Press releases
Data license: MIT · Data source: dwillis/congress-press
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465 rows where party = "Democrat", state = "MI" and year = 2023 sorted by date descending
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| url | title | date ▲ | year | month | party | chamber | state | member_name | bioguide_id | domain | scraper | source | date_source | text | has_text | collected_at | updated_at |
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| https://scholten.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-scholten-hosts-end-year-telephone-town-hall-more-5200-west-michiganders | Rep. Scholten Hosts End of Year Telephone Town Hall with More Than 5,200 West Michiganders | 2023-12-21 | 2023 | 2023-12 | Democrat | House | MI | Hillary J. Scholten | S001221 | scholten.house.gov | scholten | https://scholten.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – Last night, Rep. Hillary Scholten (MI-03) hosted a telephone town hall following the release of her inaugural end of year report. During the town hall, more than 5,200 West Michiganders tuned in to hear Rep. Scholten and her team’s legislative and casework achievements and receive an update on the pending immigration deal in the Senate and the ongoing Israel/Hamas war. “I couldn’t be more honored that West Michiganders trusted me to bring their voices to Congress. I’m so proud of everything my team and I have accomplished this year – from returning more than $7 million to West Michigan families from federal agencies to securing more than $12.3 million in investments to our community to introducing eight bipartisan bills – and we’re just getting started,” said Rep. Scholten. “I want to thank everyone who tuned in to hear our updates and ask incredibly important questions. I look forward to hosting many more town halls over the phone and in person in the coming year.” | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T01:14:16Z |
| https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/michigan-delegation-members-urge-air-force-to-select-selfridge-air-national-guard-base-for-kc-46-tankers | Michigan Delegation Members Urge Air Force to Select Selfridge Air National Guard Base for KC-46 Tankers | 2023-12-20 | 2023 | 2023-12 | Democrat | Senate | MI | Gary C. Peters | P000595 | www.peters.senate.gov | garypeters | https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senators Gary Peters (D-MI) and Debbie Stabenow (D-MI), Governor Gretchen Whitmer (D-MI), and U.S. Representatives John James (R-MI-10), Elissa Slotkin (D-MI-07), Debbie Dingell (D-MI-06), Lisa McClain (R-MI-09), Haley Stevens (D-MI-11), John Moolenaar (R-MI-02), Hillary Scholten (D-MI-03), Jack Bergman (R-MI-01), Dan Kildee (D-MI-08), Shri Thanedar (D-MI-13), Bill Huizenga (R-MI-4), and Tim Walberg (R-MI-05) are urging U.S. Air Force Secretary Frank Kendall to select Selfridge Air National Guard Base in Macomb County to host a new squadron of KC-46A refueling tankers. The letter to Secretary Kendall highlights Selfridge’s unique capability to host these tankers while reiterating the Michigan congressional delegation’s commitment to ensuring Selfridge is also selected to host a new, long-term fighter jet mission. This comes after the Air Force identified Selfridge as “an indispensable source of tanker capacity for our national security” in a letter to Peters and Stabenow in 2021. “The Michigan Congressional Delegation expresses our strong belief that Selfridge is the ideal location for a squadron of KC-46A refueling tankers and a recapitalization of the A-10 squadron into an advanced fighter,” the letter stated. “With this in mind, we urge the Air Force to base a squadron of twelve KC-46s at Selfridge in addition to a future replacement fighter mission due to its strong operational track record, exceptional personnel, and strategic location.” “We know Selfridge’s advantages, its exceptional operational track record, and the 127th Wing’s outstanding personnel make Selfridge an ideal candidate for a squadron of KC-46s and a future fighter mission,” the letter continued. “Our delegation and state are totally dedicated to fighting for Selfridge with Governor Whitmer’s proposed $100 million investment in base and runway improvements a tangible example of this commitment. We look forward to working closely with you and your office to ensure Michigan continues to be a value add to the Total Force… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T01:14:16Z |
| https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senate-unanimously-passes-senator-peters-bipartisan-legislation-to-help-combat-human-rights-abuses | Senate Unanimously Passes Senator Peters’ Bipartisan Legislation to Help Combat Human Rights Abuses | 2023-12-20 | 2023 | 2023-12 | Democrat | Senate | MI | Gary C. Peters | P000595 | www.peters.senate.gov | garypeters | https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON, DC – The U.S. Senate has unanimously passed U.S. Senator Gary Peters’ (MI) bipartisan legislation to help American businesses combat human rights abuses. Senator Peters’ Combating Human Rights Abuses Act – which he reintroduced with U.S. Senator Cynthia Lummis (R-WY) – would direct the U.S. Department of Commerce to help educate American exporters that are, or are considering, exporting goods in partnership with businesses in the People’s Republic of China where forced labor and significant human rights abuses have occurred. The bill would also direct the Commerce Department to offer guidance to exporters to help them avoid doing business with Chinese entities that may be implicated in forced labor or human rights violations. “Human rights abuses like those committed in China must be condemned,” said Senator Peters. “I’m proud the Senate has unanimously passed this bipartisan legislation to provide American businesses with the information and transparency they need to avoid business dealings with entities in China that may be involved in forced labor or other atrocities.” The legislation has earned the support of the Uyghur Human Rights Project and the American Federation of Labor and Congress of Industrial Organizations (AFL-CIO). “There is no room for half-measures to stop corporate complicity in the atrocity crimes against Uyghurs,” said Omer Kanat, Executive Director of the Uyghur Human Rights Project. “UHRP strongly endorses this Congressional action. It’s past time to end profits tied to entities that are using Uyghur forced labor, and tech companies that provide the 24-7 surveillance state enforcing the ongoing genocide of the Uyghur people.” The government of the People’s Republic of China has perpetrated egregious human rights abuses—including in Tibet and in the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region—against Uyghurs and other ethnic and religious minority groups. The Chinese government’s actions have encompassed mass detention in internment camps, the use of forced labor, cultural cleansing,… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T01:14:16Z |
| https://scholten.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-scholten-delivers-20m-grants-casework-west-michigan-first-year | Rep. Scholten Delivers $20M in Grants, Casework for West Michigan in First Year | 2023-12-19 | 2023 | 2023-12 | Democrat | House | MI | Hillary J. Scholten | S001221 | scholten.house.gov | scholten | https://scholten.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | Find the End of Year Report here. WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Rep. Hillary Scholten (MI-03) celebrated the end of her first year in Congress by releasing her inaugural end of year report and announcing over $20M in grants and federal dollars returning to the community. The report details Rep. Scholten and her team’s legislative and casework accomplishments, as well as her efforts to advocate for West Michigan in Washington, D.C. “Despite the chaos of Congress, I’ve stayed committed to my promise to West Michiganders – to provide steady, pragmatic leadership and work across the aisle to get things done for our community,” said Rep. Scholten. “That’s exactly what I’ve done over this last year – from introducing several bipartisan bills to hosting town halls in every county to returning millions of dollars to West Michigan families from federal agencies – and I’m just getting started. I’m so excited to release this inaugural report to share our incredible work with West Michiganders.” TOP HIGHLIGHTS: | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T01:14:16Z |
| https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senate-passes-peters-and-lankford-bipartisan-bill-to-save-taxpayer-dollars-by-reusing-excess-federal-property | Senate Passes Peters and Lankford Bipartisan Bill to Save Taxpayer Dollars by Reusing Excess Federal Property | 2023-12-19 | 2023 | 2023-12 | Democrat | Senate | MI | Gary C. Peters | P000595 | www.peters.senate.gov | garypeters | https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – The Senate has passed bipartisan legislation authored by U.S. Senators Gary Peters (D-MI), Chairman of the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, and James Lankford (R-OK) to hold agencies more accountable to the public on how they reuse excess personal property. Federally-owned personal property includes physical items such as office supplies, furniture, automobiles, and heavy machinery. The federal government is the largest purchaser of goods and services in the world, and this bill would ensure agencies are looking to excess property– available at no cost apart from any necessary transportation – before buying new products to save taxpayer dollars. “Federal agencies have a responsibility to taxpayers use dollars responsibly. When it comes to purchasing goods like office supplies, equipment, and vehicles, agencies should consider reusing excess goods rather than buying them new,” said Senator Peters. “My bipartisan legislation would hold the federal government more accountable by ensuring agencies consider goods that have already been purchased when looking for new personal property.” “This is not that hard. Use the stuff you already have before you buy more stuff. When federal agencies just buy more, before they use what we already have, it shows a lack of commitment to saving taxpayer dollars. The federal government is already the largest single buyer of goods and services in the world, so we need to prioritize good stewardship and effective use of property the government has already purchased,” said Senator Lankford. “From paper clips to automobiles, Oklahoma families and businesses make decisions every day about how to use what they have before spending more money. We should always look for ways for the federal government to save more money and waste less time.” The Reuse Excess Property Act would update existing requirements for agencies to report their excess personal property to the General Services Administration (GSA) by making those reports available to the public … | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T01:14:16Z |
| https://scholten.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-scholten-applauds-signing-bills-reduce-muskegon-heights-public-school-debt | Rep. Scholten Applauds Signing of Bills to Reduce Muskegon Heights Public School Debt, Expand Access to Clean Drinking Water | 2023-12-18 | 2023 | 2023-12 | Democrat | House | MI | Hillary J. Scholten | S001221 | scholten.house.gov | scholten | https://scholten.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | MUSKEGON, MI – Today, Rep. Hillary Scholten (MI-03) joined Governor Gretchen Whitmer and Michigan statehouse and community leaders to celebrate the signing of two state-level bills, House Bill 4292 and Senate Bill 174, to address critical clean drinking water needs in schools and child care centers, reduce public school debt, and invest in talent development. The legislation tackles some of Muskegon’s top needs that Congresswoman Scholten and others encouraged the governor and state legislature to address. Specifically, House Bill 4292 includes: $31.3 million to Muskegon Heights School District to pay off the school system’s debt; $30 million to Grand Valley State University for essential building renovations and additions; $16.8 million to Grand Rapids Community College for library renovations; $15 million for PFAS remediation near Muskegon Lake; $50 million for drinking water filtration in schools and child care centers in areas of need; Funding for Medical Debt Relief Pilot Program; substance use treatment center; mental and behavioral health access improvements. Senate Bill 174 includes: $35 million for school-based health centers; $10 million for upgraded student health data systems; Revisions to outdated standards and requirements including district funding matches for state-sponsored programs. “As a mom, I know how important it is that Michigan kids have access to the high-quality education and clean drinking water they deserve, and I couldn't be more excited to see these bills signed into law right here in West Michigan,” said Rep. Scholten. “These will have an incredible impact in Muskegon County and across our region. I am proud to have been part of talks in support of this legislation with the Governor and am happy to see everyone’s hard work come to fruition to create a brighter future for our kids.” | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T01:14:16Z |
| https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senate-unanimously-passes-senators-peters-and-stabenows-bipartisan-bicameral-legislation-to-settle-longstanding-land-claims-of-the-keweenaw-bay-indian-community-clear-title-of-current-landowners | Senate Unanimously Passes Senators Peters and Stabenow’s Bipartisan, Bicameral Legislation to Settle Longstanding Land Claims of the Keweenaw Bay Indian Community, Clear Title of Current Landowners | 2023-12-18 | 2023 | 2023-12 | Democrat | Senate | MI | Gary C. Peters | P000595 | www.peters.senate.gov | garypeters | https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON, DC – The U.S. Senate has unanimously passed bipartisan, bicameral legislation led by U.S. Senators Gary Peters (MI) and Debbie Stabenow (MI) to settle the longstanding land claims of the Keweenaw Bay Indian Community (KBIC) and clear the title of current landowners in the community. The KBIC was guaranteed occupancy over a large area of land established as the L’Anse Reservation through Treaties signed in 1842 and 1854. Despite those Treaties, thousands of acres of the reservation were taken by the federal government without compensation and awarded to the State of Michigan. Peters and Stabenow introduced the Keweenaw Bay Indian Community Land Claim Settlement Act of 2023 in coordination with the KBIC and state and local governments to address this longstanding issue. Representative Bergman (R-MI-01) has introduced companion legislation in the House of Representatives. “This bipartisan bill rightly settles the claims brought by the Keweenaw Bay Indian Community and provides legal clearance for local residents who currently own the property at issue,” said Senator Peters. “It’s time to right this wrong.” “Passage of this legislation resolving longstanding land claims is an important step forward. This bill is a long overdue solution,” said Senator Stabenow. “The Tribal Council and the whole Keweenaw Bay Indian Community are beyond overjoyed by the Senate’ unanimous passage yesterday of S. 195, the Keweenaw Bay Indian Community Land Claims Act. We have sought relief and compensation for generations for the unlawful taking of our lands. Thanks to Senator Peters and Senator Stabenow we finally feel heard,” said Keweenaw Bay Indian Community President Doreen Blaker. The Keweenaw Bay Indian Community’s land claims involve the dispossession of between approximately 1,333 and 2,720 acres of land transferred by the United States government to the State of Michigan as compensation for the construction of the Sault Ste. Marie Canal, as well as approximately 2,743 acres of swamplands. The KBIC asserts that as… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T01:14:16Z |
| https://stevens.house.gov/media/press-releases/third-stevens-bill-three-weeks-clears-house | Third Stevens Bill In Three Weeks Clears House | 2023-12-17 | 2023 | 2023-12 | Democrat | House | MI | Haley M. Stevens | S001215 | stevens.house.gov | stevens | https://stevens.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – This week, the U.S. Hostage and Wrongful Detainee Day Act introduced by Rep. Haley Stevens (D-MI), Co-Chair of the Congressional Task Force on American Hostages and Americans Wrongfully Detained Abroad, passed the House as part of the bipartisan National Defense Authorization Act. This is the third piece of legislation introduced by Rep. Stevens to pass the House in the same number of weeks. The bill which calls for the proclamation of March 9th as an annual observance of Hostage and Wrongful Detainee Day and the adoption of a purpose-designed flag to be flown in hostages honor, was co-sponsored by Rep. French Hill (R-AR), Co-Chair of the Congressional Task Force. The bill was also adopted by the Senate and is expected to be signed into law by President Joe Biden. “With the uptick in hostage taking as a tactic by bad actors and lawless states, we must continue to bring awareness to the plight of Americans who are captive abroad,” said Rep. Stevens (D-MI). “This legislation provides a means to ensure that every American wrongfully detained and their families know that Congress stands with them, and every American will stand with them in observance of national Hostage and Wrongful Detainee Day each March 9th. We won’t stop our support until every single hostage is home with their family.” “As more Americans are increasingly being wrongfully detained around the world, we must bring awareness to these Americans who are being held against their will,” said Rep. French Hill (R-AR). “Our bill demonstrates that Congress stands with wrongful detainees and their families, and that all Americans will stand in observance of National Hostage and Wrongful Detainee Day every year on March 9. We will continue to work diligently together until every wrongfully detained American is home safe and reunited with their families.” ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T01:14:16Z |
| https://scholten.house.gov/media/press-releases/statement-reps-kildee-scholten-new-reports-illegal-child-labor | Statement by Reps. Kildee, Scholten on New Reports of Illegal Child Labor | 2023-12-15 | 2023 | 2023-12 | Democrat | House | MI | Hillary J. Scholten | S001221 | scholten.house.gov | scholten | https://scholten.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON— Congressman Dan Kildee (MI-08) and Congresswoman Hillary Scholten (MI-03), co-chairs of the Child Labor Prevention Task Force, today issued the following statement after new reporting in the New York Times detailed systemic exploitation of children in the U.S. roofing industry: “The stories in this report are heartbreaking and unacceptable. We cannot continue to turn a blind eye to children suffering terrible injuries, or being killed, in dangerous jobs. “The current enforcement of our child labor laws, and penalties for breaking those laws, are failing to deter bad actors. Congress must do more to combat illegal child labor and pass new legislation to crack down on violations and hold employers accountable.” | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T01:14:16Z |
| https://thanedar.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-shri-thanedar-celebrates-the-inclusion-of-equitable-contracting-and-small-business-advancement-act-in-fy24-ndaa | Rep. Shri Thanedar Celebrates the Inclusion of "Equitable Contracting and Small Business Advancement Act" in FY24 NDAA | 2023-12-15 | 2023 | 2023-12 | Democrat | House | MI | Shri Thanedar | T000488 | thanedar.house.gov | thanedar | https://thanedar.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | Washington, DC - December 15, 2023 - Congressman Shri Thanedar (MI-13) proudly announces the successful inclusion of his bill, the "Equitable Contracting and Small Business Advancement Act," as an amendment in the Fiscal Year 2024 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). This landmark achievement underscores a significant stride towards fostering equity in defense contracting, particularly for small and disadvantaged businesses. "The inclusion of the 'Equitable Contracting and Small Business Advancement Act' in this year's NDAA is a victory for small businesses," said Congressman Thanedar. "It will help ensure that small businesses,the foundation of our communities, are given fair opportunities to participate in defense contracts, promoting a more inclusive and diverse industrial base." Key Highlights of the Amendment: Requires Mandatory Briefings: The Department of Defense (DoD) will provide Congress with annual briefings on the implementation of category management practices and their impact on small business contracting opportunities. Focus on Small Business Empowerment: Emphasis on enhancing contracting opportunities for small and disadvantaged businesses in the defense sector. Transparency and Accountability: Increased oversight and reporting on the success and challenges faced by small businesses in defense contracts. Promotion of Diversity and Inclusion: Ensuring the DoD's commitment to including a diverse range of small businesses in contracts, thereby fostering economic equality. "This is more than just a policy change; it's a meaningful step towards creating a more equitable and just economy," added Congressman Thanedar. "Our small businesses deserve every opportunity to succeed, and this amendment in the NDAA is a move in the right direction." The FY24 NDAA, with the inclusion of this amendment, demonstrates a strong effort to support the nation's defense while championing the cause of small businesses and economic diversity. Congressman Thanedar's leadership and dedication to this cause have… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T01:14:16Z |
| https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/photos-senator-peters-highlights-new-safety-equipment-to-prevent-flight-cancellations-at-cherry-capital-airport | PHOTOS: Senator Peters Highlights New Safety Equipment to Prevent Flight Cancellations at Cherry Capital Airport | 2023-12-15 | 2023 | 2023-12 | Democrat | Senate | MI | Gary C. Peters | P000595 | www.peters.senate.gov | garypeters | https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases | scraper | TRAVERSE CITY, MI – U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) – along with Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Regional Administrator Erik Amend, Cherry Capital Airport Director Kevin Klein and Cherry Capital Airport Authority Board Chair Steve Plamondon – participated in a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the new Instrument Landing System (ILS) at Cherry Capital Airport. The new ILS will help provide pilots with precise navigation guidance when approaching the runway in bad weather or low visibility, preventing hundreds of flight cancellations each year. Peters was instrumental in spurring the FAA to expedite approval of the ILS for Cherry Capital Airport to ensure the airport can continue to provide safe, reliable air service while supporting local tourism and economic development. “Bad weather and flight cancellations cause serious disruptions to travelers, especially at this time of year,” said Senator Peters. “I’m glad I was able to help expedite the approval of this new safety equipment to ensure that Cherry Capital Airport is as safe and efficient as possible for the nearly 700,000 passengers each year who use the airport.” “Cherry Capital Airport would like to thank Senator Peters and his outstanding staff for all the assistance with the Instrument Landing System for Runway 10,” said Director Klein. “With Senator Peters’ help we were able to navigate the many layers of policy and regulations to achieve this project for the safety and reliability of air service to Northern Michigan.” In addition to assisting on the ILS project, Peters fought for additional support for Cherry Capital Airport, as well other provisions to support air service across the state. Peters recently helped secure $5.2 million in federal funding through the bipartisan infrastructure law for the airport to replace five boarding bridges, which will improve its aircraft capabilities and competitiveness. Last year, Peters’ Preventing PFAS Runoff at Airports Act was signed into law, which provides funding to commercial airports to purchase devices nee… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T01:14:16Z |
| https://scholten.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-scholten-votes-raise-pay-servicemembers | Rep. Scholten Votes to Raise Pay for Servicemembers | 2023-12-14 | 2023 | 2023-12 | Democrat | House | MI | Hillary J. Scholten | S001221 | scholten.house.gov | scholten | https://scholten.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Rep. Hillary Scholten (MI-03) voted in favor of the bipartisan National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), which will raise pay for servicemembers by 5.2% and fund America’s national security priorities. Specifically, the FY2024 NDAA: Supports the 5.2% pay raise proposed in the President’s budget request; Expands eligibility for the Basic Needs Allowance (program that provides funds for food, housing, etc. for lowest paid; Makes significant investments in military family housing, child development centers, and replacing failing unaccompanied housing (barracks); Improves family leave eligibility for federal employees; Invests a record $150 million for HBCUs; Provides $650 million worth of investments in energy resilience and energy conservation projects. “I’m thrilled that the House came together in a bipartisan way to fund our national security priorities and give our troops a much deserved 5.2% pay raise, which is the least we can do for these heroes who work day in and day out to protect our country. Our bipartisan NDAA will also support military families by expanding access to childcare and safe base housing, which is a top priority of mine,” said Rep. Scholten.“I look forward to seeing this legislation signed into law as we continue our work to serve our nation’s military members and their families and defend our nation and its values at home and abroad.” Full bill text of the FY24 NDAA can be found here. | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T01:14:16Z |
| https://stevens.house.gov/media/press-releases/stevens-introduces-bill-keep-forever-chemicals-out-our-air | Stevens Introduces Bill to Keep Forever Chemicals Out of Our Air | 2023-12-14 | 2023 | 2023-12 | Democrat | House | MI | Haley M. Stevens | S001215 | stevens.house.gov | stevens | https://stevens.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | Today, Rep. Haley Stevens (D-MI) introduced the Prevent Release of Toxic Emissions, Contamination and Transfer (PROTECT) Act, which would direct the EPA to issue a final rule to add PFAS chemicals to the list of hazardous air pollutants and thus trigger the process for the EPA to set emission reduction standards for these dangerous chemicals. Rep. Debbie Dingell (D-MI), Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA), Rep. Rashida Tlaib (D-MI), and Rep. Bill Posey (R-FL) are original co-sponsors of the bill. “Forever chemicals are harmful to people and the planet,” said Rep. Haley Stevens (D-MI). “I’m proud to introduce the PROTECT Act to empower the EPA to implement emission reduction standards for forever chemicals. This is a vital step toward ensuring the air we breathe is clean and our environment is protected.” “PFAS are pervasive, man-made chemicals that pose an urgent threat to public health and our environment,” said Rep. Debbie Dingell (D-MI) And the number of contaminated sites is growing at an alarming rate throughout Michigan and across the country. I’m proud to be a partner on the bipartisan PROTECT Act—also included in the PFAS Action Act—which will finally address the threat of PFAS in the air we breathe by adding it to the list of hazardous chemicals under the Clean Air Act.” "All Americans have a right to clean air, free from hazardous and harmful chemical emissions," saidRep. Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA), co-chair of the Congressional PFAS Task Force. " Per- and polyfluoroalkyl contamination remains a serious public health and environmental threat to our communities in Bucks and Montgomery counties and others across the nation. Our bipartisan legislation would require these ‘forever chemicals’ to be properly designated and regulated under the Clean Air Act, ensuring that the next generation is protected from the damaging health effects of PFAS.” “Our communities can't wait,” said Rep. Rashida Tlaib (D-MI). “The federal government needs to act quickly to protect our communities from PFAS forever chemicals. The PRO… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T01:14:16Z |
| https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senate-unanimously-passes-senator-peters-bipartisan-legislation-to-strengthen-domestic-semiconductor-manufacturing | Senate Unanimously Passes Senator Peters’ Bipartisan Legislation to Strengthen Domestic Semiconductor Manufacturing | 2023-12-14 | 2023 | 2023-12 | Democrat | Senate | MI | Gary C. Peters | P000595 | www.peters.senate.gov | garypeters | https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON, DC – The U.S. Senate has unanimously passed U.S. Senator Gary Peters’ (MI) bipartisan legislation to strengthen federal efforts to expand domestic manufacturing of semiconductor chips. Peters’ Securing Semiconductor Supply Chains Act – which he reintroduced with U.S. Senators Rick Scott (R-FL), Marsha Blackburn (R-TN), and Jon Tester (D-MT) – would direct the U.S. Department of Commerce’s SelectUSA program, in collaboration with other federal agencies and state economic development organizations, to develop strategies that would attract investment in U.S. semiconductor manufacturers and supply chains. Peters’ bill – which was approved by the Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee in May – would help address the ongoing global shortage of semiconductor technologies that has disrupted a range of industries in recent years including manufacturers and automakers in Michigan. Companion legislation led by Representatives Greg Pence (R-IN) and Anna Eshoo (D-CA) was passed by the U.S. House of Representatives in July. “In order to remain a global economic powerhouse in the 21st century, we must continue to build on the investments we made in the CHIPS and Science Act to boost U.S. production of semiconductor chips, which we know will dictate the future of technology and innovation,” said Senator Peters, a member of the Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee.“My bipartisan bill would do just that by strengthening our efforts to attract investment in American semiconductor manufacturers as well as their suppliers, reducing our dependence on foreign producers for these critical technologies and creating good-paying jobs here at home.” “We are grateful to Senator Peters and his colleagues for serving as catalysts in a bipartisan commitment to bet on American workers. Michigan has worked tirelessly over the last two years to enhance our competitiveness in the semiconductor industry: We signed an MOU to establish a global semiconductor center of excellence (M-STAR); provided the la… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T01:14:16Z |
| https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/peters-and-cornyn-introduce-bill-to-protect-americans-from-weapons-of-mass-destruction | Peters & Cornyn Introduce Bill to Protect Americans from Weapons of Mass Destruction | 2023-12-13 | 2023 | 2023-12 | Democrat | Senate | MI | Gary C. Peters | P000595 | www.peters.senate.gov | garypeters | https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Gary Peters (D-MI), Chairman of the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, and John Cornyn (R-TX), introduced bipartisan legislation to prevent a critical national security office that protects Americans from threats posed by weapons of mass destruction from being forced to close its doors. The authorization for the Countering Weapons of Mass Destruction (CWMD) Office at the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is set to expire early next year unless quick action is taken. Peters and Cornyn’s Countering Weapons of Mass Destruction Extension Act of 2023 would ensure that the federal government can continue its work to defend against threats from weapons of mass destruction – which include chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear weapons. The bill provides stability for the office by extending the authority to conduct its national security missions for two more years. “Weapons of mass destruction, including chemical and radiological weapons, could have catastrophic effects if used in an attack on the United States. These threats are continuing to grow, and we must ensure that the Department of Homeland Security can continue its crucial work to address these serious risks uninterrupted,” said Senator Peters. “I will continue working along with Senator Cornyn to pass additional legislation to ensure the federal government can effectively address these complex and dangerous threats. But there is simply too much at risk if this office is forced to stop operations, and I urge my colleagues to quickly pass this short-term extension to protect our national security.” “While new technology has improved our lives in countless ways, it has also opened the door for bad actors to harm our country,” said Senator Cornyn. “The Countering Weapons of Mass Destruction Office was created to prevent chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear materials from falling into the wrong hands, and this legislation would make sure it can continue protecting Americans from weapons o… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T01:14:16Z |
| https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senate-passes-national-defense-bill-with-senator-peters-provisions-and-michigan-priorities | Senate Passes National Defense Bill with Senator Peters’ Provisions and Michigan Priorities | 2023-12-13 | 2023 | 2023-12 | Democrat | Senate | MI | Gary C. Peters | P000595 | www.peters.senate.gov | garypeters | https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON, DC – The U.S. Senate has passed the government’s annual defense authorization bill, which includes key provisions and Michigan priorities secured by U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI). Peters, who is a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, successfully led and supported multiple provisions in the bill – including to invest in Michigan’s military facilities, combat aggression by adversaries like the Chinese and Russian governments, advance PFAS removal efforts, and give servicemembers a pay raise. “Strong defense capabilities are key for our national security and the security of our allies, and this bipartisan legislation will help ensure the U.S. military remains the strongest in the world,” said Senator Peters, a former Lieutenant Commander in the U.S. Navy Reserve. “It authorizes key investments in Michigan’s military facilities that will contribute to our state’s continued role as a critical component of our national defense. Looking ahead, I will continue to do everything possible to secure the future of Selfridge Air National Guard Base and Michigan’s many other defense installations, and to continue to increase our state’s defense footprint.” The annual National Defense Authorization Act sets the Department of Defense’s budget and policy priorities for the coming year. The Senate and the House of Representatives previously passed their own versions of the legislation. Leaders in both chambers then negotiated and came to an agreement on the legislation that passed the Senate today. Once the House passes the bill, it will head to the President’s desk to be signed into law. Investing in Michigan’s Military Facilities: $72 Million for a Ground Transport Equipment Building at the Detroit Arsenal: Peters secured an authorization of $72 million toward the construction of a new research and development laboratory to support the arsenal’s advanced tactical and combat system mission functions. He also secured an authorization for $2.4 million for the planning and design of a new tactical vehicle l… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T01:14:16Z |
| https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senator-peters-bipartisan-provision-to-expand-access-to-opioid-addiction-treatment-for-adolescents-advances-in-senate | Senator Peters’ Bipartisan Provision to Expand Access to Opioid Addiction Treatment for Adolescents Advances in Senate | 2023-12-12 | 2023 | 2023-12 | Democrat | Senate | MI | Gary C. Peters | P000595 | www.peters.senate.gov | garypeters | https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON, DC – A bipartisan provision led by U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) to expand access to opioid addiction treatment for adolescents has advanced in the Senate as part of the SUPPORT for Patients and Communities Reauthorization Act. The bipartisan SUPPORT for Patient Reauthorization Act would reauthorize federal funding for numerous opioid prevention, education, coverage, and treatment programs to help address the ongoing opioid epidemic that has devastated communities in Michigan and across the country. Peters’ provision in the SUPPORT Act – based off his Youth Prevention and Recovery Reauthorization Act – would reauthorize funding specifically for the Youth Prevention and Recovery Initiative. Peters established this initiative through legislation he authored into law in 2018 to make an existing substance abuse treatment program available for young adults. Peters’ provision would ensure this critical resource remains available to adolescents, families, care providers, and communities. The SUPPORT for Patients Reauthorization Act was approved by the Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions Committee and now moves to the full Senate for consideration. According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMSHA), more than 695,000 American adolescents used opioids for nonmedical reasons in 2018, up by more than 400,000 since the last study was conducted in 2015. In December 2022, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) reported that monthly drug overdose deaths nearly tripled among adolescents age 10 to 19 years during the first 2 years of the COVID-19 pandemic. In Michigan, deaths from opioid overdoses have increased roughly 18 times from 1999 – 2021, when there were more than 2,800 overdose deaths. “Opioid addiction has devastated far too many families and communities throughout our state and country. To address this epidemic, we must make sure people have access to the kind of treatment they need to get better, especially our young people who have their whole lives ahead of the… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T01:14:16Z |
| https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senators-peters-and-stabenow-applaud-federal-funding-to-improve-safety-on-michigan-roadways | Senators Peters & Stabenow Applaud Federal Funding to Improve Safety on Michigan Roadways | 2023-12-12 | 2023 | 2023-12 | Democrat | Senate | MI | Gary C. Peters | P000595 | www.peters.senate.gov | garypeters | https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Senators Gary Peters (MI) and Debbie Stabenow (MI) applauded several federal investments coming to Michigan communities through the U.S. Department of Transportation’s (DOT) Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) grant program, which funds local and regional road safety projects that will help prevent roadway deaths and serious injuries. Funding for this program is made possible through the bipartisan infrastructure law that the senators helped enact. “It’s important that Michiganders feel safe when using our roadways, regardless of whether they are driving a car, riding a bike or walking,” said Senator Peters. “These federal investments will help our communities take the necessary steps to address safety concerns and ensure our roadways are as safe as possible.” “This investment will give our local communities the tools they need to keep Michigan pedestrians, cyclists, and drivers safe. Roadway deaths are all too common, and this is an important step to improve some of the most dangerous streets in our state,” said Senator Stabenow. Americans are currently enduring a safety crisis on our roads. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) estimated that 42,915 people died in motor vehicle traffic crashes in 2021, the highest number of fatalities since 2005 and the largest annual percentage increase ever recorded. Preliminary statistics from 2022 continue to indicate elevated rates of roadway fatalities. The SS4A program will help reverse this trend by supporting the development of comprehensive safety action plans, which help identify and address the most significant roadway safety concerns in a community. Once a comprehensive safety action plan is in place, a community is eligible to apply for additional grant funding to demonstrate or implement strategies defined in its action plan. The communities and entities listed below are receiving funding for demonstration and implementation activities related to an action plan: The City of Dearborn is receiving $24,894,430 to i… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T01:14:16Z |
| https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/peters-introduces-bill-to-protect-american-genetic-data-from-foreign-adversaries | Peters Introduces Bill to Protect American Genetic Data From Foreign Adversaries | 2023-12-11 | 2023 | 2023-12 | Democrat | Senate | MI | Gary C. Peters | P000595 | www.peters.senate.gov | garypeters | https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Gary Peters (D-MI), Chairman of the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, introduced legislation to combat the ability of foreign adversaries to steal American genetic data and personal health information. The bill would prevent biotechnology companies, such as the BGI Group (BGI), that have significant ties to foreign adversaries, such as the Chinese Communist Party, from accessing American genetic data and personal health information by creating a comprehensive process to identify companies with business practices that pose a threat to U.S. national security. The bill would also ban companies that are identified as national security risks from receiving taxpayer dollars through federal government contracts. “Every day, Americans get blood drawn or take other medical tests to protect their health, but few people know exactly who might have access to the DNA information contained in those samples. As the biotechnology sector becomes more prominent in everyday life, the threats posed by biotech companies controlled by adversaries, like the Chinese government, loom larger.” said Senator Peters. “My bill will protect Americans’ personal health and genetic information from foreign adversaries who have the ability and motivation to undermine our national security.” Biotechnology is a rapidly expanding field with many beneficial applications, including promoting human health, improving agricultural production, and spurring industrial innovation. U.S. academic institutions and companies have accelerated investments in biotechnology to advance American science and maintain America’s economic edge in this highly competitive and complex field. However, biological data, such as DNA sequences, can be exploited for military purposes, used to invade privacy, and violate human rights. The U.S. intelligence community has cited the Chinese Communist Party’s concerted efforts to acquire human genetic and related data through biotechnology companies such as the BGI Group (BGI) as a … | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T01:14:16Z |
| https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senators-peters-and-stabenow-announce-federal-investment-to-expand-passenger-rail-service-in-michigan | Senators Peters & Stabenow Announce Federal Investment to Expand Passenger Rail Service in Michigan | 2023-12-08 | 2023 | 2023-12 | Democrat | Senate | MI | Gary C. Peters | P000595 | www.peters.senate.gov | garypeters | https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Senators Gary Peters (MI) and Debbie Stabenow (MI) announced that the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) is receiving federal funding to plan for the development of three intercity rail corridors across Michigan – including new cross-border service to Ontario, Canada. This investment will expand accessible and affordable transportation service between key urban and rural communities throughout the state. The grant funding is made available through the Federal Railroad Administration’s (FRA) Corridor Identification and Development (Corridor ID) Program, which was established by the bipartisan infrastructure law the Senators helped enact. “By investing in development of new and improved passenger rail service, we have an opportunity to transform how Michiganders travel across our state and region,” said Senator Peters. “I advocated for each of these MDOT projects because this funding will make rail transportation a more available and reliable option for travelers while spurring economic development.” “This investment will improve the reliability of our passenger trains so that people can count on more convenient schedules and trains that run on time. This is another investment in our state’s infrastructure that is long overdue that was made possible by our passage of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act,” said Senator Stabenow. “These grants will help the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) develop and update the service development plans for the Amtrak Pere Marquette, Blue Water, and Wolverine routes and collaborate with the Ohio Rail Development Commission on the Detroit-Toledo-Cleveland corridor,” said MDOT Director Bradley C. Wieferich. “We appreciate the work of our federal partners in Congress and the Federal Rail Administration in providing funds to help us identify areas in these rail corridors where we can make investments to improve reliability and reduce bottlenecks.” Each grantee selected by the FRA receives a $500,000 investment to initiate planning … | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T01:14:16Z |
| https://scholten.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-scholten-announces-90k-americorps-funding-support-west-michigan | Rep. Scholten Announces $90k in AmeriCorps Funding to Support West Michigan Organizations | 2023-12-06 | 2023 | 2023-12 | Democrat | House | MI | Hillary J. Scholten | S001221 | scholten.house.gov | scholten | https://scholten.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Rep. Hillary Scholten (MI-03) announced $99,360 in funding through AmeriCorps, the agency for service and volunteering, for the development of new AmeriCorps VISTA projects in West Michigan. “Service is central to who we are as West Michiganders, and every day, the Greater Grand Rapids NAACP and HOAP work to improve the lives of our friends and neighbors,”said Rep. Scholten. “These much-needed funds will be essential to their work to create a better West Michigan for all, especially those who have been ignored for far too long. I look forward to seeing the change this funding will bring to our community.” The AmeriCorps VISTA program sends corps members to local organizations across the country to work on anti-poverty projects and expand their organization's capacity. Each corps member serves for one year. | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T01:14:16Z |
| https://stevens.house.gov/media/press-releases/second-stevens-bill-two-weeks-sails-through-house-demonstrating-commitment | Second Stevens Bill in Two Weeks Sails through House Demonstrating Commitment to Nation’s Research Agenda | 2023-12-06 | 2023 | 2023-12 | Democrat | House | MI | Haley M. Stevens | S001215 | stevens.house.gov | stevens | https://stevens.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – This week, the U.S. House of Representatives passed on suspension the DOE and NSF Interagency Research Act (H.R. 2980) led by Congresswoman Haley Stevens (D-MI), Ranking Member of the Research and Technology Subcommittee on the House Science, Space, and Technology Committee. Co-led by Congressman Jim Baird (R-IN), the bill authorizes critical collaborative research between the Department of Energy and National Science Foundation on issues including quantum computing, foundational research, advanced manufacturing, and STEM education. This is the second time in as many weeks that bipartisan legislation introduced by Congresswoman Stevens has passed the House. “DOE and NSF represent some of our nation’s most cutting-edge research activities supporting the innovation that we require to solve our most pressing issues and remain competitive on the world stage,” said Ranking Member Stevens. “The work of these two agencies is critical to developing the solutions needed to our nation’s most pressing issues. The CHIPS and Science Act, that I helped author along with my Science Committee colleagues, strengthens DOE and NSF, and aims to set them up for success in the coming years. To ensure that we are maximizing the impact of that historic bill, we must promote cross-cutting interagency research activities—this bill will do just that. I was proud to join in leading this bill with my colleague Representative Jim Baird and I look forward to seeing this effort to the finish line.” “Operating in a silo is never the best practice, especially when conducting scientific research,” said Congressman Baird. “I’m pleased the House is prioritizing interagency cooperation at the Department of Energy and the National Science Foundation by passing my legislation directing them to coordinate regularly and share their findings. I’d like to thank Congresswoman Stevens for her support in passing this bill, and I urge the Senate to take up this legislation without delay.” Congresswoman Stevens serves as the Ranking Membe… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T01:14:16Z |
| https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/peters-stabenow-urge-senate-appropriators-to-include-funding-for-f-15ex-fighter-jets-at-selfridge-in-defense-appropriations-bill | Peters, Stabenow Urge Senate Appropriators to Include Funding for F-15EX Fighter Jets at Selfridge in Defense Appropriations Bill | 2023-12-06 | 2023 | 2023-12 | Democrat | Senate | MI | Gary C. Peters | P000595 | www.peters.senate.gov | garypeters | https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senators Gary Peters (MI) and Debbie Stabenow (MI) urged the U.S. Senate Committee on Appropriations to include funding in the 2024 defense appropriation bill for additional fighter aircraft such as the F-15EX at Selfridge Air National Guard Base. The Senators also advocated for continued funding for Exercise Northern Strike and the modernization of Army National Guard facilities to ensure equitable access for female servicemembers. In a letter to U.S. Senate Appropriations Committee Chairwoman Patty Murray and Vice Chair Susan Collins, Peters and Stabenow highlighted how crucial this funding is for defense priorities that are important to Michigan’s military installations and our country. “We strongly urge you to increase funding for the advanced procurement of additional fighter aircraft such as the F-15EX for Fiscal Year 2024. Bases around the country, including Selfridge Air National Guard Base, are set to see their aging fighter aircraft divested in the coming years. We must take action now to recapitalize bases like Selfridge, which is uniquely positioned to host a new, long-term fighter mission,” the Senators wrote. For years, Peters and Stabenow have led the effort to secure long-term investments for Michigan’s military installations, including Selfridge. This letter builds on these efforts. The full text of the letter is available here and below: Dear Chairwoman Murray and Vice Chair Collins: As the House and Senate work towards passing the Fiscal Year 2024 defense appropriations bills, we urge you to fund the following defense priorities that are important to Michigan’s military installations and our country. We strongly urge you to increase funding for the advanced procurement of additional fighter aircraft such as the F-15EX for Fiscal Year 2024. Bases around the country, including Selfridge Air National Guard Base, are set to see their aging fighter aircraft divested in the coming years. We must take action now to recapitalize bases like Selfridge, which is uniquely posit… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T01:14:16Z |
| https://thanedar.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-shri-thanedar-introduces-the-digital-literacy-and-equity-commission-bill-to-enhance-digital-competence | Rep. Shri Thanedar Introduces the "Digital Literacy and Equity Commission" Bill to Enhance Digital Competence | 2023-12-05 | 2023 | 2023-12 | Democrat | House | MI | Shri Thanedar | T000488 | thanedar.house.gov | thanedar | https://thanedar.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | Washington, DC - December 5, 2023 - Congressman Shri Thanedar (MI-13) has introduced a new bill, the "Digital Literacy and Equity Commission," aimed at enhancing digital literacy and addressing digital inequity across the United States. Without internet access, many students are falling behind due to online learning or an inability to complete schoolwork, known as the “homework gap”. "The 'Digital Literacy and Equity Commission' Bill is a crucial step to improve digital literacy and bridge the digital divide in our nation," said Congressman Thanedar. "This initiative focuses on equipping all Americans with the necessary digital skills for today's world." Key Aspects of the Bill: Establishment of the Commission: A new commission to study and promote digital literacy. Comprehensive Analysis: Examining the state of digital literacy, particularly in low-income and disadvantaged areas. International Comparison: Reviewing digital literacy programs from around the world to identify best practices. Strategic Development: Formulating recommendations to enhance digital literacy in the United States. "This bill addresses the need to ensure that every citizen has access to essential digital skills," Congressman Thanedar noted. "It's about leveling the playing field in the digital age. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T01:14:16Z |
| https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/peters-presses-for-transparency-on-potential-impacts-of-postal-services-network-plan | Peters Presses for Transparency on Potential Impacts of Postal Service’s Network Plan | 2023-12-05 | 2023 | 2023-12 | Democrat | Senate | MI | Gary C. Peters | P000595 | www.peters.senate.gov | garypeters | https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON, DC– U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI), Chairman of the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, is pressing the United States Postal Service (USPS) to provide transparency on the potential impacts of its Network Plan on delivery service and communities. In a letter, Peters requested details and analyses of the full scope and associated impacts of the Postal Service’s plans, which include changes to some facilities. Peters raised concerns about the pace of these changes, and called on the Postal Service to provide full transparency on its long-term plans to ensure that any changes will not harm delivery service. Peters also urged the Postal Service to fully cooperate with ongoing, independent oversight efforts by the Postal Regulatory Commission (PRC) and USPS Office of Inspector General. “In line with the Postal Service’s mission of reliably serving every community, it is essential to ensure full transparency about these plans and ensure any changes will not adversely impact service,” wrote Senator Peters. “It is essential that USPS study and disclose details about the impacts of any changes, including impacts on service. I urge the Postal Service to fully study the impacts of early facility changes before moving forward with plans.” Peters has championed efforts to protect the Postal Service and its 250-year tradition of delivery service to all Americans. Peters authored and led passage of a historic, bipartisan law to set the Postal Service on a more sustainable financial footing and support the goal of providing long-term reliable service across the country. The law made the first major reforms to the Postal Service in more than 15 years, including requiring six-day delivery. The text of the letter is copied below and available here. Dear Postmaster General DeJoy, I write to request details about the U.S. Postal Service’s (USPS) planned and ongoing implementation of changes to its network, including additional information on the scope of these plans and their associated impacts. I urg… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T01:14:16Z |
| https://thanedar.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-thanedar-honors-the-legacy-of-mayor-coleman-a-young-on-the-26th-anniversary-of-his-passing | Rep. Thanedar Honors the Legacy of Mayor Coleman A. Young on the 26th Anniversary of His Passing | 2023-11-29 | 2023 | 2023-11 | Democrat | House | MI | Shri Thanedar | T000488 | thanedar.house.gov | thanedar | https://thanedar.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | Washington, DC - November 29, 2023 - Today, Congressman Shri Thanedar, representing Michigan's 13th Congressional District, made the following statement in the House of Representatives commemoration of the 26th anniversary of the passing of Mayor Coleman A. Young, Detroit's longest-serving and first African-American mayor: “I rise today to honor the memory of the longest serving mayor of the city I so proudly represent, Mayor Coleman A. Young, on the 26th anniversary of his passing. “Born in the throes of segregation in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, Mayor Young rose from the humble beginnings of the Great Migration to become a beacon of hope and a pillar of strength for the city of Detroit. His journey was marked not just by the offices he held, but by the indomitable spirit he embodied – a spirit that challenged inequality, fought for justice, and tirelessly sought to uplift every resident of Detroit. “As Detroit's first African-American mayor, he broke barriers and built bridges. He led our city through times of challenge and change, always with an unwavering vision for a more inclusive and prosperous Detroit. His efforts to integrate the Detroit Police Department and to fight excessive use of force were not just administrative actions, but bold steps towards healing and unity. His advocacy for affirmative action and his dedication to economic development were testament to his belief in a Detroit that offered opportunity for all. Under his leadership, Detroit saw the rise of vital infrastructure and community projects, laying the groundwork for the city's future. “As we reflect on Mayor Young's legacy, let us remember his courage, his unwavering commitment to civil rights, and his enduring love for Detroit. His life’s work reminds us of the power of resilience, the importance of visionary leadership, and the unyielding pursuit of equality. Mayor Young's legacy is not confined to the past; it is a guiding light for our future, motivating us to continue building a city that is as strong, as vibrant, and as inclusive a… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T01:01:09Z |
| https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senators-peters-and-stabenow-announce-10-million-in-additional-federal-funding-for-new-beaver-island-ferry | Senators Peters & Stabenow Announce $10 Million in Additional Federal Funding for New Beaver Island Ferry | 2023-11-29 | 2023 | 2023-11 | Democrat | Senate | MI | Gary C. Peters | P000595 | www.peters.senate.gov | garypeters | https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Senators Gary Peters (MI) and Debbie Stabenow (MI) announced that the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) has been awarded $10,000,000 in federal funding to help construct a new passenger ferry to improve transportation between Charlevoix and Beaver Island. The grant funding is made available through the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Ferry Service for Rural Communities Program, which was established by the bipartisan infrastructure law that the Senators helped enact. “All year long, residents and tourists rely on ferry service for transportation to and from Beaver Island,” said Senator Peters, a member of the Senate Commerce Committee. “I advocated for this grant funding, which will make transportation of both people and freight to Beaver Island more efficient while supporting the Island’s economy.” “Beaver Island is one of Michigan’s most unique communities,” said Senator Stabenow. “I advocated strongly for this project and understand what a vital service this is for residents and the local economy.” “Water transportation is essential for the residents and economy, carrying passengers, vehicles, and freight to and from the Island,” said Mary Cook, Executive Director of the Beaver Island Transportation Authority. “Senator Peters and Senator Stabenow have taken an interest in the unique transportation needs of our community and understand the importance of the ferry system for the Island. We are extremely grateful to them for doing so and thankful for their support of our grant applications for these projects.” Two ferries currently service Beaver Island, one of which is more than 60-years-old. A replacement vessel was designed in 2012, but did not have the funding to move forward. Using this DOT investment, along with a $6,628,285 grant the Senators helped secure in January, planning can now move forward for construction of an efficient, reliable, and environmentally-friendly ferry. The Beaver Island Transportation Authority is currently conducting a propulsion study to … | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T01:01:09Z |
| https://scholten.house.gov/media/press-releases/two-scholten-backed-bills-support-small-businesses-pass-house | Two Scholten-Backed Bills to Support Small Businesses Pass House | 2023-11-28 | 2023 | 2023-11 | Democrat | House | MI | Hillary J. Scholten | S001221 | scholten.house.gov | scholten | https://scholten.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | WATCH: Rep. Scholten speaks on the House Floor in support of her two bills. WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, two bills co-lead by Rep. Hillary Scholten (MI-03) through the House Small Business Committee passed the House of Representatives – the POST It Act and the Small Business Contracting Transparency Act. “Small businesses are the heartbeat of West Michigan and the entire country, and these bills are essential to helping small businesses thrive. I’d like to thank my colleagues for coming together in a bipartisan way to get these bills over the finish line,”said Rep. Scholten. “As a member of the Small Business Committee, I’ll keep fighting to make sure that small businesses have the resources they need to succeed.” The POST It Act would help small businesses stay in compliance with federal regulations by making compliance information from federal agencies easier to locate and understand. Rep. Scholten served as the Democratic co-lead of the bill and helped usher the legislation through the Small Business Committee. The Small Business Contracting Transparency Act would help women-owned, veteran-owned, and HUBZone-located small businesses compete in the federal contracting marketplace, by enhancing great transparency in contract deals. Federal contracting has been historically dominated by large corporations, but contracting with small businesses has major advantages for quality and security. | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T01:01:09Z |
| https://stevens.house.gov/media/press-releases/congresswoman-stevens-d-mi-resolution-condemning-hostage-taking-hamas-passes | Congresswoman Stevens (D-MI) Resolution Condemning Hostage Taking by Hamas Passes U.S. House Unanimously | 2023-11-28 | 2023 | 2023-11 | Democrat | House | MI | Haley M. Stevens | S001215 | stevens.house.gov | stevens | https://stevens.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, the U.S. House of Representatives unanimously adopted a resolution introduced by Rep. Haley Stevens (D-MI), Co-Chair of the Congressional Hostage Task Force, demanding the immediate release of all innocents held hostage by Hamas in the wake of the brutal October 7th terrorist attack on Israel. Co-sponsored by Rep. French Hill (R-AR) Co-Chair of the Congressional Hostage Task Force, this bipartisan resolution passed 414-0 “For 52 days more than 200 people have been held in tunnels, without medical care or sufficient food. For 52 days, their families have been waiting with bated breath to learn the fate of their loved ones – tiny babies, parents, elderly people,” said Rep. Haley Stevens. “It is inhumane, immoral, and a violation of humanitarian law. Recent releases of hostages are a positive step, but it is not enough. After weeks of working with the families of hostages, I’m heartened that every single one of my colleagues voted to support this resolution this evening, and that all my colleagues joined me in condemning the actions of Hamas and calling for the immediate release of ALL innocent civilians held, including nine Americans. I will not stop until each and every hostage is safely returned.” “Holding innocent civilians hostage is immoral,” said Rep. French Hill. “While Hamas releasing some of the hostages last week was a step in the right direction, it is not enough until all those held against their will by this savage terrorist group are released from captivity. I am proud that my resolution with Rep. Haley Stevens passed the House tonight, further demonstrating our steadfast commitment to bringing all those held hostage by Hamas home safely.” Complete text of the resolution can be found here. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T01:01:09Z |
| https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/peters-statement-on-agreement-to-release-hostages-from-gaza | Peters Statement on Agreement to Release Hostages from Gaza | 2023-11-22 | 2023 | 2023-11 | Democrat | Senate | MI | Gary C. Peters | P000595 | www.peters.senate.gov | garypeters | https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases | scraper | DETROIT, MI – U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) released the following statement on the agreement reached to release 50 hostages held by Hamas and allow humanitarian aid to reach innocent civilians: “This agreement to release 50 women and children who have been held hostage by Hamas since their brutal attack on October 7th is welcome news. I appreciate the Biden Administration’s efforts to work with our international partners to broker this agreement, which will also allow additional humanitarian aid to reach innocent families in Gaza who have been dragged into this crisis by Hamas’s actions. “As the parties work to see this deal through, the United States and our international partners must continue working to secure the safe release of all the remaining hostages and protect innocent civilians. Finally, Israel must have the steadfast support of the United States – including additional aid – as it works to eliminate Hamas, end their deadly campaign and prevent this conflict from expanding.” | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T01:01:09Z |
| https://scholten.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-scholten-hosts-small-business-saturday-preview | Rep. Scholten Hosts Small Business Saturday Preview | 2023-11-21 | 2023 | 2023-11 | Democrat | House | MI | Hillary J. Scholten | S001221 | scholten.house.gov | scholten | https://scholten.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | View a reply of the press conference here. GRAND RAPIDS, MI – Today, Rep. Hillary Scholten (MI-03), member of the House Small Business Committee, joined The Arts Marketplace leadership and small business owners to highlight the importance of supporting small businesses ahead of Small Business Saturday. “Small businesses are the economic engine of West Michigan. When you shop small, you’re not just getting an incredible homemade gift or service– your dollars are being invested right back into your own community,” said Rep. Scholten. “It was an honor to join small business leaders this afternoon to talk about how important it is to shop small ahead of the holiday season.” "Shopping small isn't just a purchase, it's an investment in your community. At Wear Your Curls, we believe that every small purchase adds up to big changes – changes that strengthen our local economies and bring us closer as a community. This Small Business Saturday, let's celebrate the power of small businesses to bring us together and make our neighborhoods thrive," said Felisha Rodriguez, CEO of Wear Your Curls. "Our mission is not only to fill a need downtown for retail space, but to do so in a way that fosters inclusion and belonging in our community with women and minority-owned businesses... every dollar that gets spent here goes right back to our makers which helps our local community and makes a big impact,"said Jamie Dionne, Board President of The Arts Marketplace. “Currently, we are hosting 65 different small businesses within our store – things ranging from jewelry, to books, to candles, home goods, greeting cards, clothing, and different beauty products as well. We are always looking to grow our community of vendors here,” said Kelcey Edwards, General Manager of The Arts Marketplace. | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T01:01:09Z |
| https://scholten.house.gov/media/press-releases/scholten-statement-deal-release-hamas-held-hostages | Scholten Statement on Deal to Release Hamas-Held Hostages | 2023-11-21 | 2023 | 2023-11 | Democrat | House | MI | Hillary J. Scholten | S001221 | scholten.house.gov | scholten | https://scholten.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | GRAND RAPIDS, MI – Rep. Hillary Scholten (MI-03) issued the below statement after a vote by the Israeli cabinet approving a deal to release Hamas-held hostages: “It’s with tempered relief that we receive the news of a deal to release hostages that were held for too long by Hamas and take the first step to de-escalation in this conflict. I’d like to thank the Biden Administration for working tirelessly on this issue and for heeding calls from me and my colleagues to take action and return the hostages home as soon as possible and turn towards peace. While this is an encouraging development in the conflict, it will never take away from the horror these victims experienced or replace the innocent lives lost since the terrorist attacks on October 7th. One thing is clear: Hamas must go. | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T01:01:09Z |
| https://thanedar.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-shri-thanedar-introduces-the-health-disparity-zones-act-of-2023-to-combat-health-inequities | Rep. Shri Thanedar Introduces the Health Disparity Zones Act of 2023 to Combat Health Inequities | 2023-11-21 | 2023 | 2023-11 | Democrat | House | MI | Shri Thanedar | T000488 | thanedar.house.gov | thanedar | https://thanedar.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | Washington, DC - November 21, 2023 - Today, Congressman Shri Thanedar (MI-13) introduced the "Health Disparity Zones Act of 2023." This legislation aims to address and reduce the significant health disparities present in underserved and disadvantaged areas across the United States by establishing Health Disparity Zones. "The Health Disparity Zones Act is a crucial step towards bridging the gap in healthcare inequities that plague our nation," said Congressman Thanedar. "By identifying and supporting these zones, we can target resources effectively to those communities most in need." Key elements of the Health Disparity Zones Act include: Designation of Health Disparity Zones: Areas with documented health disparities and poor health outcomes will be designated as Health Disparity Zones. Comprehensive Support: The Act proposes tax incentives, grants, and a student loan repayment program to attract and retain healthcare professionals in these zones. Increased Medicare Payments: A 10-percent increase in Medicare Part B payment rates for services in Health Disparity Zones. Collaborative Approach: Involving community-based organizations, healthcare providers, and local governments in the development of effective health strategies. "This legislation is about recognizing and actively addressing the unequal health challenges faced by different communities," Congressman Thanedar emphasized. "Healthcare is a right, not a privilege, and this Act takes significant steps towards making that a reality for all Americans." The Act also mandates annual reporting to Congress, ensuring transparency and accountability in its implementation. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T01:01:09Z |
| https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senators-peters-introduces-bipartisan-legislation-to-strengthen-commercial-space-industry-policy-and-competitiveness | Senator Peters Introduces Bipartisan Legislation to Strengthen Commercial Space Industry Policy and Competitiveness | 2023-11-20 | 2023 | 2023-11 | Democrat | Senate | MI | Gary C. Peters | P000595 | www.peters.senate.gov | garypeters | https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senators Gary Peters (D-MI) and Roger Wicker (R-MS) introduced bipartisan legislation to strengthen commercial space policy and promote industry competitiveness by establishing a Commercial Space Activity Advisory Committee within the Office of Space Commerce. This legislation enables the advisory committee to share important insights into non-governmental space activity and empowers its members to inform and shape federal policy and programs. “As connected technologies continue to evolve, space-based assets will only become more critical to our safety and national security,” said Senator Peters. “This bipartisan legislation would give our space industry leaders a seat at the table to help shape federal space policy and ensure the United States is at the forefront of commercial space development.” “The commercial space industry is growing rapidly, and it is important for government to help it continue,” said Senator Wicker. “Establishing a new advisory committee staffed by subject matter experts across industry, academia, and policy will help us guide this industry into the next era.” The Commercial Space Activity Advisory Committee would be comprised of 15 members who make recommendations on various priorities, including: Identifying challenges relating to international obligations and export controls that affect the commercial space sector. Addressing the need to access adequate, predictable and reliable radio frequency spectrum. Reviewing best practices for U.S. entities to avoid harmful environmental impacts to both earth and space. Providing recommendations on matters related to space sector development and other activities the advisory committee considers necessary. The Commercial Space Activity Advisory Committee Act is supported by Commercial Spaceflight Federation and ATLAS Space Operations. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T01:01:09Z |
| https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senator-peters-statement-on-congressman-kildees-retirement-from-congress | Senator Peters’ Statement on Congressman Kildee’s Retirement from Congress | 2023-11-16 | 2023 | 2023-11 | Democrat | Senate | MI | Gary C. Peters | P000595 | www.peters.senate.gov | garypeters | https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) released the following statement on U.S. Representative Dan Kildee’s (MI-08) decision not to seek re-election to the U.S. House of Representatives: “Congressman Kildee embodies the true meaning of public service. Dan has dedicated his life to improving the lives of people not only in his district, but across our entire state and country. I’ve had the honor of fighting alongside Dan both in the House and Senate to support our nation’s veterans and small businesses, lift up middle-class families, and ensure every American has access to safe drinking water. I wish him the very best and know that he will carry that compassion and commitment to the public good in whatever he chooses to do next.” ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T01:01:09Z |
| https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/video-at-senator-peters-urging-senate-unanimously-approves-his-armenian-protection-act | At Senator Peters’ Urging, Senate Unanimously Approves His Armenian Protection Act | 2023-11-16 | 2023 | 2023-11 | Democrat | Senate | MI | Gary C. Peters | P000595 | www.peters.senate.gov | garypeters | https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON, DC – The Senate has unanimously passed U.S. Senator Gary Peters’ (MI) bipartisan legislation – the Armenian Protection Act – which would prevent the U.S. from providing security assistance to Azerbaijan for two years. Senator Peters introduced the legislation in September in response to the Azerbaijani government’s ongoing attacks on ethnic Armenians in Nagorno-Karabakh. This effort came after Peters visited the Armenia-Azerbaijan border and viewed firsthand the 10-month long blockade of the Lachin corridor that has caused a humanitarian crisis for Armenians in the region. On the Senate floor, Peters delivered remarks calling on his colleagues to pass the legislation. “We must send a strong message and show our partners around the world that America will enforce the conditions that we attach to military aid,” said Senator Peters, Chairman of the Homeland Security Committee and member of the Armed Services Committee. “If we do not take action when countries willfully ignore the terms of our agreements with them, our agreements will become effectively meaningless and toothless. I urge my colleagues to join me in holding Azerbaijan accountable for their actions, enforce our agreements with them, and stand with the Armenian people in the face of unprovoked aggression.” To watch video of Senator Peters’ remarks on the Senate floor, click here or on the image below. Senator Peters’ Armenian Protection Act – which he introduced with U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) – would end U.S. assistance to the Azerbaijani government that is currently allowed under a waiver to Section 907 of the Freedom Support Act. Although the Freedom Support Act generally prohibits most bilateral assistance to Azerbaijan, following the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks, waiver authority was added to Section 907 granting additional discretion to the President to provide aid to Azerbaijan. The waiver authority has been invoked annually by Presidents of both parties since 2002 and the Biden Administration is still reviewing its wai… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T01:01:09Z |
| https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/peters-introduces-bipartisan-legislation-to-modernize-trucking-industry-and-reduce-emissions | Peters Introduces Bipartisan Legislation to Modernize Trucking Industry and Reduce Emissions | 2023-11-15 | 2023 | 2023-11 | Democrat | Senate | MI | Gary C. Peters | P000595 | www.peters.senate.gov | garypeters | https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) today introduced the bipartisan Supporting Trucking Efficiency and Emission Reductions (STEER) Act, a bill that would create a Department of Energy (DOE) voucher program to assist truckers in purchasing and installing fuel-saving, emission-reducing technologies on their trucks. Specifically, the voucher program would cover costs associated with adopting fuel-efficient technologies on Class 8 trucks, significantly reducing the up-front cost of materials and installation. “The trucking industry is a vital part of our economy, and it’s critical that we take steps to help make these vehicles more environmentally-friendly and cost-effective,” said Senator Peters. “The STEER Act is a commonsense solution that will help us modernize the trucking industry, reduce emissions, and create jobs.” The STEER Act would provide vouchers to truckers who install fuel-efficient technologies on their trucks, such as aerodynamic improvements, tire pressure monitoring systems, and waste heat recovery systems. These technologies can reduce fuel consumption by up to 15% and can cut national fuel consumption by 4.5 billion gallons a year, saving truckers money and reducing emissions. “The bipartisan STEER Act is an important bill that achieves two goals simultaneously. The legislation will have an immediate, dramatic reduction on carbon emissions for the current generation of diesel trucks, while also speeding up the transition to tomorrow's alternative fuel vehicles through an investment in American technologies. By gaining better aerodynamics, trucks can increase range while also lowering emissions, helping truckers and fleets save time, fuel and money. This legislation is a true win-win-win for the trucking industry, the environment, and the American economy and I congratulate Senator Peters and Senator Ricketts for their leadership on this issue,” said Daniel Burrows, founder and CEO of TruckLabs. “The ICCT is very encouraged to see the STEER Act advancing through the legislative proc… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T01:01:09Z |
| https://scholten.house.gov/media/press-releases/scholten-votes-fund-government-and-avoid-shutdown | Scholten Votes to Fund the Government and Avoid Shutdown | 2023-11-14 | 2023 | 2023-11 | Democrat | House | MI | Hillary J. Scholten | S001221 | scholten.house.gov | scholten | https://scholten.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – Rep. Hillary Scholten (MI-03) issued the below statement after voting for a two-step continuing resolution to fund the government at Fiscal Year 2023 levels and avoid a shutdown: “I’m glad Speaker Johnson finally dropped the politics and met Democrats at the table to avoid a disastrous government shutdown. The resolution honors the spending agreement we made back in May when we raised the debt ceiling and leaves out extreme Republican wish list items that never would have become law. My West Michigan neighbors can breathe a sigh of relief ahead of the Thanksgiving holiday, but the culture of deep division and chaos in this Congress is forcing us to legislate under the tyranny of the urgent— preventing us from working toward the pragmatic approach to legislating that this country deserves. | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T01:01:09Z |
| https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senate-passes-peters-bipartisan-bill-to-increase-support-for-victims-of-human-trafficking | Senate Passes Peters Bipartisan Bill to Increase Support for Victims of Human Trafficking | 2023-11-14 | 2023 | 2023-11 | Democrat | Senate | MI | Gary C. Peters | P000595 | www.peters.senate.gov | garypeters | https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – The U.S. Senate passed bipartisan legislation authored by U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI), Chairman of the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, to enhance the Department of Homeland Security’s (DHS) ability to combat human trafficking. The legislation would make permanent and expand the Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Victim Assistance Program that helps provide support to individuals impacted by human trafficking. The bill would also improve and make permanent an existing program that ensures the wellbeing of HSI employees and partners who are exposed to repeated stress and associated trauma through their work to support victims and investigate these horrific crimes. “The federal government must increase support for victims of human trafficking and ensure that Homeland Security Investigations agents and others who work with these victims have the resources they need to effectively do their jobs,” said Senator Peters. “This bipartisan bill will bolster DHS’ ability to stop these horrific crimes and ensure that Department employees are better prepared to fight back against human traffickers.” Thousands of men, women, and children are trafficked in the United States. According to DHS, traffickers might use violence, manipulation, or false promises of jobs or romantic relationships to lure victims into trafficking situations. Based on calls to the National Human Trafficking Hotline, the Polaris Project found that in 2020 there were at least 16,658 sex trafficking victims and survivors in the United States. However, the actual number of these crimes may be much larger because these crimes often go unreported. Peters’ legislation will provide increased resources and support to these victims, as well as HSI employees and partners who work to bring them recovery, stabilization, and justice. The IMPACTT Human Trafficking Act would make permanent the Investigators Maintain Purposeful Awareness to Combat Trafficking Trauma (IMPACTT) program within HSI that provides outreach and t… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T01:01:09Z |
| https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/peters-stabenow-announce-usda-purchase-of-michigan-apples | Peters, Stabenow Announce USDA Purchase of Michigan Apples | 2023-11-13 | 2023 | 2023-11 | Democrat | Senate | MI | Gary C. Peters | P000595 | www.peters.senate.gov | garypeters | https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Senators Gary Peters (MI) and Debbie Stabenow (MI) announced that the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) will buy $60 million in fresh apples and $40 million in processed apples from Michigan farmers. These apples will then be distributed to food banks, school meal programs, and other programs across the country. Michigan is the nation’s third-largest producer of apples, with more than 14.9 million apple trees covering 34,500 acres across 775 family farms. Senators Peters and Stabenow urged the USDA to buy from Michigan farmers to help farmers with their surpluses from last year and this year’s harvest. “After advocating for this commonsense solution, I’m happy to announce that USDA is making a $100 million purchase of Michigan apples to take advantage of the surplus that our growers have experienced in recent years,” said Senator Peters. “Not only will this move protect businesses and workers throughout the state, it will help provide nutrition to folks in need around the country.” “Michigan farmers are the best in the world! We are one of the most agriculturally diverse states and one of the nation’s largest producers of apples. Because record-breaking crops and a significant surplus of apples is threatening to destabilize the market for farmers on orchards across Michigan, I urged the USDA to buy the apples they need from Michigan farmers. This will help our Michigan farmers and provide healthy, Michigan-grown apples to food programs across the country. That’s a win-win,” said Senator Stabenow. “Michigan apple growers produced a record crop for the second year in a row, which has been estimated to be larger than 2022,” said Michigan Agricultural Cooperative Marketing Association General Manager Dan Drake. “Our apple industry was challenged with carryover of raw product from the 2022 apple crop in addition to retail sales of fresh and finished product being down. USDA has been a great partner to Michigan’s apple industry, and we are grateful the Secretary approved our request for … | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T01:01:09Z |
| https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senate-passes-peters-bipartisan-bill-to-correct-retirement-error-for-customs-and-border-protection-officers | Senate Passes Peters Bipartisan Bill to Correct Retirement Error for Customs and Border Protection Officers | 2023-11-13 | 2023 | 2023-11 | Democrat | Senate | MI | Gary C. Peters | P000595 | www.peters.senate.gov | garypeters | https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – Bipartisan legislation authored by U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI), Chairman of the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, to ensure U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers (CBPOs) can receive the retirement benefits they were promised when starting their service has passed the Senate. The bill corrects a mistake where Customs and Border Protection (CBP) incorrectly informed newly hired CBPOs that they would be eligible for proportional annuity, which means they would not have to retire at a certain age or reach 20 years of service to qualify for an enhanced retirement benefit. However, when CBP realized their error – more than ten years after these officers had started their service – they rescinded these benefits and will now require around 1200 officers, including 67 in Michigan, to meet additional requirements to receive the benefits they were initially promised when starting the job more than a decade ago. This has significantly impacted CBPOs’ ability to properly plan for their futures and ensure they can retire comfortably with the benefits they expected. Peters introduced similar legislation that advanced in the Senate last Congress. “Dedicated Customs and Border Protection officers should not have their futures disrupted due to a clerical error that happened over a decade ago,” said Senator Peters. “My bipartisan bill will ensure these brave officers – who tirelessly protect our communities each and every day – have the retirement benefits they were promised when they first started their service.” The CPBO Retirement Corrections Act would direct CBP to identify eligible individuals and notify them of the correction. Those impacted would then be eligible for a correction that would align their retirement benefits with the coverage they were promised. The legislation also includes a retroactive annuity adjustment for eligible individuals who retire before the date of enactment of this bill and grants the Department of Homeland Security the authority to waive maximum en… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T01:01:09Z |
| https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/videopeters-convenes-hearing-to-examine-the-philosophy-of-ai-and-what-it-means-for-humanity | VIDEO: Peters Convenes Hearing to Examine the Philosophy of AI and What it Means for Humanity | 2023-11-13 | 2023 | 2023-11 | Democrat | Senate | MI | Gary C. Peters | P000595 | www.peters.senate.gov | garypeters | https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Gary Peters (D-MI), Chairman of the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, convened a hearing to examine how the transformative potential of artificial intelligence will impact our society with expert witnesses who study the intersection of AI and economics, philosophy, history, and constitutional law. The hearing highlighted the lessons learned from past periods of great technological change, like the Industrial Revolution, to know how we can use AI in a way that builds a better future for humanity. The witnesses discussed the importance of having a framework in place to ensure this technological innovation will transform our world for the better while anticipating and addressing the potential harms that could occur. “Artificial intelligence has already begun to reshape the fabric of our society. Our response cannot come through piecemeal policy alone, or isolated technological ‘fixes.’ It must include a deeper examination of our history, our democracy, and our values, and how we want this technology to shape our future,” said Peters during his opening remarks. “We must look to the past and learn the lessons of previous technological revolutions. We must answer the ethical questions that A.I. poses and use these new technologies to build a world where humans can thrive. And we must protect our civil liberties and democratic institutions against the risks that these tools can pose.” To watch video of Senator Peters’ opening remarks, click here. For text of Peters’ opening remarks as prepared, click here. To watch video of Senator Peters’ questions, click here. During the hearing, Peters and the witnesses discussed the need to create incentives for the private sector to ensure AI is being developed in a way that prioritizes responsibility and protects our democratic institutions against the risks that these tools can pose. Dr. Vallor discussed the need to use human values to guide the development of AI to ensure biases are not reflected in this technology. Dr. Ace… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T01:01:09Z |
| https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/peters-introduces-bipartisan-legislation-to-recognize-the-service-of-hmong-veterans-during-vietnam-war | Peters Introduces Bipartisan Legislation to Recognize the Service of Hmong Veterans During Vietnam War | 2023-11-10 | 2023 | 2023-11 | Democrat | Senate | MI | Gary C. Peters | P000595 | www.peters.senate.gov | garypeters | https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) introduced bipartisan legislation – the Hmong Congressional Gold Medal Act – to recognize the distinguished service of the Hmong veterans who served alongside American troops in the Vietnam War by awarding them a Congressional Gold Medal. As the Vietnam War spread south and west into Laos, the U.S. Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) recruited and trained Hmong men to help American troops fight back against the communist North Vietnamese and Pathet Lao. At great risk to the safety of themselves and their families, Hmong soldiers fought the ground war, flew combat missions, gathered intelligence on North Vietnamese troop movements, interrupted the Ho-Chi-Min Supply Trail, and rescued American pilots downed behind enemy lines. The Hmong people suffered heavy casualties, and their soldiers died at a rate ten times as high as that of American soldiers in Vietnam. “More than 30,000 Hmong soldiers courageously stood with the American people during the Vietnam War, many of whom lost their lives in the fight against communism,” said Senator Peters. “This bill seeks to provide long-overdue recognition to Hmong veterans for their incredible sacrifices and distinguished service.” Following the war, many Hmong were displaced from their villages as they were either bombed or burned down by the North Vietnamese and over 150,000 Hmong fled Laos when the nation fell to communist forces in 1975. Due to their ties with the American military, many Hmong came to the United States as refugees to start a new life. Over the ensuing decades, Hmong populations and their traditions have become engrained in communities in Michigan and across the United States. Currently, there are over 327,000 Hmong living in the United States, including approximately 7,000 in Michigan. Peters is committed to supporting all of our nation’s servicemembers and veterans. In 2021, Peters was inducted into the Michigan Military and Veterans Hall of Honor for his efforts to support our nation’s veterans and milita… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T01:01:09Z |
| https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/peters-statement-honoring-veterans-day | Peters Statement Honoring Veterans Day | 2023-11-10 | 2023 | 2023-11 | Democrat | Senate | MI | Gary C. Peters | P000595 | www.peters.senate.gov | garypeters | https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI), a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, former Lt. Commander in the U.S. Navy Reserve and the son of a World War II veteran, today released the following statement in recognition of Veterans Day: “From the Revolutionary War to modern day conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan, generations of Michigan veterans have served our country with honor and distinction. On Veterans Day, we pay tribute to the service of America’s soldiers, sailors, airmen and Marines who answered the call to defend our nation and our way of life, especially those who made the ultimate sacrifice.” “Today, as we reflect on their service and steadfast dedication, we must continue striving to fulfill the promises made to the courageous servicemembers – and their families – by supporting their transition to civilian life through access to quality health care, higher education, meaningful professional opportunities and a dignified burial.” Peters has made veterans’ issues one of his top priorities in the Senate. This week, Peters announced bipartisan legislation with Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) to expand federal infrastructure contracting opportunities for service connected disabled veterans. He has also introduced a bipartisan bill with Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) to increase funeral benefits for eligible veterans. In 2016, President Obama signed into law bipartisan Peters’ bipartisan provisions to help veterans who have been diagnosed with PTSD, TBI and other service-related conditions to upgrade their discharge status. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T01:01:09Z |
| https://scholten.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-scholten-calls-congressional-leadership-fund-child-care-west-michigan | Rep. Scholten Calls on Congressional Leadership to Fund Child Care for West Michigan Families | 2023-11-09 | 2023 | 2023-11 | Democrat | House | MI | Hillary J. Scholten | S001221 | scholten.house.gov | scholten | https://scholten.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Rep. Hillary Scholten (MI-03) joined a bicameral group of her colleagues in urging Congressional leadership to renew expired funding for child care in any supplemental funding package. Without this funding, many child care providers are struggling with how they’re going to continue to operate and serve families. The letter comes after President Biden’s supplemental funding request to Congress included $16 billion to address the child care crisis. “We write today to urge you to include robust funding for child care in any supplemental funding package considered by the Appropriations Committee. Child care is unaffordable and hard to find for working families, and child care providers across the country are struggling to stay afloat,” wrote the lawmakers. “The child care workforce has been one of the slowest sectors to recover from the pandemic, and wages for this critical workforce remain unacceptably low, further fueling the shortage of available child care options for families,”the members continued. “Families and child care providers are feeling increasingly squeezed following the expiration of COVID-19 relief funding for child care, as child care providers scramble to fill the gap in resources previously filled by federal funds.” The lawmakers wrote, “It is essential that as supplemental funding to meet emergency needs is considered, Congress take action to address the child care crisis. We have an urgent need to further stabilize an industry that has been long underfunded, and Congress must provide robust funding for this sector through a supplemental package.” A copy of the letter is available here. Full text of the letter is available below: Dear Majority Leader Schumer, Minority Leader McConnell, Chair Murray, and Vice Chair Collins: We write today to urge you to include robust funding for child care in any supplemental funding package considered by the Appropriations Committee. Child care is unaffordable and hard to find for working families, and child care providers across… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T01:01:09Z |
| https://scholten.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-scholten-new-dem-coalition-members-urge-congressional-leadership-fully | Rep. Scholten, New Dem Coalition Members Urge Congressional Leadership to Fully Fund the Affordable Connectivity Program | 2023-11-08 | 2023 | 2023-11 | Democrat | House | MI | Hillary J. Scholten | S001221 | scholten.house.gov | scholten | https://scholten.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – Rep. Hillary Scholten (MI-03), a member of the New Democrat Coalition, joined 72 New Dems in writing a letter to Congressional leadership urging both chambers to include funding for the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) that is consistent with the President’s emergency supplemental appropriations request in any upcoming government funding package. Enacted as part of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law championed by New Dems last Congress, the ACP currently provides broadband subsidies to more than 21 million households across the country. With funding for this program set to run out as soon as early 2024, it is crucial that Congress works to keep broadband affordable for millions of families who benefit from this program. The letter reads in part: “Congress has recognized, on a bipartisan basis, that every American must be connected to the internet to prosper and compete in a 21st century economy. We cannot risk millions of families losing access to the internet service they depend on every day by allowing the ACP to lapse. We stand with the Biden Administration in recognizing the ACP as a critical need for American families and a priority for our country.” You can read the full letter here and below: Dear Majority Leader Schumer, Minority Leader McConnell, Speaker Johnson and Minority Leader Jefferies, As members of the New Democrat Coalition, we write to advocate for the inclusion of $6 billion in additional funding for the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) in any government funding package, to reflect the President’s Fiscal Year 2024 emergency supplemental funding request. The ACP provides critical financial assistance to help American households afford broadband internet services. Access to high-speed and affordable broadband is vital to participating in our 21st-century economy. Communities without sufficient internet connectivity struggle to keep pace in a rapidly changing world increasingly dependent on technology. The New Democrat Coalition is committed to closing this digita… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T01:01:09Z |
| https://thanedar.house.gov/media/press-releases/state-local-leaders-join-thanedar-for-listening-session-and-washington-update | State, Local Leaders Join Thanedar for Listening Session and Washington Update | 2023-11-08 | 2023 | 2023-11 | Democrat | House | MI | Shri Thanedar | T000488 | thanedar.house.gov | thanedar | https://thanedar.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | Detroit, MI – This week, Congressman Shri Thanedar (MI-13) hosted a breakfast for dozens of state and local elected officials in Detroit to hear what issues are at the top of their minds and to provide and update on developments in Washington, D.C. as well as the full range of services his office offers. “The most important thing in my office is to be responsive to my constituents and the local leaders in our community,” said Congressman Thanedar. “During the course of the breakfast, I was able to update officials about the pending shutdown, President Biden’s proposed funding package for Israel and Ukraine, and the billions of dollars we’re bringing back to the district through Community Project Funding and other revenue streams.” In addition to his work on federal legislation in Washington, Congressman Thanedar outlined the process through which his 22 staff members, including fellows and interns, have directly helped nearly 1,000 constituents since he took office in January. Constituent case workers in the Congressman’s Detroit office start working on cases within 48 hours. Congressman Thanedar’s office has resolved 88% of the cases received and returned almost $650,000 owed to constituents by federal agencies. Staffers are standing by to help constituents secure help with passports, the IRS, Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs, Social Security, immigration issues, and many other federal agencies. “I believe I have the hardest working staff in Congress,” continued Thanedar. “When community members come in with a problem or issue with a federal agency, I guarantee that they are going to receive quick, personal service to get them the help they need as soon as possible.” “It was a pleasure meeting all of the Congressman’s staff and learning how each one can assist Wyandotte. It’s helpful to understand how his office works as we prepare and pursue more projects, which will only be possible the Congressman’s help,” said Mayor Robert DeSana from the City of Wyandotte “This breakfast was an engaging opportunity… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T01:01:09Z |
| https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/peters-urges-biden-administration-to-include-polysilicon-in-semiconductor-manufacturing-tax-credit | Peters Urges Biden Administration to Include Polysilicon in Semiconductor Manufacturing Tax Credit | 2023-11-08 | 2023 | 2023-11 | Democrat | Senate | MI | Gary C. Peters | P000595 | www.peters.senate.gov | garypeters | https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON, DC — U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) joined Michigan’s Democratic congressional delegation in urging U.S. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen to ensure the proper implementation of the CHIPS and Science Act in order to support new jobs and economic growth in Michigan. The CHIPS and Science Act included a 25% advanced manufacturing tax credit, commonly known as 48D, to expand semiconductor manufacturing in America. The members’ letter to Secretary Yellen asks that semiconductor-grade polysilicon—the base material needed to make advanced semiconductor chips—be included in tax incentives to help boost U.S. manufacturing of semiconductors and their components and create new, good-paying American jobs. The U.S. Department of Treasury is responsible for writing implementation guidance on what would be eligible for the tax credit and it is currently drafting that guidance. The CHIPS and Science Act is already helping to bring critical semiconductor manufacturing to Michigan and the U.S., including at manufacturing facilities like SK Siltron and Hemlock Semiconductor. Hemlock Semiconductor is just one of six companies worldwide that produces hyper-pure polysilicon for semiconductors. “As Members of Congress who helped carefully craft key provisions and proudly supported passage of the CHIPS and Science Act, we are committed to ensuring this historic law meets the primary policy objectives of onshoring semiconductor production in America. A critical component of meeting that objective is maintaining and expanding U.S. leadership in hyper-pure polysilicon production,” the members wrote. “We appreciated the President’s virtual participation at a celebration of the CHIPS and Science Act at Hemlock Semiconductor Company, where he heralded the bill’s passage as a boon for domestic semiconductor production. To ensure this becomes a reality, we strongly urge Treasury to incorporate semiconductor-grade polysilicon production as an eligible activity under the 48D advanced manufacturing investment tax credit in its final … | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T01:01:09Z |
| https://scholten.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-scholten-statement-censure-colleagues | Rep. Scholten Statement on Censure of Colleagues | 2023-11-07 | 2023 | 2023-11 | Democrat | House | MI | Hillary J. Scholten | S001221 | scholten.house.gov | scholten | https://scholten.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – Rep. Hillary Scholten (MI-03) issued the below statement ahead of votes on motions to censure one Democratic colleague and one Republican colleague: “This week, the House will vote on motions to censure two of my colleagues – a Democratic colleague from Michigan, and a Republican colleague from Florida. As a constitutional attorney, I have always defended the right to freedom of speech and will continue to do so–despite my personal views of the words of others. The freedom of speech is foundational to our country and protected rigorously throughout the Constitution. It’s important to protect it when we agree with the speech being expressed, even more so when we disagree. But, just as my colleagues facing censure have a right to express their views, I have a right to express mine, and I have—condemning anti-Semitism and Islamophobia alike when they rear their heads in our community and in Congress. Despite my strong disagreement with both of my colleagues’ statements, that is not a reason for censure. I will be voting against these motions. I will continue to vote against these motions as they are brought against Republicans and Democrats alike. These censures are a waste of time and a distraction from the People’s business. | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T01:01:09Z |
| https://scholten.house.gov/media/press-releases/scholten-leads-colleagues-condemning-use-anti-semitic-phrase | Scholten Leads Colleagues in Condemning Use of Anti-Semitic Phrase | 2023-11-07 | 2023 | 2023-11 | Democrat | House | MI | Hillary J. Scholten | S001221 | scholten.house.gov | scholten | https://scholten.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Rep. Hillary Scholten (MI-03) led dozens of her colleagues in issuing the below statement condemning the use of the anti-Semitic phrase, “from the river to the sea,” affirming Israel’s right to defend itself, and calling for a humanitarian pause to help save innocent life in Gaza: “We reject the use of the phrase “from the river to the sea”— a phrase used by many, including Hamas, as a rallying cry for the destruction of the State of Israel and genocide of the Jewish people. We all feel deep anguish for the human suffering caused by the war in Gaza. Hamas started this war with a barbaric terrorist attack on October 7, 2023, and neither the Palestinian nor Israeli people can have peace as long as Hamas still rules over Gaza and threatens Israel. This war is tragic and deeply painful for everyone, especially those who identify with the land and the people—Christians, Jews, and Muslims alike. Every civilian killed, every family torn apart, Palestinian and Israeli, is a tragedy. Every human being deserves dignity and respect, and each of us must do all we can to always see the humanity of the innocent people caught in the middle of this war. We support Israel’s right and obligation to defend itself — to protect its citizens, secure its borders, and rescue its people held hostage in Gaza. Israel also has the obligation to, as best as possible, protect civilians, and in all its actions adhere to international humanitarian law (notwithstanding Hamas’ complete disregard for the same). We also recognize the desperate needs of the civilians in Gaza, and fully support doing everything possible to expand safe zones, provide transit corridors, and deliver life-sustaining humanitarian aid. A humanitarian pause of limited space and time, the release of the more than 240 hostages held by Hamas in Gaza, the cessation of rockets fired by Hamas at Israel from civilian neighborhoods in Gaza, and the release of all Palestinian civilians being detained by Hamas as human shields in Gaza would go far toward… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T01:01:09Z |
| https://thanedar.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-shri-thanedar-calls-for-a-72-hour-humanitarian-pause | Rep. Shri Thanedar Calls for a 72 Hour Humanitarian Pause | 2023-11-07 | 2023 | 2023-11 | Democrat | House | MI | Shri Thanedar | T000488 | thanedar.house.gov | thanedar | https://thanedar.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | Washington, D.C. – November 7, 2023 – Today, I am calling on Israel to institute a 72-hour humanitarian pause to negotiate the release of the hostages held by Hamas and the surrender of Hamas leaders responsible for the October 7 attack. During this pause, President Biden should appoint a chief negotiator to bring all parties to the table. I can think of no one better than former President Barack Obama to lead these efforts. If, at the end of 72 hours, no sufficient progress has been made, Israel should resume its military operations with the goal of destroying Hamas while minimizing civilian casualties. “There can be no question about Israel’s right to defend itself in the face of terrorist aggression. By calling for this humanitarian pause, however, we recognize that our ultimate goal is peace and safety for all innocent parties caught up in this conflict. If Israel extends this olive branch, it is essential that Hamas respond and show they are willing to do their part to de-escalate. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T01:01:09Z |
| https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/during-national-diabetes-month-peters-reintroduces-bipartisan-bill-to-help-prevent-diabetes-and-lower-health-care-costs | During National Diabetes Month, Peters Reintroduces Bipartisan Bill to Help Prevent Diabetes & Lower Health Care Costs | 2023-11-07 | 2023 | 2023-11 | Democrat | Senate | MI | Gary C. Peters | P000595 | www.peters.senate.gov | garypeters | https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON, DC – During National Diabetes Month, U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) reintroduced bipartisan legislation that would improve health outcomes and reduce health care costs for individuals at risk for diabetes, while saving long-term costs for Medicare. Peters’ Preventing Diabetes in Medicare Act – which he introduced with Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV) – would extend Medicare coverage for medical nutrition therapy services to Americans with pre-diabetes and risk factors for developing type-2 diabetes. Under current law, Medicare will only cover medical nutrition therapy services for individuals who have already been diagnosed with diabetes or renal disease. Diabetes is the most expensive chronic health condition in the country, with approximately one in every four Medicare dollars spent on diabetes-related care. Research released by the American Diabetes Association found that the total estimated cost of diagnosed diabetes was almost $413 billion, including more than $306 billion in direct medical costs. According to the Centers for Disease Control, more than 37 million Americans have diabetes and approximately 96 million adults have prediabetes. The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services reports approximately 912,800 or 11 percent of Michiganders over the age of 18 are living with diabetes. “Expanding access to this type of health care will provide more Americans with the opportunity live longer, healthier lives, and without breaking the bank,” said Senator Peters. “It’s also a commonsense way to help lower Medicare costs for all taxpayers in the long-run, and I’ll keep fighting to get it passed and signed into law.” “Approximately 96 million Americans have prediabetes, putting them at elevated risk for developing type 2 diabetes,” said Dr. LaShawn McIver, Senior Vice President at the American Diabetes Association. “The American Diabetes Association supports the Preventing Diabetes in Medicare Act, which would provide access for medical nutrition therapy to seniors with prediabetes, help… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T01:01:09Z |
| https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/peters-and-stabenow-announce-over-38-million-to-support-michigan-rural-communities | Peters & Stabenow Announce Over $38 Million to Support Michigan Rural Communities | 2023-11-03 | 2023 | 2023-11 | Democrat | Senate | MI | Gary C. Peters | P000595 | www.peters.senate.gov | garypeters | https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Gary Peters (MI) and Debbie Stabenow (MI) announced that the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) will award $38,460,630 to support rural communities across Michigan. Senators Peters and Stabenow secured these funds through both the Inflation Reduction Act and the bipartisan infrastructure law. “Investing in our rural communities ensures that every Michigander has the opportunity to succeed,” said Senator Peters. “We worked hard to secure this funding, which will expand broadband service, support climate-smart agriculture and strengthen water infrastructure in rural communities across Michigan.” “My hometown of Clare was a great place to grow up. I secured this funding for families in Clare and Michigan’s other small towns so they have the tools to run their businesses and farms,” said Senator Stabenow. “Additionally, when we invest in rural America, we aren’t just investing in the families who live there. This money will help our entire state succeed. “The potato industry is hungry for grants that help them install renewable energy systems or make energy efficiency improvements in their operations. The more energy savings we can accumulate is directly related to reducing greenhouse gas emissions due to the decrease in overall power consumption, and thus opens the door for agriculture to play a large role in climate smart practices,” said Dr. Kelly Turner, Ed.D., CAE, Executive Director of the Michigan Potato Industry Commission. “Michigan Apple growers have always been innovative and forward-thinking, and oftentimes early adopters of new technology. It comes as no surprise that Laketop Orchards, LLC is a recipient of this grant to purchase and install a roof-mounted solar photovoltaic system. MAC appreciates this grower family’s commitment to the future, not only saving dollars for their operation but also conserving energy. This effort positions them and Michigan’s Apple industry as leaders in agriculture technology and sustainability,” said Diane Smith, Executive Director … | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T01:01:09Z |
| https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/peters-and-stabenow-urge-biden-administration-to-require-insurers-to-fully-cover-over-the-counter-birth-control | Peters & Stabenow Urge Biden Administration to Require Insurers to Fully Cover Over-the-Counter Birth Control | 2023-11-03 | 2023 | 2023-11 | Democrat | Senate | MI | Gary C. Peters | P000595 | www.peters.senate.gov | garypeters | https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senators Gary Peters (MI) and Debbie Stabenow (MI) joined 46 of their Senate colleagues in urging the Biden Administration to require federally and state-regulated health insurance plans to fully cover over-the-counter contraceptives, including Opill—the first-ever FDA-approved over-the-counter birth control pill, which will become available in early 2024—with no copays or out of pocket costs, and without a prescription requirement. “We urge you to improve health insurance coverage, both public and private, of the full range of FDA-approved, granted, or cleared contraceptive products—including birth control that is available over-the-counter (OTC) without requiring a prescription for coverage,” the senators wrote in their letter to Department of Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra, Department of Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen, and the Department of Labor Acting Secretary Julie Su. “Over 19 million women live in counties with limited access to health care providers that offer comprehensive contraceptive services, and about one-third of women who have received prescription contraceptives have reported barriers to access. Expanding access to affordable coverage for eligible, uninsured populations would improve the quality of contraceptive care that patients receive.” “The availability of safe and effective OTC birth control products has enormous potential to help people overcome significant barriers to consistent contraceptive use, including the many logistical and financial challenges to obtaining a prescription. The FDA’s approval of Opill is a milestone; however, for an OTC birth control pill to meet its potential and be truly accessible, federal departments must ensure that it is covered without cost-sharing and without the need for a prescription as a condition of coverage,” the senators continued. “Given the increased need for access to contraception in the wake of the Dobbs decision, this issue is incredibly timely and important.” Text of the letter can be found here. … | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T01:01:09Z |
| https://scholten.house.gov/media/press-releases/scholten-statement-speaker-johnsons-israel-supplemental-fails-meet-moment-adds | Scholten Statement on Speaker Johnson’s Israel Supplemental that Fails to Meet the Moment, Adds Billions to Deficit | 2023-11-02 | 2023 | 2023-11 | Democrat | House | MI | Hillary J. Scholten | S001221 | scholten.house.gov | scholten | https://scholten.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congresswoman Hillary Scholten (MI-03) released the below statement after voting against Speaker Mike Johnson’s Israel supplemental, which did not include much-needed humanitarian assistance for the region, but did include an unprecedented “offset” in cuts to the Internal Revenue Service that will actually add at least $12.5B to the deficit in the next decade, according to the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office: “Just last week, more than 400 bipartisan members of the House came together to condemn Hamas and show our strong support for Israel, underscoring how united this body is in our support for our democratic ally. Instead of putting a bipartisan emergency Israel aid package on the floor, Speaker Johnson, in an unprecedented move, chose to prioritize an extreme Republican policy wish list item. Not only that, this package fails to include much-needed humanitarian aid for innocent civilians in Israel and Gaza, and has no chance of becoming law. These theatrics are further delaying our ability to provide critical assistance during this time of crisis for our strong ally. This sends a false and dangerous signal that we are not committed to supporting our democratic partners around the world. Also, of deep concern to me, as someone who prioritizes fiscal responsibility with our taxpayer resources, is that this bill ADDS $12.5B to the deficit. Republicans are showing once again that they need a math lesson–this is not a budget cut, it takes our deficit in the wrong direction. Speaker Johnson needs to immediately work with Democrats in Congress and the White House on a package that meets this critical moment. The world is watching. We have no time to waste.” | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T01:01:09Z |
| https://scholten.house.gov/media/press-releases/scholten-helps-introduce-bipartisan-bill-protect-migrant-children-address | Scholten Helps Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Protect Migrant Children, Address Immigration Court Backlog | 2023-11-01 | 2023 | 2023-11 | Democrat | House | MI | Hillary J. Scholten | S001221 | scholten.house.gov | scholten | https://scholten.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congresswoman Hillary Scholten (D-MI) joined U.S. Senators Michael Bennet (D-CO) and Lisa Murkowski (R-AK) and Reps. Dan Goldman (D-NY), Maria Salazar (R-FL), and Rep. Lori Chavez-DeRemer (R-OR) in introducing legislation to combat the immigration court backlog and strengthen due process rights for unaccompanied migrant children. “Let’s be clear about one thing–infants and children should not be in a situation where they have to stand trial in immigration court,” said Rep. Scholten. “We have a deeply broken immigration system in this country. But as we continue the long and complicated work for repairing it, of fighting for justice in a political climate that has grown callous to the suffering of children, the next best option is creating a court that works to accommodate their unique needs. As a mom, I’ll never stop fighting for these vulnerable kids.” “Since joining the Senate, I’ve fought to reform our broken immigration system, keep our country safe, and protect innocent children who cross the border seeking asylum. This legislation will ensure kids fleeing violence and persecution are able to understand and participate in immigration court proceedings and are treated with the dignity, respect, and care they deserve,” said Senator Bennet.“This bipartisan, pragmatic legislation demonstrates that we can find common ground and repair our broken immigration system to uphold the rule of law and honor our country’s heritage.” “The Biden Administration has failed on our Southern Border. Our country is facing nearly 3 million border crossings in 2023 and continued dysfunctional immigration policies. Each of these problems only exacerbate the severe backlog at our immigration courts and inhibit due process for individuals navigating the legal system. Unfortunately, these failures especially impact unaccompanied children, who are sometimes required to face a judge at their removal proceeding alone,” said Senator Murkowski. “No child should be left alone in court—and the United States of Ame… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T01:01:09Z |
| https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/peters-helps-senate-pass-bipartisan-appropriations-package | Peters Helps Senate Pass Bipartisan Appropriations Package | 2023-11-01 | 2023 | 2023-11 | Democrat | Senate | MI | Gary C. Peters | P000595 | www.peters.senate.gov | garypeters | https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) helped the Senate pass a bipartisan package of appropriations bills with funding for key Michigan priorities, high-impact local projects, and federal programs. As a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, Peters helped author the bipartisan funding package, which included three appropriations bills: the Military Construction and Veterans Affairs (VA) bill, the Agriculture and Food and Drug Administration (FDA) bill, and the Transportation and Housing bill. “As a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, I worked hard to help draft these bills and ensure that funding for Michigan projects and priorities were included,” said Senator Peters. “Now that the Senate has passed this package in a bipartisan way, it’s critical the House follow suit and pass legislation to fund the government at the levels both chambers agreed to during the debt limit negotiations.” The package includes $3 million in funding Peters secured through an amendment for a federal program he established with his Pet and Women Safety (PAWS) Act, which provides funding for facilities that harbor survivors of domestic violence and their pets. The legislation also includes funding for Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) programs, veterans’ medical care and benefits, and investments to modernize critical military infrastructure and to establish new defense facilities in Michigan. The package also includes $2.4 million Peters secured for the construction of a facility for a tactical vehicle laboratory at the Army Ground Vehicle Systems Center in Warren, Michigan; $72 million for the construction of a Ground Transport Equipment Building at the Detroit Arsenal; and $24.5 million for new buildings at the Battle Creek Naval and Marine Corps Reserve Center (MCRC). It includes investments in key transportation, workforce and housing initiatives, in addition to providing funding for rural airports and assistance for airports to transition away from using PFAS firefighting foam. The bill includes Pet… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T01:01:09Z |
| https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senate-passes-peters-amendment-securing-3-million-for-paws-act-grant-program-to-support-survivors-of-domestic-violence-and-their-pets | Senate Passes Peters Amendment Securing $3 Million for PAWS Act Grant Program to Support Survivors of Domestic Violence & Their Pets | 2023-11-01 | 2023 | 2023-11 | Democrat | Senate | MI | Gary C. Peters | P000595 | www.peters.senate.gov | garypeters | https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON, DC – The Senate has passed a package of bipartisan government funding bills that includes U.S. Senator Gary Peters’ (MI) amendment to provide $3 million for a grant program that helps protect domestic violence survivors and their pets. Peters created the Emergency and Transitional Pet Shelter and Housing Assistance Grant Program through bipartisan legislation he authored into law in 2018 – called the Pet and Women Safety (PAWS) Act. This program provides funding for facilities that harbor survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, stalking, and dating violence, along with their pets. Research has shown that domestic abusers often seek to manipulate or intimidate victims by threatening or harming their pets, however many domestic violence shelters are not equipped to accommodate pets. “No person should ever have to choose between leaving an abusive relationship or staying and risking their safety in order to protect their pets,” said Senator Peters. “I fought to secure this $3 million in federal funds to ensure that facilities in Michigan and around the country can continue to have the support they need to provide safe havens not only for survivors, but their pets too.” Since the grant program was first funded in 2020, there has consistently been high-demand from shelters for funding. However, without Peters’ efforts, the program would not have received federal funding for the upcoming year. Peters’ Senate-approved amendment secured $3 million in federal funding for the program for the upcoming Fiscal Year 2024. Peters is additionally leading the charge to reauthorize funding for the program at $3 million annually over five years, starting in Fiscal Year 2025, to ensure funding remains available. The legislation passed by the Senate also included federal funding for military construction, as well as the U.S. Departments of Veterans Affairs, Agriculture, Transportation, and Housing and Urban Development. The House of Representatives must pass its own government funding bills before a final fundin… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T01:01:09Z |
| https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/video-peters-convenes-hearing-with-top-national-security-officials-to-examine-homeland-security-threats | VIDEO: Peters Convenes Hearing with Top National Security Officials to Examine Homeland Security Threats | 2023-11-01 | 2023 | 2023-11 | Democrat | Senate | MI | Gary C. Peters | P000595 | www.peters.senate.gov | garypeters | https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Gary Peters (D-MI), Chairman of the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, convened an annual hearing with top national security and counterterrorism officials to examine evolving and persistent threats to homeland security. During the hearing, Peters raised concerns about how the ongoing conflict between Hamas and Israel is contributing to increased threats of violence in the United States, especially for Jewish, Arab and Muslim American communities. Peters and the witnesses also discussed what the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the National Counterterrorism Center (NCTC) are doing to address pressing national security threats, including international and domestic terrorism, cyber-attacks, fentanyl trafficking, weapons of mass destruction and rogue drones. DHS Secretary Alejandro N. Mayorkas, FBI Director Christopher R. Wray, and NCTC Director Christine Abizaid testified before the committee. “Today’s hearing is an important opportunity to discuss the wide range of threats facing our nation. I’m grateful that our top national security and law enforcement officials are here this morning to provide critical updates about what their agencies are doing to address threats to our homeland security,” said Peters during his opening remarks. “The full range of these threats, from terrorism, to drones, to a changing climate, pose a great danger to our communities. Our panel of witnesses will provide an essential perspective. They will help us understand what our agencies are doing to mitigate these national security threats, and what more Congress and the Administration can do to keep Americans safe.” To watch video of Senator Peters’ opening remarks, click here. For text of Peters’ opening remarks as prepared, click here. To watch video of Senator Peters’ questions, click here. Due to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, DHS and FBI have warned of an increase in violence, hate and harassment against Jewish, Muslim… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T01:01:09Z |
| https://scholten.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-scholten-joins-letter-calling-swift-consideration-administrations-border | Rep. Scholten Joins Letter Calling for Swift Consideration of Administration’s Border Security Request | 2023-10-31 | 2023 | 2023-10 | Democrat | House | MI | Hillary J. Scholten | S001221 | scholten.house.gov | scholten | https://scholten.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. — Rep. Hillary Scholten (MI-03) joined over 30 New Democrat Coalition members in a letter to Congressional leadership calling on the Senate to quickly bring a bipartisan border security package reflecting President Biden’s supplemental request to the House Floor. Throughout the 118th Congress, New Dems have called on the Administration and House leadership to advance additional funding to streamline immigration processes, secure the border, and tackle the fentanyl crisis. “As members of the New Democrat Coalition, we understand emergency funding is necessary to secure our border, ensure a humane and orderly immigration process, and stop the flow of fentanyl into the United States… Securing our nation’s southern border is a bipartisan goal, and the shared responsibility of all members of Congress. We ask that you swiftly bring this important package to a vote in the Senate,” wrote the lawmakers. You can read the full letter to Congressional leadership here and below: Dear Majority Leader Schumer, Speaker Johnson, Minority Leaders McConnell, and Jefferies, We urge you to quickly bring a bipartisan border security package reflecting the President’s Fiscal Year 2024 emergency supplemental request to the Senate floor. As members of the New Democrat Coalition, we understand emergency funding is necessary to secure our border, ensure a humane and orderly immigration process, and stop the flow of fentanyl into the United States. President Biden has put forth a strong and comprehensive border security package in his supplemental request. The requested $13.6 billion investment would: Increase boots on the ground at the border. The request ensures the Department of Homeland Security has the additional resources and personnel to accomplish their mission of maintaining border security while assisting refugees and processing migrants, including funds to hire an additional 1,300 border patrol agents. Improve the processing of asylum cases. The request includes funding to hire 375 new immigration judge t… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T00:49:26Z |
| https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/peters-statement-on-president-bidens-executive-actions-on-artificial-intelligence | Peters Statement on President Biden’s Executive Actions on Artificial Intelligence | 2023-10-31 | 2023 | 2023-10 | Democrat | Senate | MI | Gary C. Peters | P000595 | www.peters.senate.gov | garypeters | https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senator Gary Peters (D-MI), Chairman of the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, released the following statement after President Joe Biden issued an executive order to establish new standards for use of artificial intelligence (AI): “We need to ensure there are guardrails in place for artificial intelligence to be used safely, ethically, and in a way that protects privacy rights and American jobs. The executive actions the Administration announced today will build on legislation I passed into law to set standards for how the federal government uses artificial intelligence and will help expand those standards to the private sector. It’s critical that we work to help ensure the United States continues to lead the world in artificial intelligence development and its safe and responsible use.” The Executive Order announced today comes after the AI in Government Act, which Peters cosponsored, became law in 2020. That legislation required the Administration to provide resources and guidance to federal agencies on the responsible acquisition and use of AI, advancing AI innovation, and managing AI risks in the federal government. The Executive Order reiterates and expands on the requirements of the AI in Government Act, and tasks the Office of Management and Budget to provide specific guidelines and oversee government use of AI. In addition, the Executive Order requires federal agencies to make AI training opportunities available. This requirement builds on Peters’ legislation that was signed into law in 2022 to create a training program to help federal employees responsible for purchasing and managing AI capabilities better understand the capabilities and risks of these technologies. Peters has also introduced bipartisan legislation to create an AI training program for federal supervisors and management officials. The Executive Order also reiterates the requirements set out in Peters’ Advancing American AI Act—which was signed into law last year—for federal agencies to protec… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T00:49:26Z |
| https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/photos-peters-meets-with-returning-citizens-and-workforce-development-leaders-in-detroit-after-announcing-bipartisan-legislation-to-support-reentry-programs | PHOTOS: Peters Meets with Returning Citizens and Workforce Development Leaders in Detroit After Announcing Bipartisan Legislation to Support Reentry Programs | 2023-10-31 | 2023 | 2023-10 | Democrat | Senate | MI | Gary C. Peters | P000595 | www.peters.senate.gov | garypeters | https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases | scraper | DETROIT, MI – U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) visited the City of Detroit’s Northwest Activities Center to highlight his bipartisan legislation that supports reentry programs that help individuals reintegrate into their communities after incarceration or justice system contact. Peters’ Reentry Employment Opportunities Act would make the U.S. Department of Labor’s Reentry Employment Opportunities (REO) program permanent. The REO program provides grant funding to organizations that facilitate a smoother transition for returning citizens by equipping them with the necessary skills to secure meaningful employment. The Detroit Employment Solutions Corporation (DESC) – Detroit’s official workforce agency – received $1.1 million from the REO program to launch the Growth Opportunities Program, which supports young individuals who have entered or are at risk of entering the justice system. Peters toured the Northwest Activities Center’s workforce development facilities and sat in on a Growth Opportunities Program session, where he met with participants to hear firsthand how the program has helped them expand their career opportunities and establish economic independence. Peters was joined by Group Executive of Workforce Development and Detroit at Work for the City of Detroit Terri Weems, along with a program participant, Christian Gary, who spoke to how this support has helped him acquire and maintain employment since returning to his community. “Michiganders who have been involved with the criminal justice system face all kinds of challenges when they return home. Finding a job is one of the hardest,” said Senator Peters. “But far too often, these citizens are left to fend for themselves and navigate the journey home without the resources they need to get a job and start a new chapter of their lives. I’m fighting to protect the federal grant program that supports this vital work, which I got to see firsthand today, to help returning citizens find steady employment, reduce the chances of recidivism and grow the number of … | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T00:49:26Z |
| https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/peters-statement-on-tentative-uaw-deals | Peters Statement on Tentative UAW Deals | 2023-10-30 | 2023 | 2023-10 | Democrat | Senate | MI | Gary C. Peters | P000595 | www.peters.senate.gov | garypeters | https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) released the following statement on the news that General Motors and UAW have reached a tentative contract agreement, following similar tentative agreements reached with Stellantis and Ford last week. The contracts still need to be ratified by UAW members at each of the auto companies. “The UAW has now received historic contract offers from each of the Big Three auto companies. It’s a testament to how powerful workers are when they come together to collectively bargain for the wages, benefits, and job security they deserve. I’ll keep standing with them as they work towards ratifying a deal with each company — because when unions succeed, it’s a win for all workers.” Peters has been a consistent supporter of UAW workers. He has joined the picket line with UAW members in Michigan multiple times since the strike began. In July, Peters sent a letter to the CEOs of the Big Three auto manufacturers urging them to negotiate in good faith as the talks began. In August, he met with UAW members in Lansing to show his support and hear their priorities. Peters also organized a multi-member meeting with UAW President Shawn Fain earlier this year. Michigan is home to the most auto workers in the United States, and UAW represents around 70,000 auto workers in Michigan. The auto industry directly and indirectly employs 1.1 million workers in Michigan, or about 20 percent of the state’s workforce. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T00:49:26Z |
| https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/committee-passes-peters-bipartisan-bill-to-simplify-requirements-for-hazard-mitigation-grants | Committee Passes Peters Bipartisan Bill to Simplify Requirements for Hazard Mitigation Grants | 2023-10-27 | 2023 | 2023-10 | Democrat | Senate | MI | Gary C. Peters | P000595 | www.peters.senate.gov | garypeters | https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – Bipartisan legislation authored by U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) that would require the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to simplify its requirements for demonstrating the cost-effectiveness of hazard mitigation grants has advanced in the Senate. Generally, states, local governments, Tribes, and territories (SLTTs) that request hazard mitigation funding from FEMA are required to submit a benefit-cost analysis (BCA) to demonstrate the cost-effectiveness of their projects. Extensive applicant feedback has shown that the current BCA process is cumbersome and overly complicated, which puts small and underserved communities at a disadvantage for accessing grant programs. Peters’ bill would help streamline the application process and make it easier for all communities to apply for funding. FEMA hazard mitigation grant funds can be used for projects that reduce or eliminate long-term risk to people and property from natural hazards. The bill was passed by the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee where Peters serves as Chair, and now moves to the full Senate for consideration. “Communities that are most at-risk from natural disasters often face burdensome application requirements to access federal funding for disaster mitigation projects,” said Senator Peters. “This bipartisan legislation would help improve access to federal grants for smaller and underserved communities so they can be better prepared to face future natural disasters.” The Facilitating Hazard Mitigations Projects Act would require FEMA to evaluate how to reduce the complexity of its cost-effectiveness requirements for hazard mitigation grants, and provide a report to Congress on that evaluation. This legislation also requires FEMA to consult with SLTTs and non-profit partners as it performs its evaluation. Under this bill, FEMA would still be required to ensure grants are cost-effective and meet all other grant eligibility requirements. Peters has been a leader in efforts to improve the federal grant… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T00:49:26Z |
| https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/peters-and-stabenow-announce-860000-in-federal-funding-for-michigan-communities-to-develop-safety-plans-to-prevent-roadway-deaths-and-serious-injuries | Peters & Stabenow Announce $860,000 in Federal Funding for Michigan Communities to Develop Safety Plans to Prevent Roadway Deaths and Serious Injuries | 2023-10-27 | 2023 | 2023-10 | Democrat | Senate | MI | Gary C. Peters | P000595 | www.peters.senate.gov | garypeters | https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senators Gary Peters (MI) and Debbie Stabenow (MI) announced $860,000 in federal grants for Michigan communities to improve roadway safety by developing comprehensive safety action plans. The funding is being awarded through the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Safe Streets and Roads for All grant program, which funds local and regional road safety projects that will help prevent roadway deaths and serious injuries. Funding for this program is made possible through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law that Peters and Stabenow helped enact into law. The communities listed below are receiving funding to develop comprehensive safety action plans: Chikaming Township - $120,000 Jackson County - $500,000 Macatawa Area Coordinating Council - $240,000 “Michigan drivers, pedestrians, and bicyclists deserve to know that our streets and roadways are as safe as possible,” said Senator Peters. “These important investments will help communities across our state identify roadway safety concerns and take steps necessary to prevent future injuries and deaths.” “This investment will give our local communities the tools they need to keep Michigan cyclists, pedestrians, and drivers safe. Roadway deaths are all too common, and this is a great first step to improving some of the most dangerous streets in our state,” said Senator Stabenow. More information about the Safe Streets and Roads for All program can be found here. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T00:49:26Z |
| https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/peters-bipartisan-bill-to-save-taxpayer-dollars-by-reusing-excess-federal-property-advances-in-senate | Peters Bipartisan Bill to Save Taxpayer Dollars by Reusing Excess Federal Property Advances in Senate | 2023-10-27 | 2023 | 2023-10 | Democrat | Senate | MI | Gary C. Peters | P000595 | www.peters.senate.gov | garypeters | https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – Bipartisan legislation authored by U.S. Senator Gary Peters (D-MI) to hold agencies more accountable to the public on how they reuse excess personal property has advanced in the Senate. Federally-owned personal property includes physical items such as office supplies, furniture, automobiles, and heavy machinery. The federal government is the largest purchaser of goods and services in the world, and this bill would ensure agencies are looking to excess property – available at no cost apart from any necessary transportation – before buying new products to save taxpayer dollars. The bill was advanced by the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee where Peters serves as Chair, and now moves to the full Senate for consideration. “The federal government is the largest purchaser of goods in the world, but some of these goods go unused by agencies. These purchases include office supplies, equipment, and vehicles – all property that could be reused within the federal government,” said Senator Peters. “My bipartisan bill would hold agencies more accountable by ensuring the use of pre-owned federal property, which would help save taxpayer dollars and limit waste.” The Reuse Excess Property Act would update existing requirements for agencies to report their excess personal property to the General Services Administration (GSA) by making those reports available to the public as well. This would help agency officials and taxpayers better understand the extent to which agencies are working to cut wasteful spending through the use of excess property. The bill would also require agencies to publicly report on their guidance on the use of excess personal property and designate an employee to be responsible for searching through available excess personal property for items that meet agency needs. Peters has been a leader in efforts to ensure that taxpayer dollars are spent effectively and efficiently. His bipartisan bill to streamline the federal property review process was signed into law. … | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T00:49:26Z |
| https://scholten.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-scholten-leads-small-business-committee-democrats-calling-sba-release | Rep. Scholten Leads Small Business Committee Democrats in Calling on SBA to Release Updated Minority Contracting Statistics | 2023-10-26 | 2023 | 2023-10 | Democrat | House | MI | Hillary J. Scholten | S001221 | scholten.house.gov | scholten | https://scholten.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Rep. Hillary Scholten (MI-03), along with Small Business Committee Ranking Member Nydia M. Velázquez (D-NY) and Rep. Kweisi Mfume (D-MD), led five Small Business Committee Democrats in sending a letter to the Small Business Administration (SBA) calling on the agency to release updated, disaggregated data of federal contracting spending by race/ethnicity of business owners for Fiscal Year 2022 (FY22). “Given the ongoing challenges for small businesses in the federal marketplace, including and especially for minority-owned small businesses and programs that focus on minority-owned businesses, we believe that this data will continue to demonstrate the need for targeted programs,” wrote the lawmakers. “Updating and releasing this information would be a prudent and clear step toward our shared goal of increasing opportunity for all underserved small business government contractors.” In 2021, the Biden administration released disaggregated federal contracting data for the first time in an effort to increase transparency and equity in procurement programs. The data highlights that minority-owned small businesses continue to be underrepresented in the federal marketplace. The data has emerged as a valuable tool for lawmakers crafting policies to address barriers to entry and other obstacles for government contractors. “The committee requests that the SBA compile this information from the FY22 data as soon as practicable,” wrote the lawmakers. “We believe that this information is especially timely and prudent and would be helpful to ongoing efforts to protect programs that level the playing field for minority-owned businesses.” The letter was also signed by Reps. Shri Thanedar (D-MI), Morgan McGarvey (D-KY), Sharice Davids (D-KS), Dean Phillips (D-MN), and Judy Chu (D-CA). | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T00:49:26Z |
| https://scholten.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-scholten-statement-election-speaker-mike-johnson | Rep. Scholten Statement on Election of Speaker Mike Johnson | 2023-10-26 | 2023 | 2023-10 | Democrat | House | MI | Hillary J. Scholten | S001221 | scholten.house.gov | scholten | https://scholten.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – Rep. Hillary Scholten (MI-03) issued the below statement after House Republicans elected Rep. Mike Johnson to Speaker of the House: “While I remain deeply concerned about the Speaker’s record, especially his connections to the efforts to overturn the 2020 election, I am committed to working across the aisle to get things done for West Michigan. I hope the Speaker rises to the occasion and stays true to his promise of bipartisanship that he expressed during his speech this afternoon. Now, let’s get back to work.” | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T00:49:26Z |
| https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/committee-passes-peters-bipartisan-bill-to-improve-customer-service-at-federal-agencies | Committee Passes Peters Bipartisan Bill to Improve Customer Service at Federal Agencies | 2023-10-26 | 2023 | 2023-10 | Democrat | Senate | MI | Gary C. Peters | P000595 | www.peters.senate.gov | garypeters | https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – Bipartisan legislation authored by U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) to improve and streamline the customer service that federal agencies provide in person, online, and over the phone has advanced in the Senate. The federal government provides a wide range of critical services, though many agencies can be difficult to navigate. Agencies that have made efforts to prioritize customer experience – including by offering services that limit wait times and hold times – have improved their ability to deliver services for the American people. The Improving Government Services Act would encourage all government agencies to offer a better and more secure experience for taxpayers by adopting customer service best practices from the private sector. The bill was passed by the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee where Peters serves as Chair, and now moves to the full Senate for consideration. “The federal government interacts with millions of taxpayers every day, but these interactions can lead to long wait times and poor customer service experiences,” said Senator Peters. “My commonsense bipartisan legislation will ensure that agencies improve taxpayer satisfaction by implementing private sector best practices like call backs and online services.” “We applaud Sen. Peters for his focus on customer experience and improved federal services. From taxpayers seeking IRS assistance to veterans receiving health care, the public engages with government services in countless ways and it’s important to ensure those services are user-friendly and accessible. Tackling this critical issue will help strengthen trust in our government and provide people with the high-quality federal services they expect and deserve,” Max Stier, president and CEO of the Partnership for Public Service. Agencies that have prioritized customer service best practices have not only seen their ability to deliver services improve, they have improved their customer satisfaction as well. For example, after implementing some ne… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T00:49:26Z |
| https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/peters-and-colleagues-introduce-bipartisan-resolution-condemning-hamas_demanding-the-immediate-release-of-all-hostages | Peters & Colleagues Introduce Bipartisan Resolution Condemning Hamas & Demanding the Immediate Release of All Hostages | 2023-10-26 | 2023 | 2023-10 | Democrat | Senate | MI | Gary C. Peters | P000595 | www.peters.senate.gov | garypeters | https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) helped introduce a bipartisan resolution condemning Hamas – the Iranian-backed terrorist group responsible for the premeditated, coordinated, and brutal terrorist attacks on Israel on October 7, 2023 – and demanding that it release all hostages and return them to safety immediately. It is estimated that more than 200 people – including Americans – were abducted and are currently being held hostage in the Gaza Strip. Some of the hostages are children and the elderly, who Hamas has threatened to execute and broadcast their executions publicly. “The more than 200 people currently being held hostage by Hamas are not just numbers on a piece of paper. They are human beings – friends, mothers, fathers, sisters, and brothers,” said Senator Peters. “This bipartisan resolution demonstrates our unwavering support for the Israeli people and demands that Hamas safely return these individuals to their loved ones and communities.” The text of the resolution can be found here. Peters joined the Jewish Federation of Detroit at Congregation Shaarey Zedek in Southfield to stand with the community following Hamas’ deadly terrorist attacks on Israel. Peters also recently joined Jewish leaders at the Woodward Avenue Shul in Royal Oak to discuss his efforts to support the federal Nonprofit Security Grant Program (NSGP), which helps houses of worship protect their facilities and communities against potential threats. In recent years, Peters led bipartisan legislation to reauthorize this program and ensure it continues to have sufficient funding. The program has seen an increased demand as hate crimes and related threats of violence have risen in recent years. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T00:49:26Z |
| https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/peters-reintroduces-bipartisan-bill-to-strengthen-reentry-opportunities-through-skills-trainings-and-apprenticeships | Peters Reintroduces Bipartisan Bill to Strengthen Reentry Opportunities Through Skills Trainings & Apprenticeships | 2023-10-26 | 2023 | 2023-10 | Democrat | Senate | MI | Gary C. Peters | P000595 | www.peters.senate.gov | garypeters | https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) reintroduced bipartisan legislation designed to bolster reentry initiatives that center on offering employment preparation, pre-workforce training, and vocational apprenticeship prospects. The Reentry Employment Opportunities Act, which Peters introduced with Senator Mike Braun (R-IN), would codify the U.S. Department of Labor’s Reentry Employment Opportunities (REO) program into law. The REO program is dedicated to supporting organizations on a national, regional, and local scale in their efforts to provide skill training programs. It facilitates a smoother transition for individuals reintegrating back into their communities after incarceration by equipping them with the necessary skills to secure meaningful employment. “Over an extended period of time, individuals who have completed their sentences have been unfairly denied the opportunities to enter the job market and embark on a fresh start in their lives,” said Senator Peters. “The Reentry Employment Opportunities Act would boost existing skills training and apprenticeship programs and provide a second chance for people in Michigan and across the country who are reintegrating back into their communities after being incarcerated.” The bill has been endorsed by the Center for Employment Opportunities, Detroit at Work, Rights4Girls, the Reentry Working Group, the Safer Foundation, and the National Youth Employment Coalition. “Programs that meet returning citizens where they are and help them transition back to day-to-day life have been shown to be invaluable when it comes to reducing recidivism,” said Dana Williams, President and CEO of Detroit at Work. “Without access to such programs, individuals re-enter society often with fewer opportunities to live fully than when they offended in the first place. If we want former offenders to become productive members of their communities, they must have access to resources that develop the skills employers need, as well as the supportive services and guidance that make t… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T00:49:26Z |
| https://scholten.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-scholten-hosts-inaugural-telephone-town-hall-speakers-race-israel-hamas | Rep. Scholten Hosts Inaugural Telephone Town Hall on Speaker’s Race, Israel-Hamas War | 2023-10-25 | 2023 | 2023-10 | Democrat | House | MI | Hillary J. Scholten | S001221 | scholten.house.gov | scholten | https://scholten.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | An audio replay of the telephone town hall can be found here. WASHINGTON, D.C.– Last night, Rep. Hillary Scholten (MI-03) hosted her inaugural telephone town hall from her Washington, D.C. office. Roughly 4,000 West Michiganders joined the call for updates on the Speaker of the House race, the Israel-Hamas war, the appropriations process, and other issues facing the country. “There’s nothing more important to me in this work than being accessible and responsive to West Michiganders. As we face unprecedented challenges both at home and abroad, it was an honor to speak with people directly to answer their questions and hear their concerns,” said Rep. Scholten.“I look forward to hosting more town halls – both in person and over the phone – in the future and will continue working to make sure West Michiganders’ voices are heard in Washington.” | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T00:49:26Z |
| https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/peters-and-stabenow-announce-more-than-161-million-in-federal-funding-to-help-michigan-families-pay-their-energy-bills | Peters & Stabenow Announce More Than $161 Million in Federal Funding to Help Michigan Families Pay Their Energy Bills | 2023-10-25 | 2023 | 2023-10 | Democrat | Senate | MI | Gary C. Peters | P000595 | www.peters.senate.gov | garypeters | https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senators Gary Peters (MI) and Debbie Stabenow (MI) announced that Michigan is receiving $161,019,682 in federal funding to help low-income families and individuals keep the heat on in the winter and the air conditioning on in the summer. This assistance is made available through the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ (HHS) Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), which helps low-income households afford their home heating and cooling bills, prevent energy shutoffs, restore services, make energy-related home repairs, and weatherize their homes to make them more energy efficient. Peters and Stabenow helped secure a $100 million increase for this critical program through the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. “Michigan communities can experience both bitter cold in the winter and extreme heat during the summer,” said Senator Peters. “I fought for this critical funding to help ensure folks have the support they need to keep themselves, their families, and their homes safe when we experience dangerous temperatures.” “Michigan is no stranger to extreme cold. As we head into the winter season, this critical funding will help ensure that Michigan families don’t have to choose between keeping the heat on and putting food on the table,” said Senator Stabenow. This funding announcement also includes the launch of the LIHEAP Eligibility Tool, which allows households across Michigan and the United States to quickly identify if they are eligible for LIHEAP assistance. More information about the LIHEAP program can be found here. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T00:49:26Z |
| https://scholten.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-scholten-helps-introduce-clean-water-act-2023 | Rep. Scholten Helps Introduce Clean Water Act of 2023 | 2023-10-24 | 2023 | 2023-10 | Democrat | House | MI | Hillary J. Scholten | S001221 | scholten.house.gov | scholten | https://scholten.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C.– On the 51st anniversary of the Clean Water Act, Rep. Hillary Scholten (MI-03) joined fellow members of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee in introducing the Clean Water Act of 2023 to protect America’s rivers, streams, and wetlands from pollution. “Everyone deserves access to clean water – it’s really that simple. Our much-needed bill will restore the integrity of the original Clean Water Act so we can protect this critical resource for future generations,” said Rep. Scholten. This legislation undoes the damage from the Supreme Court Sackett decision, which dramatically limited the scope of federal protections over the nation’s waters and wetlands provided by the original Clean Water Act of 1972. The bill reinstates the bipartisan federal-state partnership that has protected rivers, streams, and wetlands for over 50 years and establishes a clear, level playing field for businesses and industries to thrive while protecting precious natural resources. A one-page summary of the bill can be found here. | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T00:49:26Z |
| https://scholten.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-scholten-recognizes-biden-administrations-immediate-response-terrorism-and | Rep. Scholten Recognizes Biden Administration’s Immediate Response to Terrorism and Gaza Conflict, Urges Need for Continued Aid in Gaza | 2023-10-23 | 2023 | 2023-10 | Democrat | House | MI | Hillary J. Scholten | S001221 | scholten.house.gov | scholten | https://scholten.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C.– Rep. Hillary Scholten (MI-03) joined a majority of her House Democratic Caucus colleagues in thanking the Biden administration for their immediate response to the conflict in the Middle East and urged the need for continued humanitarian aid to Gaza to prevent the loss of more innocent lives. “We are grateful as well for your clear statements regarding the fundamental importance of ensuring that the humanitarian needs of the civilian population of Gaza are met, and that all possible steps are being taken to ensure the safety of civilians and noncombatants in the Strip. Reportedly, more than 3,000 people have been killed and more than 9,700 wounded in Gaza, making it imperative that we act immediately to prevent further loss of innocent lives. We agree with you that Israel’s response must be in accordance with international law and our shared democratic values,” wrote the lawmakers. “Even after this war between Israel and Hamas is over, the conflict between Israel and the Palestinians cannot be solved ultimately by any military means. When this crisis ends, your leadership together with regional partners will be needed to create a path to a sustainable future because, as you have so often pointed out, both Israelis and Palestinians deserve equal measures of freedom, security, opportunity and dignity. There will never be an end to the violence until that goal is achieved, and we know that the United States will have a significant role in the pursuit of the peaceful coexistence between Israel and its neighbors,” the lawmakers continued. Read the full letter here and below: Dear President Biden, We write to thank you for your strong leadership during a tragic and dangerous moment in the Middle East. The horrific attack on October 7 against Israel by the terrorist organization Hamas took the lives of over 1,400 people, injured over 3,000 more, and resulted in the capture of nearly 200 people – including many American citizens – who are being held as hostages in Gaza. You have rightly condemned th… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T00:49:26Z |
| https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/peters-and-stabenow-applaud-150-million-in-federal-funding-to-strengthen-michigans-power-grid-against-bad-weather | Peters & Stabenow Applaud $150 Million in Federal Funding to Strengthen Michigan’s Power Grid Against Bad Weather | 2023-10-20 | 2023 | 2023-10 | Democrat | Senate | MI | Gary C. Peters | P000595 | www.peters.senate.gov | garypeters | https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senators Gary Peters (MI) and Debbie Stabenow (MI) today applauded the announcement of a $150 million Department of Energy (DOE) investment which will strengthen the state’s power grid against extreme weather. This funding is being granted to DTE Energy, Consumers Energy, and American Electric Power through the DOE’s Grid Resilience and Innovation Partnerships (GRIP) Program. Peters and Stabenow wrote letters to the DOE supporting the grant application for each project. Additional information about each grant can be found below: DTE Energy is receiving $22.9 million to develop and build two sets of adaptive networked microgrids which will be installed at O’Shea Solar Park in Detroit. These microgrids will provide key insights into opportunities for load management, peak shaving and faster restoration for customers in urban areas. Consumers Energy is being awarded $100 million make upgrades to circuit systems on federally-designated Disadvantaged Communities and mitigate the impact of outages in the region. American Electric Power is receiving $27.8 million to deploy an Advanced Distribution Management System (ADMS) across its entire grid and enhance grid flexibility and protect its system against threats of extreme weather. “As severe weather events become more common across Michigan, consumers are experiencing a growing number of electrical service disruptions,” said Senator Peters. “I was proud to support these critical investments, which will make our electrical grid more resilient and protect consumers when weather events impact our state.” “Michigan residents know firsthand how more frequent extreme weather is taking a toll on our state’s electrical grid. These critical investments will help ensure Michigan households can count on reliable, affordable power no matter the forecast. These projects will not only help address the impact of the climate crisis in our homes, but will create more good-paying jobs,” said Senator Stabenow. The GRIP grant program invests in projects that imp… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T00:49:26Z |
| https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/peters-calls-for-increase-in-funding-to-protect-houses-of-worship-and-other-nonprofits-against-threats-amid-historic-levels-of-hate-crimes | Peters Calls for Increase in Funding to Protect Houses of Worship and Other Nonprofits Against Threats Amid Historic Levels of Hate Crimes | 2023-10-20 | 2023 | 2023-10 | Democrat | Senate | MI | Gary C. Peters | P000595 | www.peters.senate.gov | garypeters | https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – Amid a historic rise in hate crimes in the U.S., U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) is calling for additional funding to protect synagogues, mosques, gurdwaras, African-American churches, and other religious or non-profit institutions from potential attacks. Peters – alongside U.S. Senators Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Jacky Rosen (D-NV), and Chris Murphy (D-CT) – urged the leaders of the House and Senate Appropriations Committees to allocate $500 million in funding for the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) Nonprofit Security Grant Program (NSGP) for Fiscal Year 2024 as Congress negotiates a government funding deal in the coming weeks. As Chairman of the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, Peters has continuously fought to increase funding for the NSGP, which provides grant funding to religious institutions and other nonprofits to help strengthen their security in the face of these rising threats and attacks. Last year, the NSGP distributed $305 million in funding, however, not all organizations that applied for funding received it. In August, $7.5 million in NSGP grant funding went to faith-based and other nonprofits across Michigan to help secure their facilities. Peters is pushing for an increase in funding to help meet growing demand for the program. “Every American has a fundamental right to practice their faith and live in their community safely and peacefully,” said Senator Peters, Chairman of the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee and member of the Senate Appropriations Committee. “I’ve repeatedly fought to increase funding for this critical program to help houses of worship—including synagogues, mosques and gurdwaras—as well as other community nonprofits secure their facilities, particularly as the number of hate crimes in our country continues to rise. As hostilities in the Middle East lead to increased tensions at home, I strongly urge my colleagues to fund the program at $500 million to help keep our communities safe.” Last yea… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T00:49:26Z |
| https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/peters-urges-congress-to-extend-funding-for-affordable-connectivity-program-to-lower-high-speed-internet-costs-for-michiganders | Peters Urges Congress to Extend Funding for Affordable Connectivity Program to Lower High-Speed Internet Costs for Michiganders | 2023-10-20 | 2023 | 2023-10 | Democrat | Senate | MI | Gary C. Peters | P000595 | www.peters.senate.gov | garypeters | https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) joined 31 of his Senate colleagues in urging Congressional leaders to extend funding for the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP), which provides financial assistance to access high-speed internet for over 800,000 households in Michigan and more than 21 million working families across the nation. Senator Peters helped create this program through the bipartisan infrastructure law to lower high-speed internet costs for Michiganders and help more families and communities get connected. As a result of the program’s popularity, its funds are set to be depleted in a few months, far before the anticipated date. “We write to urge you to extend funding for the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP), which provides over 21 million working families with financial assistance for broadband access, to help bridge the digital divide so they can continue to afford the broadband services they need for work, school, health care, and more,” wrote the Senators. “Should ACP funding not be extended, millions of Americans could be at risk of losing access to broadband.” “Failing to extend funding would be irresponsible,” they continued. “We urge you to extend funding for the ACP in a government appropriations package and include a long-term solution that ensures efficient spending of taxpayer dollars.” The full letter can be found HERE. Senator Peters is committed to expanding high-speed internet access across Michigan. In June 2023, he announced that Michigan would receive more than $1.5 billion in federal funding from the Broadband, Equity, Access, and Deployment Program, known as BEAD, to increase high-speed internet access. This funding was also made available by the bipartisan infrastructure law that Peters helped enact. In June, Senator Peters also announced that the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) awarded more than $61 million in federal funding for the Peninsula Fiber Network to connect unserved and underserved communities in Michigan to high-s… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T00:49:26Z |
| https://scholten.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-scholten-urges-egyptian-government-help-protect-innocent-civilians-gaza | Rep. Scholten Urges Egyptian Government to Help Protect Innocent Civilians in Gaza | 2023-10-19 | 2023 | 2023-10 | Democrat | House | MI | Hillary J. Scholten | S001221 | scholten.house.gov | scholten | https://scholten.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C.– Rep. Hillary Scholten (MI-03) joined a bipartisan group of her colleagues in urging Egyptian Ambassador to the United States Motaz Zahran to encourage the Egyptian government to help protect innocent civilians in Gaza. In a letter, the lawmakers specifically call on the nation, which shares a border with Gaza, to open humanitarian safe zones to allow for innocent civilians to seek refuge from the war as Israel defends itself from Hamas’ brutality. “In order to protect noncombatants and civilians in Gaza from Hamas’s brutality, we call on the Egyptian government to urgently work with the United States, Israel, and relevant international stakeholders to take all measured and appropriate steps to support and facilitate safe zones in southern Gaza and enable a steady supply of humanitarian assistance to flow from Egypt towards those in the safe zones until the civilian population is able to return to the north of the Strip,” wrote the lawmakers. Read the full letter below: Dear Ambassador Zahran, As members of the U.S. House of Representatives, we are writing to you to express our outright condemnation of the recent terrorist attacks in Israel by Hamas and its terrorist partners, and to strongly encourage the government of Egypt to engage constructively with the United States, Israel, and relevant international stakeholders to, establish and maintain safe zones in southern Gaza, with humanitarian access corridors, for civilians seeking refuge from the fighting in the north of the Strip. Israel has the well-established right and responsibility to respond to these vicious attacks. We unequivocally support Israel as it defends itself and takes necessary measures in support of its national security and rescue the nearly 200 hostages currently being held in Gaza. As in previous conflicts, we also note that Israel’s military operations inside Gaza are designed to avoid civilian casualties. Israel has repeatedly warned innocent Gazans to leave Hamas locations and targets in the northern part of the S… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T00:49:26Z |
| https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/peters-and-colleagues-call-for-humanitarian-aid-for-civilians-in-gaza-and-the-west-bank | Peters and Colleagues Call for Humanitarian Aid for Civilians in Gaza and the West Bank | 2023-10-19 | 2023 | 2023-10 | Democrat | Senate | MI | Gary C. Peters | P000595 | www.peters.senate.gov | garypeters | https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) joined more than 30 of his Senate colleagues to urge the Biden administration to lead the international community in contributing to the United Nations’ emergency appeal of $294 million to address the immediate humanitarian needs in the West Bank and Gaza. “As a result of the ongoing conflict in Israel and Gaza prompted by Hamas’ horrific terror attacks, more than 1.2 million people are in urgent need of lifesaving humanitarian assistance. More than one million people have fled the violence, stretching the already strained ability of the United Nations and humanitarian partners on the ground to provide the food, medical treatment, and shelter they need to survive,” the senators wrote. The senators continued: “We support Israel’s right to defend its people against the brutal attacks carried out by Hamas. Hamas knew that the Israeli government would have to respond to the unconscionable murder and hostage-taking of its citizens and thus bears the blame for initiating this conflict. We also know there are many innocent Palestinians in Gaza who do not support Hamas and urgently need help as they seek to flee the fighting.” The senators highlighted the dire situation facing innocent civilians in Gaza: “More than one million people in Gaza have fled their homes in search of safety, with nearly half of those taking shelter in UN facilities. The United Nations estimates that Gaza will run out of food and water within days. Healthcare facilities are overwhelmed, running desperately short on supplies and impacted by the lack of electricity. The humanitarian needs on the ground have dramatically increased over the past week, and conditions will likely continue to deteriorate in the days and weeks ahead.” “We therefore urge you to join the international community in answering the call from the United Nations by contributing toward this lifesaving $294 million appeal, and ask that you work with the UN and its partners to ensure that the assistance reaches the intended recipie… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T00:49:26Z |
| https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/peters-introduces-bipartisan-bill-to-simplify-requirements-for-hazard-mitigation-grants | Peters Introduces Bipartisan Bill to Simplify Requirements for Hazard Mitigation Grants | 2023-10-19 | 2023 | 2023-10 | Democrat | Senate | MI | Gary C. Peters | P000595 | www.peters.senate.gov | garypeters | https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI), Chairman of the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, introduced bipartisan legislation that would require the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to simplify its requirements for demonstrating the cost-effectiveness of hazard mitigation grants. Generally, states, local governments, Tribes, and territories (SLTTs) that request hazard mitigation funding from FEMA are currently required to submit a benefit-cost analysis (BCA) to demonstrate the cost-effectiveness of their projects. Extensive applicant feedback has shown that the current BCA process is cumbersome and overly complicated, which puts underserved communities at a disadvantage for accessing funds. Hazard mitigation grant funds can be used for projects that reduce or eliminate long-term risk to people and property from natural hazards. “Too often, complex application requirements limit the ability of underserved communities to access critical hazard mitigation funding that helps protect people and property against disasters,” said Senator Peters. “This bipartisan legislation will help simplify the process and ensure communities in Michigan and across the United States will have the capacity to apply for critical FEMA funding.” The Facilitating Hazard Mitigations Projects Act would require FEMA to develop strategies for reducing the complexity of its cost-effectiveness requirements for hazard mitigation grants, and provide a report to Congress on how it is implementing those potential strategies. This legislation also requires FEMA to consult with SLTTs and non-profit partners as it performs its evaluation. Under this bill, FEMA would still be required to ensure grants are cost-effective and meet all other grant eligibility requirements. Peters has been a leader in efforts to improve the federal grant process and make it more equitable. He recently introduced the Streamlining Federal Grants Act, which directs the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) to provide guidance to federal … | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T00:49:26Z |
| https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/video-peters-receives-update-on-implementation-of-his-fairness-for-veterans-law | VIDEO: Peters Receives Update on Implementation of His Fairness for Veterans Law | 2023-10-19 | 2023 | 2023-10 | Democrat | Senate | MI | Gary C. Peters | P000595 | www.peters.senate.gov | garypeters | https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) received an update on the implementation of his Fairness for Veterans law during a Senate Veterans Affairs and Armed Services Joint Committee hearing focused on easing the transition from military service to civilian life. The law helps veterans who may have been erroneously given a less than honorable discharge from the military by giving liberal consideration to petitions for changes in discharge status if the servicemember has been diagnosed with a mental trauma, such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) or Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI). A less than honorable discharge is often given for instances of minor misconduct such as being late to formation and missing appointments – behavior that can be seen in those suffering from PTSD, TBI, and other trauma-related conditions. A servicemember’s discharge status impacts their eligibility for certain benefits, including Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) health care, Post-9/11 G.I. Bill educational benefits and VA home loans. “We can all agree that it's critical that our veterans have the support that they need as they transition into civilian life, which is why it's been a priority of mine to introduce legislation that was signed into law to help veterans who may have been wrongly given a less than honorable discharge from the military as a result of PTSD and TBI that was simply not diagnosed,” said Senator Peters, who is a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee and former Lieutenant Commander in the U.S. Navy Reserve. “We know that whether a veteran is entitled to VA benefits depends largely on the discharge status that's assigned to them, and VA benefits play an absolutely critical role in the successful transition to civilian life. It remains a key priority of mine that the discharge review boards continue to take these types of metal mental traumas into account when they're reviewing these petitions.” During the hearing, Peters asked Acting Under Secretary of Defense for Personnel and Readiness Ashish Va… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T00:49:26Z |
| https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/peters-introduces-bipartisan-legislation-to-expand-access-to-opioid-addiction-treatment-for-adolescents | Peters Introduces Bipartisan Legislation to Expand Access to Opioid Addiction Treatment for Adolescents | 2023-10-18 | 2023 | 2023-10 | Democrat | Senate | MI | Gary C. Peters | P000595 | www.peters.senate.gov | garypeters | https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) introduced bipartisan legislation today to reauthorize funding for a grant program he championed that expands access to opioid addiction treatment for adolescents. Peters’ bipartisan Youth Prevention and Recovery Reauthorization Act would build on previous legislation he introduced that was signed into law in 2018 as part of the Substance Use-Disorder Prevention that Promotes Opioid Recovery and Treatment for Patients and Communities (SUPPORT) Act that established the Youth Prevention and Recovery Initiative to make an existing substance abuse program available for young adults. The legislation introduced today would reauthorize funding for the initiative within the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to ensure this critical resource remains available to adolescents, families, care providers, and communities. According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMSHA), more than 695,000 American adolescents used opioids for nonmedical reasons in 2018, up by more than 400,000 since the last study was conducted in 2015. In December 2022, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) reported that monthly drug overdose deaths nearly tripled among adolescents age 10 to 19 years during the first 2 years of the COVID-19 pandemic. In Michigan, deaths from opioid overdoses have increased roughly 18 times from 1999 – 2021, when there were more than 2,800 overdose deaths. “The opioid epidemic is devastating communities in Michigan and across the country, and it’s tragic that the hundreds of thousands of young people suffering from this addiction are struggling to get the care they need,” said Senator Peters. “I’m pushing for the reauthorization of this critical program to expand lifesaving addiction treatments and resources for adolescents to help set them on a path toward recovery.” The Youth Prevention and Recovery Initiative provides funding to hospitals, local governments, and other eligible entities to increase access to opioid addicti… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T00:49:26Z |
| https://stevens.house.gov/media/press-releases/congresswoman-haley-stevens-d-mi-introduces-resolution-condemning-hamas-brutal | Congresswoman Haley Stevens (D-MI) Introduces a Resolution Condemning Hamas’ Brutal Terrorist Attack on Israel and Kidnapping of Innocent Civilian Hostages | 2023-10-17 | 2023 | 2023-10 | Democrat | House | MI | Haley M. Stevens | S001215 | stevens.house.gov | stevens | https://stevens.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | Washington, DC – Today, Congresswoman Haley Stevens (D-MI), Co-Chair of the Congressional Task Force on American Hostages and Americans Wrongfully Detained Abroad, introduced a resolution condemning Hamas’ brutal terrorist attack on Israel and their unlawful taking of hostages. “Hamas holding innocent Israeli civilians hostage is the ultimate act of terrorism, this resolution recognizes these acts for what they are – abhorrent,” said Rep. Haley Stevens (D- MI). “Holding civilians hostage is a violation of international humanitarian law and morally unconscionable. This bi-partisan resolution demands that Hamas release the innocent men, women, and children kidnapped and held. My heart and policymaking abilities are with the hostages and their families. We are committed to bringing those held safely home. “Hamas’ brutality against the people of Israel is appalling and barbaric,” said Rep. French Hill (AR-02), Co-Chair of the Congressional Task Force on American Hostages and Americans Wrongfully Detained Abroad. “Holding innocent civilians against their will is morally wrong and must be condemned. I am proud to partner with Rep. Haley Stevens in leading this resolution that calls for the immediate release of all hostages wrongfully detained by Hamas. As Co-Chairs of the Congressional Task Force on American Hostages and Americans Wrongfully Detained Abroad, we are committed to bringing all the hostages held by Hamas home safely. My prayers are with all the hostages and their families.” The resolution condemns Hamas' brutal attack, condemns their holding and threatening of hostages, and demands Hamas immediately release all hostages. The resolution is co-sponsored by Rep. Eleanor Holmes Norton (DC), Rep. Juan Vargas (CA-52), Rep. Tom McClintock (CA-05) Rep. Steve Cohen (TN-9), Rep. Chuck Fleischmann (TN-03), Rep. Barbara Lee (CA-12), Rep. Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (FL-20), Rep. Mike Bost (IL-12), Rep. Jasmine Crockett (TX-30), Rep. Byron Donalds (FL-19), Rep. Wiley Nickel (NC-13), Rep. Norma J. Torres (CA-35), Rep… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T00:49:26Z |
| https://thanedar.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-shri-thanedar-introduces-picket-line-protection-act-to-support-michigan-workers | Rep. Shri Thanedar Introduces Picket Line Protection Act to Support Michigan Workers | 2023-10-17 | 2023 | 2023-10 | Democrat | House | MI | Shri Thanedar | T000488 | thanedar.house.gov | thanedar | https://thanedar.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | Washington, D.C. – October 17, 2023 – Representative Shri Thanedar, an advocate for hardworking families and a ranking member on the Subcommittee On Transportation And Maritime Security, introduced the Picket Line Protection Act—the Picket Line Protection (PLP) Act. Representative Rashida Tlaib joins Representative Thanedar as an original co-sponsor of the legislation. The Picket Line Protection Act is designed to alleviate the financial burden faced by striking workers by amending the Internal Revenue Code to exempt strike pay from individual gross income tax. This change would effectively set the tax rate on these crucial funds to 0%, offering significant relief to families during strikes. Striking workers in the U.S. are subject to income tax on their strike pay. In Michigan's 13th District, which Representative Thanedar represents, United Auto Workers (UAW) receive no more than $600 a week before taxes while on strike. The Picket Line Protection Act aims to alleviate this burden, recognizing strike benefits as a lifeline for struggling families rather than a taxable income. Linda L. Hinton, Vice President, Communications Workers of America, District 4: "I am proud to endorse the Picket Line Protection Act of 2023, introduced by Representative Shri Thanedar. Today, more and more workers are exercising their legal right to strike for fair wages, better benefits, and improved working conditions. During these trying times, every dollar counts, and this legislation would help those workers provide for their families by retaining more of their hard-earned strike pay. I urge you to join CWA District 4 in supporting this vital bill." Representative Shri Thanedar: "Striking for better conditions is a brave and necessary act, yet our current tax system punishes workers for standing up for their rights. By exempting strike pay from income tax, we're ensuring that workers in Michigan's 13th District, and across America, can focus on fighting for their futures rather than worrying about making ends meet." The Picke… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T00:49:26Z |
| https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/peters-introduces-bipartisan-bill-to-improve-customer-service-at-federal-agencies | Peters Introduces Bipartisan Bill to Improve Customer Service at Federal Agencies | 2023-10-17 | 2023 | 2023-10 | Democrat | Senate | MI | Gary C. Peters | P000595 | www.peters.senate.gov | garypeters | https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI), Chairman of the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, introduced bipartisan legislation to improve and streamline the customer service that federal agencies provide in person, online, and over the phone. The federal government provides a wide range of critical services, though many agencies can be difficult to navigate. Agencies that have made efforts to prioritize customer experience – including by offering services that limit wait times and hold times – have improved their ability to deliver services for the American people. The Improving Government Services Act would encourage all government agencies to offer a better and more secure experience for taxpayers by adopting customer service best practices from the private sector. “Taxpayers must be able to easily and efficiently reach federal agencies when they have questions about services or benefits,” said Senator Peters. “My commonsense bipartisan bill would require agencies to adopt customer service best practices that limit wait times and use callbacks to ensure taxpayers receive support in a timely manner.” Agencies that have prioritized customer service best practices have not only seen their ability to deliver services improve, they have improved their customer satisfaction as well. For example, after implementing some new customer service strategies, such as establishing a single phone number to access benefits and services and new ways for veterans to quickly access information, the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) saw veterans’ trust in the agency rise from 55 percent in 2016 to nearly 80 percent in 2023. The VA reported that in 2022, their AskVA service to improve responses to veterans’ questions successfully resolved 98% of inquiries received through the new system. By modernizing its call centers, the VA was able to address more than 50 million calls in 2022, leading to more than 70% of customers reporting that the service addressed their needs. The senator’s legislation would r… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T00:49:26Z |
| https://scholten.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-scholten-statement-house-republican-dysfunction | Rep. Scholten Statement on House Republican Dysfunction | 2023-10-13 | 2023 | 2023-10 | Democrat | House | MI | Hillary J. Scholten | S001221 | scholten.house.gov | scholten | https://scholten.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C.– Rep. Hillary Scholten (MI-03) issued the below statement on House Republicans’ dysfunction, which has caused the House of Representatives to go without a Speaker for 10 days and paused legislative action: “I’m from the heart of conservative West Michigan. The Republican Party I came to know growing up was about fiscal and personal responsibility – without drama and against wasteful spending. Nothing could be further from the truth of today’s Republican Party, especially in the House of Representatives. While they wage a civil war against one another, they are creating so much waste – wasting time, wasting resources, wasting money, and wasting opportunities. And for what? Petty grievances and emotional temper tantrums to further their own selfish agendas. Taxpayers, who sent us to Washington to get things done, deserve so much better than this. | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T00:49:26Z |
| https://scholten.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-scholten-urges-biden-administration-immediately-allow-visa-free-travel-us | Rep. Scholten Urges Biden Administration to Immediately Allow for Visa-Free Travel to U.S. for Israeli Citizens | 2023-10-13 | 2023 | 2023-10 | Democrat | House | MI | Hillary J. Scholten | S001221 | scholten.house.gov | scholten | https://scholten.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C.– Rep. Hillary Scholten (MI-03) and a bipartisan group of her colleagues urged the Biden administration to immediately allow for visa-free travel to the United States for Israeli citizens with family in the United States. Visa-free travel for Israeli citizens is currently set to begin on November 30th. “As the Administration continues to work to provide Israel with all the tools it needs to defend itself against this heinous attack, we urge that you take the additional step of immediately allowing visa-free travel for Israeli citizens so that those who have family in the United States can shelter with their loved ones as the war continues,” wrote the lawmakers. Read the full letter below and here: Dear President Biden, Secretary Blinken, and Secretary Mayorkas, This past weekend we witnessed Hamas terrorists commit the single largest murder of Jews on a single day since the Holocaust. Over 1,200 Israelis have been murdered and Hamas has committed unspeakable war crimes. Over the weekend, many of us received calls from devastated constituents with Israeli family members wishing to take advantage of Israel’s recent admission into the Visa Waiver Program and host their loved ones. However, visa-free travel for Israeli citizens does not take effect until November 30th, 2023. As President Biden and many others have said since the attacks began, the United States stands shoulder to shoulder with our ally Israel and her people. As the Administration continues to work to provide Israel with all the tools it needs to defend itself against this heinous attack, we urge that you take the additional step of immediately allowing visa-free travel for Israeli citizens so that those who have family in the United States can shelter with their loved ones as the war continues. | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T00:49:26Z |
| https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/peters-visits-royal-oak-synagogue-amid-ongoing-hostilities-in-israel-and-gaza-discusses-the-importance-of-securing-houses-of-worship-against-threats-of-violence | Peters Visits Royal Oak Synagogue Amid Ongoing Hostilities in Israel and Gaza, Discusses the Importance of Securing Houses of Worship Against Threats of Violence | 2023-10-13 | 2023 | 2023-10 | Democrat | Senate | MI | Gary C. Peters | P000595 | www.peters.senate.gov | garypeters | https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases | scraper | ROYAL OAK, MI – U.S. Senator Gary Peters (D-MI), Chairman of the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, joined Jewish leaders at the Woodward Avenue Shul in Royal Oak yesterday to discuss his efforts to help houses of worship improve their security and protect congregations from potential attacks. Peters was joined by Woodward Avenue Shul Rabbi Mendel Polter and Steven Ingber, Chief Executive Officer of the Jewish Federation of Metropolitan Detroit. “We’ve seen a shocking rise in violence targeting all manner of religious institutions – from synagogues, to gurdwaras, to mosques, to African-American churches. These institutions face bomb threats, hateful graffiti, the risk of arson, and many other security threats,” Senator Peters said. “I was honored to be here with faith-based and community leaders to highlight the critical importance of this program and help spread the word to other organizations who are interested in finding more ways to keep their communities safe.” “Our congregation has seen firsthand the effects of hate, bigotry, and ignorance,” said Rabbi Mendel Polter of Woodward Avenue Synagogue. “The Non-Profit Security Grant Program has helped protect Michigan’s religious organizations like ours from security threats, and allowed communities across our state feel safer in their houses of worship. I’m grateful to Senator Gary Peters for his leadership on this issue.” “Our congregations and communities face constant security threats,” said Steven Ingber, CEO of the Jewish Federation of Metropolitan Detroit. “As antisemitic violence increases around the world, Jewish people in Michigan and across the country are left even more vulnerable. The Nonprofit Security Grant Program is one important step towards protecting religious organizations in our state, and I’m grateful to Senator Peters for strengthening this vital program.” Earlier this year, the Woodward Avenue Shul was vandalized with antisemitic graffiti and recently received funding from the Nonprofit Security Grant Program to secu… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T00:49:26Z |
| https://scholten.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-scholten-cosponsors-bipartisan-bill-replenish-israels-iron-dome-missile | Rep. Scholten Cosponsors Bipartisan Bill to Replenish Israel’s “Iron Dome” Missile Defense System | 2023-10-12 | 2023 | 2023-10 | Democrat | House | MI | Hillary J. Scholten | S001221 | scholten.house.gov | scholten | https://scholten.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C.– Rep. Hillary Scholten (MI-03) cosponsored the bipartisan “Operation Swords of Iron” Iron Dome Supplemental Appropriations Act, which will provide $2 billion to replenish Israel’s “Iron Dome” missile defense system. “In the face of horrific and barbaric terrorist attacks at the hands of Hamas and Hezbollah, the United States must do everything it can to help Israel defend itself,” said Rep. Scholten.“This emergency funding will be critical to our democratic ally’s effort to ward off incoming attacks and save innocent lives across the region.” | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T00:49:26Z |
| https://scholten.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-scholten-urges-state-department-help-americans-flee-violence-israel | Rep. Scholten Urges State Department to Help Americans Flee Violence in Israel | 2023-10-11 | 2023 | 2023-10 | Democrat | House | MI | Hillary J. Scholten | S001221 | scholten.house.gov | scholten | https://scholten.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C.– Rep. Hillary Scholten (MI-03) and a bipartisan group of lawmakers penned a letter to U.S. Department of State Secretary Antony Blinken urging the agency to allow for evacuation flights for American citizens fleeing Israel amid terrorist attacks by Hamas. “As you are aware, airlines have canceled most flights out of Ben Gurion Airport, and some have suspended operations in the region. As the number of casualties continues to rise, our constituents who remain in Israel fear for their lives,” wrote the lawmakers. “At this harrowing moment in Israel’s history, it is more important than ever that every American who is looking to return home have the opportunity to do so,” the lawmakers concluded. In the letter, the bipartisan group requested that Secretary Blinken direct the U.S. Embassy in Israel’s chief of mission to submit an evacuation request so President Biden can issue an executive order allowing for evacuation flights from Israel. The group also requested the agency help charter flights for Americans out of Israel in the event that an emergency order is not feasible. Read the full letter below and here: Dear Secretary Blinken, Since Hamas’ indiscriminate attack on Israel Saturday morning, our offices have received harrowing reports from constituents who remain in Israel and are seeking to return to the United States as soon as possible. We write to express our grave concern for their wellbeing and safety. Given the rapidly escalating situation as Israel launches a counteroffensive, it is imperative that you request an evacuation of U.S. nationals in Israel. Almost 50 years to the day of the start of the Yom Kippur War, Hamas terrorists crossed the border and began slaughtering Israelis and abducting hostages in towns in southern Israel. To date, thousands of lives—including 9 Americans—have been lost due to Hamas’ indiscriminate and brutal assault since Saturday. Hamas’ heinous actions also include taking over 150 Israeli hostages, which our offices have received reports that Americans… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T00:49:26Z |
| https://thanedar.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-thanedar-renounces-dsa-membership | Rep. Shri Thanedar Renounces DSA Membership | 2023-10-11 | 2023 | 2023-10 | Democrat | House | MI | Shri Thanedar | T000488 | thanedar.house.gov | thanedar | https://thanedar.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | Washington, D.C. – October 11, 2023 – Today, I am officially renouncing my membership in the Democratic Socialists of America. After the brutal terrorist attacks on Israel, which included the indiscriminate murder, rape, and kidnapping of innocent men, women, and children, I can no longer associate with an organization unwilling to call out terrorism in all its forms. Sunday’s hate-filled and antisemitic rally in New York City, promoted by the NYC-DSA, makes it impossible for me to continue my affiliation. I stand with Israel and its right to defend itself. There is no place for moral equivocation in the face of unadulterated evil as we have seen from Hamas. | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T00:49:26Z |
| https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/peters-introduces-bipartisan-legislation-to-increase-federal-contracting-opportunities-for-women-owned-small-businesses | Peters Introduces Bipartisan Legislation to Increase Federal Contracting Opportunities for Women-Owned Small Businesses | 2023-10-11 | 2023 | 2023-10 | Democrat | Senate | MI | Gary C. Peters | P000595 | www.peters.senate.gov | garypeters | https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) introduced bipartisan legislation to increase federal contracting opportunities for women-owned small businesses with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). The VA’s mission is to service the more than 27 million veterans who have selflessly served their country. To accomplish this mission, the VA acquires a high-quantity and broad spectrum of products and services through its nationwide system of hospitals, clinics, data processing centers, and National Cemeteries. The VA purchases these goods and services on a national, regional, and local level – from large and small businesses alike. However, the VA is currently not required by statute to prioritize federal contracting opportunities for the Small Business Administration’s Women-Owned Small Business Program – which helps provide a level playing field for women business owners in industries where they are underrepresented. Peters’ Veterans Affairs Opportunity for Women Owned Small Businesses Act – which he introduced with U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-TN) – would add the Women-Owned Small Business Program to the list of Small Business Administration programs that must be considered for federal contracting opportunities with the VA. “Small businesses are the backbone of our economy, and women are a critical component of that success,” said Senator Peters, a former Lieutenant Commander in the U.S. Navy Reserve and member of the Armed Services Committee. “I’m leading this bipartisan bill to ensure small businesses owned and led by women have access to the valuable contracting opportunities offered by the VA to support their success and local economies throughout our state.” “Small businesses are the lifeblood of our state’s economy, and risk-taking men and women demonstrate everyday what it means to ‘Make it in Michigan’ by fundamentally transforming their communities and creating places where people want to live, work, play, and stay,” said Quentin L. Messer, Jr. CEO of the Michigan Economic Development… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T00:49:26Z |
| https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/peters-introduces-bipartisan-legislation-to-increase-tribal-access-to-priority-resource-concern-determination-process | Peters Introduces Bipartisan Legislation to Increase Tribal Access to Priority Resource Concern Determination Process | 2023-10-10 | 2023 | 2023-10 | Democrat | Senate | MI | Gary C. Peters | P000595 | www.peters.senate.gov | garypeters | https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) introduced bipartisan legislation to increase tribal visibility in the priority resource concern (PRC) determination process. A priority resource concern (PRC) is currently defined as a natural resource concern or problem determined by the U.S. Secretary of the Interior, and identified at the national, state, or local level. Peters’ Tribal Conservation Priorities Inclusion Act – which he introduced with U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-NE) in June 2023 – would amend this definition to include tribes as entities that can identify PRCs. Adding tribes to the list of entities that can identify PRCs would increase tribal visibility during the PRC determination process and facilitate a deeper consideration of tribally driven concerns through National Resource Conservation Service (NRCS) funding, which can be used to address soil erosion, surface and groundwater contamination, plant and animal health, and more. The NRCS is the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) primary private lands conservation agency and provides financial assistance and personalized conservation planning to help producers meet their unique natural resource conservation and business goals. “The process of identifying and determining natural resource concerns is critical to keeping our environment strong and healthy for future generations. We need to ensure our tribal communities, who have a deep understanding of these issues, have the ability to voice their concerns. I’m leading this bipartisan bill and working to get it passed through the upcoming Farm Bill to improve the inclusivity and effectiveness of this process,” said Senator Peters. Peters’ bill would not require any changes to the PRC determination process – it simply enables states to take tribally identified environmental priorities into consideration. Peters is pushing for the bill to be included in the 2023 Farm Bill. Companion legislation was introduced in the U.S. House of Representatives by Representative Joe Neguse (D-CO-2). ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T00:49:26Z |
| https://thanedar.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-shri-thanedar-submits-the-environmental-health-workforce-act | Rep. Shri Thanedar Submits the Environmental Health Workforce Act | 2023-10-06 | 2023 | 2023-10 | Democrat | House | MI | Shri Thanedar | T000488 | thanedar.house.gov | thanedar | https://thanedar.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | Washington, D.C. – October 6, 2023 – Today, Rep. Shri Thanedar (MI-13), ranking member on the Subcommittee of Transportation and Maritime Security, House Committee on Homeland Security, is proud to unveil the Environmental Health Workforce Act of 2023 to address the decline of vital environmental health professionals crucial to public safety. Since 2008, the U.S. has seen a 22% drop in these roles, and with the upcoming retirement of the Baby Boomer Generation, this strain is projected to deepen. Highlights of the Act: Establish model standards for environmental health worker credentialing. Develop a tailored workforce development plan for environmental health needs. Initiate a report on best practices for training and credentialing. Extend Public Service Loan Forgiveness to eligible environmental health workers. With crises like Flint's lead-contaminated pipelines and the COVID-19 pandemic emphasizing the need, this legislation aims to reverse the declining trend of these professionals by enhancing training and offering financial support. "Our environmental health professionals are frontline defenders of community health” said Rep. Shri Thanedar. “This act is a step towards ensuring they're equipped and acknowledged." ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T00:49:26Z |
| https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/peters-calls-for-immediate-legislative-action-to-support-ukraine | Peters Calls for Immediate Legislative Action to Support Ukraine | 2023-10-06 | 2023 | 2023-10 | Democrat | Senate | MI | Gary C. Peters | P000595 | www.peters.senate.gov | garypeters | https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) called on congressional leadership in the U.S. House and Senate, as well as the chairs and ranking members of the U.S. House and Senate Appropriations Committees, to advance legislation that will provide critical and sustained security and economic support for Ukraine. In a letter with his colleagues, Peters called for immediate legislative action to guarantee that Ukraine is provided the vital resources necessary to continue to push back on Putin’s illegal and unjust invasion. Peters, who serves as Chairman of the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee and a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, has been a strong advocate for U.S. support of Ukraine. “It is past time for the U.S. Congress to take up and pass legislation guaranteeing Ukraine has the critical resources necessary to continue defending themselves against Putin’s illegal war,” Peters and the Senators wrote. “We urge you to act immediately to advance legislation that will provide critical and sustained security and economic support for Ukraine to the President’s desk for his signature.” A copy of the letter can be found below: We write to request urgent action to advance critical and sustained security assistance and economic support for Ukraine. We appreciate the bipartisan statement issued by Senate leadership over the weekend, reiterating that support for Ukraine remains a top legislative priority. Congress cannot sit idly by while Russia’s unprovoked invasion of Ukraine continues. This past weekend, Congress came together to pass a bipartisan continuing resolution (CR) to keep the government funded and avoid an unnecessary and devastating government shutdown. We supported this important compromise to ensure a functioning United States government. However, we share our constituents’ frustration and concern that this package failed to include emergency funding necessary to support Ukraine in its response to Putin’s inhumane and illegal war. The bipartisan Senate CR in… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T00:49:26Z |
| https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/video-peters-pushes-commerce-secretary-to-ensure-the-chips-act-continues-to-invest-in-michigans-economy-and-the-future-of-the-auto-industry | VIDEO: Peters Pushes Commerce Secretary to Ensure the CHIPS Act Continues to Invest in Michigan’s Economy and the Future of the Auto Industry | 2023-10-06 | 2023 | 2023-10 | Democrat | Senate | MI | Gary C. Peters | P000595 | www.peters.senate.gov | garypeters | https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON, DC – During a Senate Commerce Committee hearing, U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) emphasized the importance of investing in Michigan’s economy and the future of the U.S. auto industry through the CHIPS and Science Act, which Peters helped author and enact. Peters urged U.S. Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo to ensure that funding from the law is committed to domestic manufacturing of mature semiconductor chips, which are used in automobiles, as well as other semiconductor related components. Reducing our reliance on foreign manufacturers and boosting domestic production of these components will strengthen our global economic competitiveness and our national security. “One of the primary goals of the CHIPS and Science Act was to address a crisis in the automotive supply chain that was preventing consumers from being able to purchase vehicles and resulting in furloughs of auto workers due to mature chip shortages,” said Senator Peters. “Your department has pledged to spend $10 billion in CHIPS funding to fix that…. but in addition to making more mature chips here, we must also use the CHIPS and Science Act to invest in the future of the automotive industry – and that means research and development.” “Michigan stakeholders have already mobilized to meet that challenge – and one example is the STAR initiative to establish a semiconductor center of excellence in Michigan. Led by the internationally renowned research center, IMEC, semiconductor equipment manufacturer KLA, the University of Michigan and Washtenaw Community College, the STAR initiative will focus on advancing microelectronics research for vehicle electrification and autonomous automotive solutions. These innovative solutions will help cement the United States leadership not only in the future of semiconductors, but also in the future of the automotive industry,” he continued. In response, Secretary Raimondo committed to working with Senator Peters to ensure the CHIPS and Science Act continues to invest in research and development and job tr… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T00:49:26Z |
| https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/peters-leads-bipartisan-colleagues-to-introduce-bill-removing-presidential-authority-to-provide-aid-to-azerbaijan-following-attacks-on-armenian-people | Peters Leads Bipartisan Colleagues to Introduce Bill Removing Presidential Authority to Provide Aid to Azerbaijan following Attacks on Armenian People | 2023-10-05 | 2023 | 2023-10 | Democrat | Senate | MI | Gary C. Peters | P000595 | www.peters.senate.gov | garypeters | https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senator Gary Peters (D-MI) led a bipartisan group of his colleagues, including U.S. Senators Marco Rubio (R-FL), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Bill Cassidy (R-LA), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Pete Ricketts (R-NE) and John Kennedy (R-LA), to introduce legislation that would prevent the U.S. from providing security assistance to Azerbaijan until it has been determined that they are not taking offensive action against the Armenians. The Senators introduced the legislation in response to the unilateral seizure, by force of arms, of Nagorno-Karabakh by Azerbaijan. “The Azerbaijani government has made it clear – it will use its military resources to eliminate the presence of Armenians in Nagorno-Karabakh.” said Senator Peters. “The United States cannot be complicit in Azerbaijani violence against the Armenian people. We must pass this legislation to block additional American aid to Azerbaijan until it puts an end to its aggression in the region.” “It’s absurd that our nation has provided security assistance to Azerbaijan for decades, despite existing law requiring the President to certify that Azerbaijan is not taking offensive action against Armenian,” said Senator Rubio. “This bill is an important first step, as would be sanctioning Azerbaijani officials under the Global Magnitsky Human Rights Accountability Act.” “The United States must take a stand to make sure the Azerbaijani government does not inflict further suffering on ethnic Armenians,” said Senator Shaheen. “I’m proud to help introduce this bipartisan legislation, which is intended to hold Azerbaijan accountable for its actions in Nagorno-Karabakh.” “Through the 907 waiver authority, Americans saw their tax money used to provide weapons to Azerbaijan to attack lands where Armenians have lived for centuries. That is not only wrong, it’s perverse. This bill withdraws that authority,” said Dr. Cassidy. “The United States must send a clear message that we will not support the Azeri regime as it continues its campaign of ethnic cleansing against… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T00:49:26Z |
| https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/video-peters-advocates-for-michigan-airports-at-hearing-with-faa-nominee | VIDEO: Peters Advocates for Michigan Airports at Hearing with FAA Nominee | 2023-10-05 | 2023 | 2023-10 | Democrat | Senate | MI | Gary C. Peters | P000595 | www.peters.senate.gov | garypeters | https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON, DC – As a member of the Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee, U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) advocated for efforts to strengthen and support Michigan airports during a confirmation hearing for Michael Whitaker, the nominee to become Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). Peters underscored the need to protect rural air service and hold airlines accountable to their commitments under the FAA’s Essential Air Service (EAS) program, which is essential to rural airports, communities, and businesses in Michigan and across the country. Peters also secured a commitment from Whitaker to ensure that, if confirmed, he will work on a plan to replace a 60-year-old air traffic control tower at the Gerald R. Ford International Airport in Grand Rapids, Michigan to help the airport expand and modernize to accommodate its rapidly growing demand. Peters additionally emphasized the need to end toxic PFAS contamination at airports and address workforce shortages, including by passing the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2023, which Peters is helping to write as a member of the Senate Commerce Committee. To watch video of Senator Peters questioning FAA Administrator nominee Michael Whitaker about these priorities, click here or on the image below. Below is a transcript of Peters’ questions and Whitaker’s answers at the hearing: PROTECTING ESSENTIAL AIR SERVICE IN MICHIGAN Peters: As Michigan’s senator, I have the privilege of representing 9 rural airports that are served by Essential Air Service program. That is the most of any state in the lower 48, and many of those airports are in Northern Michigan and the Upper Peninsula and host only a couple of round trips per day. In fact, I'm going to take one of those aircraft on Friday up to one of those northern Michigan cities that is serviced through EAS. The proposed Senate FAA reauthorization bill this year includes a provision that I championed that would hold airlines accountable when they break their contracts with these small communi… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T00:49:26Z |
| https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/peters-stabenow-announce-confirmation-of-susan-declercq-to-be-united-states-district-court-judge-in-the-eastern-district-of-michigan | Peters, Stabenow Announce Confirmation of Susan DeClercq to be United States District Court Judge in the Eastern District of Michigan | 2023-10-04 | 2023 | 2023-10 | Democrat | Senate | MI | Gary C. Peters | P000595 | www.peters.senate.gov | garypeters | https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON, DC—U.S. Senators Gary Peters (MI) and Debbie Stabenow (MI) announced the U.S. Senate has confirmed Susan DeClercq to be U.S. District Court Judge for the Eastern District of Michigan. DeClercq was nominated by President Biden on May 3. On June 7, the U.S. Senate Judiciary Committee held a hearing considering her nomination. A video of the hearing can be found here. A video of Senator Peters’ remarks can be found here, and a video of Senator Stabenow’s remarks can be found here. “Susan DeClercq is a public servant, whose staunch commitment to defending justice, civil rights, and our Constitution will serve the people of Michigan well,” said Senator Peters. “She is exceptionally qualified with an outstanding legal career that reflects her integrity and utmost respect for American institutions and democracy. I was honored to help confirm her to the U.S. federal bench.” “Susan DeClercq will be an outstanding U.S. District Court Judge in the Eastern District of Michigan. Her time in the U.S. Attorney’s office and in other roles in Michigan have demonstrated her thoughtfulness and intellect. Her confirmation is great news for Michigan,” said Senator Stabenow. Susan K. DeClercq has been Director and Counsel of Special Investigations at Ford Motor Company in Dearborn, Michigan since 2022. Ms. DeClercq previously served as an Assistant U.S Attorney in the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Michigan from 2004 to 2022, where she had several leadership roles, including serving as Chief of the Civil Division. Ms. DeClercq worked for Skadden, Arps, Slate, and Meagher & Flom in Washington, D.C. as a litigation associate from 2001 to 2004. From 1999 to 2001, she served as a law clerk for Judge Avern Cohn on the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Michigan. Ms. DeClercq received her J.D., magna cum laude, from Wayne State University School of Law in 1999 and her B.A. from the University of Michigan in 1995. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T00:49:26Z |
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