Press releases
Data license: MIT · Data source: dwillis/congress-press
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847 rows where party = "Democrat", state = "NJ" and year = 2016 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://norcross.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-norcross-renews-demands-preserve-historic-south-jersey | Congressman Norcross Renews Demands to Preserve Historic South Jersey Landmark | 2016-12-30 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | NJ | Donald Norcross | N000188 | norcross.house.gov | legacy | Bellmawr, NJ-Congressman Donald Norcross (NJ-01) today demanded the New Jersey Department of Transportation (NJDOT) and U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) immediately re-examine efforts to preserve an historically significant home in Bellmawr Borough. “The State of New Jersey has determined beyond doubt the historical significance of the Hugg-Harrison-Glover House. These new findings affirm the need to take urgent and meaningful action to save and preserve this great landmark,” said Congressman Donald Norcross (NJ-01). In a letter to the Camden County Historical Society dated December 27, 2016, the New Jersey Historic Preservation Office confirms the Hugg-Harrison-Glover House meets criteria for listing in the New Jersey and National Registers of Historic Places. The New Jersey Historic Preservation Office cites convincing evidence confirming the House’s connection to William Harrison, Jr., a militia captain who played an historically significant role during critical years of the Revolutionary War. The letter also reaffirms previous findings about the House’s historic architectural significance. “Quite frankly, this confirms what we’ve believed all along. These findings illustrate the critical historic value of this property and validates our efforts to save this significant piece of South Jersey & American history,” added Congressman Norcross. The House, located along West Browning Road adjacent to New Saint Mary Cemetery in Bellmawr, is threatened by a critical highway infrastructure project known as Direct Connection, designed to reconfigure the Route 42-Interstate 76-Interstate 295 interchange. Congressman Norcross stands in strong support for the ongoing infrastructure project, while calling for a solution to save the historic home. “We literally have thousands of people, near and far to South Jersey, who have invested time and effort to save this historic house. We are demanding that measurable action is taken now to ensure it stands as a symbol of our past for fut… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.menendez.senate.gov/news-and-events/press/video-menendez-russian-hacking-should-cause-great-concern-for-every-american | *VIDEO* Menendez: Russian Hacking ‘Should Cause Great Concern for Every American’ | 2016-12-30 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | NJ | Robert Menendez | M000639 | www.menendez.senate.gov | legacy | *VIDEO* Menendez: Russian Hacking ‘Should Cause Great Concern for Every American’ *VIDEO* Menendez: Russian Hacking ‘Should Cause Great Concern for Every American’ Print Email Tweet Friday, December 30, 2016 NEWARK, N.J. – U.S. Senator Bob Menendez (D-N.J.), senior member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee who has been personally sanctioned by Russia, appeared today on MSNBC with Craig Melvin to discuss new White House sanctions against Russia in response to Russian cyberattacks and efforts to tamper with the American election. In reaction to President-Elect Trump’s tweets praising Russia’s president, Sen. Menendez said, ““I think what the President-Elect will find, as we have found in the past, is that Putin only understands strength….When the world doesn’t respond to Putin, he continues to act aggressively.” Press Contact Steven_Sandberg@menendez.senate.gov | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://pallone.house.gov/e-newsletter-21st-century-cures | E-NEWSLETTER: 21st Century Cures | 2016-12-23 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | NJ | Frank Pallone | P000034 | pallone.house.gov | legacy | Dear Neighbors, As technology advances, it is the responsibility of Congress to update, improve and support medical science and research. That is why I was so proud to work with President Obama, Vice President Biden and members on both sides of the aisle to pass H.R. 34, the 21st Century Cures Act. Through smart investments, it will facilitate the advancement of cutting edge medical research and provide for the more efficient discovery, development and delivery of new treatments. As a leader in medical innovation, New Jersey and institutions such as the Cancer Institute of New Jersey in New Brunswick, stand to benefit from 21st Century Cures investments in medical research. Rep. Pallone at the bill signing of 21st Century Cures last week 21st Century Cures will designate over $6 billion to implement cutting-edge health initiatives. The initiatives include: $1 billion to help fight the opioid epidemic – expanding access to treatment for the over 256,000 New Jersey residents who are suffering from opioid and heroin addiction. $1.5 billion in funding for the BRAIN Initiative that finds new ways to treat, cure, and prevent brain disorders such as Alzheimer’s and epilepsy. $1.8 billion to support Vice President Biden’s Cancer Moonshot, which aims to accelerate research efforts and make new therapies available to more patients, while also improving our ability to prevent cancer and detect it at an early stage. $1.5 billion for President Obama's Precision Medicine Initiative, which will help researchers, develop medicines tailored to individuals, rather than one-size-fits-all treatments. $500 million for the FDA to foster innovation and to help improve FDA’s medical product review in order to expedite patient access to important drugs and medical devices. Expanding access to critical mental health services, including adult suicide prevention, community crisis response systems, and increases access to mental health services for children through Medicaid. Rep. Pallone visited Damon House in New Brunswick, which… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://pallone.house.gov/press-release/pallone-announces-new-jersey%E2%80%99s-selection-certified-community-behavioral-health-clinics | Pallone Announces New Jerseys Selection for Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinics Demonstration Project | 2016-12-23 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | NJ | Frank Pallone | P000034 | pallone.house.gov | legacy | Washington, DC – Today, Congressman Frank Pallone (NJ-06) announced that New Jersey has been selected for participation in a two-year Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinic (CCBHC) demonstration program. This demonstration is part of a comprehensive effort to integrate behavioral health with physical health care, increase consistent use of evidence-based practices, and improve access to high quality care for people with mental and substance use disorders. “Improving the quality and scope of healthcare is critical to ensuring that individuals and families struggling with mental illness or substance use disorders get the tools they need to meet those challenges,” said Pallone. “I am excited about the prospects of this demonstration project, and I hope it will improve health outcomes across New Jersey.” Pallone has been a longtime advocate for improving the continuum of care for vulnerable populations. As the top Democrat on the House Energy and Commerce Committee, he worked to advance and enact legislation to improve access to mental health treatment and increase resources to fight the opioid epidemic earlier this year. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.booker.senate.gov?p=press_release&id=513 | Booker Statement on UN Security Council Resolution Targeting Israel | 2016-12-23 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | NJ | Cory Booker | B001288 | www.booker.senate.gov | legacy | December 23, 2016 Washington, DC – U.S. Sen. Cory Booker (D-NJ) issued the following statement: “One-sided resolutions in the UN Security Council that isolate Israel in the international community will not move us closer to a two-state solution and to peace. We need direct negotiations between Israel and the Palestinian people, and I urge the Administration do everything in its power to stop this resolution from moving forward.” | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.menendez.senate.gov/news-and-events/press/sen-menendez-on-unsc-settlement-resolution-us-abstention- | Sen. Menendez on UNSC Settlement Resolution, US Abstention | 2016-12-23 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | NJ | Robert Menendez | M000639 | www.menendez.senate.gov | legacy | Sen. Menendez on UNSC Settlement Resolution, US Abstention Sen. Menendez on UNSC Settlement Resolution, US Abstention Print Email Tweet Friday, December 23, 2016 WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Bob Menendez (D-N.J.), senior member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, issued the following statement after the U.N. Security Council voted to approve a resolution demanding an end to Israeli settlement building in a manner that is not conducive to a two-state solution. “I am deeply disturbed by today's actions at the UN Security Council. The international body once again, instead of focusing on grave humanitarian crises and political instability throughout the world chose to single out Israel and further weaken prospects for peace. This resolution was biased, ignored the role Palestinians play in undermining stability and peace, and serves only to continue to delegitimize Israel on the global stage. "I am disappointed but not surprised that the Administration chose to go along with this maneuver, walking away from longstanding principles and practices that advance the goal of peace and stability. The United States must use its influence and posture at the United Nations to promote our values and support our allies. It has long been a bipartisan sensible policy of the United States to support direct bilateral negotiations between the parties to find an agreement. We have long stood beside Israel in the face of these kind of politicized resolutions whose only goal is to undermine confidence in a negotiated peace process. "Going forward, I look forward to continuing to work towards strong bipartisan support for a peace deal negotiated directly between the parties.” ### Press Contact Juan_Pachon@menendez.senate.gov | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://pallone.house.gov/press-release/pallone-announces-sandy-hook-will-not-increase-fees-2017 | Pallone Announces Sandy Hook will Not Increase Fees for 2017 | 2016-12-22 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | NJ | Frank Pallone | P000034 | pallone.house.gov | legacy | Long Branch, NJ – Today, Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06) announced that Sandy Hook will not be raising its camping and parking fees in 2017. In August, Congressman Pallone sent a letter to National Park Service Director Jonathan B. Jarvis urging the NPS to withdraw its proposal to increase Sandy Hook’s fees. At Pallone’s request NPS held a public hearing on the fee increases, where New Jersey residents expressed their opposition. “I am pleased that NPS listened to the voices of New Jerseyans and withdrew its proposal to increase fees,” said Pallone. “The proposed increase would have been an additional financial burden to the individuals and families who enjoy visiting Sandy Hook, and could potentially damage the local economy, which relies in part on tourism. We should be looking at ways to encourage more visitors to the parks, in turn helping the surrounding economies. I am confident that NPS’ decision will help keep Sandy Hook affordable for working families. .” In his letter to Director Jarvis, Congressman Pallone also requested a meeting with NPS to learn how the revenues from the increased fees will be used, and if these new revenues would be used exclusively to maintain and improve facilities at Sandy Hook. For most vehicles, beach parking is currently $15 per day or $75 per season. For oversized vehicles (more than 20 feet), the charge is $30 per day or $150 per season. The new proposal would have placed fees at $20 per day and $100 per season, with $50 per day and $200 a season for oversized cars. This would have marked the second fee increase at the park in five years. In 2012, Pallone successfully fought efforts to increase parking fees per vehicle from $10 to $20, and a season pass increase from $50 to $100. NPS compromised and cut the proposed fees by half, which is what the parking fees are today. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://pallone.house.gov/press-release/pallone-speaks-out-against-noaa-summer-flounder-quotas | Pallone Speaks Out Against NOAA Summer Flounder Quotas | 2016-12-22 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | NJ | Frank Pallone | P000034 | pallone.house.gov | legacy | LONG BRANCH, NJ – Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06) voiced strong opposition to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) final rule on 2017 and 2018 summer flounder quotas released today. Under the rule, the summer flounder Acceptable Biological Catch (ABC) would be reduced 29% in 2017 and 16% in 2018. The recreational and commercial limits would both be reduced by approximately 30% in 2017 and 16% in 2018. Pallone will continue his fight against this reduction, and intends to request that the Secretary of Commerce overturns this decision. “I am extremely disappointed with NOAA's decision to dramatically cut summer flounder quotas. These reductions will harm many coastal communities in New Jersey that rely on the commercial and recreational fishing industries," said Congressman Pallone. "The damage will go beyond the New Jersey fishing industry; the tourism and boating industries will be hurt as well." "NOAA has relied on inaccurate data to finalize these reductions. Fishermen have sacrificed for years to improve summer flounder biomass, and flounder populations have rebounded. Instead of putting onerous regulations on fishermen just trying to make a living, NOAA should be focused on rebuilding trust and ensuring that the science it uses to guide stock assessments is accurate. I am committed to continuing to work to protect New Jersey fishermen and the valuable economic impact they have on the state." Pallone has long been a supporter of fisheries and the economies of coastal communities. Last week, Pallone appeared before the Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council to reiterate his opposition to NOAA’s quota reductions because of the harm they would cause New Jersey coastal communities. Also last week Pallone and Senator Cory Booker sent a letter to NOAA Fisheries about its proposal to reduce the ABC recreational and commercial quotas for summer flounder in 2017 and 2018. The New Jersey lawmakers requested that NOAA Fisheries postpone any decision on reducing summer flounder quotas … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.booker.senate.gov?p=press_release&id=512 | Menendez, Booker, Norcross Applaud $6M Initial Investment in Cradle to Career Education and Support Services in Camden Neighborhoods | 2016-12-22 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | NJ | Cory Booker | B001288 | www.booker.senate.gov | legacy | Camden’s Center for Family Services Wins $30M Promise Neighborhood Competition December 22, 2016 NEWARK, N.J. - U.S. Senators Bob Menendez and Cory Booker, and Congressman Donald Norcross (N.J.-01), today applauded the awarding of up to $30 million over the next five years to the Center for Family Services (CFS) in Camden through the U.S. Department of Education's Promise Neighborhood competition to implement comprehensive community-based education, health and family support initiatives throughout Camden City's most distressed neighborhoods. The first $6 million installment was made yesterday; future installments are subject to the annual budget process."Communities where children are struggling in the classroom are most often the same communities struggling with violence, underperforming schools, rundown housing and high unemployment," said Sen. Menendez. "The Center for Family Services and their local partners recognize that in order to boost student achievement, they must tackle challenges both inside and outside of the classroom-and this award will help them do just that." "This is yet another example of our shared commitment to helping strengthen Camden as this great city continues down a path of resurgence," said Sen. Booker. "Every child deserves access to a quality, affordable education in order to help prepare them for future success both in and out of the classroom. This federal funding will help transform one of New Jersey's most distressed communities by closing the achievement gap while restoring hope of a brighter future for our children.""This is a game changer for students in Camden. This federal grant is a significant achievement for the local partnership working together every day to make Camden's future brighter. I congratulate the Center for Family Services on t… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.menendez.senate.gov/news-and-events/press/menendez-banking-committee-dems-push-wells-fargo-for-more-answers-on-phony-account-scandal | Menendez, Banking Committee Dems Push Wells Fargo for More Answers on Phony Account Scandal | 2016-12-22 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | NJ | Robert Menendez | M000639 | www.menendez.senate.gov | legacy | Menendez, Banking Committee Dems Push Wells Fargo for More Answers on Phony Account Scandal Menendez, Banking Committee Dems Push Wells Fargo for More Answers on Phony Account Scandal Print Email Tweet Thursday, December 22, 2016 NEWARK, N.J. – U.S. Senator Bob Menendez joined Democrats on the U.S. Senate Banking Committee today to call on Wells Fargo’s board of directors to respond to questions that the bank’s management has failed to answer following a scandal over its fraudulent sales practices. In the letter, the Senators asked Wells Fargo’s board for details about its ongoing investigation of the fraud, the timeline of when the board learned about the bank’s illegal practices, actions the board took to address the problem, and reasons why it didn’t investigate the misconduct sooner. The Senators also asked for responses to questions that Wells Fargo’s management has continued to dodge but the board is in a position to answer. “[C]ontinued failure to answer questions – especially basic questions – about the causes and consequences of the fraud that Wells Fargo permitted for many years does nothing to restore the trust of Wells Fargo’s customers and shareholders, many of whom are our constituents,” the Senators wrote. “In our view, waiting until spring 2017 to provide more documents and information to our questions is not diligence.” The Senators asked Wells Fargo's board to respond by Jan. 6, 2017. Along with Sen. Menendez, the letter was signed by Ranking Member Sherrod Brown (D-Ohio), Jack Reed (D-R.I.), Jon Tester (D-Mont.), Mark Warner (D-Va), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Heidi Heitkamp (D-N.D.), and Joe Donnelly (D-Ind.). In September, the Banking Committee Democrats asked Wells Fargo to answer dozens of questions for the record to clarify and supplement the Sept. 20 testimony of the bank’s former chief executive, John Stumpf, befor… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.menendez.senate.gov/news-and-events/press/menendez-booker-join-senate-dems-and-call-on-president-elect-trump-to-protect-access-to-family-planning-centers- | Menendez, Booker Join Senate Dems and Call On President-Elect Trump to Protect Access To Family Planning Centers | 2016-12-22 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | NJ | Robert Menendez | M000639 | www.menendez.senate.gov | legacy | Menendez, Booker Join Senate Dems and Call On President-Elect Trump to Protect Access To Family Planning Centers Menendez, Booker Join Senate Dems and Call On President-Elect Trump to Protect Access To Family Planning Centers In new letter, 34 Senate Democrats call on President-elect Trump to implement “historic rule” protecting Title X family planning program. Senators to President-elect Trump: “Despite your decision to nominate Congressman Price, you have as recently as this year claimed to support Planned Parenthood, the nation’s largest family planning provider.” Print Email Tweet Thursday, December 22, 2016 NEWARK, N.J. – Today, U.S. Senators Bob Menendez and Cory Booker joined more than 30 Senate Democrats in a letter to President-elect Donald Trump urging him to oppose any efforts by Republicans to restrict federal funding from supporting Title X family planning centers. “The economic security of women and their families is directly tied to a woman’s access to reproductive health care, including birth control and counseling,” wrote the Senators in the letter. “Despite numerous Court decisions supporting and reiterating the importance of reproductive health care for women and families, Republicans in Congress have repeatedly attempted to restrict federal funding from supporting Title X family planning centers in communities nationwide.” In the letter, the Senators call on President-elect Trump to commit to implement a final rule by the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) which reinforces existing protections in the Title X program to ensure no qualified health care provider, like Planned Parenthood, is excluded from eligibility for federal funding. The final rule will help guarantee that women and LGBT people have access to the care entitled to them under federal law. “President-elect Trump, women across the country have reason to be deeply… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.menendez.senate.gov/news-and-events/press/sen-menendez-on-unsc-settlement-resolution-postponement- | Sen. Menendez on UNSC Settlement Resolution Postponement | 2016-12-22 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | NJ | Robert Menendez | M000639 | www.menendez.senate.gov | legacy | Sen. Menendez on UNSC Settlement Resolution Postponement Sen. Menendez on UNSC Settlement Resolution Postponement Print Email Tweet Thursday, December 22, 2016 NEWARK, NJ - US Senator Bob Menendez, senior member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, issued the following statement after the U.N. Security Council announced it would delay a vote on Thursday on a resolution demanding an end to Israeli settlement building in a manner that was not conducive to a two-state solution. "Once again, the United Nations could vote on a resolution without a clear purpose other than to continue to disproportionately target Israel. This resolution does nothing to further the prospects for peace in the region or for Israelis and Palestinians, it merely unfairly singles out Israel’s actions, ignoring any wrongdoing on the part of Palestinians. I have repeatedly reiterated my support for diplomatic efforts and policies that support a two-state solution negotiated directly by the two parties. While this resolution does not deserve a vote as it does nothing to support direct negotiations, it is my sincere hope the United States will use its veto power if necessary to avoid further exacerbating tensions." ### Press Contact Juan_Pachon@menendez.senate.gov | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://pascrell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/pascrell-warns-christie-about-aca-medicaid-expansion-repeal | Pascrell Warns Christie about ACA & Medicaid Expansion Repeal | 2016-12-21 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | NJ | Bill Pascrell | P000096 | pascrell.house.gov | legacy | PATERSON, NJ – Today, U.S. Representative Bill Pascrell, Jr. (D-NJ), a member of the House Ways and Means Subcommittee on Health, wrote to Governor Chris Christie to highlight the serious adverse consequences that repealing the Affordable Care Act (ACA) and its Medicaid expansion will have on New Jersey’s residents and state budget. Rep. Pascrell called on Gov. Christie to relay to House Republican Leadership the disastrous impact these policies will have on New Jersey. "I believe you made the right decision in choosing to expand Medicaid in New Jersey under the ACA. This decision has helped facilitate the enrollment of hundreds of thousands of New Jerseyans in the program and contributed to the unprecedented decline in our state’s uninsurance rate," Rep. Pascrell wrote to Gov. Christie in the letter. "Repealing the Medicaid expansion would result in 528,000 New Jerseyans losing their health coverage and an $11.2 billion loss in federal funds from 2018 to 2021… Simply stated, repeal of the Medicaid expansion would only compound New Jersey’s already serious state budget challenges." Earlier this month House Majority Leader Kevin McCarthy and the current and incoming chairmen of the House Committees on Ways and Means, Energy and Commerce, and Education and the Workforce sent a letter to governors and state insurance commissioners seeking their feedback on various changes to the ACA and the health insurance system as a whole. One of the prominent Republican health care reform ideas that will have the most significant impact on states is repealing the Medicaid expansion. Gov. Christie has expanded New Jersey’s Medicaid program under the ACA, increasing health insurance coverage throughout the state, but that infusion of federal Medicaid dollars and coverage for the New Jerseyans who enrolled would be in serious jeopardy if Republicans go through with their plan to repeal it. Text of the letter is below. Click here for a PDF version that includes footnotes. (https://pascrell.house.gov/sites/pascrell.house.gov/files/LE… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://norcross.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-norcross-announces-30-million-federal-resources-south-jersey | Congressman Norcross Announces $30 Million in Federal Resources for South Jersey Students | 2016-12-21 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | NJ | Donald Norcross | N000188 | norcross.house.gov | legacy | Camden, NJ-Congressman Donald Norcross (NJ-01) today announced a $30 million U.S. Department of Education (DOE) Promise Neighborhoods Implementation Grant Award for Center for Family Services, Inc. (CFS) in Camden, New Jersey. CFS, Camden’s largest nonprofit service agency dedicated to improving the lives of children and families in Southern New Jersey, will use the funds to build innovative learning opportunities to improve the educational outcomes for students in Camden’s most distressed communities, and will focus on 14,500 residents in four Camden neighborhoods: Cooper Lanning, Bergen Square, Centerville, and Liberty Park. “This is a game changer for students in Camden and a significant achievement for the local partnership working together every day to make Camden’s future brighter. I congratulate the Center for Family Services on this award that will give young people in Camden the tools to compete and succeed in the classroom and lay the groundwork for success,” said Congressman Donald Norcross (NJ-01). The grant will be administered in $6 million annual installments over five years to CFS. CFS, along with partners from the Camden Housing Authority, Camden County Police, institutions of higher education including Rutgers University-Camden, Rowan University, Camden County College, Cooper University Hospital & Medical School, as well as City health care providers and other agencies, will collaborate to use the federal funds to provide high quality, safe & stable opportunities for students to succeed in school, along with support services for their families. “The Promise Neighborhood grant is yet another example that Camden is committed to improving educational outcomes in the midst of unprecedented change. It is great news for our children, youth, and families as we continue to work hard to ensure all Camden children are prepared to succeed, and have access to great schools and a have real pathway to college or a career. Many thanks go to Senator Menendez, Senator Booker, and Congressman Norcross f… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.menendez.senate.gov/news-and-events/press/menendez-booker-norcross-applaud-6m-initial-investment-in-cradle-to-career-education-and-support-services-in-camden-neighborhoods | Menendez, Booker, Norcross Applaud $6M Initial Investment in Cradle to Career Education and Support Services in Camden Neighborhoods | 2016-12-21 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | NJ | Robert Menendez | M000639 | www.menendez.senate.gov | legacy | Menendez, Booker, Norcross Applaud $6M Initial Investment in Cradle to Career Education and Support Services in Camden Neighborhoods Menendez, Booker, Norcross Applaud $6M Initial Investment in Cradle to Career Education and Support Services in Camden Neighborhoods Camden’s Center for Family Services Wins $30M Promise Neighborhood Competition Print Email Tweet Wednesday, December 21, 2016 NEWARK, N.J. – U.S. Senators Bob Menendez and Cory Booker, and Congressman Donald Norcross (N.J.-01), today applauded the awarding of up to $30 million over the next five years to the Center for Family Services (CFS) in Camden through the U.S. Department of Education’s Promise Neighborhood competition to implement comprehensive community-based education, health and family support initiatives throughout Camden City’s most distressed neighborhoods. The first $6 million installment was made yesterday; future installments are subject to the annual budget process. “Communities where children are struggling in the classroom are most often the same communities struggling with violence, underperforming schools, rundown housing and high unemployment,” said Sen. Menendez. “The Center for Family Services and their local partners recognize that in order to boost student achievement, they must tackle challenges both inside and outside of the classroom—and this award will help them do just that.” “This is yet another example of our shared commitment to helping strengthen Camden as this great city continues down a path of resurgence,” said Sen. Booker. “Every child deserves access to a quality, affordable education in order to help prepare them for future success both in and out of the classroom. This federal funding will help transform one of New Jersey’s most distressed communities by closing the achievement gap while restoring hope of a brighter future for our children.” “This is a … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://pallone.house.gov/press-release/menendez-booker-pallone-applaud-major-step-protect-jersey-shore-offshore-drilling | Menendez, Booker, Pallone Applaud Major Step to Protect Jersey Shore from Offshore Drilling | 2016-12-20 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | NJ | Frank Pallone | P000034 | pallone.house.gov | legacy | President heeds call, issues partial Atlantic drilling ban NEWARK, N.J. – U.S. Senators Bob Menendez and Cory Booker, and Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (N.J.-06) today applauded President Obama for heeding their call to take steps to further protect the Jersey Shore from offshore oil and gas drilling in the Atlantic Ocean. President Obama exercised his authority to permanently ban offshore drilling in deep water canyons from Virginia to New England, including off the New Jersey coast, and in much of the Arctic Ocean. “The families and businesses who depend on a thriving Jersey Shore and clean Atlantic Ocean took an important step forward with the President’s decision to permanently ban drilling in parts of the Atlantic. Today, we celebrate a milestone in our fight to protect the Jersey Shore, but acknowledge that our work is not yet done,” said Sen. Menendez. “In my first month as a United States senator in 2006, I introduced legislation to permanently ban drilling in the Atlantic. Over the last ten years, I’ve been proud to stand with New Jerseyans time and again as we stood up to Big Oil—against all political odds. I will never stop fighting until we fully protect our shores and secure an economic and environmental legacy for generations to come.” “New Jerseyans stood united in calling for the protection of the Atlantic Ocean and this announcement marks an important step in that fight,” said Sen. Booker. “I applaud President Obama for answering calls to permanently protect vulnerable waters in the Atlantic and the Arctic oceans from the potential devastating effects of a catastrophic oil spill. We must now stand ready to fight any efforts by the incoming administration to undermine these historic protections for our environment, our economy and our coastal communities.” “I applaud President Obama for taking an important step to protect the Jersey Shore and the coastal communities that rely on it by withdrawing 5,990 square miles of the Atlantic Ocean from future drilling,” said Pallone. “Oil spills don… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.booker.senate.gov?p=press_release&id=511 | Booker, Menendez, Pallone Applaud Major Step to Protect Jersey Shore from Offshore Drilling | 2016-12-20 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | NJ | Cory Booker | B001288 | www.booker.senate.gov | legacy | President heeds call, issues partial Atlantic drilling ban December 20, 2016 NEWARK, N.J. â? U.S. Senators Bob Menendez and Cory Booker, and Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (N.J.-06) today applauded President Obama for heeding their call to take steps to further protect the Jersey Shore from offshore oil and gas drilling in the Atlantic Ocean. President Obama exercised his authority to permanently ban offshore drilling in deep water canyons from Virginia to New England, including off the New Jersey coast, and in much of the Arctic Ocean. â??The families and businesses who depend on a thriving Jersey Shore and clean Atlantic Ocean took an important step forward with the Presidentâ??s decision to permanently ban drilling in parts of the Atlantic. Today, we celebrate a milestone in our fight to protect the Jersey Shore, but acknowledge that our work is not yet done,â?? said Sen. Menendez. â??In my first month as a United States senator in 2006, I introduced legislation to permanently ban drilling in the Atlantic. Over the last ten years, Iâ??ve been proud to stand with New Jerseyans time and again as we stood up to Big Oilâ?against all political odds. I will never stop fighting until we fully protect our shores and secure an economic and environmental legacy for generations to come.â?? â??New Jerseyans stood united in calling for the protection of the Atlantic Ocean and this announcement marks an important step in that fight,â?? said Sen. Booker. â??I applaud President Obama for answering calls to permanently protect vulnerable waters in the Atlantic and the Arctic oceans from the potential devastating effects of a catastrophic oil spill. We must now stand ready to fight any efforts by the incoming administration to undermine these historic protections for our environment, o… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.menendez.senate.gov/news-and-events/in-the-news/obama-bans-oil-drilling-in-areas-off-nj-coast | Obama bans oil drilling in areas off N.J. coast | 2016-12-20 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | NJ | Robert Menendez | M000639 | www.menendez.senate.gov | legacy | Obama bans oil drilling in areas off N.J. coast Obama bans oil drilling in areas off N.J. coast Print Email Tweet Tuesday, December 20, 2016 By: Jonathan D. Salant President Barack Obama on Tuesday permanently banned oil and gas drilling off the New Jersey coast and in other parts of the Atlantic Ocean from Massachusetts to Virginia. The action "recognizes the unique marine environment in the Atlantic and fishing's critical role in the region's economy and culture," Obama said in a statement. "Specifically, the withdrawal includes areas that support habitat important to commercial and recreational fisheries. The withdrawal does not impact ocean uses beyond mineral exploration and development," the president said. ... New Jersey lawmakers, who have urged Obama to use his authority to prevent oil drilling in the Atlantic Ocean, applauded the action. "The families and businesses who depend on a thriving Jersey Shore and clean Atlantic Ocean took an important step forward with the president's decision to permanently ban drilling in parts of the Atlantic," said U.S. Sen. Robert Menendez (D-N.J.). Both Menendez and Rep. Frank Pallone Jr. (D-6th Dist.) said Obama didn't go far enough and should ban oil drilling everywhere in the Atlantic. Read the full story... | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.menendez.senate.gov/news-and-events/press/menendez-booker-announce-455m-to-combat-nj-homelessness | Menendez, Booker Announce $45.5M to Combat NJ Homelessness | 2016-12-20 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | NJ | Robert Menendez | M000639 | www.menendez.senate.gov | legacy | Menendez, Booker Announce $45.5M to Combat NJ Homelessness Menendez, Booker Announce $45.5M to Combat NJ Homelessness Print Email Tweet Tuesday, December 20, 2016 NEWARK, N.J. – U.S. Senators Bob Menendez and Cory Booker today announced that over $45.5 million in grants have been awarded through the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development’s (HUD) Continuum of Care (CoC) Program to support hundreds of permanent and transitional housing programs for homeless individuals and families, and to support homelessness prevention programs in New Jersey. “This critical federal funding will help thousands of homeless men, women, children, families and veterans across New Jersey access safe and reliable housing and obtain the services and stability they need to get back on their feet and improve their lives,” said Sen. Menendez, the ranking member on the Senate Subcommittee on Housing, Transportation, and Community Development. “We must continue to honor our commitment to ending homelessness by supporting effective local programs and services.” “This federal funding will provide much needed assistance to our most vulnerable populations by supporting the organizations on the front lines in the battle against homelessness in New Jersey,” said Sen. Booker. “As a former mayor, I know how important increasing access to safe and reliable housing is to strengthening our communities. We have a commitment to extending a hand to our brothers and sisters who need it most by helping ensure they have every opportunity to lift themselves up.” With the goal of long-term stability, the CoC Program is designed to assist individuals and families experiencing homelessness, and to provide the services needed to help such individuals move into transitional and permanent housing. More broadly, the CoC Program is designed to promote community-wide planning and strategic use of resources to a… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.menendez.senate.gov/news-and-events/press/menendez-booker-pallone-applaud-major-step-to-protect-jersey-shore-from-offshore-drilling | Menendez, Booker, Pallone Applaud Major Step to Protect Jersey Shore from Offshore Drilling | 2016-12-20 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | NJ | Robert Menendez | M000639 | www.menendez.senate.gov | legacy | Menendez, Booker, Pallone Applaud Major Step to Protect Jersey Shore from Offshore Drilling Menendez, Booker, Pallone Applaud Major Step to Protect Jersey Shore from Offshore Drilling President heeds call, issues partial Atlantic drilling ban Print Email Tweet Tuesday, December 20, 2016 NEWARK, N.J. – U.S. Senators Bob Menendez and Cory Booker, and Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (N.J.-06) today applauded President Obama for heeding their call to take steps to further protect the Jersey Shore from offshore oil and gas drilling in the Atlantic Ocean. President Obama exercised his authority to permanently ban offshore drilling in deep water canyons from Virginia to New England, including off the New Jersey coast, and in much of the Arctic Ocean. “The families and businesses who depend on a thriving Jersey Shore and clean Atlantic Ocean took an important step forward with the President’s decision to permanently ban drilling in parts of the Atlantic. Today, we celebrate a milestone in our fight to protect the Jersey Shore, but acknowledge that our work is not yet done,” said Sen. Menendez. “In my first month as a United States senator in 2006, I introduced legislation to permanently ban drilling in the Atlantic. Over the last ten years, I’ve been proud to stand with New Jerseyans time and again as we stood up to Big Oil—against all political odds. I will never stop fighting until we fully protect our shores and secure an economic and environmental legacy for generations to come.” “New Jerseyans stood united in calling for the protection of the Atlantic Ocean and this announcement marks an important step in that fight,” said Sen. Booker. “I applaud President Obama for answering calls to permanently protect vulnerable waters in the Atlantic and the Arctic oceans from the potential devastating effects of a catastrophic oil spill. We must now stand ready to fight… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.menendez.senate.gov/news-and-events/video/view/2016-holiday-message-from-senator-menendez | 2016 Holiday Message from Senator Menendez | 2016-12-20 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | NJ | Robert Menendez | M000639 | www.menendez.senate.gov | legacy | After such a divisive year, I believe this Holiday Season is a time for all Americans to come together and remember our common concerns and shared values. Like you, I want the best for my family and my country. Please take a moment to watch my holiday message and let us pledge to do all we can to ensure every American has a happy, healthy and prosperous new year. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://pallone.house.gov/press-release/pallone-celebrates-passage-legislation-combat-opioid-epidemic | Pallone Celebrates Passage of Legislation to Combat the Opioid Epidemic | 2016-12-19 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | NJ | Frank Pallone | P000034 | pallone.house.gov | legacy | LONG BRANCH, NJ – Today at the Damon House in New Brunswick, Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06) celebrated the passage of provision in the 21st Century Cures Act, which provides $1 billion over two years to combat the opioid epidemic. Last Week, Pallone joined President Obama and Vice President Biden at the White House for the signing of the legislation. “Opioid abuse affects everyone – people of every faith, every ethnicity, every sexual orientation, and every background,” said Pallone. “They are our friends, family, and neighbors. This legislation allows our communities to strengthen our defenses against the opioid epidemic that has impacted so many of us.” Earlier this year, Congressman Pallone led successful Democratic efforts to pass and secure enactment of the Comprehensive Addiction and Recovery Act (CARA), a law that improves the tools available to prescribers to prevent opioid abuse. CARA expands access to lifesaving naloxone, an opioid overdose reversal drug, and expands access to evidence-based treatments that help individuals with opioid use disorders enter recovery. In New Jersey, more than 184,000 individuals have been admitted to substance abuse treatment facilities for heroin or opioid abuse since 2010 and more than 5,000 have died from heroin-related deaths since 2004. The CDC recently published a report indicating that heroin deaths increased by 20.6 percent between 2014 and 2015. Deaths from synthetic opioids are increasing at a rapid rate, rising 72.2 percent during the same time period. In January, Pallone held a press conference at Damon House to stress the urgency of Congress acting on these important issues. Damon House Inc. was formed to establish, operate and maintain a residential and outpatient program for those suffering with substance abuse disorder and drug dependence and to rehabilitate those persons. In addition it was formed to encourage people with substance abuse disorder to seek treatment and to aid them in independent living. Last week, President Obama signed the 21st C… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://pallone.house.gov/press-release/pallone-statement-obama-administration-rule-safeguard-communities-impacts-mountaintop | Pallone Statement on Obama Administration Rule to Safeguard Communities from Impacts of Mountaintop Removal | 2016-12-19 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | NJ | Frank Pallone | P000034 | pallone.house.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (D-NJ), Ranking Member of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, made the following statement on the Obama Administration’s announcement of its final rule to minimize impacts to surface water and groundwater from coal mining, especially because of mountaintop removal. The rule establishes clear requirements for responsible surface coal mining that will protect 6,000 miles of streams and 52,000 acres of forest over the next two decades. “This rule will help prevent mining practices that pollute streams, destroy drinking water sources, increase flood risk, and threaten forests. The higher standard for water quality is a victory for the health and wellbeing of communities in coal country, who for too long have had to endure the pollution of their water because of mountaintop removal and other harmful mining practices. I have been working for years in Congress to ensure mining companies safely dispose of harmful waste material. I applaud this crucial step to protect human health and the environment from the negative impacts of mining.” Pallone has long been a leader in protecting our water supply from mining waste and has recently reintroduced H.R. 6411, the Clean Water Protection Act, to prevent industrial mining waste from entering the water supply and harming human and environmental health. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://pascrell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-pascrell-says-congress-must-increase-russia-sanctions | Rep. Pascrell Says Congress Must Increase Russia Sanctions | 2016-12-19 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | NJ | Bill Pascrell | P000096 | pascrell.house.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Representative Bill Pascrell, Jr. (D-NJ), a member of the Congressional Ukrainian Caucus, wrote Congressional leaders calling for legislative action to confront Russia's geopolitical aggression by codifying economic sanctions and renewing support for international allies. "These sanctions serve as an important tool to ensure Russia abandons its oppression at home and aggression abroad, which is why I am so concerned that they could be easily undone with the stroke of a pen by a future administration," Rep. Pascrell wrote in the letter. "The United States must send a clear message that we will not stand idly by as President Putin bullies his neighbors, tests the commitment of NATO, and works to fracture Western democracies." The letter asks leaders to prioritize the passage of the STAND for Ukraine Act (H.R. 5094), which would codify increased economic sanctions on Russia that are currently authorized through executive order. The letter was sent to Speaker Paul Ryan (R-WI), Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY), Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi (D-CA), and Minority Leader-Elect Chuck Schumer (D-NY), and copies were sent to President Barack Obama and President-Elect Donald Trump. Letter available here. Text of the letter is below. The Honorable Paul Ryan Speaker of the House H-232, U.S. Capitol Washington, D.C. 20515 The Honorable Mitch McConnell Majority Leader United States Senate Washington, DC 20510 The Honorable Nancy Pelosi Democratic Leader H-204, U.S. Capitol Washington, DC 20515 The Honorable Charles E. Schumer Minority Leader-Elect Senate Office Building United States Senate Dear Speaker Ryan, Leader McConnell, Leader Pelosi and Minority Leader-Elect Schumer: In light of Russian President Vladimir Putin’s continued meddling and aggression around the globe, I encourage you to prioritize our national security in the 115th Congress. One of the first items of business the Congress must consider next year is legislation to further tighten econom… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://pallone.house.gov/press-release/pallone-statement-situation-syria | Pallone Statement on Situation in Syria | 2016-12-15 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | NJ | Frank Pallone | P000034 | pallone.house.gov | legacy | Washington, DC – Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06) issued the following statement on the situation in Syria. “The reports coming out of Aleppo on the indiscriminate killings and summary executions of innocent civilians by Bashar al-Assad's forces are tragic and horrifying. Aleppo, once one of the world’s most historic cities has been reduced to rubble. Its’ people have suffered inexplicable horror and death at the hands of their government and its partners. “I echo U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Samantha Power’s recent remarks at the UN Security Council Emergency Briefing on Syria when she said, ‘The regime of Bashar Al-Assad, Russia, Iran, and their affiliated militia are the ones responsible for what the UN called ‘a complete meltdown of humanity.’ The crisis in Syria amplifies the importance of keeping the United States open to refugees fleeing death and destruction. I urge the incoming Trump Administration to maintain this long-standing humanitarian policy.” ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.booker.senate.gov?p=press_release&id=510 | Booker Announces Committee Assignments for 115th Congress | 2016-12-15 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | NJ | Cory Booker | B001288 | www.booker.senate.gov | legacy | Booker will serve on Senate Committees on Foreign Relations; Commerce, Science, and Transportation; Environment and Public Works; and Small Business and Entrepreneurship December 15, 2016 Washington, D.C. – U.S. Sen. Cory Booker (D-NJ) will serve on four Senate committees when the 115th Congress convenes in January 2017. Booker will serve on the Senate committees on Foreign Relations; Commerce, Science, and Transportation; Environment and Public Works; and Small Business and Entrepreneurship. “I’m excited about these committee assignments because they will enable me to keep fighting to strengthen America's national security, ensure equal justice, and expand economic opportunity for all,” Sen. Booker said. “I’m looking forward to continuing the work to build bipartisan bridges and deliver for New Jerseyans, while standing by my values and serving as a check and balance on the new Administration.” Booker’s committee assignments are subject to Democratic conference and Senate ratification. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.menendez.senate.gov/news-and-events/press/menendez-booker-lobiondo-lead-nj-congressional-delegation-response-to-air-force-on-future-basing-of-f-35s-at-177th-fighter-wing | Menendez, Booker, LoBiondo Lead NJ Congressional Delegation Response to Air Force on Future Basing of F-35s at 177th Fighter Wing | 2016-12-15 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | NJ | Robert Menendez | M000639 | www.menendez.senate.gov | legacy | Menendez, Booker, LoBiondo Lead NJ Congressional Delegation Response to Air Force on Future Basing of F-35s at 177th Fighter Wing Menendez, Booker, LoBiondo Lead NJ Congressional Delegation Response to Air Force on Future Basing of F-35s at 177th Fighter Wing Print Email Tweet Thursday, December 15, 2016 NEWARK, N.J. – U.S. Senators Bob Menendez and Cory Booker joined Congressman Frank LoBiondo (N.J.-02) and the full New Jersey Congressional delegation in a letter yesterday to Air Force Secretary Deborah Lee James urging consideration of the Air National Guard 177th Fighter Wing for future basing decisions of the F-35 fighter jets. Last week the U.S. Air Force announced it had narrowed to five (5) the possible locations for initial F-35 basing. The 177th Fighter Wing was among the eighteen (18) locations considered, though excluded from the final list. “We believe these qualities demonstrate strategic military value for the Air Force, and that the Atlantic City Air National Guard Base would be an ideal location for the F-35A looking forward. We also look forward to any comments regarding changes the Atlantic City Air National Guard Base can make to improve its candidacy for future F-35A basing decisions,” the letter stated. The letter was also signed by U.S. Representatives Frank Pallone, Jr. (N.J.-06), Bill Pascrell (N.J.-09), Chris Smith (N.J.-04), Albio Sires (N.J.-08), Rodney Frelinghuysen (N.J.-11), Bonnie Watson Coleman (N.J.-12), Leonard Lance (N.J.-07), Donald Payne, Jr. (N.J.-10), Tom MacArthur (N.J.-03), Donald Norcross (N.J.-01), and Scott Garrett (N.J.-05). The text of the letter is as follows: December 14, 2016 The Honorable Deborah Lee James Secretary United States Air Force Secretary James: In light of the decision for the Operations 5 and 6 beddown of the F-35A Lightning II to be based at five candidate military installations around the c… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://pallone.house.gov/press-release/pallone-calls-noaa-fisheries-reconsider-summer-flounder-quotas-mid-atlantic-fishery | Pallone Calls for NOAA Fisheries to Reconsider Summer Flounder Quotas at Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council Meeting | 2016-12-14 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | NJ | Frank Pallone | P000034 | pallone.house.gov | legacy | Washington, DC – Today, Congressman Frank Pallone (NJ-06) spoke at the Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council’s (MAFMC) December Meeting in Baltimore, Maryland about his efforts to convince NOAA Fisheries to postpone any decision on reducing summer flounder quotes until it conducts a new benchmark summer flounder assessment. Pallone argued that proposed reductions would harm many coastal communities including those along the Jersey Shore who rely on the recreational and commercial fishing industries. “Many fishermen are frustrated and lack confidence in the data that guides stock assessments,” said Pallone. “In the recreational sector, many believe that they have sacrificed for years to increase stocks, and have yet to see any benefits, despite the increase in biomass from the ‘90s. There continues to be legitimate concerns that the random sampling heavily relied upon by the NOAA and the estimates produced are inaccurate.” This week Congressman Pallone and Senator Cory Booker sent a letter to National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Fisheries about its proposal to reduce the Acceptable Biological Catch (ABC) recreational and commercial quotas for summer flounder in 2017 and 2018. The New Jersey lawmakers requested that NOAA Fisheries postpone any decision on reducing summer flounder quotes until it conducts a new benchmark summer flounder assessment. Pallone has long been a supporters of fisheries and the economies of coastal communities. Earlier this year, Congressman Pallone sent a letter to the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission calling for fair and less restrictive policies relating to summer flounder. Last year, the Congressman decried NOAA’s final rule on 2016 summer flounder catch limits. Under the rule, the summer flounder acceptable catch limit was reduced 30 percent, from 23 million pounds to 16 million pounds. His statement before the council can be found below: Statement of Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council December MeetingDecember 14, … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://pallone.house.gov/press-release/pallone-cummings-seek-answers-trump-transition%E2%80%99s-doe-questionnaire | Pallone & Cummings Seek Answers on Trump Transitions DOE Questionnaire | 2016-12-14 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | NJ | Frank Pallone | P000034 | pallone.house.gov | legacy | “These efforts may be an attempt to apply an ideological ‘litmus test’ to career civil servants” Washington, D.C. – Today, Congressman Frank (NJ-06), ), the Ranking Member on the House Energy and Commerce Committee and Elijah E. Cummings (D-MD), Oversight and Government Reform Ranking Member, sent a letter to Vice President-elect Mike Pence, the head of the Trump transition team, seeking answers after the transition team sought to identify Department of Energy (DOE) employees and contractors who worked on or participated in international climate talks. “We are concerned that these efforts may be an attempt to apply an ideological ‘litmus test’ to career civil servants, which runs counter to the principles of a merit-based civil service and the prohibition against discrimination against civil servants on the basis of political affiliation,” Pallone and Cummings wrote. The members continued, “We are concerned that these efforts to single out particular Department employees involved in efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions may be an attempt to target DOE employees whose scientific views on climate change differ from those of the incoming Trump Administration. While the new Administration is entitled to select political appointees who share the President-Elect’s views on climate change, any effort to retaliate against, undermine, demote, or marginalize civil servants on the basis of their scientific analysis would be an abuse of authority.” The two Democratic committee leaders asked the transition team to provide the memorandum and questionnaire sent to DOE, as well as any similar requests that were sent to other federal agencies seeking the identification of civil service personnel in order to obtain the political policy opinions of individual civil servants. A copy of the letter is available here. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://pallone.house.gov/press-release/pallone-opposes-jcpls-new-transmission-rate-proposal | Pallone Opposes JCP&L's New Transmission Rate Proposal | 2016-12-14 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | NJ | Frank Pallone | P000034 | pallone.house.gov | legacy | Washington, DC - Today, Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ06) sent a letter to Chairman Norman C. Bay of the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission opposing a new transmission formula rate proposed by Jersey Central Power and Light (JCP&L). It is likely that this new formula will result in higher costs to New Jersey ratepayers. In the letter, Pallone supports the protest filed by the New Jersey Division of Rate Counsel, the New Jersey Board of Public Utilities, the Public Power Association of New Jersey, the U.S. Department of Defense, and other federal agencies. He also urged the Commission to suspend the effective date of any potential JCP&L rate increase until all of the relevant issues had been considered. The transmission rate formula rate is not related to the distribution rate that was finalized by JCP&L earlier this week.Earlier this month, Pallone requested a public hearing on the proposal which would increase rates by 150% and argued that “any increase of this magnitude should be carefully scrutinized.” Pallone has voiced concerns with other JCP&L proposals which could have negative impacts on New Jersey communities. In October, Pallone sent a letter to the New Jersey Board of Public Utilities (BPU) voicing his concerns over Jersey Central Power and Light’s (JCP&L) proposal for the Monmouth County Reliability Project (MCRP). The plan for JCP&L’s new transmission line would impact Aberdeen, Hazlet and Middletown in Pallone’s district and run along New Jersey Transit’s North Jersey Coast line. Many residents have argued that the project is unnecessary and potentially harmful to the public health, environment, and economy of their communities. In August, he shared his concerns with BPU regarding JCP&L’s proposal to transfer all of its transmission assets to Mid-Atlantic Interstate Transmission. JCP&L withdrew its transfer proposal in September, a week after Pallone’s statement. December 14, 2016 The Honorable Norman C. Bay Chairman Federal Energy Regulatory Commission… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://pallone.house.gov/press-release/pallone-testifies-joint-legislative-task-force-drinking-water-infrastructure | Pallone Testifies Before Joint Legislative Task Force on Drinking Water Infrastructure | 2016-12-14 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | NJ | Frank Pallone | P000034 | pallone.house.gov | legacy | LONG BRANCH, NJ – Today, Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06), the Ranking Member on the House Energy and Commerce Committee, testified before the Joint Legislative Task Force on Drinking Water Infrastructure, a six-member panel directed to draft a report on the state of water resources in New Jersey. Pallone discussed his recent efforts in Congress on the bill which the President signed yesterday to provide funds to improve our nation’s water infrastructure. This year, Pallone worked to secure $750 million in funding for new drinking water programs to monitor for lead in schools, replace lead service lines, support disadvantaged communities, and support research into innovating drinking water technology. “The Safe Drinking Water Act has not been updated for 20 years, which has put our drinking water at risk,” said Pallone. “The crisis in Flint has highlighted the need for action, but water systems nationwide are in dire need of dramatic improvements, including many in New Jersey. We need to empower communities to protect themselves and make sure that all of our children have safe drinking water.” Congressman Pallone partnered with other safe drinking water advocates in Congress to introduce the Safe Drinking Water Act Amendments of 2016. The bill would make comprehensive changes to ensure safer drinking water for communities nationwide including, empowering EPA to set much needed drinking water standards; requiring water systems to address risks to their source water from climate change, industrial activity, and terrorism; authorizing new investments in lead line replacement, climate resiliency, monitoring technology, and overall drinking water infrastructure and improving compliance and community right to know. The legislation also reauthorizes the Drinking Water SRF for five years at higher levels in order to meet the growing needs gap. The first year of funding is aggressive, and is based on levels provided with passage of the Recovery Act in 2009, corrected for inflation ($3.13 billion). The authorizati… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://payne.house.gov/press-release/payne-jr-announces-23m-federal-grant-east-orange-child-development-corporation | Payne, Jr. Announces $2.3M Federal Grant to East Orange Child Development Corporation | 2016-12-14 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | NJ | Donald Payne | P000604 | payne.house.gov | legacy | NEWARK, N.J. – Congressman Donald M. Payne, Jr. (NJ-10) today announced that the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has awarded $2,262,719 to support Head Start and Early Head Start programs at the East Orange Child Development Corporation. “We all know how important it is to have Early Head Start and Head Start programs to give disadvantaged children the extra boost they need to have a fair shot at success,” said Congressman Payne, Jr. “This funding will help ensure the East Orange Child Development Corporation has the resources to continue providing services essential to making a profound difference in the lives of children in our community.” The East Orange Child Development Corporation provides comprehensive child care services, including education and counseling, to children, families, and the community of East Orange, New Jersey. Head Start and Early Head Start provide comprehensive child development programs for low-income children and their families. Community organizations are awarded grants to provide Head Start and Early Head Start programs in their communities through HHS. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://sires.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/sires-and-ros-lehtinen-lead-letter-to-secretary-kerry-urging | Sires and Ros-Lehtinen Lead Letter to Secretary Kerry Urging Condemnation of Coptic Christian Persecution in Egypt | 2016-12-14 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | NJ | Albio Sires | S001165 | sires.house.gov | legacy | (Washington, D.C.) – Congressman Albio Sires (D-NJ) and Congresswoman Ileana Ros-Lehtinen (R-FL) sent a letter to Secretary Kerry, along with several other Members, urging the Administration to condemn the continued persecution of Coptic Christians and work with the Egyptian government to protect religious minorities in Egypt. “The Coptic Christian community in Egypt has faced continuous and targeted persecution despite its entrenched roots in Egyptian history and society. The bombing of St. Peter’s Church in Cairo on December 11 is a stark reminder of the ongoing discrimination and intolerance confronting nearly ten percent of Egypt’s population. The Egyptian government and President el-Sisi must do more to ensure that the rights of all Egypt’s citizens are protected, and that all Egypt’s communities can live free from fear of violence,” stated Congressman Sires. Coptic Christians in Egypt comprise as much as forty percent of the population in some areas, and can trace their roots back to Egypt for over two thousand years. However, the Christian community in Egypt has suffered from escalated rates of vigilante violence targeting their community. The recent bombing of St. Peter’s Church that killed dozens and injured hundreds is a poignant reminder of the dangers facing Coptic Christians on a daily basis. Rep. Ros-Lehtinen stated, “I strongly condemn the vicious terrorist attack at Cairo’s St. Mark’s Cathedral targeting Coptic Christians. The increasing frequency of persecution against Egypt’s Christians is deeply alarming and I urge our administration to work with the Egyptian government to help protect vulnerable religious minorities and ensure that the perpetrators of all attacks against Copts are brought to justice as soon as possible. The safety and human rights of Copts, other religious minorities, and indeed, all Egyptian citizens, must be protected.” Full text of the letter to Secretary Kerry can be found here. Members of Congress joining Sires and Ros-Lehtinen on the letter were: Rep. Theodore Deutch (D-… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.menendez.senate.gov/news-and-events/in-the-news/camden-wins-132-million-for-new-housing | Camden Wins $13.2 Million for New Housing | 2016-12-14 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | NJ | Robert Menendez | M000639 | www.menendez.senate.gov | legacy | Camden Wins $13.2 Million for New Housing Camden Wins $13.2 Million for New Housing Print Email Tweet Wednesday, December 14, 2016 By: Steele Addison Camden will receive more than $13 million in federal funding to replace the 1940s-era buildings in the Clement T. Branch Village public housing complex with mixed-income town houses and apartments, developments that Mayor Dana L. Redd and other officials said would transform the struggling neighborhood. The money is coming from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development's Choice Neighborhoods Implementation Grant program. ... "It's about people's lives that we are changing today," said U.S. Sen. Bob Menendez, who was joined by fellow Democrats Sen. Cory A. Booker and U.S. Rep. Donald Norcross, local officials, and several dozen Branch Village residents. Losing the grant last year, Menendez said, "didn't stop our dream, and we went at it again, and here we are celebrating our dream." Read full story... | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.menendez.senate.gov/news-and-events/press/sen-menendez-on-the-worsening-crisis-in-aleppo | Sen. Menendez on the Worsening Crisis in Aleppo | 2016-12-14 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | NJ | Robert Menendez | M000639 | www.menendez.senate.gov | legacy | Sen. Menendez on the Worsening Crisis in Aleppo Sen. Menendez on the Worsening Crisis in Aleppo Print Email Tweet Wednesday, December 14, 2016 WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Bob Menendez (D-N.J.), senior member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, issued the following statement on the worsening situation in Aleppo, where the Assad regime continues a Russian-backed brutal offensive against Syrian opposition and civilians. “The horrific scenes from Aleppo offer a devastating reminder that the international community has failed the people of Syria. With the support of Russian and Iranian allies, the Assad regime has led a targeted campaign against innocent children and families, bombing hospitals, and attacking humanitarian aid workers and convoys. The regime has shown no restraint in attacking its own civilians with conventional and chemical weapons and through starvation. More than 500,000 people have already died in this conflict, millions have been displaced throughout the world, entire families are trapped and reports emerged today about women committing suicide to avoid being raped. “This is a disheartening failure of the international community to take a stand in the face of mass violence and gross human rights violations. When faced with options to provide relief and support for innocent children and those suffering in the crosshairs of this conflict, the world failed to hear their cries for help and unify behind them. Those nations who see their own national security bolstered by the brutal Assad regime undermined core principles of security, human right and dignity at the expense of an untold number of lives. The United States and our European allies who value stability and security based on the rule of law and respect of human rights failed to lead. “So, too, did the Congress. Three years ago, as Chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee I he… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://pallone.house.gov/press-release/pallone-applauds-president-obama-he-signs-major-health-legislation-law | Pallone Applauds President Obama as he Signs Major Health Legislation into Law | 2016-12-13 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | NJ | Frank Pallone | P000034 | pallone.house.gov | legacy | 21st Century Cures provides Billions for Cancer Research and to Combat the Opioid Epidemic Washington, DC - Today, Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06) Ranking Member on the House Energy and Commerce Committee, applauded President Obama for signing the 21st Century Cures Act into law. Pallone led Democratic efforts to pass the legislation through the House. The 21st Century Cures Act will advance medical research, fund the fight to combat the heroin and opioid epidemic and further efforts towards mental health reform. As a leader in medical innovation, New Jersey and institutions such as the Cancer Center in New Brunswick, stand to benefit from 21st century cures investments in medical research. “Today’s signing of the 21st Century Cures Act marks an important step toward new treatments and cures for some of the most debilitating and life-threatening diseases that afflict millions of Americans,” said Pallone. “I’m particularly proud of the billions of dollars in funding for Vice President Biden’s Cancer Moonshot Initiative, research to increase our understanding and treatment of brain disorders like Alzheimer’s and traumatic brain injury, and grants for states and communities hard-hit by the opioid abuse crisis. These investments will provide hope for millions of people battling cancer, seeing a loved one in the early stages of Alzheimer’s, or a parent trying desperately to help a child battling opioid addiction. “The investments included in the final bill were essential to producing bipartisan support in Congress, which would not have been possible without the leadership of President Obama and Vice President Biden. I’m also pleased that we were able to include important reforms to our broken mental health system and improved access for kids to inpatient psychiatric treatment through Medicaid. “Now that Cures is law, we must ensure that the funding promises included in this law are fulfilled in the coming years.” The 21st Century Cures Act will designate over $6 billion to implement cutting-edge health in… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://pallone.house.gov/press-release/pallone-booker-call-noaa-fisheries-reconsider-dramatically-reduced-summer-flounder | Pallone, Booker Call on NOAA Fisheries to Reconsider Dramatically Reduced Summer Flounder Quotas | 2016-12-13 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | NJ | Frank Pallone | P000034 | pallone.house.gov | legacy | Washington, DC - Congressman Frank Pallone (NJ-06) and Senator Cory A. Booker have sent a letter to National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Fisheries about its proposal to reduce the Acceptable Biological Catch (ABC) recreational and commercial quotas for summer flounder in 2017 and 2018. The New Jersey lawmakers requested that NOAA Fisheries postpone any decision on reducing summer flounder quotes until it conducts a new benchmark summer flounder assessment. These proposed reductions would harm many coastal communities along the Jersey Shore, especially those that rely on the recreational and commercial fishing industries. “It is crucial that NOAA reconsider the quotas based on the most accurate information,” said Congressman Pallone. “Without a sufficient summer flounder quota, New Jersey’s economy faces a threat that jeopardizes the livelihoods of so many. I will continue to work with my New Jersey colleagues and press NOAA for more favorable catch limits in the future.” “Jobs and businesses down the Jersey Shore are powered by the strength of our commercial and recreational fishing industries,” said Sen. Booker. “ Another reduction in the summer flounder quota could have damaging effects on our state and coastal economies. We will continue to urge NOAA implement quotas that are good for New Jerseyans and reflect the most up to date, accurate assessments.” Pallone and Booker have long been strong supporters of fisheries and the economies of coastal communities. Earlier this year, Congressman Pallone sent a letter to the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission calling for fair and less restrictive policies relating to summer flounder. Last year, the Congressman decried NOAA’s final rule on 2016 summer flounder catch limits. Under the rule, the summer flounder acceptable catch limit was reduced 30 percent, from 23 million pounds to 16 million pounds. The text of the letter can be found below: December 12, 2016 Eileen Sobeck Assistant Administrator for Fisheries NOAA Fisheries 1315 East-W… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://pallone.house.gov/press-release/pallone-nomination-perry-lead-department-energy | Pallone on Nomination of Perry to lead Department of Energy | 2016-12-13 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | NJ | Frank Pallone | P000034 | pallone.house.gov | legacy | Washington, DC - Today, Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06) Ranking Member on the House Energy and Commerce Committee, issued the following statement today upon news of former Governor of Texas Rick Perry’s expected nomination to head the Department of Energy (DOE): “This nomination defies all logic. Governor Perry is on the record both forgetting about the Energy Department and then later remembering that he wanted to eliminate it. Governor Perry clearly does not recognize the importance the Energy Department plays in ensuring the safety and security of America’s nuclear arsenal and nuclear power plants. “It is also deeply unsettling that our current Secretary of Energy, a renowned nuclear physicist, could be succeeded by a contestant on Dancing with the Stars. Governor Perry is simply not qualified for this position and should be rejected.” ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://pallone.house.gov/press-release/pallone-nomination-tillerson-secretary-state | Pallone on Nomination of Tillerson for Secretary of State | 2016-12-13 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | NJ | Frank Pallone | P000034 | pallone.house.gov | legacy | Washington, DC - Today, Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06) released the following statement upon news of ExxonMobil CEO Rex Tillerson’s expected nomination as Secretary of State. "The issues handled by the Secretary of State are of the highest stakes, and they require someone with a deep understanding of international diplomacy and without any conflicts of interest. Rex Tillerson is not that person. The President-elect will argue that Mr. Tillerson’s business experience makes him a viable candidate for this position – but it’s the wrong experience. “As Chief Executive of ExxonMobil, Mr. Tillerson has been a vocal opponent of sanctions placed on Russia in response to its unwarranted incursion into the Ukraine. He was awarded the Russian Order of Friendship by Mr. Putin himself. In an era in which Russia is increasingly aggressive toward the United States and the west, I wholeheartedly agree with Senator McCain’s assessment that Tillerson’s close relationship with Putin is a matter of concern. “Beyond the relationship with Putin, Tillerson has deep financial interests in oil fields all over the world through shares in ExxonMobil, many of which aren’t scheduled to vest for almost a decade, according to the Wall Street Journal. There is a legitimate question, based on the example of his relationship Putin, as to whether Mr. Tillerson will pursue the best interests of the United States without regard to his financial best interests. “I do not believe Mr. Tillerson is up to the task of being our nation’s top diplomat, and I urge the Senate to deny his confirmation.” ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://pascrell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/pascrell-reacts-to-report-that-trumps-business-ties-may-be-jeopardizing | Pascrell Reacts to Report that Trump's Business Ties May Be Jeopardizing U.S. Interests | 2016-12-13 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | NJ | Bill Pascrell | P000096 | pascrell.house.gov | legacy | PATERSON, N.J. – Today, U.S. Representative Bill Pascrell, Jr. (D-NJ) issued the following statement on how President-elect Trump’s potential conflicts of interest have compromised American interests abroad. Recent reports from Newsweek about the next president of the United States describes how he can be vulnerable to undue influence by foreign governments, including through bribery and even blackmail. "With another phone call President-elect Trump may have put people at risk and American foreign policy into question," said Rep. Pascrell. "The Newsweek story today on Mr. Trump's conflicts is beyond troubling. By discussing private business while talking with foreign leaders, like the Turkish president, he is acting with extreme recklessness at worst or simple carelessness at best." "Alexander Hamilton could never imagine how prescient he was over two centuries ago when he warned of 'desire in foreign powers to gain an improper ascendant in our councils' in Federalist No. 68," said Rep. Pascrell. "President-elect Trump must completely separate his personal financial interests from his official capacity as the president, especially after recent reports that a foreign power may already be abusing this connection to twist the arm of the United States. Since he refuses to release his tax returns, which would provide a complete picture of his income and debts, or divorce himself from the Trump Organization, we have no idea if the president-elect is acting in the best interests of America or his bottom line, which is why he must take action to prove that he is putting American interests first." Newsweek’s report details how the actions of President-elect Trump and the financial interests of the Trump Organization abroad may run counter to U.S. foreign policy goals in the Philippians, China, and Turkey. The complete report can be found here: http://www.newsweek.com/2016/12/23/donald-trump-foreign-business-deals-jeopardize-us-531140.html | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://pascrell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-pascrell-statement-on-aleppo-attacks | Rep. Pascrell Statement on Aleppo Attacks | 2016-12-13 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | NJ | Bill Pascrell | P000096 | pascrell.house.gov | legacy | PATERSON, N.J. – Today, U.S. Rep. Bill Pascrell, Jr. (D-NJ) released the following statement on the devastating attacks on Aleppo in the ongoing Syrian Civil War. "The reports of death, destruction, and devastation in Aleppo breaks my heart. These atrocities need to stop. The remaining 150,000 civilians trapped in Aleppo must be safely evacuated. While it is reassuring to hear that a ceasefire and evacuation agreement has been reached, more must be done," Rep. Pascrell said. "To that end, I am calling on President Obama, President-elect Trump, and our nation’s top diplomats to condemn the continued brutal advancement of government forces that have led to gruesome reports of executions and disappearances in Aleppo. From children to the elderly, the people of Syria are crying out for help. Now, more than ever, the United States must stand up to provide humanitarian relief for those in need," Rep. Pascrell said. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://norcross.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-norcross-announces-multi-million-dollar-federal-housing | Congressman Norcross Announces Multi-Million Dollar Federal Housing Grant Award for South Jersey | 2016-12-13 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | NJ | Donald Norcross | N000188 | norcross.house.gov | legacy | Camden, NJ- Congressman Donald Norcross (NJ-01) today announced a $13.2 million U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Choice Neighborhoods Implementation Grant awarded to the Housing Authority of the City of Camden for the City’s Mt. Ephraim South neighborhood. “Today’s announcement highlights our collective commitment to ensuring residents of Camden have affordable, safe places to call home. These funds will go a long way changing lives and generating the transformation of this Camden neighborhood for generations to come,” said Congressman Donald Norcross (NJ-01). “I’m proud to have supported this federal grant initiative and look forward to Camden’s best days, which are still ahead.” Congressman Norcross was joined by United States Senators Bob Menendez & Cory Booker, as well as Camden Mayor Dana Redd for the grant announcement at Branch Village, a distressed housing site that will be replaced with 176 new townhomes and a 50-unit senior facility in two separate phases. “This is such a tremendous achievement for the City of Camden, its partners and of course our residents. Camden has invested an incredible amount of effort to ensure our application was competitive and received favorably by federal officials. I applaud HUD for working with the City and our partners throughout the application process and for deciding to awarding Camden with the Choice designation,” said Camden Mayor Dana Redd. “I also commend Senator Menendez, Senator Booker, and Congressman Norcross for their unwavering support and advocacy for Camden at the federal level. The Choice designation will be transformative, leveraging funding and support services for the targeted community while impacting development efforts citywide.” The Choice Neighborhoods Implementation Grant will be supported by nearly $280 million in addition private and public resources to enhance the neighborhood’s high poverty housing and struggling schools. The Camden City School District will spend up to $50 million to build two new state-of-the-a… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.booker.senate.gov?p=press_release&id=509 | Booker Statement on Rex Tillerson Nomination | 2016-12-13 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | NJ | Cory Booker | B001288 | www.booker.senate.gov | legacy | December 13, 2016 Washington, DC – U.S. Sen. Cory Booker (D-NJ) issued the following statement: “I have serious concerns regarding the President-Elect’s choice of Rex Tillerson to lead the Department of State. Mr. Tillerson's lifelong career at Exxon does not offer the full range of experience necessary to lead our nation’s efforts to tackle some of the world’s most pressing challenges, ranging from suppression of free speech and media to human rights violations, global climate change, and violent insurgencies. “Furthermore, Mr. Tillerson’s close ties to Russia, and Mr. Putin specifically, are deeply disconcerting in their own right and particularly when taken in the broader context of the incoming Administration’s cozy ties to the Kremlin. In fact, while the United States and its allies were increasing sanctions of Russia over their actions in Ukraine, Mr. Tillerson was busy pursuing closer ties to the Russian government. That gives me great pause when I think about the key characteristics needed to be America’s top diplomat, among them an unwavering commitment to pursuing America’s best interests, values, and national security. “His relationships and the resulting conflicts of interest demand great scrutiny, which is especially appropriate in light of Russia's efforts to influence the outcome of November's election. I look forward to Mr. Tillerson’s hearing and a thorough vetting by the Senate.” | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.menendez.senate.gov/news-and-events/in-the-news/video-rex-tillersons-secretary-of-state-confirmation-expected-to-be-rocky | VIDEO: Rex Tillerson’s Secretary Of State Confirmation Expected To Be Rocky | 2016-12-13 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | NJ | Robert Menendez | M000639 | www.menendez.senate.gov | legacy | VIDEO: Rex Tillerson’s Secretary Of State Confirmation Expected To Be Rocky VIDEO: Rex Tillerson’s Secretary Of State Confirmation Expected To Be Rocky Print Email Tweet Tuesday, December 13, 2016 By: Joe Holden President-elect Donald Trump’s pick for secretary of state is facing some backlash for his lack of political experience. Trump announced Tuesday that he has nominated ExxonMobil CEO Rex Tillerson to head the State Department. ... “I have serious concerns about Mr. Tillerson’s nomination,” Sen. Robert Menendez, D-N.J., told CBS 3’s Joe Holden. Menendez added, “The question is did a foreign government try to affect the election of the United States for president and maybe even for Congress.” Read full story... | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.menendez.senate.gov/news-and-events/photo-gallery/menendez-booker-norcross-announce-132m-federal-grant-to-revitalize-camdens-mt-ephraim-neighborhood-spur-economic-growth- | Menendez, Booker, Norcross Announce $13.2M Federal Grant to Revitalize Camden’s Mt. Ephraim Neighborhood, Spur Economic Growth | 2016-12-13 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | NJ | Robert Menendez | M000639 | www.menendez.senate.gov | legacy | Menendez, Booker, Norcross Announce $13.2M Federal Grant to Revitalize Camden’s Mt. Ephraim Neighborhood, Spur Economic Growth U.S. Senators Bob Menendez and Cory Booker, and Congressman Donald Norcross (N.J.-01), today announced that the City of Camden and its Housing Authority have been awarded a $13.2 million Choice Neighborhoods Implementation Grant from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to advance the city’s efforts to transform the Mt. Ephraim South neighborhood from an area with high poverty and struggling schools to a thriving, social and economic center. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.menendez.senate.gov/news-and-events/press/menendez-booker-norcross-announce-132m-federal-grant-to-revitalize-camdens-mt-ephraim-neighborhood-spur-economic-growth- | Menendez, Booker, Norcross Announce $13.2M Federal Grant to Revitalize Camden’s Mt. Ephraim Neighborhood, Spur Economic Growth | 2016-12-13 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | NJ | Robert Menendez | M000639 | www.menendez.senate.gov | legacy | Menendez, Booker, Norcross Announce $13.2M Federal Grant to Revitalize Camden’s Mt. Ephraim Neighborhood, Spur Economic Growth Menendez, Booker, Norcross Announce $13.2M Federal Grant to Revitalize Camden’s Mt. Ephraim Neighborhood, Spur Economic Growth Print Email Tweet Tuesday, December 13, 2016 CAMDEN, N.J. – U.S. Senators Bob Menendez and Cory Booker, and Congressman Donald Norcross (N.J.-01), today announced that the City of Camden and its Housing Authority have been awarded a $13.2 million Choice Neighborhoods Implementation Grant from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to advance the city’s efforts to transform the Mt. Ephraim South neighborhood from an area with high poverty and struggling schools to a thriving, social and economic center. “When all is said and done, this plan is about empowerment, investment and opportunity. It’s about Camden’s families and their futures. It’s about safety, quality housing and education, and access to good jobs,” said Sen. Menendez, the ranking member on the Senate Subcommittee on Housing, Transportation, and Community Development. “As a former mayor, I recognize that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to revitalizing our neighborhoods. It takes a comprehensive approach, a locally-driven plan, and collaborative partnerships between the public and private sectors, local organizations and institutions to ensure the investments necessary to make that vision a reality. I applaud Mayor Dana Redd’s tenacity, leadership and vision to move Camden forward and improve the lives of her residents.” “I was proud to have worked closely with Mayor Redd and my colleagues in helping secure this vital federal funding and applaud the continued pursuit and securing of federal grants and commitment to Camden families,” said Sen. Booker. “Helping lift up our most vulnerable families and creating opportunities t… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.menendez.senate.gov/news-and-events/press/menendez-on-tillerson-nomination-for-secretary-of-state | Menendez on Tillerson Nomination for Secretary of State | 2016-12-13 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | NJ | Robert Menendez | M000639 | www.menendez.senate.gov | legacy | Menendez on Tillerson Nomination for Secretary of State Menendez on Tillerson Nomination for Secretary of State Print Email Tweet Tuesday, December 13, 2016 NEWARK, NJ – U.S. Senator Bob Menendez (D-NJ), senior member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, issued the following statement in reaction to President-elect Donald Trump’s nomination of ExxonMobil CEO Rex Tillerson as his Secretary of State. “Since I and many others expressed grave concerns over Rex Tillerson's qualifications for the position of Secretary of State, and his clear conflict of interests with Vladimir Putin and Russian oil companies, I have seen nothing to ease our concerns. “The fact is, the art of diplomacy entails much more than the ability to strike a good deal. Striking a business deal where profits are the only end goal is fundamentally different than being tasked with forging lasting peace accords across the world, protecting America’s national security and interests, and defining our response and role to an international crisis. The United States is at a critical juncture with nations around the world, and our interests need to be represented and articulated by a qualified leader with proven knowledge and regard for the norms and necessities that so much of our modern diplomatic and security efforts depend upon. “As we just witnessed with the intelligence community’s confirmation of Russia’s malicious intervention in our electoral process, the stakes could not be higher and I am deeply troubled with the idea of a Secretary of State Tillerson guaranteeing Dictator Vladimir Putin has a willing accomplice in the Presidential Cabinet guiding our nation's foreign policy. “I look forward to a thorough confirmation process where Mr. Tillerson can explain his qualifications to effectively lead our nation on the global stage and clarify his entanglements with Russian oligarchs to the Americ… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.menendez.senate.gov/news-and-events/video/view/menendez-announces-132m-for-camdens-mt-ephraim-neighborhood-spur-economic-growth | Menendez Announces $13.2M for Camden’s Mt. Ephraim Neighborhood, Spur Economic Growth | 2016-12-13 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | NJ | Robert Menendez | M000639 | www.menendez.senate.gov | legacy | U.S. Senators Bob Menendez and Cory Booker, and Congressman Donald Norcross (N.J.-01), today announced that the City of Camden and its Housing Authority have been awarded a $13.2 million Choice Neighborhoods Implementation Grant from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to advance the city’s efforts to transform the Mt. Ephraim South neighborhood from an area with high poverty and struggling schools to a thriving, social and economic center. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://pallone.house.gov/press-release/pallone-leaders-public-and-private-sectors-unveil-partnership-bring-%E2%80%9Cresilient-city%E2%80%9D | Pallone, Leaders from Public and Private Sectors Unveil Partnership to Bring Resilient City to Sea Bright | 2016-12-12 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | NJ | Frank Pallone | P000034 | pallone.house.gov | legacy | Long Branch, NJ – Today, Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06), and partners from both the public and private sectors unveiled the outline of a plan to ensure citizens of Sea Bright will be able to communicate and have access to energy and safe drinking water sources during an emergency. The “Resilient City” plan for Sea Bright will serve as a model for other municipalities planning for future storms. Sea Bright Mayor Dina Long, Councilman Marc A. Leckstein, Sam Delgado, Vice President of External Affairs for Verizon, Mariellen Dugan, Senior Vice President & Chief Operating Officer for NJNG and Anthony Hurley, Vice President, Operations for JCP&L joined Pallone at the event.During and after Sandy there was a major breakdown of communications networks, including cellular and home telephones, television, and internet services. There was also great stress on New Jersey’s transportation infrastructure, making it difficult for utilities to provide basic services. This created a dangerous barrier to emergency response and recovery for residents and towns. To address this problem, Congressman Pallone’s staff has been working with Sea Bright’s government and industry over the past two years to learn from the past and make the city a model of strength. New Jersey Natural Gas has already installed a new distribution pipeline in Sea Bright, JCP&L has raised an electrical substation to avoid storm damage and Verizon announced that it will be deploying new infrastructure including a new form of network architecture involving smaller nodes, rather than the traditional large towers. These nodes bring more redundancy and should better withstand major events. The partners plan to take one of New Jersey’s most vulnerable towns and turn it into the country’s first resilient city. “I am very excited to stand with Mayor Long and representatives from Verizon, New Jersey Natural Gas, and JCP&L to announce an exciting new initiative to make sure we are better prepared next time disaster strikes,” said Pallone. “From… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://pascrell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-pascrell-statement-on-alleged-russian-cyberattacks-on-the-2016 | Rep. Pascrell Statement on Alleged Russian Cyberattacks on the 2016 Election | 2016-12-12 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | NJ | Bill Pascrell | P000096 | pascrell.house.gov | legacy | PATERSON, NJ – U.S. Rep. Bill Pascrell, Jr. (D-NJ) released the following statement today on the Obama Administration’s decision to review the cyberattacks on the 2016 election: "Irrespective of the intent, Russian government interference in our election targets the heart of our free society, undermines our democratic institutions, and should alarm all Americans. With every ounce of scrutiny we can muster, these incidents need to be thoroughly investigated on a bipartisan basis," Rep. Pascrell said. "It is critical this investigation fully informs the public about the extent of Russian interference in our elections so a comprehensive set of solutions can be developed to deter and defend ourselves in the future." "A full review of Russian interference is necessary to ensure the integrity of our elections is upheld," Rep. Pascrell said. "Simply put, efforts by President-elect Trump and his transition team to dismiss or minimize intelligence assessments become propaganda for the Kremlin and impugn the hard work of the experts in the U.S. intelligence community." | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://sires.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-sires-statement-on-cairo-bombing-of-coptic-complex | Congressman Sires Statement on Cairo Bombing of Coptic Complex | 2016-12-12 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | NJ | Albio Sires | S001165 | sires.house.gov | legacy | Washington, D.C. – Today, Congressman Sires issued the following statement on the bombing in Cairo, Egypt that targeted Coptic Christians. "Attacking innocent civilians is a deplorable and cowardly act. Families and communities should never live in fear of violence taking place at their houses of worship. These institutions have served as sanctuaries for thousands of years and I am appalled by the deliberate targeting of innocent men, women, and children during their Sunday services. Reports of 25 confirmed dead, dozens more injured, and with the death toll expected to rise, this bombing is a brutal reminder of the prejudices facing Egypt’s Coptic Christians, a long persecuted minority who make up roughly 10 percent of the population. I offer my condolences to the families of victims who perished in the bombing. My thoughts and prayers go out to all those still awaiting news regarding the safety of their loved ones in Cairo. I hope the Egyptian government honors its promises on the swift and thorough investigation of these vicious crimes.” | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.booker.senate.gov?p=press_release&id=507 | Booker Statement on Cairo Bombing | 2016-12-12 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | NJ | Cory Booker | B001288 | www.booker.senate.gov | legacy | December 12, 2016 Washington, DC – U.S. Sen. Cory Booker (D-NJ) issued the following statement: “The bombing of a Coptic church in Cairo, Egypt, in which the lives of more than two dozen innocent worshippers were brutally taken should shock us all. Instead of coming together to celebrate this special and holy time of the year, the victims’ families will be grappling with a senseless tragedy. The Coptic tradition has been an integral part of Egyptian society for generations, contributing to the rich culture and history of the region. An attack against the Coptic community is an attack against all Egyptians. “I hope that President Sisi will bring the perpetrators of this atrocity to justice and will take the necessary steps to protect groups that face threats and ensure security for all Egyptians. My prayers are with the victims, their families, and the entire Coptic community. The United States stands with them in the face of this heartbreaking tragedy.” | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.booker.senate.gov?p=press_release&id=508 | Booker Statement on Reports of Russian Interference in US Election | 2016-12-12 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | NJ | Cory Booker | B001288 | www.booker.senate.gov | legacy | December 12, 2016 Washington, DC – U.S. Sen. Cory Booker (D-NJ) issued the following statement: “Any Russian efforts to influence the results of our election should be of grave concern to every American, and must be fully investigated. Attacks on America’s democratic institutions by a foreign nation simply cannot be tolerated. “A bipartisan group of Senators led by John McCain, Lindsay Graham, Chuck Schumer, and Jack Reed are seeking a Congressional probe into Russia’s efforts to influence last month’s election. “I join the call for Congress to form a bipartisan select committee to investigate Russian interference in our election and will do everything I can to support to it. “This isn’t about who won or lost in November – it’s about preserving the integrity of our democratic system and faith in our governing institutions. The President-elect should not dismiss the CIA's work in 140 characters; he should heed warnings from our intelligence professionals and support efforts to get to the bottom of this serious threat. Nothing less than our national security and democratic institutions are at stake. “Protecting American democracy is a calling far higher than party, politics, or the President-elect's personal preferences. Congress must act swiftly and decisively to investigate Russia’s actions. I will continue to push for this and for other efforts that defend our nation against any type of attack.” | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.menendez.senate.gov/news-and-events/press/menendez-booker-macarthur-announce-nearly-62m-to-build-new-school-on-joint-base-mcguire-dix-lakehurst | Menendez, Booker, MacArthur Announce Nearly $62M to Build New School on Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst | 2016-12-12 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | NJ | Robert Menendez | M000639 | www.menendez.senate.gov | legacy | Menendez, Booker, MacArthur Announce Nearly $62M to Build New School on Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst Menendez, Booker, MacArthur Announce Nearly $62M to Build New School on Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst Hundreds of children will learn in new facility Print Email Tweet Monday, December 12, 2016 NEWARK, N.J. – U.S. Senators Bob Menendez and Cory Booker, and Congressman Tom MacArthur today announced that North Hanover Township School District in Wrightstown, New Jersey has been awarded nearly $62 million in federal funding from the Department of Defense to demolish two schools on Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst and replace them with a new, modern school that will educate hundreds of children from pre-kindergarten through fourth grade. “This is terrific news for our military families whose children are growing up on Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst,” said Sen. Menendez. “These men and women, who are proudly protecting our country, should not have to worry that their kids are trying to learn in schools that are over-crowded and crumbling. And as a premiere installation with over 80 mission partners and our Nation’s only tri-service joint base, new construction of school facilities increases the quality of life for our military families. That’s why I’m so pleased that with this funding, a brand new facility is on the way.” Specifically, a $61,958,022 federal grant from the Department of Defense Public Schools on Military Installations Program has been awarded to North Hanover Township School District for the demolition of the Discovery and Atlantis Elementary Schools and construction of a new school on Joint Base McGuire Dix Lakehurst. The new school will serve 850 students in grades pre-kindergarten through fourth. According to the Deputy Secretary of Defense, the Discovery and Atlantis Elementary School were the fifteenth and eighteenth schools respect… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.menendez.senate.gov/news-and-events/press/sen-menendez-on-russian-hacking-of-elections | Sen. Menendez on Russian Hacking of Elections | 2016-12-12 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | NJ | Robert Menendez | M000639 | www.menendez.senate.gov | legacy | Sen. Menendez on Russian Hacking of Elections Sen. Menendez on Russian Hacking of Elections Print Email Tweet Monday, December 12, 2016 Newark, N.J. – U.S. Senator Bob Menendez, senior member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, issued the following statement after the CIA concluded that Russia intervened in the 2016 election. “As our intelligence agencies have now confirmed, Russia engaged in a malicious effort to tamper with the American Presidential electoral process – to create chaos in our elections and, at the end of the day, to undermine the integrity of the results to serve its own nefarious purposes. There is broad, bi-partisan agreement that Putin’s operatives hacked targeted email accounts and political institutions and then leaked sensitive information to influence voters and to sow distrust and misinformation. Chillingly, he aims to attack the democratic foundations of our great Republic -- to weaken our own institutions and the faith Americans put in the governance principles that have guided us since the beginning. We must thoroughly investigate these disturbing findings and wholly identify and expose the extent of Russian interference in our democratic process. “This is a complex world and we rely on the hard work, unbiased, and non-partisan analysis of our intelligence officials. At a time when we need unified, determined leadership, it is imperative that all of our elected leaders accept their expertise and act accordingly to respond to Russia's nefarious and calculated involvement in our elections. Now more than ever, the Congress, joined by the American people, must demand a complete investigation into this grave matter. Encouraging, justifying or tacitly accepting hacking and government surveillance reeks of an authoritarianism that has no place in our democratic society – and threatens each and every one of us.” Earlier this year in Sep… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.menendez.senate.gov/news-and-events/press/menendez-statement-on-cairo-bombing- | Menendez Statement on Cairo Bombing | 2016-12-11 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | NJ | Robert Menendez | M000639 | www.menendez.senate.gov | legacy | Menendez Statement on Cairo Bombing Menendez Statement on Cairo Bombing Print Email Tweet Sunday, December 11, 2016 NEWARK, N.J. – U.S. Sen. Bob Menendez (D-N.J.), senior member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, issued the following statement in reaction to the bombing in Cairo, Egypt that targeted Coptic Christians, killing dozens and wounding dozens more: “The targeted killing of women and children during morning Mass at Cairo’s main St. Mark’s Cathedral represents one of the deadliest attacks on Egypt’s Christian minority and is beyond barbaric. The nations of the world must stand united in condemnation of this heartless and cowardly attack. These innocent victims of hate were murdered because of their Christian faith, but this attack was targeted at all people—Coptic, Egyptian, American, and all who reject extreme ideologies that have no basis in religious doctrine, but rather are rooted in hatred and ignorance. “New Jersey is home to a vibrant and thriving Coptic community who are mourning this unspeakable tragedy and anxiously awaiting news from Egypt that loved ones are safe. During this time of sadness, my thoughts and prayers are with the Coptic community who deserve peace and tranquility, but will endure as they have throughout their noble history.” Press Contact Tricia_Enright@menendez.senate.gov | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.booker.senate.gov?p=press_release&id=505 | Sen. Booker Statement on Passage of Short-Term Government Funding Resolution | 2016-12-10 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | NJ | Cory Booker | B001288 | www.booker.senate.gov | legacy | December 10, 2016 "The temporary funding bill that the Senate passed today is not a sustainable or responsible way to fund the federal government. I could not support a bill that was undermined by the inclusion of unnecessary and harmful provisions and failed to live up to our obligations to American miners."Miners and their families were let down today. This bill also contains a provision that rolls back critical rest rules for truck drivers. At a time when 4,000 people lose their lives annually and 100,000 are injured due to large truck crashes, it is imperative that Congress do more, not less, to improve safety on the roads. And finally, the continued inclusion of a provision to decrease transparency in corporate political spending is hardly draining the swamp."The antithesis of fiscal responsibility is continually funding the government with months-long stopgap measures that undermine the well-being of American workers and their families every step of the way." | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.booker.senate.gov?p=press_release&id=506 | Booker, Menendez Applaud Passage of Water Resources Development Act | 2016-12-10 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | NJ | Cory Booker | B001288 | www.booker.senate.gov | legacy | December 10, 2016 WASHINGTON, DC - U.S. Senators Cory Booker and Bob Menendez (both D-N.J.) today praised Senate passage of the bipartisan Water Resources Development Act of 2016 (WRDA) which includes provisions they have fought for to authorize and expedite Army Corps of Engineers projects, improve the nation's drinking water infrastructure, enhance ecosystem protection, and make investments in the nation's ports and inland waterways. "I was proud to fight for these critical investments in New Jersey's water infrastructure and ecosystems," said Sen. Booker, a member of Senate committee with jurisdiction over WRDA. "This legislation will help protect New Jersey communities from flooding and extreme weather while creating jobs, rebuilding our aging drinking water and wastewater infrastructure, and protecting our children from the threat of lead-contaminated drinking water in schools. Furthermore, this bill finally provides much needed funding to help address the Flint water crisis. While I helped shape this bill through committee and supported it through Senate-House negotiations, and I'm proud of most of its provisions, I am disappointed that an unrelated measure included at the 11th hour will roll back certain Endangered Species Act protections that will put certain salmon fisheries at serious risk.""This is good news for New Jersey," said Sen. Menendez. "This bill includes smart investments I've fought for to protect New Jerseyans from the threats of river flooding and coastal storms, improve our aging water infrastructure, limit our children's exposure to lead-contaminated drinking water, and restore the environmental health of our waterways and estuaries - all while creating good jobs."WRDA includes several priorities of both Sens. Booker and Menendez to directly benefit the Garden State: Rahway River Basin Flood Risk Management. Requires the Army Corps to expedite the completion of the Chiefs Report, and upon co… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.menendez.senate.gov/news-and-events/press/menendez-booker-applaud-passage-of-water-resources-development-act- | Menendez, Booker Applaud Passage of Water Resources Development Act | 2016-12-10 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | NJ | Robert Menendez | M000639 | www.menendez.senate.gov | legacy | Menendez, Booker Applaud Passage of Water Resources Development Act Menendez, Booker Applaud Passage of Water Resources Development Act Bill fast-tracks Army Corps projects for flood mitigation along Rahway River, ecosystem restoration in Hudson Raritan Estuary; Approves storm protection from Hereford Inlet to Cape May Inlet Print Email Tweet Saturday, December 10, 2016 WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senators Bob Menendez and Cory Booker (both D-N.J.) today praised Senate passage of the bipartisan Water Resources Development Act of 2016 (WRDA) which includes provisions they have fought for to authorize and expedite Army Corps of Engineers projects, improve the nation’s drinking water infrastructure, enhance ecosystem protection, and make investments in the nation’s ports and inland waterways. “This is good news for New Jersey,” said Sen. Menendez. “This bill includes smart investments I’ve fought for to protect New Jerseyans from the threats of river flooding and coastal storms, improve our aging water infrastructure, limit our children’s exposure to lead-contaminated drinking water, and restore the environmental health of our waterways and estuaries – all while creating good jobs.” “I was proud to fight for these critical investments in New Jersey’s water infrastructure and ecosystems,” said Sen. Booker. “This legislation will help protect New Jersey communities from flooding and extreme weather while creating jobs, rebuilding our aging drinking water and wastewater infrastructure, and protecting our children from the threat of lead-contaminated drinking water in schools. Furthermore, this bill finally provides much needed funding to help address the Flint water crisis. While I helped shape this bill through committee and supported it through Senate-House negotiations, and I’m proud of most of its provisions, I am disappointed that an unrelated measure included at … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.menendez.senate.gov/news-and-events/press/menendez-statement-on-reports-of-rex-tillerson-nomination | Menendez Statement on Reports of Rex Tillerson Nomination | 2016-12-10 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | NJ | Robert Menendez | M000639 | www.menendez.senate.gov | legacy | Menendez Statement on Reports of Rex Tillerson Nomination Menendez Statement on Reports of Rex Tillerson Nomination Print Email Tweet Saturday, December 10, 2016 NEWARK, NJ – U.S. Senator Bob Menendez (D-N.J.), senior member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, issued the following statement in reaction to reports of President-elect Trump's possible nomination of Exxon CEO Rex Tillerson to serve as his Secretary of State: "Today's reports that Rex Tillerson could be nominated to be our nation's top diplomat is alarming and absurd. With Rex Tillerson as our Secretary of State, the Trump administration would be guaranteeing Russia has a willing accomplice in the President's Cabinet guiding our nation's foreign policy. "The term conflict of interest doesn't even begin to describe the web of dubious business interests and bank accounts that Tillerson and his company Exxon shares with Vladimir Putin and Russian oil companies. Having no practical experience in diplomacy, Mr. Tillerson has no proven knowledge or regard for the norms and necessities that so much of our modern diplomatic and security efforts depend upon. "The role of Secretary of State should not be bestowed upon someone whose only notable experience with foreign governments involve multimillion dollar deals with Russia and whose experience with the federal government seems to be limited to campaigns against the effects of climate change. "As a member of the Senate committee tasked with vetting our next Secretary of State, I will do everything at my disposal to ensure our nation's next diplomat-in-chief is someone who has the experience, insights and capabilities to truly protect America’s best interests and preserve our essential alliances across the globe. "Now, more than ever, the United States needs the presence of a strong and experienced diplomat to be our nation's voice and conscience across th… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://payne.house.gov/press-release/payne-jr-congratulates-winner-2016-congressional-app-challenge | Payne, Jr. Congratulates Winner of 2016 Congressional App Challenge | 2016-12-09 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | NJ | Donald Payne | P000604 | payne.house.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Donald M. Payne, Jr. (NJ-10) announced the winner of the 2016 Congressional App Challenge for high school students in New Jersey’s 10th Congressional District. Ayobami Adewale of Bard High School Early College Newark was named the winner for his language-learning app Learning Chinese. “The Congressional App Challenge showcases the innovation and technical skills of New Jersey students, and I congratulate Ayobami on winning this year’s competition,” said Congressman Payne, Jr. “His success is a reminder that we must continue to invest in STEM education to ensure that young people can learn, create, build, and pursue innovative careers that are essential to the economic future of our nation.” The Congressional App Challenge is an annual competition intended to highlight the value of computer science and STEM education by encouraging U.S. high school students to learn how to code by creating their own applications. Entries to the competition in New Jersey’s 10th Congressional District were judged by a panel of local experts on several criteria, including quality of the idea, implementation of the idea, and demonstrated excellence of coding and programming skills. As a winning app in the contest, Learning Chinese will be displayed on the Congressional App Challenge website and on a digital display in the U.S. Capitol Building for the next year. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://sires.house.gov/media-center/washington-reviews/washington-review-december-9-2016 | Washington Review, December 9, 2016 | 2016-12-09 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | NJ | Albio Sires | S001165 | sires.house.gov | legacy | As the 114th Congress drew to a close this week, I participated in a number of meetings and voted on important legislation. Meetings On Tuesday, I met with Vitaly Vanshelboim, the Assistant Secretary General of the United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS). UNOPS is an operational arm of the United Nations and is used to support the successful implementation of peacebuilding, humanitarian, and development projects around the world. Mr. Vanshelboim provided me with an update on his efforts to make UNOPS more efficient by improving business practices as well as identifying and eliminating wasteful spending and corruption within the UN system. This week, I taped a segment for Meet the Leaders in which I discussed the future of U.S.-Cuba policy and the importance of investing in our nation’s transportation and infrastructure. I also discussed my opposition to privatizing Medicare and Social Security. Since its inception the Medicare program has assisted Americans, including seniors and the disabled, with the costs of health care and long term care needs. It is our responsibility to honor our commitments to older Americans by preserving these crucial benefits and fighting attempts to destroy the Medicare guarantee. On Thursday, Rep. Ileana Ros-Lehtinen (R-FL) and I met with the former President of Colombia, Alvaro Uribe to discuss the ongoing peace process between the Colombian government and the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC). The FARC is a violent insurgent group in Colombia that has been in an armed conflict with the government since 1964. In June of 2016, the Colombian government and the FARC reached a peace accord for a cessation of hostilities. However, on October 2nd, 2016 the Colombian people narrowly defeated a vote to approve the peace accord, which lead to President Santos reopening negotiations with FARC. An updated agreement was approved by the Colombian Congress last week. Featured Legislation On Wednesday, I joined my colleagues in the House of Representatives to pass S.… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://norcross.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-norcross-announces-funding-grant-camden-housing-development | Congressman Norcross Announces Funding Grant for Camden Housing Development | 2016-12-09 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | NJ | Donald Norcross | N000188 | norcross.house.gov | legacy | Camden, NJ-Congressman Donald Norcross (NJ-01) today announced a $432,484 Federal Home Loan Bank of New York 2016 Affordable Housing Program (AHP) grant for the construction of the new, low-income Branch Village Midrise residences in the City of Camden. “This grant award is literally opening new doors and creating life-changing opportunities for constituents in Camden, who will soon have the opportunity to be part of an exciting development that symbolizes a new chapter for the City I call home, and will be home for Camden residents,” said Congressman Donald Norcross (NJ-01). The Branch Village Midrise project will be comprised of 50 units for very low and low-income households. The project will contain 44 one-bedroom units and 6 two-bedroom units. All units will be subsidized under Section 8 and the Department of Housing and Urban Development Rental Assistance Demonstration Project Based Vouchers. “I’m elated to receive this incredible news and am happy for our Camden residents. I commend the Federal Home Loan Bank of New York for the award of the AHP grant and am thankful to Congressman Norcross for his advocacy for this critical funding,” said Camden Mayor Dana Redd. “ The development of the Brach Village Midrise is a significant milestone for Camden and a transformational moment in the lives of our residents. It’s the start or a very bright future for so many and the fulfillment of years of a collaborative community planning effort.” The Branch Village project will include a multi-purpose room, social workers office, manager’s office, nurse’s office, and exam rooms. The sponsor will provide primary health care services, medical screening programs and vaccination services to the residents. Financing for the project will include the New Jersey Housing and Mortgage Finance Agency Tax Exempt Bond Program, Low Income Housing Tax Credits, New Jersey State Tax Credits, the Housing Authority of the City of Camden Replacement Housing Factor Funds and Capital Funds. The AHP subsidy will be used towards the constructi… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.menendez.senate.gov/news-and-events/press/sens-menendez-durbin-coons-shaheen-introduce-stability-and-democracy-for-ukraine-act | Sens. Menendez, Durbin, Coons, Shaheen Introduce Stability and Democracy for Ukraine Act | 2016-12-09 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | NJ | Robert Menendez | M000639 | www.menendez.senate.gov | legacy | Sens. Menendez, Durbin, Coons, Shaheen Introduce Stability and Democracy for Ukraine Act Sens. Menendez, Durbin, Coons, Shaheen Introduce Stability and Democracy for Ukraine Act Print Email Tweet Friday, December 9, 2016 WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senator Bob Menendez (D-NJ) was joined today by Senators Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), Chris Coons (D-Del.) and Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.) in introducing the Stability and Democracy for Ukraine Act (STAND) for Ukraine Act, legislation that reinforces the United States’ commitment to stand in solidarity with the people of Ukraine by ensuring no federal agency is able to take any action or extend any assistance that recognizes Russian sovereignty over Crimea, its airspace, or its territorial waters and authorizes sanctions against individuals who are violating human rights, contributing to instability, and threatening the territorial integrity of Ukraine. “We are introducing this legislation to ensure that we continue to do everything at our disposal to counter Russian aggression and stand with our Democratic allies in Europe. This bill passed through the House of Representatives with strong bipartisan support and we look forward to working with our colleagues in the coming Congress to swiftly send it to the President’s desk for his signature,” said the senators. A copy of the legation can be found here. Stability and Democracy for Ukraine Act (STAND) for Ukraine Act Provides that no federal agency should take any action or extend any assistance that recognizes Russian sovereignty over Crimea, its airspace, or its territorial waters. Requires the Government Publishing Office not print any document indicating Crimea as part of the Russian Federation (Russia). Requires U.S. sanctions provided for in Executive Orders 13660, 13661, 13662, (blocking property of persons contributing to the situation in Ukraine) and 13685 (blocking prope… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://pallone.house.gov/press-release/pallone-nomination-andy-puzder-labor-secretary | Pallone on Nomination of Andy Puzder for Labor Secretary | 2016-12-08 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | NJ | Frank Pallone | P000034 | pallone.house.gov | legacy | Washington, DC - Today, Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. released a statement on reports that Andy Puzder will be nominated to serve as Labor Secretary: “It is the responsibility of the Labor Department to fight for working families and do its part to protect wages and enforce fair labor standards. Unfortunately, Andy Puzder has repeatedly taken positions against President Obama’s policies to improve the working conditions for millions of Americans. He opposes raising the minimum wage, paid sick leave, increasing overtime pay, and would work to undermine the ability of unions to negotiate fair compensation for American workers. “This nomination is yet another sign that President-elect Trump’s administration will stand up for special interests and big business, while ignoring the issued faced by working families in America.” ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://payne.house.gov/press-release/payne-jr-statement-passage-water-resources-infrastructure-legislation | Payne, Jr. Statement on Passage of Water Resources Infrastructure Legislation | 2016-12-08 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | NJ | Donald Payne | P000604 | payne.house.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Donald M. Payne, Jr. (NJ-10) released the following statement on House passage of the Water Infrastructure Improvements Act for the Nation (WIIN) Act: “We are about to make much-needed improvements to our nation’s water resources infrastructure that will strengthen our economy and protect public health in distressed communities. With this bill, we are helping communities, like Newark and Flint, address lead contamination and provide safe drinking water, including in schools, and we are investing in America’s economic competitiveness by ensuring that our infrastructure is made more attractive to job creators. I am also pleased that this bill expedites completion of the Rahway River Basin feasibility study, which is critical to reducing the economic impact and flood damage of future weather events in New Jersey.” ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://norcross.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-norcross-statement-continuing-resolution-fund-federal-government | Rep. Norcross Statement on Continuing Resolution to Fund the Federal Government | 2016-12-08 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | NJ | Donald Norcross | N000188 | norcross.house.gov | legacy | Washington, DC- Congressman Donald Norcross (NJ-01) today released the following statement in response to Congress passing another continuing resolution to fund the federal government: “The House of Representatives did the right thing today to keep the federal government funded and running, avoiding a shutdown. But passing another continuing resolution is simply the wrong approach. Congress has a responsibility and owes it to the people of the United States to adopt a responsible budget and pass Appropriations bills to achieve full-year funding for the vital programs on which so many Americans rely. I am grateful this continuing resolution provides funding for the U.S. Air Force’s KC–46A, the next generation of midair refueling tankers. The Air Force previously announced Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst is among five candidate bases under consideration for the next round of active duty-led KC-46A fleet. That’s strategically critical to U.S. national security and tens of thousands of military and civilian jobs in New Jersey,” said Congressman Donald Norcross (NJ-01). ### Congressman Donald Norcross is a member of the House Armed Services Committee and the House Budget Committee, and serves as Assistant Whip in the 114th Congress. http://norcross.house.gov | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://norcross.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-norcross-statement-passage-delaware-river-basin-conservation-act | Rep. Norcross Statement Passage of Delaware River Basin Conservation Act | 2016-12-08 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | NJ | Donald Norcross | N000188 | norcross.house.gov | legacy | Washington, DC- Congressman Donald Norcross (NJ-01) today released the following statement after the passage of the bipartisan Delaware River Basin Conservation Act, which is part of a larger water resources bill known as the Water Resources Development Act: “This is a major win for the environment. Water is one of our most precious resources. This legislation will make the Delaware River Basin cleaner and stronger, ensuring the best quality drinking water supply while supporting & sustaining wetlands, and protecting and improving what has long been a habitat for so many species of fish and wildlife,” said Rep. Donald Norcross (NJ-01). Despite its multi-billion dollar annual impact on our region, Delaware River Basin restoration efforts receive limited federal resources compared to similar watersheds across the country. This legislation creates a Delaware River Restoration Program within the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and authorizes a $5 million annual competitive grant program and technical assistance to leverage federal resources available to the Basin. Rep. Norcross is an original sponsor of the Delaware River Basin Conservation Act. The measure now heads to the United States Senate. ### Congressman Donald Norcross is a member of the House Armed Services Committee and the House Budget Committee, and serves as Assistant Whip in the 114th Congress. http://norcross.house.gov | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.booker.senate.gov?p=press_release&id=504 | Sen. Booker and Rep. Rush Introduce Concurrent Resolution to Address Prison Reform and Changes to Exorbitant Prison Phone Rates | 2016-12-08 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | NJ | Cory Booker | B001288 | www.booker.senate.gov | legacy | December 8, 2016 WASHINGTON — Today, U.S. Sen. Cory Booker (D-N.J.) and U.S. Representative Bobby L. Rush (D-Ill.) introduced a Concurrent Resolution to address exorbitant prison phone rates between the imprisoned and their loved ones. “Implementing fair and reasonable prison phone rates is the right thing to do and plain common sense. This resolution supports recent efforts by the FCC to protect those serving their time and their families from exorbitant and unfounded calling fees imposed on some of America’s most financially fragile households. These excessive fees are not only baseless attempts to profit off of vulnerable families, they undermine the financial security of those trying to stay in touch with a partner, parent, or child behind bars. In addition, excessive fees on inmate calls can pose a substantial barrier to successful reentry once individuals have paid their debt to society. That debt should not include paying excessive fees per minute to speak with your child, ” Sen. Booker said.“For last decade, I have sought to end the ‘family divide,’ a term analogous to the ‘digital divide’ that exists with regard to unequal access to communication services between incarcerated members of our society and their loved ones,” said Rep. Rush. “I firmly believe that communication, along with the ability to express love toward family, is a fundamental need, and one’s humanity does not perish when they enter the prison system.”Although this is an issue that affects families from all backgrounds (over 2.7 million children in the United States have at least one parent in prison), more than 60 percent of incarcerated prisoners are African- or Latino-American. In addition, many prison offenders come from economically vulnerable communities where unreasonable prison phone rates severely harm and exploit prison populations.Research proves that there is a significant decline in recidivism rates for inmates who communicate with… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.menendez.senate.gov/news-and-events/in-the-news/bob-menendez-trump-has-sown-panic-among-immigrants | Bob Menendez: Trump has sown 'panic' among immigrants | 2016-12-08 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | NJ | Robert Menendez | M000639 | www.menendez.senate.gov | legacy | Bob Menendez: Trump has sown 'panic' among immigrants Bob Menendez: Trump has sown 'panic' among immigrants Print Email Tweet Thursday, December 8, 2016 By: Jonathan Tamari Sen. Bob Menendez (D., N.J.), one of Congress' most senior Hispanic voices, urged president-elect Donald Trump to revisit his promises on immigration Thursday, stepping into a debate Thursday that has consumed much of his career, and fueled much of Trump's appeal. "I am deeply troubled by the fear and panic I hear from our immigrant community," Menendez said in his first Senate speech since Trump won the presidency. "Their panic is justified and palpable because of the inflammatory remarks made by the president-elect on the campaign trail about immigrants. His campaign promises made it seem as if no immigrant was safe from deportation, even otherwise law-abiding decent people." Read full story... | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.menendez.senate.gov/news-and-events/press/menendez-calls-on-president-elect-trump-to-stand-against-russian-aggression-support-nato-ukrainian-sovereignty-with-bipartisan-group-of-senators | Menendez Calls on President-elect Trump to Stand Against Russian Aggression, Support NATO, Ukrainian Sovereignty With Bipartisan Group of Senators | 2016-12-08 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | NJ | Robert Menendez | M000639 | www.menendez.senate.gov | legacy | Menendez Calls on President-elect Trump to Stand Against Russian Aggression, Support NATO, Ukrainian Sovereignty With Bipartisan Group of Senators Menendez Calls on President-elect Trump to Stand Against Russian Aggression, Support NATO, Ukrainian Sovereignty With Bipartisan Group of Senators Call for increased political, economic, and military support for Ukraine Print Email Tweet Thursday, December 8, 2016 WASHINGTON, DC - Senator Bob Menendez joined a bipartisan group of 27 senators calling on President-elect Donald Trump to continue America’s tradition of support for the people of Ukraine in the face of Russian aggression. “In light of Russia’s continued aggression and repeated refusal to respect Ukraine’s territorial integrity and sovereign right to choose its own destiny, we also renew our call for the United States to increase political, economic, and military support for Ukraine,” the senators wrote. “This includes defensive lethal assistance as part of a broader effort to help Ukrainians better defend themselves, deter future aggression, and implement key structural reforms. Similarly, we believe that Russia’s illegal annexation of Crimea should never be accepted, nor should we lift sanctions imposed on Russia for its behavior in eastern Ukraine until key provisions of the Minsk Agreement are met. Accordingly, U.S. leadership on maintaining such transatlantic sanctions should remain a priority.” Full text of the senators’ letter: December 8, 2016 President-elect Donald J. Trump Trump-Pence Transition Team 1717 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW Washington, DC 20006 Dear President-elect Trump, As Members and friends of the Senate Ukraine Caucus, advocates for a strong US-Ukrainian relationship, and backers of NATO, we write to convey strong, bipartisan support for Ukraine in the United States Senate. We look forward to working with you and your new admin… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.menendez.senate.gov/news-and-events/press/menendez-speaks-out-on-behalf-of-dreamers-and-their-families | Menendez Speaks Out on Behalf of Dreamers and their Families | 2016-12-08 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | NJ | Robert Menendez | M000639 | www.menendez.senate.gov | legacy | Menendez Speaks Out on Behalf of Dreamers and their Families Menendez Speaks Out on Behalf of Dreamers and their Families Says we must not lose sight of real solution: a permanent legislative fix that does not pick winners and losers Print Email Tweet Thursday, December 8, 2016 WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senator Bob Menendez delivered remarks on the Senate floor this afternoon regarding the fear and panic being felt across the entire immigrant community post-election, and the urgent need to protect immigrant families from being separated by any future administrations. CLICK TO WATCH His remarks as prepared for delivery: “I rise today as I have many times before to discuss the urgent need for the United States to have an immigration system that reflects our values as a nation of immigrants. Today, in my first floor speech on the subject since Donald Trump won the election, I am deeply troubled by the fear and panic I hear from our immigrant community. From our young immigrants known as DREAMers and their families, to the workers on the field, in our kitchens and our homes, their panic is justified and palpable because of the inflammatory remarks made by President-elect Trump on the campaign trail about immigrants. “His campaign promises made it seem as if no immigrant was safe from deportation – even law abiding decent people who came into this country searching for the American dream for themselves and their children. The threat of deportation was heard loud and clear by over 744,000 young law-abiding immigrants who are American in every way except for a piece a paper. “These DREAMers were brought to the United States, many as infants or toddlers for reasons beyond their control or knowledge. They grew up in America going to school, pledging allegiance to the U.S. flag and singing our national anthem. The effects of deporting them or their families woul… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.menendez.senate.gov/news-and-events/press/sen-menendez-rubio-introduce-the-trafficking-in-persons-report-integrity-act | Sen. Menendez, Rubio Introduce the Trafficking in Persons Report Integrity Act | 2016-12-08 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | NJ | Robert Menendez | M000639 | www.menendez.senate.gov | legacy | Sen. Menendez, Rubio Introduce the Trafficking in Persons Report Integrity Act Sen. Menendez, Rubio Introduce the Trafficking in Persons Report Integrity Act Legislation Would Overhaul Annual Human Trafficking Report to Prevent Manipulation of Ranking Process for Political Expediency Print Email Tweet Thursday, December 8, 2016 WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senators Bob Menendez (D-N.J.) and Marco Rubio (R-Fla.) today introduced The Trafficking in Persons Report Integrity Act (TIPRIA), legislation designed to comprehensively reform the State Department’s annual Trafficking in Persons Report (TIP). The TIP process came under large international scrutiny after the 2015 report rankings were proven to have been blatantly and intentionally watered-down due to political pressures that gave favorable status to certain countries despite failures to meet minimum legal standards prescribed by Congress. As the U.S. government’s principal diplomatic tool to engage foreign governments on human trafficking, the TIP report has been the world’s most comprehensive resource of governmental anti-human trafficking efforts and reflects the U.S. government’s commitment to global leadership on this key human rights and law enforcement issue. Today’s bill introduction comes on the heels of a study published earlier this week by the Government Accountability Office (GAO) revealing serious flaws in the tier-ranking system for the TIP Report. “After the past two reports’ fiascos of unwarranted, politically-driven upgrades of countries with deplorable human trafficking records like Cuba and Malaysia, the United States’ commitment and credibility in fighting the scourge of modern day slavery remains on the line,” said Senator Menendez. “Informed by both leading human rights advocates and the GAO’s investigative findings, this legislation charts a clear path to restore credibility and improve the TI… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.menendez.senate.gov/news-and-events/video/view/menendez-speaks-out-for-dreamers-and-their-families | Menendez Speaks Out for DREAMers & their Families | 2016-12-08 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | NJ | Robert Menendez | M000639 | www.menendez.senate.gov | legacy | U.S. Senator Bob Menendez delivered remarks on the Senate floor regarding the fear and panic being felt across the entire immigrant community post-election, and the urgent need to protect immigrant families from being separated by any future administrations. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://pallone.house.gov/press-release/pallone-nomination-pruitt-epa-administrator | Pallone on Nomination of Pruitt for EPA Administrator | 2016-12-07 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | NJ | Frank Pallone | P000034 | pallone.house.gov | legacy | Washington, DC - Today, Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06) Ranking Member on the House Energy and Commerce Committee, issued the following statement upon news of Oklahoma Attorney General Scott Pruitt's expected nomination to head the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA): “President-Elect Trump’s choice of Oklahoma Attorney General Scott Pruitt to be EPA Administrator confirms his critics’ greatest fears about the direction of our national environmental policy. Pruitt’s record of close partnership with the fossil fuel industry to undermine commonsense clean air and clean water protections shows a willingness to ignore EPA’s mission to protect human health and the environment. His outspoken and aggressive opposition to the Clean Power Plan and close ties to the fossil fuel industry signal the Trump administration’s intention to undermine progress in addressing climate change just as the rest of the world has come together to respond to this threat. The nation cannot afford to reverse course on climate action. It’s unfortunate that Pruitt views environmental protection as the enemy of economic prosperity. It is not. A clean, healthy environment remains essential to social and economic prosperity. “Pruitt is not the right choice for this position. We need to find common ground on environmental issues in order to protect Americans’ fundamental right to clean air, clean water and a safe environment to raise their families. I did not anticipate that President-elect Trump would nominate a life-long environmentalist to lead the EPA, but I was hoping he would not offer this important job to a known science denier and dedicated opponent to environmental protection. I’m deeply disappointed and concerned about this nomination.” ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://pallone.house.gov/press-release/pallone-praises-senate-passage-major-health-legislation | Pallone Praises Senate Passage of Major Health Legislation | 2016-12-07 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | NJ | Frank Pallone | P000034 | pallone.house.gov | legacy | Washington, DC - Today, Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06) Ranking Member on the House Energy and Commerce Committee, issued the following statement praising the Senate for passing H.R. 34, the 21st Century Cures Act by a vote of 94 to 5. Last week, Pallone led Democratic efforts to pass the legislation through the House and President Obama is expected to sign the bill into law later this month. The 21st Century Cures Act will advance medical research, fund the fight to combat the heroin and opioid epidemic and further efforts towards mental health reform. “With Senate passage today of the 21st Century Cures Act, we are one step closer to new treatments and cures for some of the most debilitating and life-threatening diseases that afflict millions of Americans. This legislation provides billions of dollars in funding for Vice President Biden’s Cancer Moonshot Initiative, research to increase our understanding and treatment of brain disorders like Alzheimer’s and traumatic brain injury, and grants for states and communities hard-hit by the opioid abuse crisis. It also includes important reforms to our broken mental health system and provides more kids inpatient psychiatric treatment through Medicaid. “Over the last six months, we worked in a bipartisan fashion to craft this final bill that has now passed the House and Senate. I commend Senators Alexander and Murray for their steadfast commitment to getting this bill to the Senate floor, and for today’s strong, bipartisan result.” The 21st Century Cures Act will designate over $6 billion to implement cutting-edge health initiatives. $1 billion will be allocated to fighting the opioid epidemic, which will expand access to treatment for the over 256,000 New Jersey residents who are suffering from opioid and heroin addiction. $1.8 billion to support the Vice President Biden’s Cancer Moonshot. The Moonshot aims to accelerate research efforts and make new therapies available to more patients, while also improving our ability to prevent cancer and detect it … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.booker.senate.gov?p=press_release&id=502 | Sen. Booker Statement on Passage of 21st Century Cures Act | 2016-12-07 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | NJ | Cory Booker | B001288 | www.booker.senate.gov | legacy | December 7, 2016 WASHINGTON, DC – Today, U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) applauded Senate passage of the 21st Century Cures Act, legislation that sets up a comprehensive medical research framework in areas ranging from helping states fight the opioid epidemic facing our nation to landmark investments in cancer research.“Heroin addiction and opioid abuse have reached epidemic levels in the United States, and Congressional action on a plan to attack this crisis is long overdue. This legislation is a significant step towards giving states like New Jersey the resources they need to prevent and treat addiction and to save lives,” said Sen. Booker. “The 21st Century Cures Act will also strengthen medical research and help some of our most at-risk populations. It takes additional important steps in answering the Vice President’s call for a moonshot in cancer research, makes critical investments in biomedical research to treat diseases such as Alzheimer’s, increases access to mental health care, and strengthens National Institutes of Health programming. “I had strong concerns about provisions regarding drug approvals and transparency that I’m glad were modified, and I would prefer greater assurances that the funds for future years will be used for vital opioid services and cancer research, but proponents will need to remain vigilant to ensure the funds are spent as intended. I’m glad the House and Senate are finally advancing vital legislation that will help American families and look forward to President Obama signing it into law,” concluded Sen. Booker.Sen. Booker has been long committed to supporting the fight against our nation’s opioid epidemic. In March Sen. Booker was joined by U.S. Senator Bob Menendez and U.S. Rep. Bill Pascrell, Jr. (NJ-09) in convening a statewide summit to explore solutions to the heroin and opioid addiction epidemic gripping New Jersey and the nation.In August, Sens. Booker and Menendez hosted a … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://pallone.house.gov/press-release/pallone-introduces-legislation-protect-student-loan-borrowers | Pallone Introduces Legislation to Protect Student Loan Borrowers | 2016-12-06 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | NJ | Frank Pallone | P000034 | pallone.house.gov | legacy | Washington, DC - Today, Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06) introduced the Student Borrower Higher Education Lending Protection (“HELP”) Act, new legislation to protect student borrowers and co-signers from egregious debt collection practices. The legislation comes in response to troubling lending practices by the New Jersey Higher Education Student Assistance Authority (HESAA) and other private lenders – including pursuing student loan repayments from disabled borrowers and from the families of borrowers who have passed away. Representatives Donald M. Payne, Jr., Steve Cohen, Bonnie Watson Coleman and Gwen Moore are original cosponsors. In October, Congressman Pallone announced the bill at Middlesex County College in Edison, NJ with Senate President Stephen Sweeney, Senator Sandra Cunningham and students. Sweeney and Cunningham, along with Senate and Assembly colleagues, were the chief architects of legislation signed into law on Monday that protects New Jersey students from HESAA’s harmful lending practices and make college more affordable and accessible. The Student Borrower HELP Act amends the Truth in Lending Act with three main provisions for private lenders, including HESSA. The provisions include: • Requiring total loan forgiveness for any student borrower who is subsequently determined to have a permanent disability or any family member who is a cosigner of a loan taken out by a student borrower who dies. • Deferment of loan payments (without any financial penalty) for borrowers with a temporary disability. • Requiring private lenders to disclose the default rates in their student loan portfolio on loan documents so borrowers are aware before signing any documents of the financial risk of entering into a contract with that lender. The need for federal legislation is clear because the problems with aggressive debt collection practices go far beyond HESAA. According to the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, despite the fact that many private student lenders advertise loan forgiveness prog… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://pascrell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/pascrell-se-une-con-sus-colegas-para-proteger-a-los-so-adores | Pascrell se une con sus colegas para proteger a los 'soadores' | 2016-12-06 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | NJ | Bill Pascrell | P000096 | pascrell.house.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON, D.C. – Miembro de la Cámara de Representantes de los Estados Unidos, Bill Pascrell, Jr., Representando el Noveno Distrito de Nueva Jersey, se unió con 106 miembros del Congreso para enviar una carta al Presidente Obama pidiéndole que tomara medidas para proteger los nombres y la información privada de quienes se inscribieron en la Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) y Deferred Action for Parents of Americans and Lawful Permanent Residents (DAPA). "Cuando ofreces a la gente un sueño, sería injusto convertirlo en una pesadilla y permitir el uso indebido de la información personal de DACA para arrancar a los hombres y mujeres jóvenes del único hogar que conocen. Muchos inmigrantes salieron de las sombras porque recibieron garantías de que su información personal sería protegida," dijo el Representante Pascrell. "En los días restantes de esta Administración, espero que estos soñadores reciban las protecciones legales que necesitan para asegurar que la próxima administración sólo pueda usar información personal para las intenciones originales de DAPA y DACA." La carta, dirigida por los representantes Judy Chu (CA-27), Zoe Lofgren (CA-29), Lucille Roybal-Allard (CA-40), Raúl Grijalva (AZ-03) y Luis Gutiérrez (IL-04) recomienda específicamente una orden ejecutiva que prohíba el uso de la información personal de los que se inscribieron con DACA y DAPA para propósitos fuera de los que las leyes originalmente proponía, incluso prohibir el use de la información para deportación. La carta fue endosada por el National Immigration Law Center (NILC), Coalition for Humane Immigration Rights of Los Angeles (CHIRLA) y el Immigration Legal Resource Center (ILRC). La carta esta por debajo en Ingles: The Honorable Barack Obama President of the United States The White House 1600 Pennsylvania Ave, NW Washington, DC 20500 Dear President Obama: We write to express our concerns about the potential misuse of the personal information of enrollees in the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) progra… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://norcross.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-norcross-statement-new-rutgers-report-fair-share-south | Congressman Norcross Statement on New Rutgers Report on Fair Share for South Jersey | 2016-12-06 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | NJ | Donald Norcross | N000188 | norcross.house.gov | legacy | Washington, DC- Congressman Donald Norcross (NJ-01) today released the following statement in response to Rutgers University-Camden Senator Walter Rand Institute for Public Affairs report: Is South Jersey Getting Its “Fair Share” of Public Goods? which concluded: “...counties in the South of Jersey are far less likely than those in the North or Central regions to receive public goods, either as state aid, state assumption of project costs within the county, or general public benefits like transportation infrastructure, education, and good public health.” “The findings of this report confirm what we in South Jersey have known for a long time – there are clear public funding disparities between Southern New Jersey and the rest of the state. That is why I championed the Economic Opportunity Act (EOA) that continues to bring good paying jobs and businesses to our communities. It is why I authored the Higher Education Restructuring Act, which provided more capacity and opportunities for local students, resulted in Rowan University becoming a fully recognized research university with a thriving medical school, and granted Rutgers University-Camden more autonomy and funding from Rutgers’ main campus. It is also why I have advocated both at a state and national level for funding to improve our infrastructure, including expanding light-rail in our region. South Jersey has only ever asked for its fair share, I can assure you I will always fight for our region’s hard working families. There is still much work to be done, and we must continue to level the playing field to invest in good jobs for our families, quality affordable educational opportunities, and safe reliable infrastructure. Now I’m continuing the fight for New Jersey’s fair share of Federal funding as a member of Congress, and recently helped secure tens of millions of dollars through grants that will enhance our roads, expand access to educational opportunities for children and keep our communities safer,” said Congressman Donald Norcross (NJ-01). ### Cong… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://norcross.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/railroads-adopt-norcross-menendez-hazardous-materials-safety | Railroads Adopt Norcross-Menendez Hazardous Materials Safety Recommendation in Wake of Paulsboro Crash | 2016-12-06 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | NJ | Donald Norcross | N000188 | norcross.house.gov | legacy | Washington, DC-Rep. Donald Norcross (NJ-01) & U.S. Senators Bob Menendez and Cory Booker today applauded a decision by our nation’s railroads to voluntarily implement an important hazmat safety measure included in legislation introduced by Norcross & Menendez in response to the 2012 Conrail derailment and vinyl chloride spill in Paulsboro, N.J. As first proposed by the Toxics by Rail Accountability and Community Knowledge (TRACK) Act, railroads will now rely on federal emergency response guidelines in the case of an accident, and will remove materials that contradict those guidelines and could put the health of local communities and first responders at additional risk. “When a train accident happens and every second counts, it makes no sense to have two sets of emergency response information on board—especially if that information is contradictory,” said Sen. Menendez. “At best, it’s confusing for first responders. At worst, less protective information could result in serious consequences for public health and human life. That’s why I included this important measure in our rail safety bill and why I’m pleased the railroads have chosen to voluntarily adopt these standards, putting the safety of our emergency responders and the public first.” “As the amount of toxic substances traveling by rail through New Jersey continues to rise, we must do everything possible to support our first responders who will be on the frontlines during an emergency,” said Sen. Booker, the top-ranking Democrat on the Senate subcommittee charged with overseeing America's rail infrastructure. “The toxic chemical spill and train derailment in Paulsboro in 2012 underscores the need to make rail safety a primary concern, which is why I joined my colleagues in fighting to make needed improvements that will help with disaster response and preparedness. I applaud this voluntary commitment from our railroads which represents a major step towards better ensuring the safety of our first responders and our communities.” “There are many l… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.booker.senate.gov?p=press_release&id=501 | Sen. Booker Statement on Passing of New Jersey State Trooper Frankie Williams | 2016-12-06 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | NJ | Cory Booker | B001288 | www.booker.senate.gov | legacy | December 6, 2016 WASHINGTON, DC - U.S. Senator Cory Booker today issued the following statement on the passing of New Jersey State Trooper Frankie Williams: “I am deeply saddened to learn of the tragic passing of New Jersey State Trooper Frankie Williams. New Jersey has lost a true hero and public servant. Trooper Williams dedicated his life to protecting our communities and served our great state with valor and integrity. Let us honor his bravery by reflecting on his commitment to helping others, his unwavering professionalism and the profound debt of gratitude we owe him and his family for their sacrifice. This tragedy is a reminder of the service and sacrifice of the brave men and women in law enforcement and that of their families. My thoughts and prayers are with the family, friends and colleagues of Trooper Williams as we mourn his tragic loss.” | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.menendez.senate.gov/news-and-events/press/menendez-statement-on-the-death-of-nj-state-trooper-frankie-williams- | Menendez Statement on the Death of NJ State Trooper Frankie Williams | 2016-12-06 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | NJ | Robert Menendez | M000639 | www.menendez.senate.gov | legacy | Menendez Statement on the Death of NJ State Trooper Frankie Williams Menendez Statement on the Death of NJ State Trooper Frankie Williams Print Email Tweet Tuesday, December 6, 2016 WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senator Bob Menendez today released the following statement on the passing of New Jersey State Trooper Frankie Williams, who was fatally injured last night in a head-on collision on State Hwy. 55 in Millville while responding to a call: “My heart goes out to the family of State Trooper Frankie Williams and New Jersey’s entire law enforcement community in mourning during this difficult time. Although Trooper Williams only recently joined the force, his loss is being felt statewide, and his sacrifice will never be forgotten. His bravery and selfless actions undoubtedly saved the lives of those he swore to protect. Sadly, this tragedy reminds us all of the risks our men and women in blue face each and every day to protect us. They go to work not knowing what dangers they may encounter and face the reality that they may not return to their families at night. They deserve our appreciation and gratitude all of the time.” ### Press Contact Steven_Sandberg@menendez.senate.gov | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.menendez.senate.gov/news-and-events/press/railroads-adopt-menendez-norcross-hazmat-safety-recommendation-in-wake-of-paulsboro-crash | Railroads Adopt Menendez-Norcross Hazmat Safety Recommendation in Wake of Paulsboro Crash | 2016-12-06 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | NJ | Robert Menendez | M000639 | www.menendez.senate.gov | legacy | Railroads Adopt Menendez-Norcross Hazmat Safety Recommendation in Wake of Paulsboro Crash Railroads Adopt Menendez-Norcross Hazmat Safety Recommendation in Wake of Paulsboro Crash Conrail derailment, toxic spill in Paulsboro prompted calls for better safety measures Print Email Tweet Tuesday, December 6, 2016 WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Bob Menendez and Cory Booker, and Congressman Donald Norcross (N.J.-01), today applauded a decision by our nation’s railroads to voluntarily implement an important hazmat safety measure included in legislation introduced by Menendez and Norcross in response to the 2012 Conrail derailment and vinyl chloride spill in Paulsboro, N.J. As first proposed by the Toxics by Rail Accountability and Community Knowledge (TRACK) Act, railroads will now rely on federal emergency response guidelines in the case of an accident, and will remove materials that contradict those guidelines and could put the health of local communities and first responders at additional risk. “When a train accident happens and every second counts, it makes no sense to have two sets of emergency response information on board—especially if that information is contradictory,” said Sen. Menendez. “At best, it’s confusing for first responders. At worst, less protective information could result in serious consequences for public health and human life. That’s why I included this important measure in our rail safety bill and why I’m pleased the railroads have chosen to voluntarily adopt these standards, putting the safety of our emergency responders and the public first.” “As the amount of toxic substances traveling by rail through New Jersey continues to rise, we must do everything possible to support our first responders who will be on the frontlines during an emergency,” said Sen. Booker, the top-ranking Democrat on the Senate subcommittee charged with overseein… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://pallone.house.gov/press-release/pallone-introduces-legislation-cap-flood-insurance-profits-hold-fema-accountable | Pallone Introduces Legislation to Cap Flood Insurance Profits & Hold FEMA Accountable | 2016-12-05 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | NJ | Frank Pallone | P000034 | pallone.house.gov | legacy | Long Branch, NJ – Today Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06) introduced the Flood Insurance Reimbursement Standards Transparency (FIRST) Cap Profits Act, which would require increased oversight and transparency of the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and cap the profits of private companies providing flood insurance at 10%. Congressmen Bill Pascrell (NJ-09) and Donald M. Payne, Jr. (NJ-10) joined as original cosponsors of the legislation. Congressman Pallone began drafting the legislation after hearing from New Jersey residents that were treated unfairly by FEMA, private insurance companies or both in the aftermath of Superstorm Sandy. After discussing the proposed legislation with constituents at an event in Highlands in October, the Congressman added a provision to require that private flood insurance companies cover the legal fees of plaintiffs if the company is found to have committed fraud. A 2009 GAO report found that profits for flood insurers averaged 16.5%, while a more recent study found profits closer to 30%. In the wake of Superstorm Sandy and other recent disasters, FEMA and NFIP have faced accusations of incompetence and fraud, which has led to thousands of New Jersey families being overcharged or without the payments they rightly deserve. “It is shameful that private insurance companies have profited from Sandy while failing to meet their basic obligations under the NFIP. It is inexcusable that FEMA has failed to provide proper oversight of those entities - especially when Congress has already empowered and required the agency to do so,” said Pallone. “FEMA has a responsibility to ensure that policyholders are treated fairly and charged a fair market price for the service they purchase, and my bill will take an important step in that direction. I will also be using the reauthorization of the National Flood Insurance Program next year as an opportunity to push for more accountability from FEMA and insurance companies.” Earlier this year, t… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://pallone.house.gov/press-release/pallone-sends-letter-requesting-hearing-jcpl%E2%80%99s-proposal-increase-transmission-rates | Pallone Sends Letter Requesting Hearing on JCP&Ls Proposal to Increase Transmission Rates | 2016-12-05 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | NJ | Frank Pallone | P000034 | pallone.house.gov | legacy | Long Branch, NJ - Today, Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06) sent a letter to the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission voicing his concerns over Jersey Central Power and Light’s (JCP&L) proposal to increase electric transmission rates in 2017. Pallone requested a public hearing on the proposal which would increase rates by 150% and argues that “any increase of this magnitude should be carefully scrutinized.” Pallone has voiced concerns with other JCP&L proposals which could have negative impacts on New Jersey communities. In October, Pallone sent a letter to the New Jersey Board of Public Utilities (BPU) voicing his concerns over Jersey Central Power and Light’s (JCP&L) proposal for the Monmouth County Reliability Project (MCRP). The plan for JCP&L’s new transmission line would impact Aberdeen, Hazlet and Middletown in Pallone’s district and run along New Jersey Transit’s North Jersey Coast line. Many residents have argued that the project is unnecessary and potentially harmful to the public health, environment, and economy of their communities. In August, he shared his concerns with BPU regarding JCP&L’s proposal to transfer all of its transmission assets to Mid-Atlantic Interstate Transmission. JCP&L withdrew its transfer proposal in September, a week after Pallone’s statement. The text of the letter can be found below: December 5, 2016 The Honorable Norman Bay Chairman Federal Energy Regulatory Commission 888 First Street, NE Washington, DC 20426 Dear Chairman Bay: I write regarding Jersey Central Power & Light’s (JCP&L) proposal to increase electric transmission rates in 2017. I respectfully request that the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) hold a hearing on this proposal to determine whether it is necessary, just and reasonable, particularly in regard to the impact the increase would have on ratepayers. The public should also be allowed an opportunity to comment on this proposal. As you know, FERC’s approval is necessary for any rate increase by JCP&L… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.booker.senate.gov?p=press_release&id=500 | Booker Applauds Army Corps Decision on Dakota Access Pipeline | 2016-12-05 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | NJ | Cory Booker | B001288 | www.booker.senate.gov | legacy | December 5, 2016 Washington, DC – U.S. Sen. Cory Booker (D-NJ) issued the following statement after the Army Corps of Engineers announced that it would not grant an easement for construction of the Dakota Access Pipeline under Lake Oahe in North Dakota and would instead explore alternative routes for the pipeline crossing: “I’m grateful that the Army Corps of Engineers has listened to the growing chorus of concern echoing across the country about the Dakota Access Pipeline. Exploring alternative routes for this project that are sensitive to both the environment and the voices of Native Americans whose sacred lands were being threatened is absolutely the right path forward. Moving forward I will continue monitoring the Army Corps’ handling of this project.” Sen. Booker, a member of the Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works, whose jurisdiction includes oversight of the Army Corps of Engineers, has sought information over the past week related to the feasibility of alternative routes to the pipeline. Also, last month, in response to conflicting reports by law enforcement, protestors, and the media regarding the response to protests of the Dakota Access Pipeline, Sen. Booker urged the Department of Justice to investigate credible reports of inappropriate police tactics there and to deploy federal monitors in an effort to ensure that the protestors could peacefully assemble and exercise their First Amendment rights. On Friday, Attorney General Loretta E. Lynch announced that she was dispatching federal mediators to ensure the ongoing standoff between protesters and police over the pipeline did not erupt into further violence. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://pallone.house.gov/press-release/pallone-re-elected-ec-ranking-member | Pallone Re-Elected E&C Ranking Member | 2016-12-02 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | NJ | Frank Pallone | P000034 | pallone.house.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr., (NJ-06) was re-elected unanimously by House Democrats to serve as Ranking Member of the Energy and Commerce Committee for the 115th Congress. “I’m honored that my Democratic colleagues have once again elected me to serve as the Ranking Member of the Energy and Commerce Committee,” Pallone said. “As we prepare for a new Congress and the new Trump administration, I’m committed to working with all of my House colleagues to develop and push policies that will help build a stronger economy, create more good-paying jobs and protect consumers. The Energy and Commerce Committee will be at the forefront in the vigorous debates over ensuring all Americans have access to affordable health care, safe drinking water, lower energy costs, and a cleaner environment. Committee Democrats are ready to aggressively fight any Republican attempts to reverse critical health care and environmental advancements that we successfully put in place over the last eight years.” The Energy and Commerce Committee has one of the broadest jurisdictions of any Congressional committee. The Committee has jurisdiction over energy, environment, health care, commerce, telecommunications and the internet. Pallone has held a seat on the Energy and Commerce Committee since 1992. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://pascrell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-pascrell-statement-on-november-jobs-report | Rep. Pascrell Statement on November Jobs Report | 2016-12-02 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | NJ | Bill Pascrell | P000096 | pascrell.house.gov | legacy | PATERSON, NJ – U.S. Rep. Bill Pascrell, Jr. (D-NJ), a member of the House Budget Committee and Ways and Means Committee, released the following statement today after the Department of Labor announced that November’s job growth was strong with 178,000 jobs created and unemployment falling to just 4.6 percent. This followed news that GDP growth was also higher than expected at 3.2 percent in the third quarter of 2016. "While these are hopeful signs, too many are still struggling to get ahead. I stand ready to work with the new Administration on higher minimum wage, stronger worker protections, and getting manufacturing jobs back to the U.S.," Rep. Pascrell said. "A good place to start is the higher income threshold at which employers must pay overtime. The next Administration should appeal the injunction on the overtime rule. No secretary or maintenance worker making $30,000 a year should be working long hours without compensation. Especially in New Jersey, workers face high housing costs, property taxes, and food costs, and every dollar earned goes a long way." The unemployment rate for men declined to 4.3 percent. Jobs in health care, business services, and construction industries grew across the board. Residential construction in particular is growing steadily, a positive sign for the health of our economy. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://payne.house.gov/press-release/payne-jr-bill-included-2017-national-defense-authorization-act | Payne, Jr. Bill Included in 2017 National Defense Authorization Act | 2016-12-02 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | NJ | Donald Payne | P000604 | payne.house.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Donald M. Payne, Jr.’s (NJ-10) State and High-Risk Urban Area Working Group Act (H.R. 4509) was included in the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2017 that won House passage today. The Congressman’s legislation requires decision-makers involved in disaster response planning to work together to gain a complete understanding of a community’s vulnerabilities so that homeland security grant investments can be prioritized appropriately. “In my capacity as Ranking Member of the Committee on Homeland Security’s Subcommittee on Emergency Preparedness, Response, and Communications, I have seen benefits realized, across the nation, from DHS’ homeland security grant programs,” said Congressman Payne, Jr. “Communities throughout my district—from Newark to Jersey City—have built robust capabilities to prevent, protect against, and respond to terrorist attacks and natural disasters with State Homeland Security Grant and Urban Area Security Initiative grant funding. As successful as DHS’ homeland security grant programs have been, however, more needs to be done to ensure those who are responsible for various aspects of disaster response plan, train, and exercise together before a disaster strikes.” The State and High-Risk Urban Area Working Group Act would: Require any State or high-risk urban area receiving funding under the State Homeland Security Grant Program or the Urban Area Security Initiative to establish a State planning committee or urban area working group to assist the State in preparation and revision of threat and hazard identification and risk assessments and determining effective funding priorities for grant funds; Require State planning committees and high-risk urban area working groups to include representatives from each of the following stakeholder communities: (1) local and tribal government officials; (2) emergency response providers (fire service, law enforcement, emergency medical services and emergency managers); (3) public health officials and appropria… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://norcross.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-norcross-casts-vote-critical-us-national-security-legislation | Rep. Norcross Casts Vote on Critical U.S. National Security Legislation | 2016-12-02 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | NJ | Donald Norcross | N000188 | norcross.house.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON, D.C.-Rep. Donald Norcross (NJ-01) today voted in the U.S. House of Representatives for the successful passage of the Fiscal Year 2017 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), critical legislation that funds U.S. national security. Among the provisions of the NDAA are additional resources for American service members on the front lines of danger, more than $1 billion to combat ISIL/ISIS, funding for counterterrorism initiatives, 21st century investments in military technology including cybersecurity and cyberspace systems, and safeguards to protect New Jersey’s Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst from closure. “In today’s changing and uncertain world, this legislation gives our military the resources they need to keep America safe,” said Rep. Donald Norcross. “Our brave service members need to have the best equipment and technology to protect themselves as they shield us and our allies from threats. This legislation also includes important provisions that align with my ongoing advocacy for New Jersey’s Joint Base, which is strategically critical to U.S. national security and vital to New Jersey’s economy as the State’s second largest employer.” In his role on the House Armed Services Committee, Rep. Norcross previously fought for provisions in a Committee markup of the (NDAA) calling for pay increases for enlisted U.S. military personnel, including a correction involving a pay disparity at New Jersey’s Joint Base, that will result in pay raises for hundreds of civilian workers at the Base effective January 2017. Additionally, Rep. Norcross successfully advocated to bolster directed energy research to protect the U.S. and Israel against ballistic missile threats, called for investments in state-of-the art manufacturing research being conducted at our local universities, and demanded the U.S. Department of Defense enter into contracts with high skilled labor by educating federal agencies on the importance of using project labor agreements (PLAs) that prioritize hiring our returning veterans. The NDAA pass… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://pallone.house.gov/press-release/pallone-introduces-legislation-hold-big-oil-accountable-dangerous-spills | Pallone Introduces Legislation to Hold Big Oil Accountable for Dangerous Spills | 2016-12-01 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | NJ | Frank Pallone | P000034 | pallone.house.gov | legacy | Washington, DC – Today, Congressman Frank Pallone (NJ-06) introduced two pieces of legislation to eliminate liability caps for the oil and gas industry and increase accountability for big oil companies responsible for disastrous spills. Federal law currently protects oil companies by capping their oil spill liability for economic damages at $134 million—an amount that pales in comparison to the more than $90 billion in profits the five largest oil companies enjoyed in 2014, and is easily surpassed by an oil spill as shown by the 2010 Deepwater Horizon disaster. The legislation includes: • Big Oil Bailout Prevention Unlimited Liability Act of 2016, which eliminates the $134 million liability cap for economic damages caused by an offshore oil spill • Big Oil Bailout Prevention Trust Fund Act of 2016 – eliminates the $1 billion per-incident cap on claims against the Oil Spill Liability Trust Fund (OSLTF), along with the $500 million cap on OSLTF monies used for natural resource damages “Spills by oil companies do irreparable harm to our environment, the health of wildlife and the livelihood of thousands,” said Pallone. “American taxpayers and local communities should not have to pay for the mistakes of large oil companies and left to rebuild on their own. Big Oil must take responsibility for their actions and my legislation will help ensure that they are held accountable.” In July 2016, U.S. Sens. Bob Menendez and Cory Booker introduced companion versions of the bills in the Senate. “Under this legislation: If you drill and you spill, then you must pay the bill. If you hurt small businesses or communities, you fix them. If you hurt someone, you make it right,” said Sen. Robert Menendez, a senior member of the Senate Banking and Finance Committees, and who introduced the Senate version of the legislation. “It is fundamentally wrong for American taxpayers and local communities to pay for the mistakes of large oil companies, who take advantage of government bailouts to avoid accountability, and bear the burd… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://pallone.house.gov/press-release/pallone-statement-world-aids-day-2016 | Pallone Statement on World AIDS Day 2016 | 2016-12-01 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | NJ | Frank Pallone | P000034 | pallone.house.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON, DC -- Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr., (NJ-06), Ranking Member on the Energy & Commerce Committee, released the following statement on World AIDS Day: "Today, I join people around the world in recognizing World AIDS Day. We have achieved remarkable progress treating and preventing HIV/AIDS in the now 28 years since World AIDS day was established. Still, there is much more to do. More than thirty-six million people worldwide live with HIV today, including an estimated 37,000 in New Jersey. “As difficult economic choices arise, let us remember that investing in medical research to find innovative ways to fight AIDS is an investment in our country’s future. We must also continue to provide the resources needed to expand access to treatments, as well as educate our communities on prevention and testing. On this day, we remember all those who have lost their lives to HIV/AIDS and recommit ourselves to taking the necessary steps to make an AIDS free generation a reality.” In October of this year, Congressman Pallone was pleased to announce $75 million in federal funding from the Department of Health and Human Services to New Jersey and the 6th Congressional District for medical care and support to individuals and families living with HIV/AIDS through the Ryan White Program. Congressman Pallone has been a strong supporter and lead House sponsor of past reauthorizations of the Ryan White program, which is the single largest federal program designed specifically to support medical care and services for people living with HIV. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://pascrell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-pascrell-selected-for-leadership-role-in-the-115th-congress | Rep. Pascrell Selected for Leadership Role in the 115th Congress | 2016-12-01 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | NJ | Bill Pascrell | P000096 | pascrell.house.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON, DC – Today, U.S. Rep. Bill Pascrell, Jr. (D-NJ) was elected to the Democratic Party Steering and Policy Committee as the Region IX (Mideast) representative. Rep. Pascrell was elected to serve on the steering committee by his Democratic colleagues in Region IX, which includes New Jersey, Delaware, Maryland, Virginia, and Washington D.C. "I am honored that my colleagues have asked me to serve in this leadership position and I am ready to fight for the middle-class values of the Democratic Party," Rep. Pascrell said. "For all of our members in the region, I promise to stand up for the needs of each and every one of our constituents. Our Caucus must stay focused on meaningful policy initiatives which can create jobs, grow wages, and support all American families." The Steering and Policy Committee, which is designed to formulate and promote strategies for success in the 115th Congress, is composed of two Co-Chairs, two Vice Chairs, 12 regional representatives and 24 regional whips. Rep. Pascrell, as a regional representative, will be in a leadership position to advocate for healthcare, infrastructure, and growing the economy for all Americans. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://sires.house.gov/media-center/did-you-know/rosa-parks-is-arrested | Rosa Parks is Arrested | 2016-12-01 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | NJ | Albio Sires | S001165 | sires.house.gov | legacy | On this day in 1955, Rosa Parks was riding an Alabama bus home from her job as a seamstress at a department store when she was arrested for refusing to give up her seat to a white passenger. Her arrest triggered a boycott of the Montgomery bus system for the next 381 days, eventually leading to the 1956 Supreme Court decision banning segregation on public transportation. Rosa Parks and her significant contribution to American history are permanently honored with a statue at the U.S. Capitol, in National Statuary Hall. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://norcross.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-norcross-honors-filipino-filipino-american-soldiers-who-fought-us | Rep. Norcross Honors Filipino & Filipino-American Soldiers Who Fought for the U.S. During World War II | 2016-12-01 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | NJ | Donald Norcross | N000188 | norcross.house.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON, D.C.-Rep. Donald Norcross (NJ-01) today voted to support legislation honoring the contributions of 260,000 Filipino and Filipino-American soldiers who fought for the United States in World War II. The Filipino Veterans of World War II Congressional Gold Medal Act awards the United States Congressional Gold Medal to Filipino and Filipino-American soldiers for their wartime service. The Congressional Gold Medal is the highest civilian award that Congress can award. Rep. Norcross is a proud sponsor of the legislation, and previously urged his colleagues to bring this important bill to a vote. “These soldiers stood shoulder-to-shoulder with America’s fighting forces during the Second World War. Their service and sacrifice cannot be understated and must never be forgotten,” said Rep. Donald Norcross (NJ-01). “That’s why I proudly stand for this bipartisan legislation, providing well-deserved recognition that’s not only long overdue—but also symbolizes America’s gratitude for the efforts of these heroes during some of America’s darkest days, ensuring our country would enjoy a brighter future.” The legislation is part of a larger movement to recognize Filipino and Filipino-American World War II soldiers throughout the United States and the Philippines for their crucial wartime service to the United States and Allied victory over the Empire of Japan. “Filipinos & Filipino-Americans have made and continue to make significant contributions to America and its rich history. This honor is another well-deserved opportunity to celebrate the patriotism of the Filipino community,” added Rep. Norcross. The legislation, which previously passed the U.S. Senate, now heads to President Obama’s desk where it’s expected to be signed into law. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.booker.senate.gov?p=press_release&id=499 | Sens. Booker and Gillibrand, Reps. Kennedy and Love Introduce Bill to Address Discriminatory Legal Practices | 2016-12-01 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | NJ | Cory Booker | B001288 | www.booker.senate.gov | legacy | December 1, 2016 WASHINGTON, DC –Today, U.S. Sens. Cory Booker (D-NJ) and Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), along with Rep. Joe Kennedy III (D-MA-4) and Mia Love (R-UT-4), introduced the Fair Calculations in Civil Damages Act of 2016 to address the widespread practice of using discriminatory tactics when calculating future earnings potential in personal injury cases and claims. Sen. Booker said, “Our country was founded on the principle that all are created equal. Yet the way that damages are awarded in courts value certain lives more than others, often due to someone’s race or gender. That’s wrong, and it must change. This bill will serve as a needed step in righting some of the systemic inequalities that pervade too many facets of our justice system.” Sen. Gillibrand said, “Under our current legal system, civil courts can award less money based on the fact alone that a victim is a woman or a minority. This is wrong. In this day and age the courts should not be allowed to say one life is worth more than another. This is one of the most damaging and offensive consequences of America’s pay inequality problem, and it should not be legal in this country. All lives should be valued equally, and it is outrageous that courts in the year 2016 are allowed to suggest otherwise. I will work with my colleagues from both parties to pass this bill and bring our civil courts into the 21st century.” Rep. Kennedy said, “Measuring a person’s potential by their color, creed, gender or sexual orientation is the definition of institutional bias. Systemic inequities that limit opportunity, create pay gaps and impact everything from health care to education should not extend into our justice system. This bipartisan bill will work to end that practice, and I am proud to introduce it today with Senator Booker, Senator Gillibrand and Congresswoman Love." Rep. Love said, “As a conservative, I believe the value of a life should not be either elevated or … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.menendez.senate.gov/news-and-events/press/senator-menendez-joins-senator-brown-rep-sherman-on-bill-to-help-wells-fargo-victims-get-their-day-in-court | Senator Menendez Joins Senator Brown, Rep. Sherman on Bill to Help Wells Fargo Victims Get their Day in Court | 2016-12-01 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | NJ | Robert Menendez | M000639 | www.menendez.senate.gov | legacy | Senator Menendez Joins Senator Brown, Rep. Sherman on Bill to Help Wells Fargo Victims Get their Day in Court Senator Menendez Joins Senator Brown, Rep. Sherman on Bill to Help Wells Fargo Victims Get their Day in Court Bill Would Prevent Wells Fargo from Using Forced Arbitration Clauses in Real Accounts to Block Customers from Suing over Fraudulent Ones Print Email Tweet Thursday, December 1, 2016 WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senator Bob Menendez (D-N.J.) member of the Senate Banking Committee, joined Ranking Member Sherrod Brown (D-Ohio) and U.S. Representative Brad Sherman (D-Calif.) to introduce legislation that will give victims of Wells Fargo fraudulent account scheme their day in court. Wells Fargo is using the forced arbitration clauses in the fine print of contracts customers signed when they opened legitimate accounts to block them from suing over the fraudulent accounts. “Wells Fargo is once again trying to avoid being held accountable for their fraudulent actions,” said Menendez. “If customers signed one form for a real account, that signature should carry no weight for a fake account they never knew was opened.” “Forced arbitration is shielding Wells Fargo from being held accountable for tanking customers’ credit scores and charging them fraudulent fines,” said Brown. “Wells Fargo’s customers never intended to sign away their right to fight back against fraud and deceit. We need to give customers back their ability to seek justice in court so they can be made whole again.” “I want to thank Senate Banking Committee Ranking Member Sherrod Brown for working with me to introduce the Justice for Victims of Fraud Act of 2016. This bill will give defrauded Wells Fargo customers the opportunity for their day in court,” said Sherman. “If customers never authorized the opening of a phony credit card or checking account, there is no reason they should be… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.menendez.senate.gov/news-and-events/video/view/menendez-urges-senate-to-renew-iran-sanctions-act-2016-12-01 | Menendez Urges Senate to Renew Iran Sanctions Act | 2016-12-01 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | NJ | Robert Menendez | M000639 | www.menendez.senate.gov | legacy | U.S. Senator Bob Menendez (D-N.J.) spoke on the Senate floor to voice his support of the extension of the Iran Sanctions Act (ISA) of 1996. As part of the United States’ continued efforts to counter Iran’s destabilizing and nefarious actions throughout the world, the renewal of the ISA will ensure that Congress retains leverage to snap back sanctions if Iran cheats on any nuclear agreement. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://pallone.house.gov/press-release/pallone-leads-democratic-efforts-pass-21st-century-cures-through-house | Pallone Leads Democratic Efforts to Pass 21st Century Cures through House | 2016-11-30 | 2016 | 2016-11 | Democrat | House | NJ | Frank Pallone | P000034 | pallone.house.gov | legacy | Washington, DC - Today, Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06) led Democratic efforts to pass H.R. 34, the 21st Century Cures Act in the United States House of Representatives, which passed by a vote of 392-26. As the Ranking Member on the House Energy and Commerce Committee, which oversees health, Pallone worked to advance this legislation that will advance medical research, fund the fight to combat the heroin and opioid epidemic and further efforts towards mental health reform. The 21st Century Cures Act will designate over $6 billion to implement cutting-edge health initiatives. $1 billion will be allocated to fighting the opioid epidemic, which will expand access to treatment for the over 256,000 New Jersey residents who are suffering from opioid and heroin addiction. $1.5 billion is designated for the BRAIN Initiative that finds new ways to treat, cure, and prevent brain disorders such as Alzheimer’s and epilepsy. $1.8 billion to support the Vice President Biden’s Cancer Moonshot. The Moonshot aims to accelerate research efforts and make new therapies available to more patients, while also improving our ability to prevent cancer and detect it at an early stage. $1.5 billion over 10 years for the Precision Medicine Initiative, which was launched by President Barack Obama in 2015, which will help researchers develop medicines tailored to individuals, rather than one-size-fits-all treatments. $500 million to the FDA over 10 years to foster innovation and to help implement numerous provisions in the bill intended to improve FDA’s medical product review in order to expedite patient access to important drugs and medical devices. The legislation also includes bipartisan mental health reforms. These include expanding access to mental health services for children through Medicaid, renewed emphasis on evidence-based strategies for treating serious mental illness, improved coordination between primary care and behavioral health services, reauthorization of important programs focused on suicide prevention a… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z |
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