum salary, justification for sidestepping HR recommendations and vetting processes, any guardrails implemented to prevent cronyism, and the costs to taxpayers. “You issued a memo to the heads and acting heads of departments and agencies encouraging them to offer the maximum available salary to political appointees and sidestep the regular hiring process,” wrote the senators. “This memo, coupled with the Administration’s widespread layoffs of career government workers who have loyally served in the Executive Branch for Presidents of both political parties, makes clear your intention: fire dedicated public servants in droves, cut essential government services, and use taxpayer dollars to instead hire underqualified and overpaid political cronies.” “While this Administration pushes out scores of public servants and guts entire agencies, often in defiance of Congress and federal law, your memo encourages agencies to help install loyalists who have not been properly vetted, in critically important positions—and to pay them at the highest possible rate. As dedicated career public servants are receiving notice that they have been fired, the Administration is offering higher pay for those hired under Schedule C,” they continued. “Per your memo, agencies may consider setting initial salaries at u… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T18:20:29Z |
| https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/icymi-fetterman-joins-welch-shaheen-colleagues-in-call-to-protect-energy-star/ | ICYMI: Fetterman Joins Welch, Shaheen, Colleagues in Call to Protect ENERGY STAR | 2025-05-29 | 2025 | 2025-05 | Democrat | Senate | PA | John Fetterman | F000479 | www.fetterman.senate.gov | fetterman | https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/press-release/ | scraper | The ENERGY STAR program has saved American families and businesses $500 billion since 1992 Washington, D.C. – On May 20, 2025, U.S. Senator John Fetterman (D-PA) joined Senator Peter Welch (D-VT), Ranking Member of the Senate Agriculture Subcommittee on Rural Development, Energy, and Credit, Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), and 19 of his colleagues in a letter urging the Trump Administration to immediately reverse course on its plan to illegally and unilaterally terminate the ENERGY STAR program. In their letter, the senators highlighted the cost-saving benefits of the program, which is projected to save the average American household $450 on utility bills each year simply by choosing ENERGY STAR certified products. Since 1992, ENERGY STAR has reduced energy costs for American families and businesses by $500 billion, including $42 billion worth of savings in 2020 alone. For every federal dollar spent on ENERGY STAR, Americans have enjoyed $350 in savings. “For over three decades, the ENERGY STAR program has lowered Americans’ energy bills by informing consumers about energy efficient products. The program has enjoyed bipartisan support since its creation under authority of Section 103 of the Clean Air Act, most recently receiving $35.7 million in fiscal year 2025 appropriations,”wrote the senators. “Reporting has indicated, however, that the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) plans to eliminate ENERGY STAR without Congressional approval. Not only is the program protected under federal statute and thus illegal for the Administration to terminate unilaterally, but this decision also lacks basic economic sense. We write to urge you to immediately reverse course.” The senators continued, “ENERGY STAR is the epitome of an effective public-private partnership. As the program’s administrators, EPA and the Department of Energy set qualifying energy efficiency standards for products. EPA also protects the integrity of the ENERGY STAR brand, ensuring it remains well-known, trusted, and indicative of a quality product.… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T18:20:29Z |
| https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/icymi-fetterman-cornyn-blumenthal-colleagues-introduce-bill-to-aid-recovery-of-nazi-confiscated-art/ | ICYMI: Fetterman, Cornyn, Blumenthal, Colleagues Introduce Bill to Aid Recovery of Nazi-Confiscated Art | 2025-05-28 | 2025 | 2025-05 | Democrat | Senate | PA | John Fetterman | F000479 | www.fetterman.senate.gov | fetterman | https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/press-release/ | scraper | Washington, D.C. – On May 22, 2025, U.S. Senator John Fetterman (D-PA) joined a bipartisan group of his Senate colleagues to introduce the Holocaust Expropriated Art Recovery (HEAR) Act, which would aid in the recovery of Nazi-looted art and deliver justice for Holocaust survivors and their families. “Eighty years after the Holocaust, we have a moral responsibility to do right by the victims of these atrocities and their families,” said Senator Fetterman. “I’m grateful to join my colleagues from both sides of the aisle in introducing the HEAR Act to help return artwork stolen by the Nazis to its rightful owners.” Nazi Germany’s campaign of annihilation and genocide against the Jewish people in the Holocaust included massive theft of property, including hundreds of thousands of works of art. Despite post-war efforts by the United States and allies to return Nazi-looted art and renewed efforts since the late 1990s, more than 100,000 works of art have not been returned to their rightful owners. In 2016, Congress unanimously passed the Holocaust Expropriated Art Recovery (HEAR) Act to ensure Holocaust survivors and their heirs could access U.S. courts to pursue claims for the recovery of Nazi-looted art, allowing cases to be decided on their factual merits rather than dismissed on time-based technical defenses. Congress found that the circumstances of the Holocaust imposed extraordinary obstacles to survivors and heirs to locate and recover stolen art, necessitating a national six-year statute of limitations that only begins when the owner actually discovers the location of the stolen artwork. Unfortunately, many museums, governments, and institutions have contradicted Congress’ intent and obstructed justice by stonewalling legitimate claims, obscuring provenance, and employing aggressive legal tactics designed to exhaust and outlast survivors and their families. Rather than embracing transparency and reconciliation, too many have chosen to entrench and litigate, effectively preserving possession of stolen works … | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T18:20:29Z |
| https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/fetterman-grassley-klobuchar-lead-bipartisan-call-for-return-of-kidnapped-ukrainian-children-prior-to-any-final-peace-agreement/ | Fetterman, Grassley, Klobuchar Lead Bipartisan Call for Return of Kidnapped Ukrainian Children Prior to Any Final Peace Agreement | 2025-05-22 | 2025 | 2025-05 | Democrat | Senate | PA | John Fetterman | F000479 | www.fetterman.senate.gov | fetterman | https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/press-release/ | scraper | Russia has kidnapped nearly 20,000 Ukrainian children to erase their cultural identity and heritage Washington, D.C. – This week, U.S. Senator John Fetterman (D-PA) joined a bipartisan group of senators in introducing a resolution calling for the return of abducted Ukrainian children before any peace agreement is finalized ending the war against Ukraine. The resolution condemns Russia’s abduction and forcible transfer of Ukrainian children and notes Russia’s invasion has increasingly exposed children to human trafficking and exploitation, child labor, sexual violence, hunger, injury, trauma and death. “It is unthinkable that innocent children are being used as pawns in Putin’s unprovoked war of aggression in Ukraine,” said Senator Fetterman. “I will always stand in lockstep with our ally Ukraine and fight to secure its freedom and safety. That includes advocating for the unconditional release of all the children abducted into Russia over the course of this war. We won’t rest until they are safely home in their families’ arms.” The resolution was led by Senators Chuck Grassley (R-IA) and Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) and cosponsored by Senators Joni Ernst (R-IA), Dick Durbin (D-IL), Roger Wicker (R-MS), and Rick Scott (R-FL). “Putin’s inhumane and unprovoked attack on Ukraine started the largest war in Europe since World War II,” said Senator Grassley. “He has kidnapped thousands of children to brainwash and Russify them in an attempt to destroy their cultural identity and heritage. The United States ought to demand these children are returned before inking a deal to end the war in Ukraine.” “The mass kidnapping of Ukrainian children by Russia is an atrocity,” said Senator Klobuchar. “We cannot accept a world where children are abducted during wartime and used as a form of hostage-taking for negotiations. These children must be returned unconditionally before any peace deal is finalized.” Organizations endorsing the resolution include: World Relief, Ethics and Religious Liberty Commission (Southern Baptist Conventio… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T18:20:29Z |
| https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/fetterman-moore-sorensen-lead-bipartisan-bicameral-letter-to-dod-secretary-hegseth-on-critical-hiring-freeze-exemptions/ | Fetterman, Moore, Sorensen Lead Bipartisan, Bicameral Letter to DoD Secretary Hegseth on Critical Hiring Freeze Exemptions | 2025-05-16 | 2025 | 2025-05 | Democrat | Senate | PA | John Fetterman | F000479 | www.fetterman.senate.gov | fetterman | https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/press-release/ | scraper | Washington, D.C. – Yesterday, U.S. Senator John Fetterman (D-PA), Congressman Blake Moore (R-UT-01), and Congressman Eric Sorensen (D-IL-17) led a bipartisan letter to Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth encouraging the Department of Defense (DoD) to exempt all depots, shipyards, arsenals, and maintenance facilities from any department-wide civilian hiring freezes, pauses, restrictions, or limitations. While the DoD has had an exemption in place for these facilities since March 18, 2025, there are still several restrictions that amount to a hiring freeze for critical pieces of the defense industrial base. “Military depots ensure our servicemembers have access to the weapons systems and platforms they need to keep our nation safe. They are the backbone of our military readiness, and making sure they are properly staffed is critical for our national security,” said Senator John Fetterman. “Preventing depots from hiring the staff they need to aid our troops and respond to global threats isn’t efficient. That’s why I’m working with my colleagues to demand Defense Secretary Hegseth and Acting OPM Director Ezell exempt military depots in Pennsylvania and across the nation from ongoing federal hiring freezes.” There are multiple hiring restrictions in place for depots, arsenals, shipyards, and maintenance facilities that pose serious risks to U.S. military readiness and national security. Currently, software onboarding systems, such as USAStaffing.gov, remain shut down or off-limits to military services and DoD agencies, preventing depots from onboarding new hires. Additionally, military services are not currently allowed to backfill roles vacated by civilians who took the first two Deferred Resignation Programs, leaving many maintenance roles vacant. In addition, new guidance only allows agencies to hire one new employee for every four employees who leave the federal workforce. This poses challenges for facilities like Tobyhanna and Letterkenny Army Depots in Pennsylvania, which are funded based on the billable hours t… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T18:20:29Z |
| https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/fetterman-pushes-amtrak-nominee-to-commit-to-reading-rail-expansion-by-2029/ | Fetterman Pushes Amtrak Nominee to Commit to Reading Rail Expansion by 2029 | 2025-05-14 | 2025 | 2025-05 | Democrat | Senate | PA | John Fetterman | F000479 | www.fetterman.senate.gov | fetterman | https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/press-release/ | scraper | Amtrak Board of Directors nominee commits to prioritizing vital Reading passenger rail project Washington, D.C. – Yesterday, U.S. Senator John Fetterman (D-PA) questioned Mr. Robert Gleason, nominee to be Director of the Amtrak Board of Directors, during a Commerce, Science, and Transportation committee hearing. Senator Fetterman asked Mr. Gleason if he would commit to expanding passenger rail service in Reading, Pennsylvania. “One hundred Amtrak trains run through Pennsylvania every day, including maybe 100 feet away from where I live in Braddock, serving almost 7 million total passengers in my state. I do not see passenger rail as a political issue—I mean, everybody rides them, red and blue. This is about getting people where they need to be,” said Senator Fetterman. “As a member of this committee I will fight to support and defend this vital federal service, and I made it very clear that I will work with anyone as long as they are willing to do that. Since being sworn into the Senate, I am working to expand passenger rail service through and across communities in Pennsylvania. One of the projects that I am pushing and want to expand is passenger rail to Reading.” “So, Mr. Gleason, you made clear in your testimony that you understand the importance of passenger rail for both big cities and small towns in our state of Pennsylvania. Can you commit to working with my office and the Schuylkill River Passenger Rail Authority to get this service operational by 2029?” asked Senator Fetterman. Mr. Gleason explicitly committed, “Absolutely. I’ve talked to those people in Reading for years. They’re just like Johnstown. We lost our trains. We have two trains a day. We need more train service, and I appreciate your support for passenger rail. And I understand the whole Schuylkill thing needs to be supported. Absolutely.” Senator Fetterman will hold Mr. Gleason to this commitment, if he is confirmed. A clip from Senator Fetterman’s line of questioning can be found here. Since service between Reading and Philadelphia w… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T18:20:29Z |
| https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/senators-fetterman-cornyn-lankford-gallego-introduce-legislation-to-address-threats-from-chinese-communist-party/ | Senators Fetterman, Cornyn, Lankford, Gallego Introduce Legislation to Address Threats from Chinese Communist Party | 2025-05-09 | 2025 | 2025-05 | Democrat | Senate | PA | John Fetterman | F000479 | www.fetterman.senate.gov | fetterman | https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/press-release/ | scraper | Washington, D.C. – This week, U.S. Senators John Fetterman (D-PA), John Cornyn (R-TX), James Lankford (R-OK), and Ruben Gallego (D-AZ) introduced the SHIELD Against CCP Act, which would create a dedicated working group at the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to address threats posed by the Chinese Communist Party (CCP). “The CCP controls everything that happens in China and they will cheat, steal, and poison our communities if it helps them get ahead. They supply the chemicals behind the fentanyl claiming Pennsylvanian lives, rig our immigration rules, and rip off ideas from American companies. Enough is enough,” said Senator Fetterman. “I’m teaming up with Senators Cornyn, Gallego, and Lankford on the SHIELD Against CCP Act to make sure DHS has the muscle to punch back and keep our people safe.” “To effectively counter China, the U.S. must target them from all angles and through all agencies,” said Senator Cornyn. “This widely supported, commonsense legislation would allow the Department of Homeland Security to arm itself with the tools to protect our sovereignty against the CCP’s malign influence.” “The Chinese Communist Party threatens our sovereignty—whether it’s flooding our border with illegal immigrants, launching cyberattacks, or pushing deadly fentanyl into our communities,” said Senator Lankford. “The SHIELD Against CCP Act provides the Department of Homeland Security with the necessary tools to address these challenges directly, safeguard our borders, and protect the American people.” “Fentanyl has devastated communities across Arizona for too long, and we need to use every tool available to stop the flow of this deadly drug into our country,” said Senator Gallego. “This bipartisan bill will help DHS understand how the Chinese Communist Party is exploiting our border and fueling fentanyl trafficking, so we can close those gaps and keep our communities safe.” Companion legislation, led by Congressmen Dale Strong (R-AL-05) and Tom Suozzi (D-NY-03), overwhelmingly passed the House of Repres… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T18:20:29Z |
| https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/senators-fetterman-kelly-young-murkowski-and-colleagues-introduce-ships-for-america-act-to-boost-american-shipbuilding-strengthen-us-economy-and-national-security/ | Senators Fetterman, Kelly, Young, Murkowski, and Colleagues Introduce SHIPS for America Act to Boost American Shipbuilding, Strengthen US Economy and National Security | 2025-05-09 | 2025 | 2025-05 | Democrat | Senate | PA | John Fetterman | F000479 | www.fetterman.senate.gov | fetterman | https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/press-release/ | scraper | Washington, D.C. – On April 30, 2025, U.S. Senator John Fetterman (D-PA) joined Senators Mark Kelly (D-AZ), Todd Young (R-IN), and Lisa Murkowski (R-AK) to introduce the Shipbuilding and Harbor Infrastructure for Prosperity and Security (SHIPS) for America Act, comprehensive legislation to revitalize the United States shipbuilding and commercial maritime industries. Representatives John Garamendi (D-CA-08) and Trent Kelly (R-MS-01) introduced the House companion legislation. “When it comes to maintaining our competitive edge against China, failure is not an option. The SHIPS for America Act will help the United States compete with China’s production of ships while creating new manufacturing jobs in shipyards across the nation,” said Senator Fetterman. “Not only will this strengthen our national security, but it’ll also grow our local economies and support working families right here in Pennsylvania. I’m proud to support this commonsense, bipartisan legislation that will help us build more ships in America and stand up to China.” There are currently 80 U.S.-flagged vessels in international commerce while China has 5,500. The SHIPS for America Act aims to close this gap and boost the U.S. Merchant Marine by establishing national oversight and consistent funding for U.S. maritime policy, making U.S.-flagged vessels commercially competitive in international commerce by cutting red tape, rebuilding the U.S. shipyard industrial base, and expanding and strengthening mariner and shipyard worker recruitment, training, and retention. The SHIPS for America Act would: Coordinate U.S. maritime policy by establishing the position of Maritime Security Advisor within the White House, who would lead an interagency Maritime Security Board tasked with making whole-of-government strategic decisions for how to implement a National Maritime Strategy. The bill also establishes a Maritime Security Trust Fund that would reinvest duties and fees paid by the maritime industry into maritime security programs and infrastructure supportin… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T18:20:29Z |
| https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/fetterman-backs-bill-to-expand-and-protect-union-rights-for-va-health-workers/ | Fetterman Backs Bill to Expand and Protect Union Rights for VA Health Workers | 2025-05-08 | 2025 | 2025-05 | Democrat | Senate | PA | John Fetterman | F000479 | www.fetterman.senate.gov | fetterman | https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/press-release/ | scraper | “Trump and Musk are thoughtlessly axing thousands of VA staff, threatening to fire thousands more, and fighting to take away the bargaining rights of all VA staff on top of it. This bill is an alternative approach.” Washington, D.C. —Yesterday, U.S. Senator John Fetterman (D‑PA) cosponsored the VA Employee Fairness Act, a bill that expands collective‑bargaining power to VA nurses, physicians, and other frontline health care professionals while President Trump attacks collective bargaining rights of VA employees and Elon Musk’s DOGE purge hollows out the agency’s workforce. Pennsylvania is home to nearly 800,000 veterans who depend on VA hospitals in Pittsburgh, Philly, Wilkes-Barre, Erie, and Lebanon. Since the DOGE cuts and layoffs began, VA job vacancies have climbed, leaving fewer staff to serve our veterans. Expanding union rights will help hire and retain the health care providers those facilities desperately need. “If you care about veterans, you must take care of the people who treat and keep them healthy. Trump and Musk are thoughtlessly axing thousands of VA staff, threatening to fire thousands more, and fighting to take away the bargaining rights of all VA staff on top of it. This bill is an alternative approach,” said Senator Fetterman. “We should expand collective bargaining rights at the VA to include registered nurses, doctors, and other healthcare providers. This bill gives VA health workers a seat at the negotiating table, to advocate for safe staffing levels, fair schedules, and the resources they need to keep our veterans alive and well.” The VA Employee Fairness Act—introduced by U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) and co-led by U.S. Representative and Ranking Member of the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs Mark Takano (D-CA-39)—would expand collective bargaining rights to VA health care professionals, including registered nurses, physicians, optometrists, chiropractors, and others. Currently, Section 7422 of Title 38 USC restricts the ability of these workers to speak freely about poor … | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T18:20:29Z |
| https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/fetterman-husted-introduce-resolution-spotlighting-childrens-mental-health-awareness/ | Fetterman, Husted Introduce Resolution Spotlighting Children’s Mental Health Awareness | 2025-05-08 | 2025 | 2025-05 | Democrat | Senate | PA | John Fetterman | F000479 | www.fetterman.senate.gov | fetterman | https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/press-release/ | scraper | “As someone who’s been open about my own mental health journey, I know firsthand that silence can be deadly. Our kids deserve to grow up in a world where asking for help is easy and stigma-free.” Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators John Fetterman (D-PA) and Jon Husted (R-OH) introduced a resolution to support the designation of May 4 through May 10, 2025, as Children’s Mental Health Awareness Week. “As someone who’s been open about my own mental health journey, I know firsthand that silence can be deadly. Our kids deserve to grow up in a world where asking for help is easy and stigma-free,” said Senator Fetterman. “Suicide is now the second leading cause of death for 10- to 14-year-olds. Senator Husted and I introduced this resolution to send a message loud and clear: asking for help is the bravest thing a person can do, and help is there when they do.” “No child should have to shoulder mental health struggles alone,” continued Fetterman. “This resolution is our way of showing every kid in Pennsylvania and across the country that Congress sees you and we want to be there for you—whether that’s getting more counselors in schools, holding social media giants accountable, or making mental health care more affordable.” “Too many of Ohio’s children are struggling with mental health challenges. We need to be vigilant in understanding the harmful effects of social media, in supporting strong families and in shaping healthy environments for kids,” said Senator Husted. “Our resolution is a step forward in providing children the guidance they need to become resilient young adults.” Why it matters in Pennsylvania: More than 15% of Pennsylvania teens (ages 12–17) report suffering from at least one major depressive episode during the past year Roughly 57% of Pennsylvania high school students with major depression do not receive mental health care. Roughly 18% of Pennsylvania children (ages 3–17) have been diagnosed with anxiety, depression, ADHD, or a related condition. What the resolution does: Designates May 4… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T18:20:29Z |
| https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/fetterman-backs-bill-to-gut-gop-snap-time-limit-keep-food-on-pennsylvania-tables/ | Fetterman Backs Bill to Gut GOP SNAP Time Limit, Keep Food on Pennsylvania Tables | 2025-05-07 | 2025 | 2025-05 | Democrat | Senate | PA | John Fetterman | F000479 | www.fetterman.senate.gov | fetterman | https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/press-release/ | scraper | Washington, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senator John Fetterman (D‑PA) announced his support for the Improving Access to Nutrition Act of 2025, a bill led by Senators Peter Welch (D‑VT) and Kirsten Gillibrand (DNY) that strikes down the Republicans’ three‑ month‑ cap on Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits for child‑free adults who can’t lock in 30 hours of work each week. “Food isn’t a reward for punching a timecard, it’s a basic human need,” said Senator Fetterman. “Republicans wrote a cruel rule that says if you’re 50 and struggling to find steady work, Congress will yank dinner off your table after three months. That’s obscene. Our bill tears up that garbage policy so Pennsylvanians who fall on hard times can still buy groceries while they get back on their feet.” The Improving Access to Nutrition Act of 2025 would lift Republicans’ punitive three-month time limit on SNAP eligibility to allow able-bodied adults without dependents to receive benefits for longer than three months even if they are unable to find work, in turning helping more Americans access SNAP. The bill would also repeal additional eligibility criteria that imposes the three-month rule on adults up to age 54 over a three-year period. “Trump’s disastrous economic policies have boxed Vermonters into a financial corner, forcing folks to choose between feeding their families or paying their bills. It’s an impossible choice, and it’s unacceptable that folks across the country have to make that call every day,” said Senator Welch. “Our bill makes it easier for Vermonters to get critical nutrition support and put food on the table when times are tough. This is an essential step, and I’m proud to join my colleagues to make SNAP more accessible for folks who need it.” “Restoring access to SNAP for able-bodied adults without dependents (ABAWDs) from ages 50-54 is critical,” said Senator Gillibrand. “Time and again it has been shown that increasing work requirements does not improve economic security, but in fact takes away food from our … | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T18:20:29Z |
| https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/fetterman-cotton-deluzio-introduce-bill-to-invest-in-american-military-depots/ | Fetterman, Cotton, Deluzio Introduce Bill to Invest in American Military Depots | 2025-05-07 | 2025 | 2025-05 | Democrat | Senate | PA | John Fetterman | F000479 | www.fetterman.senate.gov | fetterman | https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/press-release/ | scraper | Washington, D.C. – Last week, U.S. Senators John Fetterman (D-PA) and Tom Cotton (R-AR) introduced the Depot Investment Reform Act to help military depots across the United States respond to rapidly changing national security needs around the world by making federal investments more responsive. Congressmen Chris Deluzio (D-PA-17) and Blake Moore (R-UT-1) introduced the companion legislation in the House. “Military depots like Tobyhanna and Letterkenny are the backbone of our military readiness,” said Senator John Fetterman. “They ensure our soldiers have access to the weapons systems and platforms they need to keep our nation safe. The Depot Investment Reform Act takes action to make sure our depots can respond to rapidly evolving global threats.” “The Army’s arsenals and depots are a critical part of our defense industrial base,” said Senator Cotton. “This bill will improve our ability to produce the ammunition and weapons systems that we need to fight and win wars.” “America’s military needs to be ready and prepared for whatever comes our way,” said Congressman Deluzio. “This is a top priority in my work on the House Armed Services Committee, and I am proud to join the Senators to help improve our military depots and boost our military readiness.” “The Depot Investment Reform Act is a key step toward advancing America’s military readiness—not just here at home, but around the world,” said Congressman Cloud. “Reforming the investment formula ensures timely support for the men and women who keep our forces sharp, ready, and dominant on the world stage.” The Depot Investment Reform Act would improve military depot responsiveness by updating the formula used to determine federal investments in these depots. Currently, funding levels are determined based on the average workload of the previous three fiscal years. The Depot Investment Reform Act would change this formula to consider the workload average of the previous fiscal year, current fiscal year, and estimate for the next fiscal year to determine investmen… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T00:49:36Z |
| https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/fetterman-colleagues-push-to-revive-successful-program-and-defend-american-workers-from-unfair-trade-policies/ | Fetterman, Colleagues Push to Revive Successful Program and Defend American Workers from Unfair Trade Policies | 2025-05-06 | 2025 | 2025-05 | Democrat | Senate | PA | John Fetterman | F000479 | www.fetterman.senate.gov | fetterman | https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/press-release/ | scraper | Trade Adjustment Assistance Reauthorization Act would restore job training, income support, and relocation help for displaced workers through 2031 Washington, D.C. – On April 11, U.S. Senator John Fetterman (D‑PA) joined Senators Gary Peters (D‑MI), Ron Wyden (D‑OR), Chuck Schumer (D‑NY), Tammy Baldwin (D‑WI), Kirsten Gillibrand (D‑NY), Amy Klobuchar (D‑MN), Ed Markey (D‑MA), Jack Reed (D‑RI), Bernie Sanders (I‑VT), Tina Smith (D‑MN), and Elizabeth Warren (D‑MA) to introduce the Trade Adjustment Assistance (TAA) Reauthorization Act of 2025. “You can’t call yourself pro‑worker while shipping American jobs overseas,” said Senator Fetterman. “For 50 years TAA kept our manufacturing backbone strong—helping laid‑off steelworkers in Johnstown, machinists in Erie, and thousands more learn new skills and land new jobs. It didn’t do everything it should have, but it helped. Letting it die was a gut punch. This bill brings TAA back stronger and longer, because when trade deals go sideways, workers deserve a real shot at the next job—not a sad smile and a pink slip.” Since its creation in 1974, more than five million Americans have used TAA, with over 75 percent landing new jobs within six months. Extending the program through 2031 will give manufacturers and communities the certainty they need to plan long‑term investments and keep skilled talent on the factory floor. TAA’s authority expired in 2022. Since then, 200,000 laid‑off workers have applied for help but received none, and benefits for those still enrolled will disappear entirely in 2026 unless Congress acts. The Trade Adjustment Assistance (TAA) Reauthorization Act of 2025 would renew the TAA program through 2031, giving workers who lose their jobs, hours, or wages because of unfair foreign trade access to: Skills training and apprenticeships Job‑search and relocation assistance Extended income support while they train Health‑coverage tax credits and other wrap‑around services Senator Fetterman was an original cosponsor of the bill last Congress, when it … | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T18:20:29Z |
| https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/fetterman-meng-lawler-introduce-bipartisan-bill-to-return-stolen-snap-benefits/ | Fetterman, Meng, Lawler Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Return Stolen SNAP Benefits | 2025-04-30 | 2025 | 2025-04 | Democrat | Senate | PA | John Fetterman | F000479 | www.fetterman.senate.gov | fetterman | https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/press-release/ | scraper | Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator John Fetterman (D-PA), Congresswoman Grace Meng (D-NY-06), and Congressman Mike Lawler (R-NY-17) introduced the Fairness for Victims of SNAP Skimming Act, legislation to make sure that people don’t go hungry if criminals and frauds steal their essential benefits. The bill would allow state SNAP agencies to reimburse SNAP recipients for benefits stolen through skimming or other methods. “SNAP is a critical lifeline for millions of Pennsylvanians. It is despicable that thieves are targeting hungry families, literally taking food from a baby’s mouth,” said Senator Fetterman. “We can’t let vulnerable children go hungry because of these criminals. I’m committed to doing everything in my power to protect and extend SNAP benefits. We need to make sure American families get fed – this bill is a critical step in doing just that.” “SNAP is a lifeline for thousands of New Yorkers. Stealing these benefits from hungry families is unconscionable,” said Congresswoman Grace Meng. “That’s why I have fought to help over nearly 85,000 New Yorkers recover more than $39.9 million in SNAP benefits. However, beneficiaries in Queens and communities across the country continue to be targeted by scammers looking to steal their benefits. Since 2022, Congress has made sure that victims of this crime don’t go hungry. However, late last year, Congress failed to extend this provision. I’m proud to join my colleagues in introducing this bipartisan, bicameral bill to ensure that no one who relies on SNAP to put food on the table goes hungry because their benefits were stolen by bad faith actors.” “No family in America should go hungry because criminals are stealing their SNAP benefits through skimming,” said Congressman Lawler. “This bipartisan bill will give states the tools needed to make victims whole and ensures tax dollars support hardworking families, not thieves. I’m proud to work with Senators Fetterman and Gillibrand to introduce this common-sense solution.” “Skimming” is a form of fraud that u… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T18:06:22Z |
| https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/icymi-senator-fetterman-introduces-legislation-to-increase-childrens-access-to-free-school-meals-streamline-direct-certification-process-for-school-districts/ | ICYMI: Senator Fetterman Introduces Legislation to Increase Children’s Access to Free School Meals, Streamline Direct Certification Process for School Districts | 2025-04-25 | 2025 | 2025-04 | Democrat | Senate | PA | John Fetterman | F000479 | www.fetterman.senate.gov | fetterman | https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/press-release/ | scraper | Washington, D.C. – On April 10, 2025, U.S. Senator John Fetterman (D-PA) introduced the School Meal Modernization and Hunger Elimination Act, critical legislation that would expand access to free or reduced price school lunches for children and make it easier for school districts to feed hungry students. “No child should ever worry about where their next meal will come from. It’s long past time we stop humiliating kids and penalizing hunger,” said Senator Fetterman. “By expanding access to free and reduced price school lunches for kids who need them and making it more convenient for school districts to enroll students, this legislation will help keep Pennsylvania children healthy and fed. We need to make it easier, not harder, for kids to get the nutritious food they need – this bill does just that.” The School Meal Modernization and Hunger Elimination Act combines several pieces of legislation from the 118th Congress into one package that will reduce barriers for school districts looking to expand direct certification and increase access to free school meals for children in need. By expanding free school meal coverage to children living in informal care arrangements, including those living with their grandparents or other relatives, this bill will ensure vulnerable children have access to the healthy food they need. The School Meal Modernization and Hunger Elimination Act will also make it easier for schools to directly certify more students to be eligible for free school meals. Direct certification helps get more food to the kids who need it most by allowing districts to provide meals to eligible children without families having to first fill out an application and other paperwork. The School Meal Modernization and Hunger Elimination Act is endorsed by the Food Research & Action Center (FRAC). “We applaud Senator Fetterman for his commitment to expanding access to school meals so more children can get the nutrition they need for their health and learning. The School Meal Modernization and Hunger Elimination… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T18:06:22Z |
| https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/fetterman-duckworth-colleagues-condemn-trump-administration-ban-on-trans-military-service/ | Fetterman, Duckworth, Colleagues Condemn Trump Administration Ban on Trans Military Service | 2025-04-22 | 2025 | 2025-04 | Democrat | Senate | PA | John Fetterman | F000479 | www.fetterman.senate.gov | fetterman | https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/press-release/ | scraper | Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators John Fetterman (D-PA) and Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), along with 12 of their fellow Senate Democratic colleagues, sent a letter to Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth condemning President Trump’s transgender military service ban, which is a blatant violation of servicemembers’ civil rights and threat to our national security. The lawmakers asked Secretary Hegseth if the Administration was complying with nationwide injunctions that halted the ban and demanded that the Administration disclose whether any transgender servicemembers have been wrongfully dismissed under the executive order despite the courts’ orders. “This policy insults the service of brave Americans who believe that all people, regardless of differences, are equal and have a right to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness,” wrote the lawmakers in a letter to Secretary Hegseth. “As the Joint Force faces a recruiting crisis amid a staggering attrition rate for new troops (nearly a quarter of Army recruits have failed to complete their initial contracts since 2022), our Nation cannot afford to expel several thousand troops serving honorably on a baseless, hateful whim.” The lawmakers derided Trump’s trans military service ban for not only being discriminatory and based on false pretenses, but also for hurting the United States’ military readiness and exacerbating the ongoing military recruiting crisis in service of continuing hateful attacks against transgender Americans. “The United States military became the greatest fighting force in the world by pioneering the integration of diverse groups,” the lawmakers continued. “We have triumphed over our enemies because military effectiveness and lethality are strengthened by a broad range of skills, experiences and backgrounds. Naysayers who have derided the U.S. military as lacking the discipline, intelligence and ability to achieve unit cohesion among Americans of different classes, races, ethnicities, religions and yes, genders, have been proven wrong again and aga… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T18:06:22Z |
| https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/the-washington-post-sen-john-fetterman-criticizes-trumps-gutting-of-americorps/ | The Washington Post: Sen. John Fetterman criticizes Trump’s gutting of AmeriCorps | 2025-04-18 | 2025 | 2025-04 | Democrat | Senate | PA | John Fetterman | F000479 | www.fetterman.senate.gov | fetterman | https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/press-release/ | scraper | In The Press April 17, 2025 By: Mariana Alfaro The Washington Post: Sen. John Fetterman criticizes Trump’s gutting of AmeriCorps Washington, D.C. – Sen. John Fetterman on Thursday criticized President Donald Trump’s decision to slash AmeriCorps, an organization that deploys thousands of young people to work on community service projects across the United States — and one that the Pennsylvania Democrat was once part of. After graduating from college in 1995, Fetterman joined AmeriCorps as a member of its second class. Through the program, Fetterman worked in Pittsburgh helping young parents earn their GEDs and installing the first computer lab in a community that he said would have otherwise struggled to afford a full-time staff. A stipend Fetterman received through AmeriCorps helped him pay for graduate school at Harvard University. A photo of the computer lab Sen. John Fetterman taught in during his time in AmeriCorps. After getting his graduate degree, Fetterman moved to Braddock, a town neighboring Pittsburgh, and started a program helping youths finish their GEDs. Through AmeriCorps, he was also able to fund a program helping young people find jobs in the community, which has been ongoing since 2006. By then, Fetterman had been elected Braddock’s mayor. In a call with The Washington Post, Fetterman said Trump’s decision to gut AmeriCorps — staff there began receiving notices Wednesday placing them on paid administrative leave “effective immediately” — will put an end to civic engagement programs like that. “This is just … absolutely stupid and punitive,” Fetterman said. “It’s not DEI, it’s not woke, it’s just — it’s essentially the domestic Peace Corps, and it’s national service.” Fetterman said AmeriCorps allowed young people interested in civil service to work in communities across the country that needed attention and staffing but that could not fully afford it. The program, he said, made communities safer and provided income for young people starting out. Cutting it, he said, will not save the g… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T18:06:22Z |
| https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/icymi-senator-fetterman-demands-answers-from-trump-administration-on-cuts-to-miner-safety-programs/ | ICYMI: Senator Fetterman Demands Answers from Trump Administration on Cuts to Miner Safety Programs | 2025-04-16 | 2025 | 2025-04 | Democrat | Senate | PA | John Fetterman | F000479 | www.fetterman.senate.gov | fetterman | https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/press-release/ | scraper | Washington, D.C. – In recent weeks, United States Senator John Fetterman (D-PA) has expressed his deep concern with several actions taken by the Trump administration that would endanger Pennsylvania miners. In March, it was announced that the Trump administration was planning to close 35 Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) offices, including four in Pennsylvania. MSHA inspectors are required to inspect every working part of a mine, ensuring ventilation systems that protect miners from black lung disease are working correctly and that mining equipment is safe. Experts warn that proposed cuts to MSHA would require inspectors to travel farther more frequently, potentially resulting in less thorough inspections. Following this announcement, Senator Fetterman wrote a letter to Secretary of Labor Lori Chavez-DeRemer alongside his colleagues, Senators Mark Warner (D-VA), Tim Kaine (D-VA), and Bernie Sanders (I-VT). In their letter, the senators wrote, “We write to express our strong opposition to the self-proclaimed Department of Government Efficiency’s (DOGE) efforts to close 35 Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) field offices. This proposal will seriously undermine the progress made over the past 50 years to ensure the health and safety of our nation’s miners.” “In 1977, MSHA was established through the bipartisan passage of the Federal Mine Safety and Health Act, also known as the Mine Act. Mining fatalities drastically dropped following the enactment of the Mine Act, yet there were still 31 fatalities in 2024. Federal law requires MSHA to inspect each underground mine four times a year. Unfortunately, MSHA has faced challenges in carrying out its mission due to limited staff and funding resources. This effort from the Trump administration to further undermine MSHA under the guise of “efficiency” will only cause more harm to individuals in some of the most dangerous jobs,” they continued. The full letter to Secretary Chavez-DeRemer can be found here. Then, on April 1, 2025, it was reported tha… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T18:06:22Z |
| https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/senators-fetterman-collins-cassidy-cornyn-request-full-retroactive-payments-under-social-security-fairness-act/ | Senators Fetterman, Collins, Cassidy, Cornyn Request Full Retroactive Payments Under Social Security Fairness Act | 2025-04-15 | 2025 | 2025-04 | Democrat | Senate | PA | John Fetterman | F000479 | www.fetterman.senate.gov | fetterman | https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/press-release/ | scraper | Some qualified beneficiaries have been limited to six-month retroactivity when filing for benefits adjustment even though the law applies to all payments after and including January 2024 Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators John Fetterman (D-PA), Susan Collins (R-ME), Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA), and John Cornyn (R-TX) recently sent a letter to Social Security Acting Administrator Leland Dudek requesting that the Social Security Administration (SSA) review agency policy and grant maximum retroactive payments to all protected spouses under the Social Security Fairness Act (SSFA). The SSFA, coauthored by Senator Collins and cosponsored by Senators Fetterman, Cassidy, and Cornyn, restores earned Social Security benefits for millions of public employees and their spouses by repealing the Windfall Elimination Provision and the Government Pension Offset. The SSFA also provided for retroactive payments to January 2024. “Over the past few weeks, several constituents have contacted our offices regarding the retroactivity of their spousal benefits under the Social Security Fairness Act,” the Senators wrote. “The law provides for retroactivity to the year the bill was introduced, first being applied to the January 2024 payment. These spouses, including widows and widowers, have shared with me that when they contacted the Social Security Administration years ago inquiring into spousal benefits, they were told by SSA employees that their spousal benefits would be reduced to $0 due to the Government Pension Offset; and therefore, there was no need to file an application for spousal benefits. Now, these same spouses are being told to file a claim for spousal benefits yet are only being granted a maximum of six months retroactivity from their most recent date of contact with the SSA.” “As noted, we have assisted spouses who have contacted our offices questioning the retroactivity,” they continued. “They have shared that even if they question the retroactivity with the SSA employees during their recent appointment to apply for benef… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T18:06:22Z |
| https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/fetterman-blunt-rochester-crapo-and-tillis-unveil-bipartisan-blueprint-to-tackle-housing-shortage-housing-supply-frameworks-act/ | Fetterman, Blunt Rochester, Crapo, and Tillis Unveil Bipartisan Blueprint to Tackle Housing Shortage: Housing Supply Frameworks Act | 2025-04-11 | 2025 | 2025-04 | Democrat | Senate | PA | John Fetterman | F000479 | www.fetterman.senate.gov | fetterman | https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/press-release/ | scraper | Washington, D.C. – Yesterday, U.S. Senators John Fetterman (D-PA), Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-DE), Mike Crapo (R-ID), and Thom Tillis (R-NC) introduced the bipartisan, bicameral Housing Supply Frameworks Act. The Housing Supply Frameworks Act (S.1299) will provide resources to help communities overhaul their zoning and land‑use regulations. By channeling national expertise, the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) will provide a new framework to assist localities in breaking down barriers and increasing the supply of affordable housing for families across all income levels. “We are currently facing a housing crisis in Pennsylvania and across the country. We must increase our housing supply to meet Americans’ needs – but excessive regulatory red tape and restrictive zoning requirements are getting in the way,” said Senator Fetterman. “The Housing Supply Frameworks Act will help address this crisis by providing assistance to states and localities to enact zoning reforms. I’m glad to work with Senators Blunt Rochester, Crapo, and Tillis, and our partners in the House, Representatives Flood and Pettersen, to introduce this important bipartisan legislation. I hope to see it passed this Congress.” The federal government first laid the foundation for zoning in the 1920s with the Standard State Zoning Enabling Act, a model law for states to enable zoning regulations in their jurisdictions. The Housing Supply Frameworks Act provides a similar conceptual framework that will help states and localities move more easily toward a regulatory structure needed to meet the demand for affordable housing in the 21st century. This legislation continues the work Senator Fetterman has championed since his first days in the Senate to knock down the barriers that prevent Pennsylvanians from having enough safe, affordable homes. Last year, he led the Reducing Regulatory Barriers to Housing Act. The Housing Supply Frameworks Act is a bipartisan continuation of that effort, underscoring that cutting red tape and building more … | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T18:06:22Z |
| https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/fetterman-reacts-to-drastic-septa-cuts-dismantling-of-philadelphia-public-transit-system/ | Fetterman Reacts to Drastic SEPTA Cuts, Dismantling of Philadelphia Public Transit System | 2025-04-10 | 2025 | 2025-04 | Democrat | Senate | PA | John Fetterman | F000479 | www.fetterman.senate.gov | fetterman | https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/press-release/ | scraper | Washington, D.C. – Today, the Southeastern Pennsylvania Transit Authority (SEPTA) announced a proposed plan to achieve a required balance budget if the state does not pass a permanent funding solution. This plan would cut service by 45% by January 2026, decimating service for hundreds of thousands of Pennsylvanians. U.S. Senator John Fetterman (D-PA) released the following statement on X: “Increased fares, bus routes eliminated, rail services reduced – this isn’t good for anybody. “Pennsylvania’s leaders must come together to fix this funding issue soon and prevent these devastating impacts from rolling out.” This morning, SEPTA announced they will vote on June 26 on a package of service cuts and fare increases aimed at balancing the SEPTA operating budget. If approved, 20% service cuts will go into effect in August 2025, followed by a 21.5% fare increase in September. In October, the board will hold a hearing to evaluate additional cuts, with the potential for service cuts reaching 45% in January 2026. These cuts would devastate public transit throughout Southeastern Pennsylvania. If enacted, the August service cuts would result in 1 million fewer service hours per year. The potential January 2026 cuts would be even more drastic, dismantling the public transit system hundreds of thousands of Pennsylvanians rely on. SEPTA is not the only transit agency in the Commonwealth that faces a “death spiral” if a state funding solution is not advanced. Pittsburgh Regional Transit (PRT) has warned of 35% service cuts, fare increases, and layoffs. | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T18:06:22Z |
| https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/senators-fetterman-schiff-introduce-legislation-to-support-organic-farmers-increase-agricultural-research/ | Senators Fetterman, Schiff Introduce Legislation to Support Organic Farmers, Increase Agricultural Research | 2025-04-10 | 2025 | 2025-04 | Democrat | Senate | PA | John Fetterman | F000479 | www.fetterman.senate.gov | fetterman | https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/press-release/ | scraper | Washington, D.C. – Yesterday, U.S. Senators John Fetterman (D-PA) and Adam Schiff (D-CA) introduced the Organic Science and Research Investment Act. By ensuring organics research is prioritized at the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and increasing funding for research agencies and universities, this bill would provide much needed support to the organic farming industry. “Pennsylvania is home to some of the best organic farmers in the world – and we need to support them in every way possible,” said Senator Fetterman. “I’m proud to introduce this bill to increase organics research within the federal government and at our leading research institutions to ensure our commonwealth can remain on the cutting edge of this growing industry. I’m grateful for Senator Schiff’s partnership as we work to pass this crucial support for American farmers.” “America’s agriculture is the envy of the world, and agriculture research is essential to ensuring that food and farm organizations have the resources they need to grow food affordably, safely, and sustainably,” said Senator Schiff. “California is a leader in organic farming, and this legislation is essential for California farmers as they continue to be a driving force in the organic market.” The Organic Science and Research Investment Act would require USDA’s research agencies to better coordinate on organic research and extension, ensuring that the USDA considers organic research priorities in its budget justification to Congress and studies the feasibility of certifying more research land as organic. The bill would also increase funding for the USDA’s Organic Research and Extension Initiative (OREI), which supplies grants to universities and other research institutions for organics research and has provided over $12 million for organics research at Penn State University alone. Additionally, the Organic Science and Research Investment Act would build on existing organic research by creating a statutory grant program to support producers as they transition to organic p… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T18:06:22Z |
| https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/senators-fetterman-warner-kaine-sanders-question-hhs-secretary-kennedy-on-decision-to-fire-workers-tasked-with-protecting-coal-miner-health-and-safety/ | Senators Fetterman, Warner, Kaine, Sanders Question HHS Secretary Kennedy on Decision to Fire Workers Tasked with Protecting Coal Miner Health and Safety | 2025-04-09 | 2025 | 2025-04 | Democrat | Senate | PA | John Fetterman | F000479 | www.fetterman.senate.gov | fetterman | https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/press-release/ | scraper | Washington, D.C. – Yesterday, U.S. Senator John Fetterman (D-PA), along with Senators Mark R. Warner (D-VA), Tim Kaine (D-VA), and Bernie Sanders (I-VT), sent a letter to Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr., pushing back on his decision to gut the National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) by firing nearly 900 employees, including almost 300 workers in Pittsburgh. Recent reporting has indicated that these firings include all employees tasked with protecting the health and safety of coal miners. “According to reports, HHS is laying off approximately 873 employees, or two-thirds, of the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), part of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC),” the senators wrote. “According to a notification provided to AFGE Local 1969, whose federal employee members are being impacted, all employees working on mining safety and health in NIOSH’s Spokane, WA and Pittsburgh, PA, offices are being let go. The NIOSH Pittsburgh Mining Research Division focuses on coal miner safety, and the Spokane Mining Research Division specializes in hard rock mining, and are the two main research hubs for NIOSH’s Mining Research Program. Additionally, reports indicate more than 185 NIOSH employees are being laid off from its Morgantown, WV, office, who also work to protect miner health, among other occupational safety and health activities.” The senators also highlighted the immediate impacts of this move, explaining that mining communities are already being left without key health services. They continued, “We also have heard from those who work directly with our miner constituents in these communities that the Enhanced Coal Workers’ Health Surveillance Program is also being decimated. This program provides direct screening services via a mobile medical unit to miners at no cost. NIOSH also supports clinic sites where screening is done, so miners can understand if they are developing black lung or another condition and be as health… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T18:06:22Z |
| https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/fetterman-rejects-gop-budget-slashing-medicaid-snap-for-billionaire-tax-breaks/ | Fetterman Rejects GOP Budget Slashing Medicaid, SNAP for Billionaire Tax Breaks | 2025-04-05 | 2025 | 2025-04 | Democrat | Senate | PA | John Fetterman | F000479 | www.fetterman.senate.gov | fetterman | https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/press-release/ | scraper | Washington, D.C. – Today, the United States Senate passed the 2025 Budget Resolution along party lines after Senate Republicans blocked 19 amendments to protect Americans’ Medicaid, Medicare and Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits; address the economic fallout of President Trump’s tariff orders; and rein in DOGE’s takedown of the federal workforce. U.S. Senator John Fetterman (D-PA) cast a firm “NO” vote on the budget and released the following statement in response: “I voted a hard NO on the Republicans’ so-called ‘big, beautiful’ budget bill. “I will never support any bill that strips Medicaid, Medicare, or SNAP benefits from Americans to bankroll tax cuts for billionaires. “Pennsylvania deserves better than this and I’ll keep fighting for a government that serves the people, not special interests.” The FY25 Budget Resolution establishes an overall limit on government spending. Congress will now proceed to the appropriations process, where lawmakers determine exactly how much money each federal agency and program receives. In effect, this budget serves as Congress’s blueprint for which federal programs are prioritized in determining where federal dollars go. Senator Fetterman voted against it, and here’s why. Attacks on Medicaid and Medicare More than 3.1 million Pennsylvanians rely on Medicaid and the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP). 39% of Pennsylvania children and 45,000 births per year rely on CHIP and Medicaid. Medicaid covers more than 722,000 people with a disability in Pennsylvania. Threats to Social Security Ongoing reorganization at the agency under DOGE puts 325,148 Pennsylvanians’ checks at risk, totaling $232.8 million in monthly payments. Rising Costs from Tariffs President Trump’s tariff orders could cost the average family $4,000 per year. In Pennsylvania alone: Up to $5.84 billion hit to the state economy. 347,100 jobs affected. An estimated $64,000 cost per family. Cuts to SNAP Food Assistance Over 2 million Pennsylvanians rely on SNAP to put … | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T18:06:22Z |
| https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/fetterman-van-hollen-huffman-push-bill-to-end-decades-of-underfunding-in-special-education/ | Fetterman, Van Hollen, Huffman Push Bill to End Decades of Underfunding in Special Education | 2025-04-04 | 2025 | 2025-04 | Democrat | Senate | PA | John Fetterman | F000479 | www.fetterman.senate.gov | fetterman | https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/press-release/ | scraper | Legislation would guarantee full federal funding for IDEA, fulfilling a 50-year-old promise to America’s students and families Washington, D.C. – This week, U.S. Senator John Fetterman (D-PA) joined Senator Chris Van Hollen (D-MD) and U.S. Representative Jared Huffman (D-CA-02) to reintroduce the IDEA Full Funding Act, legislation to ensure Congress finally fulfills its commitment to fully fund the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). 50 years ago, Congress passed IDEA to ensure that every child with a disability has access to educational opportunities. This law was a historic step forward, but since its passage, Congress has failed to provide the funding it promised. The legislation is cosponsored by more than 30 members in the Senate and more than 60 members in the House of Representatives and is endorsed by 60 organizations. Under IDEA, the federal government committed to pay 40 percent of the average per pupil expenditure for special education; however, that pledge has never been met. According to the Congressional Research Service, current funding is at less than 12 percent, and the IDEA shortfall in the 2024-2025 school year nationwide was $38.66 billion. Under full funding, Pennsylvania alone would have received more than $1.4 billion. The IDEA Full Funding Act would require regular, mandatory increases in IDEAspending to finally meet our obligation to America’s children and schools. “We promised families we’d have their backs, and for decades, we’ve fallen short on that promise. Because IDEA hasn’t been fully funded, parents and teachers have been working overtime to make up for the missing resources their students desperately need,” said Senator Fetterman. “Making IDEA whole is how we guarantee students with disabilities get the support they need to thrive in school. I’m proud to join my colleagues in championing this legislation amid continued threats to public school students and educators.” “Fifty years ago, Congress passed the IDEA Act, and with it, made a promise to children with … | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T18:06:22Z |
| https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/senators-fetterman-justice-introduce-legislation-to-prevent-tragic-drug-deaths-in-prisons/ | Senators Fetterman, Justice Introduce Legislation to Prevent Tragic Drug Deaths in Prisons | 2025-04-04 | 2025 | 2025-04 | Democrat | Senate | PA | John Fetterman | F000479 | www.fetterman.senate.gov | fetterman | https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/press-release/ | scraper | Washington, D.C. – Yesterday, U.S. Senator John Fetterman (D-PA) joined Senator Jim Justice (R-WV) to introduce the Bureau of Prisons Security Check and Action against Narcotics in Mail Act (BOP SCAN Mail Act). This bipartisan legislation would require the Bureau of Prisons (BOP) to develop and implement a digital scanning strategy to prevent the smuggling of fentanyl and other synthetic drugs into federal correctional facilities by mail. “We have a responsibility to protect our federal correctional officers, prison support staff, and inmates, and we need to stop fentanyl and other deadly drugs from putting their lives at risk,” said Senator Fetterman. “I’m proud to work with Senator Justice to introduce the BOP SCAN Mail Act to expand on the success we’ve seen at USP Canaan in Pennsylvania. By bringing these protective measures to correctional facilities across the country, this bill will keep dangerous drugs out of our prisons. I hope my colleagues will join us to get this thing passed and signed into law – our prisons will be safer because of it.” “Protecting police officers and prison support staff from deadly fentanyl is not a partisan issue and catching it through whatever avenue it is smuggled shouldn’t be either,” said Senator Jim Justice. “In West Virginia, far too many lives have been lost due to mailed-in synthetic drugs and fentanyl to correctional facilities. Inmate mail is an often-overlooked smuggling route, but with this bill, we protect correctional officers, prison support staff, and stop deadly drugs from reaching inmates.” Federal prisons have experienced a 600% increase in overdose-induced inmate deaths in the last two decades. The influx of these deadly drugs, which are increasingly smuggled through prison mail, has also resulted in the death of one federal correctional officer and hospitalizations for dozens of others in the last year. The BOP SCAN Mail Act would expand a pilot program started at USP Canaan in Wayne County, Pennsylvania, and FCI Beckley in West Virginia. Under the progr… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T18:06:22Z |
| https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/statement-fetterman-backs-labor-union-lawsuit-against-trump-administration-attack-on-collective-bargaining/ | STATEMENT: Fetterman Backs Labor Union Lawsuit Against Trump Administration Attack on Collective Bargaining | 2025-04-04 | 2025 | 2025-04 | Democrat | Senate | PA | John Fetterman | F000479 | www.fetterman.senate.gov | fetterman | https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/press-release/ | scraper | “SEE YOU IN COURT” Washington, D.C. – Today, a coalition of labor unions representing federal workers filed a lawsuit challenging the Trump administration’s recent efforts to slash the federal workforce, destroy the sacred right to collectively bargain, and roll back key protections afforded to civil servants. The executive order, signed by President Trump last week, tries to eliminate collective bargaining rights for two-thirds of the federal workforce, further undermining protections for civil service employees already targeted by the Trump administration’s unprecedented federal workforce purge. Senator Fetterman (D-PA) released the following statement on X in response: “Attacking union membership is deeply un-American. “I salute and fully support this move. “The union way of life is sacred. “SEE YOU IN COURT.” The White House order affects over one million civil servants, including a third who are veterans, by attempting to reclassify them as workers involved in national security to exclude them from labor protections. This move threatens the existence of federal unions, which rely on collective bargaining to secure fair treatment and better working conditions for their members. On Wednesday, Senator Fetterman joined his colleagues in condemning the Trump administration’s attempt to dismantle federal unions. The letter, signed by all 45 Democratic senators and two independents, reads in part: “There is no evidence that the long-standing collective bargaining agreements at these agencies have jeopardized our nation’s security in any way; to the contrary, the protection collective bargaining has provided for employees allows them to conduct their work on behalf of the American people—including blowing the whistle on fraud or abuse—without political interference,” the Senators wrote. The Senators’ letter is endorsed by the American Federation of Labor and Congress of Industrial Organizations (AFL-CIO), American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE), National Treasury Employees Union (NTEU), Internat… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T18:06:22Z |
| https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/fetterman-leads-bipartisan-bill-to-provide-more-flexible-milk-options-in-school-lunches/ | Fetterman Leads Bipartisan Bill to Provide More Flexible Milk Options in School Lunches | 2025-04-02 | 2025 | 2025-04 | Democrat | Senate | PA | John Fetterman | F000479 | www.fetterman.senate.gov | fetterman | https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/press-release/ | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – Yesterday, Pennsylvania U.S. Senator John Fetterman [D-PA], along with his colleagues Sens. John Kennedy [R-LA] and Cory Booker [D-NJ], introduced the Freedom in School Cafeterias and Lunches (FISCAL) Act. This bipartisan bill would grant schools more flexibility to serve beverages that are nutritionally equivalent to dairy milk for students who are lactose intolerant or may have other disabilities. “We need to be doing whatever it takes to make sure our kids are fed in school. This bipartisan bill cuts the unnecessary red tape in our nutrition assistance programs so students can access meals that work for them and their dietary needs,” said Senator Fetterman. “There are over 30 million food-insecure children in this country, yet current school lunch policies waste $400 million worth of food each year. Feeding our kids and keeping them healthy isn’t a red or blue issue. I hope my colleagues can all agree with that and work with us to get this signed into law this Congress.” “Most of this nation’s children of color are lactose intolerant, and yet our school lunch program policy makes it difficult for these kids to access a nutritious fluid beverage that doesn’t make them sick,” said Senator Booker. “This bipartisan and bicameral legislation will bring greater equity to the lunchroom, by giving students the option to choose a nutritious milk substitute that meets their dietary needs.” The National School Lunch Program (NSLP) has long required that all kids have milk on their trays for the school to be reimbursed for the meal, whether the milk is suited for them or not. Based on documented rates of lactose intolerance among different demographic groups, approximately half of the nearly 30 million kids benefiting from the school lunch program may have some degree of lactose intolerance. If a child wants an alternative, they need to get a note from a doctor or a parent, and even then, the school may not have a dairy alternative available for them. The FISCAL Act addresses this by allowing the NSL… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T18:06:22Z |
| https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/fetterman-underwood-introduce-legislation-to-expand-access-to-contraceptives/ | Fetterman, Underwood Introduce Legislation to Expand Access to Contraceptives | 2025-04-01 | 2025 | 2025-04 | Democrat | Senate | PA | John Fetterman | F000479 | www.fetterman.senate.gov | fetterman | https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/press-release/ | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator John Fetterman (D-PA) and Representative Lauren Underwood (D-IL-14) introduced the Convenient Contraception Act, legislation that would improve access to contraceptive products, including over-the-counter contraceptives. The bill would allow individuals covered by private health insurance plans to receive up to a full-year supply of contraceptives at one time and would require plans to cover the associated cost at pickup. Providing a year-long supply of contraceptives has been proven to improve health outcomes, and many states have already adopted this practice. Despite the documented benefits of providing a year-long supply of contraceptives, the majority of contraceptive users receive a supply of three months or less, needlessly wasting personal time while adding unnecessary paperwork. “I will always fight to protect a woman’s right to make her own health care decisions. This bill would allow patients to pick up their full prescriptions at once, improving access to contraception by simply making it more convenient,” said Senator John Fetterman. “This is a commonsense solution, and I’m proud to lead this legislation to make contraception access more equitable.” “Expanding access to contraception is a critical part of protecting the health and lives of millions of women who have seen their access to care jeopardized by extreme Republicans’ attacks on reproductive freedom,” said Rep. Lauren Underwood. “Contraception is essential health care, and it must remain easily available nationwide.” Senators Tammy Baldwin [D-WI], Richard Blumenthal [D-CT], Cory Booker [D-NJ], Maria Cantwell [D-WA], Tammy Duckworth [D-IL], Kirsten Gillibrand [D-NY], Martin Heinrich [D-NM], Mazie Hirono [D-HI], Tim Kaine [D-VA], Amy Klobuchar [D-MN], Jeff Merkley [D-OR], Chris Murphy [D-CT], Patty Murray [ D-WA], Alex Padilla [D-CA], and Tina Smith [D-MN] joined Senator Fetterman to introduce this legislation. In the House, Representatives Mikie Sherrill [D-NJ-11], Dina Titus [D-NV-01], and Sheila Ch… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T00:33:40Z |
| https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/fetterman-introduces-bill-to-provide-snap-benefits-for-striking-workers/ | Fetterman Introduces Bill to Provide SNAP Benefits for Striking Workers | 2025-03-27 | 2025 | 2025-03 | Democrat | Senate | PA | John Fetterman | F000479 | www.fetterman.senate.gov | fetterman | https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/press-release/ | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – Yesterday, Pennsylvania U.S. Senator John Fetterman joined Representatives Alma Adams (D-NC-12) and Greg Casar (D-TX-35) to introduce the Food Secure Strikers Act, legislation to allow striking workers to qualify for Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits. “The union way of life is sacred – it’s what built Pennsylvania and this nation. Every single union worker walking the picket line needs to know that we have their back here in Washington,” said Senator John Fetterman. “To protect workers’ right to organize, we must ensure they can put food on the tables for themselves and their families while on strike. I’m proud to lead the effort to ensure workers never need to choose between fighting for fair working conditions and feeding their families. I hope to see this critical legislation passed this Congress.” Currently, striking workers and their households are excluded from SNAP eligibility and cannot receive SNAP benefits unless they were previously eligible before the strike. While union funds can sometimes reduce the financial stress of striking, workers often still face serious financial insecurity when on strike due to loss of income. Further, many striking workers are not union members, meaning they have an even smaller safety net, if any at all. The Food Secure Strikers Act would repeal the restriction on striking workers from receiving SNAP. Senators Alex Padilla (D-CA), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Tina Smith (D-MN), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Ron Wyden (D-OR), Kristen Gillibrand (D-NY), Adam Schiff (D-CA), Peter Welch (D-VT), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Ruben Gallego (D-AZ), Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), and Martin Heinrich (D-NM) cosponsored the legislation. The House companion bill was introduced by Representative Alma Adams, Representative Casar, and 34 cosponsors. The Food Secure Strikers Act is also endorsed by numerous unions and anti-hunger organizations, including the United Food and Commercial Workers, National Education Associati… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T17:53:31Z |
| https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/fetterman-leads-bipartisan-effort-to-expand-va-burial-benefits-ensure-veterans-and-their-families-can-be-honored-together/ | Fetterman leads Bipartisan Effort to Expand VA Burial Benefits, Ensure Veterans and Their Families Can Be Honored Together | 2025-03-26 | 2025 | 2025-03 | Democrat | Senate | PA | John Fetterman | F000479 | www.fetterman.senate.gov | fetterman | https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/press-release/ | scraper | Washington, D.C. – Yesterday, U.S. Senators John Fetterman (D-PA), Kevin Cramer (R-ND), and Dave McCormick (R-PA) introduced the Dennis and Lois Krisfalusy Act, a bipartisan bill to permanently expand the Department of Veterans’ Affairs (VA) burial benefits. This legislation would allow the VA to provide memorial headstones or markers for veterans, their spouses, and dependent children, regardless of when they passed away, ensuring military families are properly honored together. “We can never repay the debt we owe our veterans and their families for their sacrifices to keep our country safe. We have a responsibility to honor those sacrifices regardless of when a family member died,” said Senator Fetterman. “Lois Krisfalusy should be honored with her husband, Dennis – but arbitrary barriers are preventing that. It’s common sense that families like theirs deserve to be laid to rest together, and I’m proud to lead a bipartisan effort to correct this injustice.” “Families of service members sacrifice and serve alongside their loved ones, but outdated restrictions prohibit the VA from providing a memorial headstone for military spouses and dependents if they passed away before 1998,” said Senator Cramer. “I joined Senator Fetterman in reintroducing our bipartisan Dennis and Lois Krisfalusy Act to remove this hurdle, honoring the service of these family members to our nation.” “Our veterans put their lives on the line to protect our freedoms, and we owe them a debt of gratitude that can never be repaid,” Senator McCormick said. “I’m proud to support this commonsense bill amending restrictions on military memorial headstones for families of veterans before 1998. Bureaucracy should not stand in the way of our veterans and their families being laid to rest honorably while also recognizing their service.” The bill is named in honor of Dennis “Denny” Krisfalusy, a U.S. Air Force veteran from Washington County, Pennsylvania, who served during the Vietnam War. In 1985, Dennis and his wife, Lois Krisfalusy, tragically die… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T17:53:31Z |
| https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/fetterman-rejects-chaos-votes-to-prevent-government-shutdown/ | Fetterman Rejects Chaos, Votes to Prevent Government Shutdown | 2025-03-14 | 2025 | 2025-03 | Democrat | Senate | PA | John Fetterman | F000479 | www.fetterman.senate.gov | fetterman | https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/press-release/ | scraper | Washington, D.C. – Today, by a vote of 54-46, the United States Senate passed H.R. 1968, The Full-Year Continuing Appropriations and Extensions Act for Fiscal Year 2025, along party lines. U.S. Senator John Fetterman (D-PA) voted to invoke cloture, meeting the 60 votes necessary to end debate on the Continuing Resolution (CR) and move to final passage. Senator Fetterman released the following statement in response: “My YES vote on cloture IS NOT an endorsement of this deeply flawed CR. “My YES vote on cloture IS 100% about refusing to shut our government down. “I refuse to punish working families and plunge millions of Americans into chaos or risk a recession. “I will never, ever, ever, ever, ever vote to shut our government down. Senator Fetterman joined 9 Democratic colleagues in supporting the cloture motion, which broke the filibuster to proceed to final passage and prevent a government shutdown. He voted against the final passage of the CR. | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T17:53:31Z |
| https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/senator-fetterman-leads-introduction-of-school-lunch-debt-cancellation-act/ | Senator Fetterman Leads Introduction of School Lunch Debt Cancellation Act | 2025-03-13 | 2025 | 2025-03 | Democrat | Senate | PA | John Fetterman | F000479 | www.fetterman.senate.gov | fetterman | https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/press-release/ | scraper | Washington, D.C. – Yesterday, Senator John Fetterman (D-PA) introduced legislation that would direct the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) to pay off all outstanding student meal debt. The legislation also would grant the USDA new authority to purchase food for food banks. Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) and Peter Welch (D-VT) joined Senator Fetterman to introduce the legislation. “‘School lunch debt’ is a term so absurd that is shouldn’t even exist. I’m proud to lead the fight to cancel our nation’s school meal debt – it’s long past time to stop humiliating kids and penalizing hunger,” said Senator Fetterman. “We must protect students’ access to healthy foods and stand with working families. I hope to see this critical legislation signed into law this Congress.” “Our measure will take necessary and long overdue action to eliminate student lunch debt once and for all—investing in the long-term health, well-being, and success of our nation’s children and families,” said Senator Blumenthal. “It is unacceptable that millions of children across the country have to choose between going hungry or going into debt so they can eat lunch at school. It is a humiliating practice that penalizes our most vulnerable children for living in poverty. Every student in America must have access to a nutritious meal at school without fear of the financial burden.” “Our students should be focused on learning—not worrying about whether they can afford school lunch. Ensuring our children don’t go hungry at school shouldn’t be a partisan issue. We have an obligation to ensure that all students—in red states and blue states—are supported and respected,” said Senator Welch. “I’m proud to partner with my friend and colleague Senator Fetterman on this commonsense bill and urge those across the aisle to join us in standing up for the welfare of children in Vermont and across America.” During the height of COVID-19 in 2020, federal lawmakers made the unprecedented move of providing free lunch for every public-school student … | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T17:53:31Z |
| https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/senator-fetterman-members-of-pa-delegation-introduce-bill-to-rename-norristown-post-office-in-honor-of-african-american-historian-charles-blockson/ | Senator Fetterman, Members of PA Delegation Introduce Bill to Rename Norristown Post Office in Honor of African American Historian Charles Blockson | 2025-03-04 | 2025 | 2025-03 | Democrat | Senate | PA | John Fetterman | F000479 | www.fetterman.senate.gov | fetterman | https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/press-release/ | scraper | Washington, D.C. – Today, Senator John Fetterman (D-PA) introduced legislation to rename the Norristown Post Office after Charles Blockson, a prominent African American historian. Representatives Madeleine Dean (D-PA-04) led 12 members of the Pennsylvania congressional delegation to introduce the companion bill in the House. “Charles Blockson dedicated his life to collecting and preserving African American history. He lives on through his historical collections, which are now studied by countless Pennsylvania students,” said Senator Fetterman. “I’m proud to join my colleagues in the House to introduce this legislation. By renaming the post office in Mr. Blockson’s hometown, we can continue to honor his impact on African American studies across our country and commonwealth.” “Charles Blockson’s invaluable work of searching for, collecting, and, perhaps most impressively, selflessly sharing his premiere collection of African American artifacts has shaped our knowledge and understanding of African American history — renaming the Norristown post office is a tangible way we can honor his vast contributions right here in his hometown,” Rep. Dean said. “I’m deeply grateful to work my Pennsylvanian colleagues to reintroduce this legislation — and I’m hopeful for its passage this Congress.” Charles Blockson was born in 1933 in Norristown, Pennsylvania and graduated from Norristown Area School District where he excelled as a student and athlete. He used his love of books, even from an early age, to build a career of traveling and acquiring rare documents, publications, and photos to better depict African American studies. After curating one of the largest and most prestigious collections of African American artifacts, he donated them to Temple University’s Charles L. Blockson Afro-American Collection and the Pennsylvania State University’s Charles L. Blockson Collection of African-Americana and the African Diaspora. He passed away on June 14, 2024. The House companion legislation was cosponsored by Representatives Dwig… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T17:53:31Z |
| https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/fetterman-joins-bipartisan-group-of-pennsylvania-members-to-reintroduce-bill-protecting-mushroom-farmers/ | Fetterman Joins Bipartisan Group of Pennsylvania Members to Reintroduce Bill Protecting Mushroom Farmers | 2025-02-27 | 2025 | 2025-02 | Democrat | Senate | PA | John Fetterman | F000479 | www.fetterman.senate.gov | fetterman | https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/press-release/ | scraper | Washington, D.C. – Yesterday, Senator John Fetterman (D-PA) joined Senator Dave McCormick (R-PA) to reintroduce the Protecting Mushroom Farmers Act. Representatives Chrissy Houlahan (D-PA-06) and Dan Meuser (R-PA-09) introduced a companion bill in the United States House of Representatives. “Pennsylvania is the mushroom capital of the world, and our mushroom farmers deserve access to the same insurance as so many other producers – that’s just common sense,” said Senator Fetterman. “I’m grateful that Congressman Thompson and Senator Stabenow included this bill in their proposals for the Farm Bill last year. Now, it’s time to finally pass this legislation and give Pennsylvania farmers the coverage they need.” The bill would require the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to conduct a study on offering federally-backed crop insurance specifically for mushroom farms, which face threats like inclement weather or pests uniquely harmful to mushrooms. Upon the completion of a study showing the efficacy of a new crop insurance product, the USDA has the authority to begin offering it immediately to farmers. Nearly half of the mushrooms grown in the United States are farmed in Chester County, PA, and the industry has an economic benefit of $1.3 billion to Pennsylvania’s economy. More than 9,000 jobs in the Commonwealth are supported by mushroom farms. “Many people might be unaware that the mushroom capitol of the world is Kennett Square, Pennsylvania, employing nearly 10,000 people and contributing nearly $3 billion to the local economy,” said Senator McCormick. “USDA’s crop insurance program should be available to all farmers, and I’m hopeful that this yearlong study yields much needed coverage to protect Pennsylvania’s mushroom farmers. I look forward to working on this and other agriculture initiatives with my PA colleagues in the House and the Senate.” “Every time that I speak with mushroom farmers in Chester and Berks Counties, they tell me about the unique threats that they face,” said Congresswoman Houlahan. “P… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T17:38:04Z |
| https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/senators-fetterman-smith-cramer-and-britt-reintroduce-bipartisan-bill-to-boost-domestic-bus-manufacturing/ | Senators Fetterman, Smith, Cramer, and Britt Reintroduce Bipartisan Bill to Boost Domestic Bus Manufacturing | 2025-02-21 | 2025 | 2025-02 | Democrat | Senate | PA | John Fetterman | F000479 | www.fetterman.senate.gov | fetterman | https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/press-release/ | scraper | Washington, D.C. – Yesterday, U.S. Senator John Fetterman joined Senators Tina Smith (D-MN), Kevin Cramer (R-ND), and Katie Britt (R-AL) to reintroduce bipartisan legislation to cut red tape and strengthen the domestic bus manufacturing industry by providing more flexibility for local transit systems when purchasing buses. Current U.S. standards impose outdated, 40-year-old payment practices on our bus manufacturers and purchasers, which result in unnecessarily high costs. Many domestic bus manufacturers have gone bankrupt or left the market, despite high demand for new vehicles. The Bus Rolling Stock Modernization Act would help fix this problem. Specifically, it would allow bus purchasers to make advanced payments of up to 20%, helping domestic manufacturers invest in the workers and equipment needed to meet rising demand for new, cost-effective buses. “Right now, we’re stuck with 40-year-old rules that prevent bus manufacturers from investing in the workers and equipment they need. It’s a problem that’s hurting transit agencies in big cities and small towns across Pennsylvania,” said Senator Fetterman. “This bill fixes that by giving local agencies the flexibility they need to get buses on the road faster and at a lower cost, while helping American manufacturers meet demand. I’m proud to be part of this effort to keep Pennsylvanians moving.” “Each day, transit systems connect Minnesotans to their jobs, schools, and countless other opportunities – all while reducing traffic congestion,” said Senator Smith.“This bill makes a commonsense update to current practice by cutting unnecessary red tape and strengthen the domestic bus manufacturing market. This small change will also support U.S. bus manufacturing jobs, get more buses into service, and help Americans get to their work, school, and health care appointments more easily.” “Our legislation cuts unnecessary red tape, allowing bus manufacturers across America to invest in their production capacity,” said Senator Cramer. “This commonsense change provides gr… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T17:38:04Z |
| https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/fetterman-urges-trump-admin-to-reverse-measures-banning-transgender-troops-from-military/ | Fetterman Urges Trump Admin to Reverse Measures Banning Transgender Troops from Military | 2025-02-13 | 2025 | 2025-02 | Democrat | Senate | PA | John Fetterman | F000479 | www.fetterman.senate.gov | fetterman | https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/press-release/ | scraper | Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator John Fetterman (D-PA) condemned the Trump Administration’s decision to bar transgender individuals from serving in the U.S. military and called for an immediate reversal of these policies. In a video posted to X, Senator Fetterman stated: “I am unapologetically pro-military—I believe in a strong, lethal military. But I am also unapologetically pro the LGBTQ community… “I am calling on President Trump to rescind this executive order—to allow and honor the inherent dignity of our servicemembers regardless of what their race is, what their gender is, who they love, or how they identify. “A military that respects and supports all of its members is fully capable of being lethal and winning wars.” | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T17:38:04Z |
| https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/fetterman-statement-on-release-of-marc-fogel/ | Fetterman Statement on Release of Marc Fogel | 2025-02-12 | 2025 | 2025-02 | Democrat | Senate | PA | John Fetterman | F000479 | www.fetterman.senate.gov | fetterman | https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/press-release/ | scraper | Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator John Fetterman (D-PA) released the following statement on the release of Marc Fogel, a Pennsylvania school teacher who was wrongfully detained in Russia for nearly four years: “Marc Fogel’s return home is long overdue—and I know all of Pennsylvania, especially his family, will be welcoming him back with open arms. “I commend President Trump and Steve Witkoff for their efforts in finally bringing Marc home.” Senator Fetterman, alongside bipartisan efforts from both Pennsylvania Senators and the commonwealth’s entire congressional delegation, has been at the forefront of advocating for Marc Fogel’s release. Marc, who was arrested in August 2021 after Russian authorities found medical marijuana prescribed for his chronic back pain, was sentenced to 14 years in a Russian penal colony. | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T17:38:04Z |
| https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/fetterman-presses-defense-department-to-modernize-mental-health-support-for-servicemembers/ | Fetterman Presses Defense Department to Modernize Mental Health Support for Servicemembers | 2025-02-07 | 2025 | 2025-02 | Democrat | Senate | PA | John Fetterman | F000479 | www.fetterman.senate.gov | fetterman | https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/press-release/ | scraper | Washington, D.C. – Yesterday, U.S. Senator John Fetterman (D-PA) sent a letter to Lieutenant General Telita Crosland, Director of the Defense Health Agency, urging the Department of Defense (DoD) to consider allocating funds for new mental health care application programming and reform existing efforts. In the letter, Senator Fetterman writes: “As DoD considers how to spend its greater than $60 billion annual budget for military health care funding in Fiscal Year 2026, I urge the Department to consider allocating funds for new mental health care application programing. We know this funding will pay for itself long term – the estimated return on investment is about $4 for every $1 spent. Prioritizing creative, preventative care measures like mobile applications will equip our servicemembers with the tools and resources they need to navigate personal adversity and avoid mental health emergencies.” In his letter, Senator Fetterman highlighted how mental health mobile applications have proven to be effective in managing depression and reducing related symptoms among users. These types of apps are typically free or low-cost to users, discreet for use at a moment’s notice, and can be used without cellular service or WiFi, which is crucial if a servicemember is deployed. However, despite their potential, DoD’s existing apps are underutilized. Of the mobile apps currently available to servicemembers, only two were used by more than 1,500 individuals over a three-month period studied by DoD. The need for accessible mental health care is evident: Alarming Suicide Rates: The average suicide rate for veterans is 150% higher than that of the general population. Among women veterans, it’s 250% higher. LGBTQ+ Veterans at Risk: LGBTQ+ veterans attempt suicide at a rate 15 times higher than veterans overall. Provider Shortage: More than 40% of mental health provider positions within the military health system are vacant | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T17:38:04Z |
| https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/fetterman-slotkin-and-cruz-introduce-bipartisan-bill-to-prohibit-strategic-petroleum-reserve-sales-to-foreign-adversaries/ | Fetterman, Slotkin, and Cruz Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Prohibit Strategic Petroleum Reserve Sales to Foreign Adversaries | 2025-02-04 | 2025 | 2025-02 | Democrat | Senate | PA | John Fetterman | F000479 | www.fetterman.senate.gov | fetterman | https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/press-release/ | scraper | Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator John Fetterman (D-PA) joined Senators Elissa Slotkin (D-MI) and Ted Cruz (R-TX) to introduce the Banning SPR Oil Exports to Foreign Adversaries Act. The bipartisan bill would prohibit the sale or export of oil from the U.S. Strategic Petroleum Reserve (SPR) to China, Russia, Iran, North Korea, or any entity owned or controlled by those nations. Congresswoman Chrissy Houlahan (D-PA) led the introduction of this legislation in the House. “The Strategic Petroleum Reserve protects America’s energy, economic, and national security,” said Senator John Fetterman. “We must prioritize the safety of America and our allies – we cannot allow our adversaries to purchase oil from our critical energy reserves. This is a commonsense bill with strong bipartisan support. I’m proud to introduce it with Senator Cruz, Senator Slotkin, and my colleagues in the House. I look forward to getting it signed into law this congress.” “Our Strategic Petroleum Reserve is meant to bolster our national security, and it should never be sold to hostile nations like Russia, Iran or China,” said Senator Elissa Slotkin. “This bipartisan bill prevents hostile nations from buying oil from our Strategic Petroleum Reserve. Energy security shouldn’t ever be a partisan issue, and I look forward to working with my colleagues to pass this bill and fortify our energy security as a nation.” “The Strategic Petroleum Reserve is meant to protect the U.S. during crises, not supply our adversaries. Under President Biden, part of this reserve was sold, benefiting China’s strategic interests,” said Senator Ted Cruz. “There is strong bipartisan consensus around preventing such a sale from being repeated. I’m proud to work with Senator Fetterman and Senator Slotkin on this legislation, which will prevent U.S. oil reserves from being sold to adversarial nations.” “When I heard there was a loophole enabling our foreign adversaries to purchase oil from our strategic reserves, I was shocked and outraged,” said Congresswoman Chriss… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T17:38:04Z |
| https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/fetterman-statement-on-two-year-anniversary-of-norfolk-southern-train-derailment-in-east-palestine/ | Fetterman Statement on Two-Year Anniversary of Norfolk Southern Train Derailment in East Palestine | 2025-02-03 | 2025 | 2025-02 | Democrat | Senate | PA | John Fetterman | F000479 | www.fetterman.senate.gov | fetterman | https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/press-release/ | scraper | Washington, D.C. – Two years ago today, a Norfolk Southern train derailed in East Palestine, Ohio, less than one mile from the Pennsylvania border. Today, U.S. Senator John Fetterman released the following statement on the derailment and the Railway Safety Act: “Two years ago, on the Ohio-Pennsylvania border, we saw what happens when communities like Darlington Township, Pennsylvania and East Palestine, Ohio are overlooked by leaders in Washington and corporate executives. “The Norfolk Southern train derailment was an absolute tragedy—one that we could have prevented. “As a result, I co-led the Railway Safety Act to hold corporations accountable and make sure another disaster like that one never happens again. “I plan to reintroduce that same bipartisan, bicameral bill this Congress and finally deliver the overdue promise to never leaving communities behind.” Senator Fetterman was an original co-lead of the Railway Safety Act, joining then-Senators JD Vance (R-OH) and Sherrod Brown (D-OH) to introduce the bill in March 2023. That bipartisan bill would have increased penalties for railroads involved in toxic spills and strengthened protections to prevent future train derailments. The bill was passed out of the Senate Commerce Committee last year but did not receive a vote on the floor. | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T17:38:04Z |
| https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/fetterman-celebrates-signing-of-the-laken-riley-act/ | Fetterman Celebrates Signing of the Laken Riley Act | 2025-01-29 | 2025 | 2025-01 | Democrat | Senate | PA | John Fetterman | F000479 | www.fetterman.senate.gov | fetterman | https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/press-release/ | scraper | Washington, D.C. – Today, President Donald Trump is set to sign the Laken Riley Act. Senator John Fetterman (D-PA), who cosponsored the legislation and voted in favor of it, will attend the signing ceremony at the White House. Senator Fetterman released the following statement in response: “I believe a secure border creates a more secure nation and it’s just common sense. “I believe a stronger border is fully compatible with my commitment to immigration. “I also believe our nation should protect our Dreamers. “I believe this nation is tired of leaders in D.C. prioritizing fighting over governing. | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T17:10:36Z |
| https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/fetterman-on-freezing-of-federal-aid/ | Fetterman on Freezing of Federal Aid | 2025-01-28 | 2025 | 2025-01 | Democrat | Senate | PA | John Fetterman | F000479 | www.fetterman.senate.gov | fetterman | https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/press-release/ | scraper | Washington, D.C. – Today, Senator John Fetterman released the following statement in response to a Trump administration order that froze federal financial assistance: “I am closely monitoring the repercussions in PA as a result of the federal funding pause. “My office just received calls from over a dozen PA organizations, including one that serves both 🔴➕🔵 low-income families, and their access to funds through the Federal Payment Management System have been cut off. “We’re also aware of reports of PA’s Medicaid portal being down. | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T17:10:36Z |
| https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/fetterman-secures-victory-for-pennsylvania-workers-with-new-rule-to-end-decades-long-pay-disparity/ | Fetterman Secures Victory for Pennsylvania Workers with New Rule to End Decades-Long Pay Disparity | 2025-01-24 | 2025 | 2025-01 | Democrat | Senate | PA | John Fetterman | F000479 | www.fetterman.senate.gov | fetterman | https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/press-release/ | scraper | 2,100+ Federal Workers in PA Will Get Pay Raises Under New Rule Washington, D.C. – This week, U.S. Senator John Fetterman (D-PA) applauded the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) for publishing a rule that will end a decades-long pay disparity affecting more than 2,100 hourly federal workers in Pennsylvania and nearly 14,500 across the country. This long-overdue reform, which will take effect on October 1, 2025, will raise wages for hourly federal employees who have been paid according to different locality pay areas than their salaried colleagues. The rule will deliver an estimated $23.1 million in additional wages to Pennsylvanians in the first year alone. “For three decades, hourly federal workers across Pennsylvania have been shortchanged by a system that pays them differently than their salaried coworkers. This new rule will eliminate that pay gap for thousands of these workers,” said Senator Fetterman. “This is about so much more than just a paycheck––this is about treating workers with the dignity and respect they deserve. I’m proud to stand with the union members across our commonwealth who have fought for years to make this happen. I made a commitment to join them in this fight and I’m proud that we finally got it done.” OPM’s final rule is the culmination of more than a year of advocacy by Senator Fetterman and a broad coalition of allies, including affected workers, labor unions, and colleagues in Congress. Despite decades-long efforts to fix this issue, federal agencies had never taken effective action to fix the pay gap – until now. Timeline of Senator Fetterman’s Involvement: September 18, 2023: Senator Fetterman sent a letter to the Federal Prevailing Rate Advisory Committee (FPRAC) urging them to address the disparity between Federal Wage System (FWS) and General Schedule (GS) pay. December 21, 2023: FPRAC voted 9-1 to recommend combining FWS wage areas and GS locality pay areas, a critical first step toward resolving the issue. February 29, 2024: Senator Fetterman sent a follow-up letter … | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T17:10:36Z |
| https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/fetterman-lummis-combat-housing-crisis-with-bipartisan-whole-home-repairs-act/ | Fetterman, Lummis Combat Housing Crisis with Bipartisan Whole Home Repairs Act | 2025-01-22 | 2025 | 2025-01 | Democrat | Senate | PA | John Fetterman | F000479 | www.fetterman.senate.gov | fetterman | https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/press-release/ | scraper | “This program helped thousands of Pennsylvanians stay in their homes, imagine what it could do for families across the country.” Washington, D.C. – Last week, U.S. Senator John Fetterman (D-PA) and Senator Cynthia Lummis (R-WY) reintroduced the Whole-Home Repairs Act, a bipartisan bill to address the nationwide housing crisis by providing essential home repair assistance to low- and moderate-income homeowners and small landlords. The legislation seeks to replicate the successful Whole-Home Repairs program spearheaded in Pennsylvania on a federal scale through a five-year pilot initiative. Senators Mike Rounds (R-SD) and Tina Smith (D-MN) joined as original cosponsors. “Last year, we took an idea that was born and bred in Pennsylvania and brought it to the national stage. Now we’re back to finish the job,” said Senator Fetterman.“Millions of families are living in homes that are unsafe, unhealthy, or unlivable because they can’t afford repairs. The Whole-Home Repairs Act promotes a practical, proven solution to this problem. This program helped thousands of Pennsylvanians stay in their homes, imagine what it could do for families across the country. I will proudly continue pushing to make this happen at the federal level.” “Bureaucratic red tape continues to pain low-income families throughout the Cowboy State when they apply for federal home repair grants,” said Senator Lummis. “I am partnering with Senator Fetterman to pilot a program that would make this process easier to navigate for low-income homeowners and small landlords to return their properties to safe conditions for Wyoming families.” “The Whole-Home Repairs Act will not only provide an opportunity to assist homeowners, but it will also establish a new standard for how federal programs can operate more efficiently,” said Senator Rounds. “Maintaining our existing housing stock is vitally important, especially in rural communities where it is often cost prohibitive to develop new housing. The Whole-Home Repair program will allow housing practitioners… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T17:10:36Z |
| https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/fetterman-celebrates-132-million-chips-act-boost-for-pennsylvanias-semiconductor-manufacturing-in-bethlehem-and-easton/ | Fetterman Celebrates $132 Million CHIPS Act Boost for Pennsylvania’s Semiconductor Manufacturing in Bethlehem and Easton | 2025-01-17 | 2025 | 2025-01 | Democrat | Senate | PA | John Fetterman | F000479 | www.fetterman.senate.gov | fetterman | https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/press-release/ | scraper | Braddock, PA — Today, U.S. Senator John Fetterman (D-PA) celebrated the Department of Commerce’s announcement of two CHIPS Act funding awards for semiconductor production in the commonwealth. The investments include up to $79 million to expand Coherent’s Easton facility and $53 million for Infinera’s new Bethlehem operations. “The CHIPS Act continues to deliver for our workers and our economy. This funding will help create more good-paying jobs, strengthen our supply chains, and reinforce Pennsylvania’s position as a hub for innovation and opportunity. Investing in American industry is betting on America’s future and I’m all in,” said Senator Fetterman. Coherent’s award of up to $79 million will help expand capacity to produce 150mm and 200mm silicon carbide (SiC) substrates—key components for electric vehicles and military applications. The Easton expansion is expected to increase production by over 750,000 substrates annually and more than double the output of epitaxial wafers, creating 320 manufacturing jobs and 40 construction jobs. Infinera will receive up to $93 million in CHIPS funding, with $53 million dedicated to building an advanced test and packaging facility in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania. This facility, alongside Infinera’s expanded operations in San Jose, California, will exponentially increase the company’s domestic manufacturing capacity. This investment will create approximately 500 manufacturing jobs and 1,200 construction jobs in Pennsylvania, supporting the production of more energy-efficient components for broadband and optical network infrastructure. The CHIPS and Science Act is boosting U.S. semiconductor production, cutting reliance on foreign supply chains, and driving innovation. Over $33 billion in CHIPS funding has been awarded to date, creating 125,000 jobs across 22 states. Pennsylvania’s strategic location and skilled workforce make the commonwealth central to this national effort. | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T17:10:36Z |
| https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/senator-fetterman-secures-over-52-million-in-federal-funding-for-pennsylvania-infrastructure-projects/ | Senator Fetterman Secures Over $52 Million in Federal Funding for Pennsylvania Infrastructure Projects | 2025-01-09 | 2025 | 2025-01 | Democrat | Senate | PA | John Fetterman | F000479 | www.fetterman.senate.gov | fetterman | https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/press-release/ | scraper | Washington, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senator John Fetterman (D-PA) announced more than $52 million in federal funding for infrastructure projects across Pennsylvania. These grants, awarded through the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) under programs created by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, will fund essential upgrades to bridges, sidewalks, roads, and electric vehicle charging infrastructure. These projects aim to reconnect communities, enhance safety, and boost economic development by prioritizing underserved communities across Pennsylvania. “I came to Washington to get real results for Pennsylvania. Bringing home this $52 million does just that. These projects will improve the infrastructure we depend on every day—from fixing up rural bridges to making sure all Pennsylvanians can move safely through their neighborhoods—we’re investing in people first, no matter their zip code,” said Senator Fetterman. “These projects will create jobs, strengthen local economies, and reconnect people with the critical resources their communities have been cut off from for too long. This is what it looks like when we rebuild from the ground up and refuse to leave anyone behind.” These projects reflect Senator Fetterman’s commitment to being a champion for Pennsylvania’s forgotten communities and expanding access to resources and opportunities for all Pennsylvanians. From rural bridge replacements to pedestrian infrastructure in underserved neighborhoods, the following initiatives are a testament to that vision. Revitalizing Rural Bridges: $8.5 Million A major grant through the Rural Surface Transportation Grant Program will fund the replacement and rehabilitation of six critical bridges in Cameron, Clearfield, Elk, Jefferson, McKean, and Potter counties. These bridges are lifelines for local communities, ensuring safe and reliable access to schools, businesses, and emergency services. Senator Fetterman personally supported this project in a letter to Secretary Buttigieg. Reconnecting Communities: $4.8 Million Three tra… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T17:10:36Z |
| https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/fetterman-delivers-nearly-15-million-in-federal-aid-for-hurricane-debby-recovery-in-pennsylvania/ | Fetterman Delivers Nearly $15 Million in Federal Aid for Hurricane Debby Recovery in Pennsylvania | 2025-01-08 | 2025 | 2025-01 | Democrat | Senate | PA | John Fetterman | F000479 | www.fetterman.senate.gov | fetterman | https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/press-release/ | scraper | Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator John Fetterman announced a $14.62 million allocation of federal disaster recovery funding from the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to help North Central Pennsylvania rebuild and recover in the wake of Hurricane Debby. This funding, provided through the Community Development Block Grant – Disaster Recovery (CDBG-DR) program, was authorized by the Disaster Relief Supplemental Appropriations Act of 2025. It will support unmet recovery needs and mitigation efforts in counties severely impacted by the 2024 storm. “Families in North Central PA have been through hell since Hurricane Debby, with homes destroyed and lives uprooted,” said Senator Fetterman. “Places like Tioga, Lycoming, Union, and Potter counties — these aren’t areas that get a lot of attention, but that doesn’t mean they don’t matter. This nearly $15 million in funding makes sure that these hard-hit communities will get the support they need to rebuild and be ready for whatever comes next.” Senator Fetterman has made disaster recovery a top priority, advocating for targeted investments to ensure rural and underserved communities receive the support they need. This funding includes a critical 15% allocation for mitigation efforts, ensuring communities are better prepared for future storms. The funding will address critical recovery efforts such as repairing damaged infrastructure and homes, supporting displaced families, and mitigating future disasters. Counties eligible for the CDBG-DR funding include Potter, Tioga, Lycoming, Union, Elk, Cameron, Clearfield, Indiana, Susquehanna, Wayne, Wyoming, and Sullivan. “Watching a fire station wash away that has been like a second home to you and to all your members is a horrible experience. Then, just hours after, your federal and state officials are calling you personally, asking ‘What can we do to help?’ That was definitely a breath of fresh air,” said Fire Chief Nick Smith and all the members of the Trout Run Volunteer Fire Company. “We lost half the s… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T17:10:36Z |
| https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/senator-fetterman-proudly-takes-on-new-senate-committee-assignments-to-serve-pennsylvanians-in-the-119th-congress/ | Senator Fetterman Proudly Takes on New Senate Committee Assignments to Serve Pennsylvanians in the 119th Congress | 2025-01-07 | 2025 | 2025-01 | Democrat | Senate | PA | John Fetterman | F000479 | www.fetterman.senate.gov | fetterman | https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/press-release/ | scraper | Washington, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senator John Fetterman (D-PA) is honored to announce his new Senate committee assignments for the 119th Congress. These assignments reflect his unwavering commitment to improving the lives of Pennsylvanians and their families. “These committee assignments give me the chance to fight for the issues that matter most to Pennsylvania families—from protecting the right to food and supporting our farmers to making sure older Americans can live with dignity and respect. I’m proud to continue fighting for Pennsylvanians heading into the new Congress,” said Senator Fetterman. Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry As a member of the U.S. Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry, Senator Fetterman is a fierce advocate for protecting and expanding the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and pushing for universal free school lunch. He is dedicated to addressing food insecurity head-on, fighting for a Farm Bill that supports small farmers and rural communities, and ensuring that Pennsylvania’s agricultural sector thrives. Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation In his role on the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, Senator Fetterman will advocate for investments that prioritize Pennsylvania’s workforce and industrial heritage. From supporting critical infrastructure projects to advancing innovation, he will ensure Pennsylvania’s communities receive the recognition and resources they deserve. Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Serving on the U.S. Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs, Senator Fetterman will prioritize keeping Americans safe, with a focus on border security, cybersecurity, and robust oversight of the Department of Homeland Security. He is committed to holding the federal government accountable to ensure it works efficiently and effectively for Pennsylvanians. Senator Fetterman is also a new member of the U.S. Commission on Security and Cooperation in… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T17:10:36Z |
| https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/fettermans-statement-on-blocked-sale-of-u-s-steel/ | Fetterman’s Statement on Blocked Sale of U.S. Steel | 2025-01-03 | 2025 | 2025-01 | Democrat | Senate | PA | John Fetterman | F000479 | www.fetterman.senate.gov | fetterman | https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/press-release/ | scraper | “I’m always going to trust and follow the wisdom and the judgement of the union. My goal is their goal: to protect the union way of life and allow it to endure.” Washington, D.C. – Today, President Biden officially blocked Nippon Steel’s $14.9 billion takeover of the United States Steel Corporation. Senator John Fetterman (D-PA) released the following statement in response: “The original U.S. Steel-Nippon deal was a death sentence for the Mon Valley Works. They had zero concern for the USW members and our communities in the Mon Valley. “U.S. Steel was met with a united front of hardworking union men and women — a firewall of resistance that forced Nippon to raise their bid by billions and make one concession after another. “I’m always going to trust and follow the wisdom and the judgement of the union. My goal is their goal: to protect the union way of life and allow it to endure.” Senator Fetterman, who lives across the street from U.S. Steel’s Edgar Thomson plant in Braddock, has been outspoken on this issue since news broke of the proposed sale in December of 2023. Today, Fetterman filmed a video on his roof across from the plant, standing with USW in opposing the sale. | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T17:10:36Z |
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