Press releases
Data license: MIT · Data source: dwillis/congress-press
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301 rows where party = "Democrat", state = "OR" and year = 2023 sorted by date descending
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| url | title | date ▲ | year | month | party | chamber | state | member_name | bioguide_id | domain | scraper | source | date_source | text | has_text | collected_at | updated_at |
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| https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-and-merkley-announce-federal-investment-of-more-than-1-million-in-habitat-for-humanity-in-tillamook-county | Wyden and Merkley Announce Federal Investment of More Than $1 Million in Habitat for Humanity in Tillamook County | 2023-12-28 | 2023 | 2023-12 | Democrat | Senate | OR | Ron Wyden | W000779 | www.wyden.senate.gov | wyden | https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases | scraper | Federal loan will help Habitat open ReStore retail operations in Tillamook County Washington D.C.— U.S. Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley today announced a federal investment of more than $1.1 million for Habitat for Humanity in Tillamook to secure space for its retail operations and administrative offices. “In my town halls in Tillamook County and throughout the state, I hear from Oregon families and businesses that housing poses a huge challenge,” Wyden said. “Housing is a human right, and Habitat for Humanity has been on the frontline providing much-needed homes for Oregonians struggling to afford a roof over their heads. This investment will allow Habitat for Humanity to continue serving the citizens of Tillamook County for years to come.” “Everyone should have a safe, affordable place to call home. This federal investment heading to Habitat for Humanity in Tillamook County will help more rural Oregonians access quality housing,” said Sen. Merkley, who formerly led one of Habitat for Humanity's Oregon chapters. “I have seen firsthand the difference that accessible homeownership makes for families and the inspiring dedication of Habitat's staff and volunteers, who are working to realize a world where everyone has a decent home in a decent community.” The $1.13 million Rural Development loan from the U.S. Department of Agriculture will be used to buy an 8,625-square-foot commercial facility for Habitat for Humanity of Tillamook County's ReStore's retail operations and the organization's administrative offices. Habitat for Humanity works with families, local communities, volunteers and partners to enable more people to live in affordable and safe homes. Its advocacy focuses on policy reform to remove systemic barriers preventing low-income and historically underserved families from having access to adequate, affordable shelter. | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T18:56:20Z |
| https://salinas.house.gov/media/press-releases/salinas-wyden-merkley-bonamici-colleagues-call-expanded-funding-community | Salinas, Wyden, Merkley, Bonamici, Colleagues Call for Expanded Funding for Community Health Centers | 2023-12-21 | 2023 | 2023-12 | Democrat | House | OR | Andrea Salinas | S001226 | salinas.house.gov | salinas | https://salinas.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | Washington, DC – On Wednesday, December 20, U.S. Representative Andrea Salinas (OR-06) joined U.S. Senators Ron Wyden (D-Ore.) and Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), along with U.S. Representative Suzanne Bonamici (OR-01), on a bipartisan letter urging the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) to provide more access to federal resources for community healthcare centers. “Federally Qualified Health Center Look-Alikes fill critical gaps in our health care system and ensure more Americans can get the care they need, regardless of income or insurance status,” said Rep. Salinas. “We need to give these health centers access to federal funding, so that they can better serve communities in Oregon and across the country. I join my colleagues in calling on HRSA to make it easier for FQHC Look-Alikes to get the support and resources they deserve.” Currently, there are 136 Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) Look-Alikes in Oregon and across the nation that provide services to over 1 million patients, but still don’t receive federal resources they should be eligible for. FQHC Look-Alikes are organizations that meet all of the eligibility requirements of an FQHC that receives a Public Health Service Section 330 grant, but do not receive grant funding. “These community-based health care providers are already serving populations that may not otherwise be able to access care, and hope to expand the reach of their services to more people,” the legislators said. “HRSA should be leveraging the network of existing FQHC Look-Alikes. By prioritizing Look-Alikes that already comply with Health Center Program requirements over brand new sites, HRSA will ensure that federal dollars are being allocated to health centers with a proven track record of success that hope to expand the universe of patients they can serve and expand the care they are able to offer.” The letter was led by Sen. Wyden and U.S. Representative Joe Morelle (D-N.Y.). Along with Salinas, Wyden, Merkley, and Bonamici, the letter also was co-signed in the Sena… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T01:14:16Z |
| https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-merkley-announce-22-million-for-rural-school-hybrid-program | Wyden, Merkley Announce $2.2 Million for Rural School Hybrid Program | 2023-12-21 | 2023 | 2023-12 | Democrat | Senate | OR | Ron Wyden | W000779 | www.wyden.senate.gov | wyden | https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases | scraper | Washington, D.C. – Oregon Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley today announced a $2.2 million federal grant from the U.S. Department of Education’s Rural Postsecondary and Economic Development Program for Chemeketa Community College. “Students of all backgrounds deserve a fair shot at a solid education,” Wyden said. “This funding is the perfect example of how to expand opportunitiesfor folks in rural Oregon and across the nation, and I applaud Chemeketa Community College for receiving this grant.” “Higher education helps connect students with resources, opportunities, and tools to thrive, building stronger communities, economies, and futures in Oregon,” said Merkley. “As the first in my family to graduate from college, I know how challenging it can be to access higher education—especially for those coming from underrepresented and underserved backgrounds. This incredibly important funding for Chemeketa Community College will help provide crucial support and opportunities, opening doors for Oregon’s rural students” “We are thrilled to receive this grant for the 'Chemeketa College-going Access and Regional Equity for Students (CARES)' project. This funding will empower us to expand educational opportunities for rural high school students, strengthen community partnerships, and ensure a brighter future for our region," said Jessica Howard, Ph.D., President and CEO of Chemeketa Community College. The $2.2 million federal grant will support the Chemeketa College-going Access and Regional Equity for Students (CARES) program. The program expands career and technical education dual credit courses, develops hybrid CTE and combined school enrollment models, and provides teachers with effective technology and professional development opportunities. | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T18:56:20Z |
| https://salinas.house.gov/media/press-releases/salinas-bill-amend-grand-ronde-reservation-act-passes-senate-will-become-law | Salinas Bill to Amend Grand Ronde Reservation Act Passes Senate, Will Become Law | 2023-12-20 | 2023 | 2023-12 | Democrat | House | OR | Andrea Salinas | S001226 | salinas.house.gov | salinas | https://salinas.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | Washington, DC – Today, U.S. Representative Andrea Salinas (OR-06) announced her legislation with U.S. Senator Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.) to amend the Grand Ronde Reservation Act, which restores the right to pursue land claims and compensation for the Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde, has cleared both chambers of Congress. The legislation now heads to President Biden to be signed into law. The bill was first introduced by Rep. Salinas in March as her first piece of legislation, and she ensured it passed the U.S. House of Representatives early last month. Senator Merkley has long championed the bill with success in the Senate, where it passed this week with unanimous support. The legislation is cosponsored by U.S. Representatives Suzanne Bonamici (OR-01), Earl Blumenauer (OR-03), Val Hoyle (OR-04), and Lori Chavez-DeRemer (OR-05), as well as U.S. Senator Ron Wyden (D-Ore.). “I am deeply proud that my amendment to the Grand Ronde Reservation Act has passed the Senate and will soon become law. This is a historic moment not only for the Grand Ronde Tribe, but for Indigenous peoples in Oregon and across the country,” said Rep. Salinas. “At long last, the Grand Ronde Tribe will finally have the right to pursue land claims and compensation once again. I am so grateful to Senator Merkley, my Oregon colleagues, and everyone who helped get this important legislation across the finish line, and I look forward to seeing it signed into law in the coming days.” “A gross injustice against the Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde is finally ending, and a new chapter of healing and justice for the Tribal community can begin,” said Sen. Merkley. “Nearly three decades ago, the Grand Ronde sought to fix a historical surveying error within their reservation boundary, only for the federal government to make another error that relinquished the Tribe’s rights to future land claims and compensation. I’ve long championed legislation to correct this egregious injustice. With the strong partnership of Representative Salinas, it is finally bec… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T01:14:16Z |
| https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-crapo-applaud-senate-passage-of-legislation-honoring-medal-of-honor-recipients | Wyden, Crapo Applaud Senate Passage of Legislation Honoring Medal of Honor Recipients | 2023-12-20 | 2023 | 2023-12 | Democrat | Senate | OR | Ron Wyden | W000779 | www.wyden.senate.gov | wyden | https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases | scraper | The bipartisan bill would designate the longest U.S. highway as the “National Medal of Honor Highway” Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Ron Wyden, D-Ore., and Mike Crapo, R-Idaho today applauded Senate passage of their bipartisan legislation designating U.S. Highway 20 between Newport, Ore. and New England as the “National Medal of Honor Highway.” "It's an honor to have worked closely with veterans in Oregon and nationwide in the grassroots movement to designate our country's longest continuous highway, stretching from the Pacific to the Atlantic, as the ‘National Medal of Honor Highway,’” Wyden said. “I’m proud that my bill to officially recognize U.S. Highway 20 as the ‘National Medal of Honor Highway’ has passed the Senate. This bill is more than a symbolic gesture—it's a timeless tribute to the heroes of America. I am steadfast in my commitment to relentlessly champion this cause alongside our veterans, and I’ll keep fighting tooth and nail to get this bill signed into law.” “The Medal of Honor represents the determination and courage of those who acted far beyond the call of duty. I look forward to the enactment of law cementing this national designation to honor each of them across these 400 miles,” Crapo said. The Medal of Honor is the nation’s highest military award for valor, presented by the president in Congress’ name. U.S. service members who distinguish themselves “through conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of life above and beyond the call of duty” can receive the medal. Redesignating U.S. Highway 20— the longest continuous highway in the United States— as the “National Medal of Honor Highway” would honor each state’s current and future Medal of Honor recipients and recipients from any state who travel on it. Legislatures and governors in all 12 states along U.S. Highway 20 have designated their state Medal of Honor Highways covering 100 percent of the 3,365-mile Medal of Honor Highway across America. The 12 states along U.S. Highway 20 account for about 62 percent of all 3,516 M… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T18:56:20Z |
| https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-merkley-bonamici-salinas-colleagues-call-for-expanded-funding-for-community-health-centers | Wyden, Merkley, Bonamici, Salinas, Colleagues call for Expanded Funding for Community Health Centers | 2023-12-20 | 2023 | 2023-12 | Democrat | Senate | OR | Ron Wyden | W000779 | www.wyden.senate.gov | wyden | https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases | scraper | Washington, D.C. – Oregon U.S. Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley, along with U.S. Representatives Suzanne Bonamici and Andrea Salinas, joined bipartisan colleagues today to urge the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) to provide more access to federal resources for community healthcare centers. Currently, there are 136 Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) Look-Alikes in Oregon and across the nation that provide services to over 1 million patients, but still don’t receive federal resources they should be eligible for. FQHC Look-Alikes are organizations that meet all of the eligibility requirements of an FQHC that receives a Public Health Service Section 330 grant, but do not receive grant funding. “These community-based health care providers are already serving populations that may not otherwise be able to access care, and hope to expand the reach of their services to more people,” the legislators said. “HRSA should be leveraging the network of existing FQHC Look-Alikes. By prioritizing Look-Alikes that already comply with Health Center Program requirements over brand new sites, HRSA will ensure that federal dollars are being allocated to health centers with a proven track record of success that hope to expand the universe of patients they can serve and expand the care they are able to offer.” The letter was led by Senator Wyden and U.S. Representative Joe Morelle (D-N.Y.). Along with Wyden, Merkley, Bonamici and Salinas, the letter also was co-signed in the Senate by the U.S. Senators Bob Casey (D-Pa.), Angus King (I-Maine), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.), Alex Padilla (D-Calif.) and in the House by Representatives Ken Calvert (R-Calif), Josh Harder (D-Calif.), Mike Kelly (R-Pa.), Young Kim (R-Calif.) and Katie Porter (D-Calif). | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T18:56:20Z |
| https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-urges-federal-trade-commission-to-block-kroger-albertsons-merger | Wyden Urges Federal Trade Commission to Block Kroger-Albertsons Merger | 2023-12-19 | 2023 | 2023-12 | Democrat | Senate | OR | Ron Wyden | W000779 | www.wyden.senate.gov | wyden | https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases | scraper | Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Ron Wyden today urged the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to block the proposed Kroger and Albertsons merger due to potential negative effects on consumers in Oregon and nationwide. “Specifically, I am concerned that the proposed merger, if approved, will result in fewer pharmacy options for Oregonians, fewer economic opportunities for Oregon’s small farmers, and harm to Oregon’s workers and consumers,” Wyden wrote in the letter to FTC Chair Lina Khan. “The Oregon Health Authority undertook a preliminary review of the impact of the proposed merger on health care and found that the proposed merger would result in a harmful concentration of retail pharmacies in the state.” In the letter, Wyden also emphasized this merger would put Oregonians' privacy at risk due to Kroger’s policies for sharing patient information with law enforcement without warrants. “As part of a recent inquiry I conducted into major pharmacy chains’ privacy practices, I learned that Kroger provides pharmacy records to law enforcement officials without a warrant or any internal review by a legal professional. This finding places Kroger behind the majority of its peer chain pharmacies in terms of its commitment to safeguarding patient privacy.” “Less than a decade ago, Albertsons-Safeway proposed a similar divestiture only to buy back many of the divested stores two years later and watch the rest go out of business. I urge the FTC to use the Albertsons-Safeway outcome as a guide to the Commission as it considers possible outcomes of this proposed merger,” Wyden continued. The Kroger-Albertsons merger threatens to make the consolidation crisis in the retail food market worse, following on large deals like the Albertsons-Safeway merger in 2015, as well as the expansion of mega-retailers across the country that have driven independent grocers out of business. | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T18:56:20Z |
| https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-begins-2024-with-seven-town-halls-in-central-and-eastern-oregon | Wyden Begins 2024 With Seven Town Halls in Central & Eastern Oregon | 2023-12-18 | 2023 | 2023-12 | Democrat | Senate | OR | Ron Wyden | W000779 | www.wyden.senate.gov | wyden | https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases | scraper | Portland – U.S. Senator Ron Wyden today announced he will begin his 2024 town hall schedule with seven in-person town halls the first week of January in Jefferson, Sherman, Morrow, Umatilla, Union, Baker and Malheur counties. Heading into these initial town halls of the new year, Wyden has held a total of 1,065 town halls throughout Oregon in fulfillment of his pledge to hold at least one town hall each year in each of Oregon’s 36 counties. “I’m very much looking forward to starting 2024 with these open-to-all town halls in the ongoing spirit of the ‘Oregon Way’ where anybody can ask questions, share opinions and suggest ideas,” Wyden said. “Heading into a new congressional year, these open-to-all town halls are especially timely because Oregonians in these counties can help shape legislative priorities for the next 12 months and beyond.” The schedule for the upcoming town halls is as follows: | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T18:56:20Z |
| https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases/bonamici-gonzalez-colon-introduce-bipartisan-legislation-remove-marine-debris | Bonamici, González-Colón Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Remove Marine Debris | 2023-12-15 | 2023 | 2023-12 | Democrat | House | OR | Suzanne Bonamici | B001278 | bonamici.house.gov | bonamici | https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON, DC [12/15/23] –Representatives Suzanne Bonamici (D-OR) and Jenniffer González-Colón (R-Puerto Rico), Co-Chairs of the House Oceans Caucus, introduced legislation to help remove marine debris from the ocean and waterways. H.R. 6781 would reauthorize the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) Marine Debris Program through 2028. The representatives introduced the bill ahead of the third anniversary of the bipartisan Save Our Seas 2.0 Act, the most comprehensive legislation passed by Congress to address marine debris and strengthen NOAA’s Marine Debris Program. Bonamici led the original bill with the late Rep. Don Young (R-AK). “Marine debris threatens coastal communities, ecosystems, and marine life,” said Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici. “Congress acted to strengthen NOAA’s Marine Debris Program to better respond to the plastics, derelict vessels and fishing gear, and other harmful debris that litters the ocean’s waters and shores. This legislation will build on that success to continue protecting the ocean and communities into the future. I’m grateful to partner with my Oceans Caucus Co-Chair Congresswoman Jenniffer González-Colón in this important effort.” “NOAA’s Marine Debris Program provides critical resources to address and mitigate the adverse impacts of marine debris in our ocean and coastal environments,” said Congresswoman Jenniffer González-Colón. “In Puerto Rico, for example, it has supported initiatives to research and monitor the sources of marine debris within our watersheds, as well as multiple projects to help remove abandoned vessels, derelict fishing gear, and hurricane-generated debris throughout our coasts and waters. I’m proud to join my fellow House Oceans Caucus Co-Chair, Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici, to introduce bipartisan legislation to reauthorize NOAA’s Marine Debris Program and ensure it can continue supporting state, territorial, and local efforts to comprehensively tackle this issue.” The text of the legislation can be viewed here. Senators Dan Sul… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T01:14:16Z |
| https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/oregon-officials-statements-on-600-million-federal-award-for-interstate-bridge-replacement-project | Oregon Officials’ Statements on $600 Million Federal Award for Interstate Bridge Replacement Project | 2023-12-15 | 2023 | 2023-12 | Democrat | Senate | OR | Ron Wyden | W000779 | www.wyden.senate.gov | wyden | https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases | scraper | Wyden, Merkley, Kotek, Blumenauer, Bonamici and ODOT Director assess impact of funding for I-5 bridge Washington, D.C. – U.S. Sens. Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley, Gov. Tina Kotek, U.S. Reps. Earl Blumenauer and Suzanne Bonamici as well as the Oregon Department of Transportation issued the following statements about today’s $600 million award from the U.S. Department of Transportation to the Interstate-5 Bridge replacement project. “Today’s $600 million down payment on the federal investment needed for the Interstate Bridge is good news for freight traffic in Oregon and throughout the Northwest as well as helpful for commuters,” Wyden said. “Jobs and the Oregon economy are big winners with a modern interstate bridge. I’m all with seeing this vital project through to completion with the ongoing help of federal tax dollars and without any new tolling costs landing on Oregon motorists, many of whom are already battling to make ends meet. I also look forward to pressing ahead to pursue all available options to secure the federal investment needed for the Port of Coos Bay to achieve its innovative container terminal project, which has the power to change the economic future of the South Coast and our entire state.” “What a historic day! The I-5 Bridge Replacement Project receiving a $600 million USDOT Mega Grant is not only a game changer for Oregonians who will soon have expanded transportation options to cross the Columbia River, but a huge win for our economy as the project will generate many good-paying union jobs,” Merkley said. “This federal funding secured through the landmark Bipartisan Infrastructure Law is the result of intense bipartisan teamwork, and a huge step forward to realize a long-sought project that will boost seismic resiliency in the region and ensure safer, faster, and more reliable transportation for generations to come. I’ll also keep fighting for Coos Bay’s transformative container port project, which would be a huge win for the region and the nation.” "This is a big moment for the Pacific No… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T18:56:20Z |
| https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senate-committee-advances-two-wyden-bills-key-to-oregons-future | Senate Committee Advances Two Wyden Bills Key to Oregon’s Future | 2023-12-14 | 2023 | 2023-12 | Democrat | Senate | OR | Ron Wyden | W000779 | www.wyden.senate.gov | wyden | https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases | scraper | One bill benefits Owyhee in Eastern Oregon; other bill reauthorizes signature Wyden legislation that’s secured nearly $4 billion for counties statewide Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Ron Wyden, D-Ore., today released the following statement applauding the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee for advancing his Malheur Community Empowerment for the Owyhee Act (CEO Act) and his Secure Rural Schools Reauthorization Act of 2023: “The ENR Committee has advanced two of my bills key to Oregon’s future. “The Malheur Community Empowerment for the Owyhee Act preserves both a treasured way of life and a treasured landscape. The bill helps our state’s ranchers and the small businesses in Eastern Oregon who call this breath-taking and nationally recognized area home. This legislation is the product of years of hard work with Malheur County ranchers, Tribes, conservationists and recreation lovers who all came together to develop what I believe should be a framework for conservation nationwide. It encapsulates a shared vision that leaves Eastern Oregon in effect as the CEO of one of America’s most spectacular landscapes. “The Secure Rural Schools program has proven a vital lifeline for rural counties in Oregon and nationwide, but lapses in Congressional action leave counties dangling on an annual fiscal cliff. Reauthorizing the Secure Rural Schools and Community Self-Determination Act is critical and necessary to support education, road maintenance, forest and watershed health, fire prevention, search and rescue, and other essential services in rural communities. “Today’s action brings my two bills closer to full Senate consideration. I applaud my colleagues on the ENR committee for their partnership and hard work to get us here.” The Malheur Community Empowerment for the Owyhee Act would preserve the Owyhee and introduce more flexibility into the established grazing management system. The legislation is informed by Eastern Oregon ranchers, tribes and environmental organizations convened by Wyden. The Secure Rur… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T18:56:20Z |
| https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-and-merkley-introduce-legislation-to-end-voter-suppression-by-unreasonably-long-lines | Wyden and Merkley Introduce Legislation to End Voter Suppression by Unreasonably Long Lines | 2023-12-14 | 2023 | 2023-12 | Democrat | Senate | OR | Ron Wyden | W000779 | www.wyden.senate.gov | wyden | https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases | scraper | POLL Act Ends Long Lines and Ensures Every Voter Can Cast a Ballot in 30 Minutes Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Ron Wyden, D-Ore., and Jeff Merkley, D-Ore., today introduced legislation that would end hours-long lines at polling places that suppress hundreds of thousands of votes, and restore Americans’ constitutional rights to vote in free and fair elections. “Oregonians are fortunate to have the option to vote at home, but many other voters nationwide lack that opportunity and shouldn’t be effectively cut off from the ballot box by lines that leave them on their feet for hours on end. Everyone has a right to make their voice count in our democracy,” Wyden said. “Making voting easy shouldn’t be a partisan issue. It’s time to pass the POLL Act to end lengthy lines and empower voters to make their voices heard at the ballot box.” “Forcing people to wait in long lines to vote is a discriminatory tool used to manipulate elections by preventing citizens from voting. Nobody should have to spend hours upon hours away from work, school, and other responsibilities and obligations to exercise their constitutional rights,” said Merkley. “If we believe in the freedom to vote and democracy, let's make sure staffing and equipment are distributed equitably so nobody has to wait more than 30 minutes to vote.” Data from the 2020 election showed that nearly one-in-five in-person voters waited more than 30 minutes to vote and casting a vote typically took longer in poorer, less white neighborhoods than it did in whiter and more affluent ones. The People Over Long Lines (POLL) Act would require state and local governments to end these forms of voter suppression. The bill requires states to file public plans detailing how they will ensure voters can cast ballots with waiting times of less than 30 minutes and require audits by the Election Assistance Commission to determine how many voters face longer waits. The bill includes $500 million to help states reduce voter wait times. The POLL Act would also create a private right o… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T18:56:20Z |
| https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-colleagues-urge-federal-agencies-to-boost-public-food-and-agriculture-research-funding-in-fiscal-year-2025 | Wyden, Colleagues Urge Federal Agencies to Boost Public Food and Agriculture Research Funding in Fiscal Year 2025 | 2023-12-14 | 2023 | 2023-12 | Democrat | Senate | OR | Ron Wyden | W000779 | www.wyden.senate.gov | wyden | https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases | scraper | In a letter to USDA and OMB, senators call on agency leaders to increase USDA research funding by at least five percent, plus inflation Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Ron Wyden said today he’s joined Senate colleagues to urge top federal officials to increase the Department of Agriculture’s research budget by at least five percent, plus inflation, for Fiscal Year 2025. “As the President’s Fiscal Year (FY) 2025 budget request is prepared, we request that an increase of at least five percent, plus inflation, above the FY 2024 funding levels proposed by the Senate, be provided across the board for all USDA research activities underway within the Agricultural Research Service, National Institute of Food and Agriculture, the Economic Research Service, and the National Agricultural Statistics Service,” the senators wrote in the letter to Agriculture Secretary Thomas Vilsack and Office of Management and Budget Director Shalanda Young. In their letter, the senators emphasized the importance of public funding for food and agriculture research as it ensures the United States remains competitive globally. “Between 2008 and 2013, however, public investments in food and agricultural research dropped by 20 percent in inflation-adjusted terms, while the contributions by large private-sector corporations have increased by 64 percent over the same period… The public sector can pursue research into subjects and specialties that the private sector cannot or will not,” wrote the Senators. “Open-access research helps to increase the pace of discoveries …. by some estimates ranging between a 20 to 60 percent rate of return.” The senators also wrote that this increased funding would prepare the food and agricultural sector for future challenges including global population growth, sustainability, changing weather patterns, and plant and animal diseases. The letter was led by U.S. Senator Dick Durbin (D-Ill.). Along with Wyden, the letter is signed by U.S. Senators Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.), Cory Booker (D-N.J.), Sherrod Brown (D-Ohi… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T18:56:20Z |
| https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-merkley-introduce-legislation-to-mandate-civil-rights-offices-in-federal-agencies-that-handle-artificial-intelligence | Wyden, Merkley Introduce Legislation to Mandate Civil Rights Offices in Federal Agencies that Handle Artificial Intelligence | 2023-12-14 | 2023 | 2023-12 | Democrat | Senate | OR | Ron Wyden | W000779 | www.wyden.senate.gov | wyden | https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases | scraper | Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley said today they have joined Senator Edward J. Markey (D-MA) to introduce the Eliminating Bias in Algorithmic Systems (BIAS) Act to ensure that every federal agency that uses, funds, or oversees artificial intelligence has an office of civil rights focused on combating AI bias and discrimination, among other harms. “There is no place for racial and ethnic bias in Oregon and across the nation, and that same mindset must apply to technology,” said Wyden. “As technology takes its next huge leap with artificial intelligence, it is absolutely fundamental that it is developed with no danger that it’s misused to discriminate against any person or group.” “Algorithms play a significant role in the way society interacts and behaves every single day, whether we like it or not,” said Senator Merkley. “Because we know AI has the potential to exacerbate discrimination and inequality, federal agencies that employ the use of AI must have safeguards and boundaries in place to combat discrimination and bias.” Wyden and Merkley said the legislation would also require every civil rights office to report their efforts to Congress and provide recommendations for congressional action. Many federal agencies lack civil rights offices whose principal mission is to protect vulnerable communities across the United States. There are only 30 civil rights offices within the federal government, yet many are not required to secure staff with the expertise needed to advise the agency on algorithmic bias and discrimination. The legislation was led by Markey. Along with Wyden and Merkley, the bill also was co-sponsored in the Senate by U.S. Senators Cory Booker (D-N.J.), Ben Ray Lujan (D-N.M.), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) and Peter Welch (D-Vt.). | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T18:56:20Z |
| https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases/bonamici-mcgarvey-lead-effort-improve-family-access-housing-assistance | Bonamici, McGarvey Lead Effort to Improve Family Access to Housing Assistance | 2023-12-13 | 2023 | 2023-12 | Democrat | House | OR | Suzanne Bonamici | B001278 | bonamici.house.gov | bonamici | https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON, DC [12/13/23] – Today Representatives Suzanne Bonamici (D-OR) and Morgan McGarvey (D-KY) led 25 of their colleagues in drawing attention to the decline in federal housing assistance programs for families with children. Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers and the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit are two of the largest federal housing programs that can help prevent homelessness. Unfortunately, data from the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) on Section 8 vouchers shows that families with children have received a smaller share of voucher recipients over the last decade. “The Biden Administration has shown historic dedication to improving opportunities for homeownership and increasing protections for families who rent,” the Representatives wrote. “Unfortunately, the number of families experiencing homelessness is on the rise nationally. We write to request information from your agencies so we can work together to improve federal programs to better serve vulnerable families.” In 2009, households with children received 42 percent of the benefits from subsidized HUD programs. By 2022, that percentage had declined to 33 percent. This includes Section 8 choice vouchers, public housing, and project-based vouchers. The letter requests HUD and the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) provide information on policies to enhance support for families and youth at risk of homelessness, including: Data on how many new families are being accepted in federal housing programs; A breakdown of information about families’ access to developments subsidized by the Low Income Housing Tax Credit and Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers; Confirmation of the downward trend of families with children accessing federally subsidized housing and details on what may be the potential causes; Information on initiatives HUD and IRS are undertaking to promote housing stability for families The letter is supported by First Focus Campaign for Children and SchoolHouse Connection. “Access to safe and affordable housing is critical fo… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T01:14:16Z |
| https://salinas.house.gov/media/press-releases/salinas-gluesenkamp-perez-moore-urge-federal-government-expand-use-mass-timber | Salinas, Gluesenkamp Perez, Moore Urge Federal Government to Expand Use of Mass Timber in Federal Buildings | 2023-12-13 | 2023 | 2023-12 | Democrat | House | OR | Andrea Salinas | S001226 | salinas.house.gov | salinas | https://salinas.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | Washington, DC – This week, U.S. Representatives Andrea Salinas (OR-06), Marie Gluesenkamp Perez (WA-03), and Barry Moore (AL-02) led a bipartisan letter to the General Services Administration (GSA) encouraging expanded use of mass timber in federal buildings. In the letter, the lawmakers express concern that while the GSA recently awarded $2 billion in Inflation Reduction Act funding for 150 projects, none of the funds were awarded to projects using sustainable wood products, including mass timber. Utilizing wood products is critical for supporting rural jobs and reducing wildfire risk, and it is one of the most effective ways to reduce the carbon footprint of buildings. These products come from renewable resources, store carbon, and don’t require the same fuel-intensive manufacturing process common for other other building materials. “Countries around the world have made building with wood a top priority to reach climate goals, yet our own federal government continues to lag in its adoption of low-embodied carbon wood products,” wrote the lawmakers. “As GSA continues to take steps to reduce the carbon footprint for the built environment within its real estate portfolio, we strongly urge you to ensure that low-embodied carbon wood products, such as mass timber, play a role.” Across the United States, the forest products industry directly employs roughly 925,000 people and indirectly supports nearly 2 million jobs. “I am deeply concerned about GSA’s decision not to award Inflation Reduction Act funding to projects that use sustainable wood products. As a lead sponsor of the bipartisan Timber Innovation for Building Rural Communities Act, I believe we must invest in our working forests and help make them more resilient to wildfires and climate change,” said Rep. Salinas. “I join my colleagues in urging the Administration to utilize sustainable wood products moving forward, and I will continue working to ensure Oregon’s critical mass timber industry gets the support it deserves from our federal government.” “… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T01:14:16Z |
| https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/merkley-wyden-over-36-million-for-safer-streets-heading-to-marion-umatilla-and-clackamas-counties | Merkley, Wyden: Over $3.6 Million for Safer Streets heading to Marion, Umatilla, and Clackamas Counties | 2023-12-13 | 2023 | 2023-12 | Democrat | Senate | OR | Ron Wyden | W000779 | www.wyden.senate.gov | wyden | https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – Oregon’s U.S. Senators Jeff Merkley and Ron Wyden today announced a total of $3,669,840 in federal funding heading to three Oregon counties to develop and update comprehensive road and street safety plans. “Whether walking, driving, or biking, Oregonians in every corner of the state deserve safe streets in their communities to get where they need to go,” said Merkley. “These investments will transform Oregon’s roadways in Marion, Umatilla, and Clackamas counties into safer places for bicyclists, pedestrians, and drivers. I will continue working to ensure every Oregonian is able to move about their daily lives conveniently, without fear of accident or injury.” “Oregonians deserve to be safe on our streets no matter whether they’re on foot, on a bike or in a car,” Wyden said. “I’m gratified this federal investment will help ensure safer roadways in Clackamas, Marion and Umatilla counties, and I’ll keep battling for similar community livability resources in every corner of the state.” These plans will integrate equity and community engagement and align with the requirements for the action plan in the Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) program, which was created under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. Safe Streets and Roads for All awards can be found below: $2.8 million to the City of Salem to update its existing Vision Zero Plan to meet SS4A Action Plan requirements by installing 20 MPH signs on residential streets, acquiring speed radar trailers and signs, and piloting an associated education campaign. This pilot demonstration activity will provide valuable data on the effectiveness of speed limit reductions in residential areas. $539,840 to Umatilla County to update the City of Umatilla and Umatilla County’s comprehensive action plan. $330,000 to Clackamas County to update the county’s existing Transportation Safety Action Plan to integrate equity and community engagement and align the plan with the SS4A Action Plan requirements. “We’ve been lobbying our state and federal partners a… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T18:56:20Z |
| https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-colleagues-lead-bipartisan-push-for-clear-guidance-on-the-new-free-application-for-federal-student-aid | Wyden, Colleagues Lead Bipartisan Push for Clear Guidance on the New Free Application for Federal Student Aid | 2023-12-13 | 2023 | 2023-12 | Democrat | Senate | OR | Ron Wyden | W000779 | www.wyden.senate.gov | wyden | https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases | scraper | Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Ron Wyden said today he’s joined Senate colleagues from both parties to urge federal officials to provide clear guidance and communication to students, families, educators, college access counselors, and schools leading up to and after the release of the new Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). The redesigned FAFSA will make it easier for students to get financial aid and help 1.5 million more students access the maximum Pell Grant award. “We understand that overhauling the current application and reconfiguring the federal student aid system requires significant time, preparation, and resources. However, despite a one-year delay in the implementation process, the Department recently announced the new FAFSA will be available to students by December 31, 2023, with no indication of an actual date,” the senators wrote in a letter to the federal Department of Education. “Further, the Department’s latest announcement also revealed that processing delays will take place in the first few months of 2024, meaning that schools will not be able to generate financial aid offers for their students in a timely fashion,” the senators wrote. “While the simplified FAFSA is meant to provide more students with federal student aid, we fear the most vulnerable students will be negatively impacted by these delays.” The lawmakers wrote, “FAFSA delays can be particularly burdensome for students who lack reliable broadband access, students in foster care, students experiencing homelessness, first-generation students, students experiencing financial insecurity, and so many more.” The letter was led by Senators Tim Kaine (D-Va.), Charles E. Grassley (R-Iowa) and Patty Murray (D-Wash.). Along with Wyden, the letter is signed by Senators Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.), Michael Bennet (D-Conn.), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Cory Booker (D-N.J.), Sherrod Brown (D-Ohio), Laphonza Butler (D-CA), Maria Cantwell (D-WA), Ben Cardin (D-MD), Bob Casey (D-PA), Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), John Fe… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T18:56:20Z |
| https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-merkley-and-colleagues-introduce-bill-to-reduce-foam-container-pollution | Wyden, Merkley and Colleagues Introduce Bill to Reduce Foam Container Pollution | 2023-12-13 | 2023 | 2023-12 | Democrat | Senate | OR | Ron Wyden | W000779 | www.wyden.senate.gov | wyden | https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases | scraper | Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley said today they have joined Senator Chris Van Hollen of Maryland to introduce legislation that would phase out single-use plastic foam food service products, “loose fill” such as packing peanuts, and non-medical disposable coolers – materials known to harm human health and pollute waterways. The Farewell to Foam Act they introduced along with Senate and House colleagues would reduce plastic foam pollution nationwide by requiring food service providers, manufacturers, distributors, and retailers to transition their stock of expanded polystyrene products such as foodware, coolers, and loose packing fill to alternative materials by January 1, 2026. “Communities in Oregon and across the nation suffer from the effects of pollution, and eliminating one of the contributors from single use plastic foam containers is a major step in improving public health,“ Wyden said. “There are plenty of sustainable alternatives that can replace single-use foam containers. Switching would benefit our communities and help tackle climate change at the same time.” “This single-use, dangerous plastic foam product is not recyclable, not biodegradable, and pollutes our planet – but also is known to cause increased rates of cancer and disrupt the human endocrine system,” said Merkley, who this year led the Senate’s first ever hearings on plastics. “Single-use plastics are a human health crisis, a crisis that can be solved by producing and using more sustainable alternatives.” The bill also would authorize the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to impose escalating penalties on establishments that violate the expanded polystyrene prohibition during one calendar year: $250 for the first violation, $500 for the second, and $1,000 for the third and subsequent violations. Service providers and retailers with annual revenue less than $1 million and manufacturers and distributors with annual revenue less than $5 million will not be penalized more than once during any seven-day period.… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T18:56:20Z |
| https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-reintroduces-legislation-to-boost-jobs-in-health-care | Wyden Reintroduces Legislation to Boost Jobs in Health Care | 2023-12-13 | 2023 | 2023-12 | Democrat | Senate | OR | Ron Wyden | W000779 | www.wyden.senate.gov | wyden | https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases | scraper | Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Ron Wyden today announced he reintroduced legislation that reauthorizes and modernizes the Health Profession Opportunity Grant program to help address health care shortages in Oregon and nationwide and create pathways to high quality, in-demand health care careers. “Addressing the nation's health care worker shortage means helping struggling families with job opportunities,” said Wyden."That’s why I’m proud to introduce legislation that would provide job training, child care, transportation and more to help low-income families in Oregon and nationwide begin well-paid careers as health professionals.” The Pathways to Health Careers Act would help to address health care provider shortages, provide pathway to well-paid, in-demand career opportunities in health care. Created by the Affordable Care Act in 2010, the Health Profession Opportunity Grant Program stands out among other job training approaches because of the mix of support services, career coaching, job placement, and post-employment training provided as part of the program. The program helps increase the number of qualified health professionals in rural, Tribal, and urban areas in need of more workers. The Health Profession Opportunity Grant Program expired in September 2021. The Pathways to Health Careers Act would reauthorize and modernize the program. To date, the Health Profession Opportunity Grant Program has served over 60,000 participants in 32 programs across 23 states. The Pathways to Health Careers Act would restart and expand the Health Profession Opportunity Grant Program, providing $425 million to make the Health Profession Opportunity Grant available nationwide from FY2024 through FY2028 and includes set asides for Tribes and U.S. Territories. Alongside Wyden the legislation was led by U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich, D-N.M. The bill was cosponsored by U.S. Senators Richard Blumenthal, D-Conn., Catherine Cortez-Masto, D-Nev., Amy Klobuchar, D-Minn., Ben Ray Luján, D-N.M., and Chris Murphy, D-Conn. U.S. Repres… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T18:56:20Z |
| https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-urges-senate-judiciary-committee-to-support-judge-amy-baggios-nomination | Wyden Urges Senate Judiciary Committee to Support Judge Amy Baggio’s Nomination | 2023-12-13 | 2023 | 2023-12 | Democrat | Senate | OR | Ron Wyden | W000779 | www.wyden.senate.gov | wyden | https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases | scraper | Watch a video of Wyden deliver his remarks here As prepared for delivery Chairman Durbin, Ranking Member Graham, members of the committee, I’m very pleased to join you this morning to introduce Judge Amy Baggio, nominee for the U.S. District Court for the District of Oregon. Judge Baggio comes before the Committee today with extensive experience as both a jurist and a litigator. That experience includes four years on the bench as a judge with the Multnomah County Circuit Court, as well as 18 years practicing criminal defense. That includes a decade as a public defender, ensuring that defendants have counsel as is guaranteed under the Sixth Amendment. As a lawyer, she focused on especially complex cases and has argued before the U.S. District Court for the District of Oregon as well as the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals. In her career on the bench, she has presided over hundreds of civil and criminal matters and handled 42 trials, half of which were jury trials. Throughout her career as a judge, it is a testament to Judge Baggio’s fairness that she has never had any party, either the defense or prosecution, file a request for a different judge. In addition to being fair, she has consistently demonstrated an ability to make thoughtful decisions that protect communities and their values. For example, in one case, she sentenced a man to 34 years in prison for disturbing crimes, including first degree sexual abuse. That sentence was more than five times as long as the 75 month sentence sought by defense counsel. Despite an appeal from the defense on multiple issues, her decisions in that case were ultimately affirmed. This is just one of many examples in a record that is proof positive of her dedication to the law and extraordinary competence in applying it. I could go on and on about her judiciary accomplishments, but I also want to talk about Judge Baggio’s volunteer experience mentoring the next generation of judicial talent. As an attorney, Judge Baggio long served as a mentor for newer lawyers, and following h… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T18:56:20Z |
| https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases/bonamici-fitzpatrick-introduce-bipartisan-legislation-boost-education-research | Bonamici, Fitzpatrick Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Boost Education Research | 2023-12-11 | 2023 | 2023-12 | Democrat | House | OR | Suzanne Bonamici | B001278 | bonamici.house.gov | bonamici | https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON, DC [12/11/23] – Today Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici (D-OR) and Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA) introduced bipartisan legislation to accelerate innovation in teaching and learning by establishing a national center to promote informed-risk, high-reward education research. The New Essential Education Discoveries (NEED) Act of 2023 would create a National Center for Advanced Development in Education (NCADE) with the purpose of developing and disseminating effective practices and tools to improve students’ academic performance and close longstanding achievement gaps. The NCADE would be the fifth center under the Institute of Education Sciences (IES) and follow a successful model similar to the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA). “Investing in education research will support the development of literacy skills and other critical components of a well-rounded education, help students get back on track after the pandemic disrupted learning, and more,” said Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici. “The NEED Act will focus on innovative approaches and technologies in education and will improve implementation of education R&D. These critical investments are designed to strengthen teaching and learning to reach more students—particularly students who face the greatest opportunity gaps.” “Congress has the responsibility to ensure that students across America have the resources available to reach their full potential,” said Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick. “Our bipartisan NEED Act will create a national center dedicated to developing innovative tools based on data and technological advances to help close learning gaps, and I am proud to join Congresswoman Bonamici on this important legislation.” “Everyone should have the information they need to make informed decisions about their own education and workforce pathways, support individuals navigating these pathways, and create policies that might help others navigate smoother pathways,” said Jennifer Bell-Ellwanger, president and CEO, Data Quality Campaig… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T01:14:16Z |
| https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-demands-federal-review-of-crater-lake-concessionaire-contract | Wyden Demands Federal Review of Crater Lake Concessionaire Contract | 2023-12-11 | 2023 | 2023-12 | Democrat | Senate | OR | Ron Wyden | W000779 | www.wyden.senate.gov | wyden | https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases | scraper | Senator: Aramark’s failure to live up to its contractual agreements threatens safety of world-renowned national park, its visitors and employees Washington D.C.—U.S. Senator Ron Wyden said today he is asking federal officials to act immediately to prevent concessionaire mismanagement from continuing to pose safety risks to Crater Lake National Park, its visitors, and the employees who live and work at this world-renowned natural treasure in southern Oregon. “The annual concessionaire assessments paint a troubling picture of the concessionaire’s fulfillment of its important responsibilities at Crater Lake National Park over several years,” Wyden wrote in a letter to National Park Service Director Charles F. “Chuck” Sams III,. “The National Park Service records make it clear that the concessionaire has continually failed to fulfill the requirements of the contract.” In his letter, Wyden wrote that Aramark – doing business as Crater Lake Hospitality – has failed under its concessionaire contract with the National Park Service to perform contractually required maintenance and has created unsafe living conditions for staff. Wyden’s letter also cited diesel spills at contractor-managed facilities, malfunctioning fire alarm systems and unsatisfactory public health inspections. And it noted the lack of investment and deferred maintenance by the concessionaire has prevented progress on a number of maintenance and improvement projects that the National Park Service has approved. “After becoming aware of these issues, I directed my staff to conduct an in-person assessment of the conditions at facilities within Crater Lake National Park,” Wyden wrote. “The issues that staff observed during this visit have only served to solidify my understanding of the seriousness of the concessionaire’s failure to plan for and perform important regular maintenance, adequately train staff and address issues that directly threaten safety. “ “It was apparent to my staff that the dedicated National Park Service staff were spending hours o… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T18:56:20Z |
| https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases/bonamici-porter-introduce-legislation-protect-student-borrowers-young | Bonamici, Porter Introduce Legislation to Protect Student Borrowers, Young Consumers from Unscrupulous Lenders | 2023-12-08 | 2023 | 2023-12 | Democrat | House | OR | Suzanne Bonamici | B001278 | bonamici.house.gov | bonamici | https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON, DC [12/08/23] – Today Congresswomen Suzanne Bonamici (D-OR) and Katie Porter (D-CA) introduced legislation to restore the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau's (CFPB) Office for Students and Young Consumers. Before the Trump administration closed the Office for Students and Young Consumers in 2018, it helped return more than $750 million to students and student loan borrowers who had been cheated or misled by unscrupulous student loan companies and for-profit colleges. They assisted more than 60,000 borrowers who submitted complaints to the CFPB about the student loan industry. The Students and Young Consumers Empowerment Act will reopen the office and strengthen the CFPB’s ability to protect students, prevent fraud, and preserve the integrity of the student loan marketplace and access to affordable higher education. "Students and young consumers who are seeking to invest in their education should not be cheated by unscrupulous companies or for-profit colleges," said Suzanne Bonamici, senior member of the Education and the Workforce Subcommittee on Higher Education and Workforce Development. "The Biden administration has taken many important steps to improve the student loan system and compensate borrowers and students who have been duped or defrauded. But we can do more. Restoring the Office for Students and Young Consumers will provide a needed resource at the CFPB and help create a better, fairer, and more transparent system.” “When young people get cheated by student loan companies or for-profit colleges, they should have a partner in the federal government they can trust to get them justice,” said Katie Porter, a longtime consumer protection attorney. “A dedicated Office for Students and Young Consumers will prevent student loan borrowers from being overlooked and will be empowered to act on their behalf to crack down on fraudsters. I’m proud to work with Congresswoman Bonamici on this important legislation to hold bad actors accountable for harming our nation’s young people.” Specifically, … | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T01:14:16Z |
| https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-votes-against-reauthorizing-warrantless-surveillance-as-part-of-massive-military-policy-bill | Wyden Votes Against Reauthorizing Warrantless Surveillance as Part of Massive Military Policy Bill | 2023-12-08 | 2023 | 2023-12 | Democrat | Senate | OR | Ron Wyden | W000779 | www.wyden.senate.gov | wyden | https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases | scraper | Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Ron Wyden, D-Ore., opposed reauthorizing warrantless government surveillance of Americans as part of the National Defence Authorization Act (NDAA), in a procedural vote today. A four-month extension of Section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act was added to the NDAA without a vote or debate. Wyden and bipartisan members of Congress have pushed for years to reform that surveillance authority, which has been abused to allow warrantless searches for a U.S. Senator, a member of Congress, and a state court judge, among others. “Americans know they don’t have to sacrifice their liberty to have security. They want policies that give them both, debated in the light of day,” Wyden said. “I cannot support reauthorizing warrantless surveillance of Americans’ communications without significant reforms and improvements to protect the Constitutional rights of people in Oregon and across the nation. I have introduced bipartisan, bicameral legislation to reauthorize this surveillance authority with significant new protections for Americans’ rights.” Although Wyden voted against the NDAA today, he supports a number of provisions within the massive military policy bill. He praised the inclusion of $105 million for an Oregon National Guard special tactics complex in Portland and readiness center in Washington County ($7.5 million more than was included in an earlier version of the bill), as well as a 5.2% pay increase for servicemembers - the largest military pay raise in 20 years. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T18:56:20Z |
| https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-seeks-answers-from-justice-department-on-alleged-surveillance-of-apple-and-google-mobile-push-notifications | Wyden Seeks Answers from Justice Department On Alleged Surveillance of Apple and Google Mobile Push Notifications | 2023-12-06 | 2023 | 2023-12 | Democrat | Senate | OR | Ron Wyden | W000779 | www.wyden.senate.gov | wyden | https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases | scraper | Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Ron Wyden, D-Ore., asked the Department of Justice to allow Apple and Google to be more transparent about alleged surveillance of mobile push notifications. Wyden began investigating possible surveillance of push notification records after receiving a tip that foreign governments had requested such records from Google and Apple. According to the companies, the information they provided Wyden about this practice is restricted from public release by the U.S. government. “Apple and Google should be permitted to be transparent about the legal demands they receive, particularly from foreign governments, just as the companies regularly notify users about other types of government demands for data,” Wyden wrote, in a letter to Attorney General Merrick Garland. “These companies should be permitted to generally reveal whether they have been compelled to facilitate this surveillance practice, to publish aggregate statistics about the number of demands they receive, and unless temporarily gagged by a court, to notify specific customers about demands for their data.” Push notifications are alerts sent by phone apps to users' smartphones. These alerts pass through a digital post office run by the phone operating system provider - overwhelmingly Apple or Google. Because of that structure, the two companies have visibility into how their customers use apps and could be compelled to provide this information to U.S. or foreign governments. Read the full letter to the Justice Department here. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T18:56:20Z |
| https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-statement-on-supplemental-funding-vote | Wyden Statement on Supplemental Funding Vote | 2023-12-06 | 2023 | 2023-12 | Democrat | Senate | OR | Ron Wyden | W000779 | www.wyden.senate.gov | wyden | https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases | scraper | Funding Package for Israel, Ukraine, and Border Security Fails on Procedural Vote Due to Republican Opposition Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Ron Wyden, D-Ore., lambasted Senate Republicans after they voted down a supplemental funding bill that included aid to Israel and funding for border security this afternoon. “Republicans chose to play politics with aid to Israel at the very moment it faces an existential threat,” Wyden said. “Craven is not a strong enough word to describe their actions.” ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T18:56:20Z |
| https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-sullivan-applaud-senate-passage-of-resolution-celebrating-usphs-commissioned-corps-officers | Wyden, Sullivan Applaud Senate Passage of Resolution Celebrating USPHS Commissioned Corps Officers | 2023-12-06 | 2023 | 2023-12 | Democrat | Senate | OR | Ron Wyden | W000779 | www.wyden.senate.gov | wyden | https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases | scraper | Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Ron Wyden, D-Ore., and Dan Sullivan, R-Alaska, today applauded the passage of their resolution commending the officers of the Commissioned Corps of the United States Public Health Service (USPHS) for 225 years of work protecting, promoting, and advancing the health and safety of the United States. "For 225 years, officers of the USPHS Commissioned Corps have honorably served and safeguarded our nation's public health— particularly during times of public health emergencies," Wyden said. "Through their commendable efforts in disease prevention, biomedical research, healthcare and various other initiatives, USPHS officers have played a pivotal role in maintaining the health of our country. I’m especially grateful for their dedication to serving underserved and vulnerable populations. I’m glad the Senate has passed our resolution recognizing the invaluable contributions of USPHS officers and I’ll continue fighting to ensure they have the resources they need to continue their work for generations to come." “The Public Health Service Commissioned Corps play a critical role in providing health services to Alaska’s most rural communities,” Sullivan said. “Alaska’s vast, rugged geography and remote communities can make it difficult to access health care, and the Commission Corps have stepped up to the plate. Many of the Commissioned Corps in Alaska serve as our dentists, our nurses, and researchers in our cities and our rural communities. We applaud their commitment to ensuring underserved communities can access health services.” The USPHS Commissioned Corps is one of the nation’s uniformed services — a branch committed to the service of health. For 225 years, USPHS Commissioned Corps Officers have advanced our nation’s public health, serving in agencies across the government, as physicians, nurses, dentists, veterinarians, scientists, engineers and other professionals. USPHS is the only uniformed service in the world solely dedicated to public health. Jacqueline Rychnovsky, Executive … | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T18:56:20Z |
| https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/merkley-wyden-hoyle-announce-over-5-million-for-coastal-fish-habitat-restoration | Merkley, Wyden, Hoyle Announce Over $5 Million for Coastal Fish Habitat Restoration | 2023-12-05 | 2023 | 2023-12 | Democrat | Senate | OR | Ron Wyden | W000779 | www.wyden.senate.gov | wyden | https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – Oregon’s U.S. Senators Jeff Merkley and Ron Wyden, along with U.S. Representative Val Hoyle (OR-04), announced a total of nearly $5.5 million in federal investments is heading to Oregon organizations for coastal climate resilience projects and restoring fish habitats. The funding comes from the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation’s National Coastal Resilience Fund, which supports the design and implementation of projects around the country to enhance the resilience of coastal communities and improve habitat for fish and wildlife. “Our waterways and fish are the lifeblood of the Northwest, particularly coastal communities,” said Merkley. “This critical federal support will prepare our region to better withstand more frequent extreme weather events caused by climate chaos. These projects will help strengthen natural infrastructure while also enhancing habitat for fish populations, including our beloved coho salmon and other native fish species.” “Protecting Oregon’s coastal wetlands, floodplains and estuaries not only helps fight the devastating effects of climate change, but also helps increase resiliency of coastal communities against extreme weather,” Wyden said. “This investment is a big win for Oregon’s coastal communities, and I will continue to support successful programs proven to help protect and restore our bountiful coastal habitat.” “I’m glad to see federal funding supporting the Wild Salmon Center and the McKenzie River Trust’s work to restore and protect estuaries and wetlands on the Oregon Coast,” said Rep. Hoyle. “These projects on the Alsea, Coos, Siletz, and Siuslaw rivers in Oregon’s Fourth Congressional District will reduce flood risk for coastal communities and increase habitat for salmon and other native fish species. This is a prime example of how we can effectively support coastal resilience and preserve Oregon’s natural beauty as we combat the challenges of climate change.” “We are honored and thrilled to have received this grant award from the National Fish and Wil… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T18:56:20Z |
| https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases/bipartisan-group-house-members-introduces-bill-protect-older-workers-age | Bipartisan Group of House Members Introduces Bill to Protect Older Workers from Age Discrimination | 2023-12-04 | 2023 | 2023-12 | Democrat | House | OR | Suzanne Bonamici | B001278 | bonamici.house.gov | bonamici | https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON – Today, Education and the Workforce Committee Ranking Member Robert C. “Bobby” Scott (VA-03), Representative Glenn Grothman (WI-06), Early Childhood, Elementary, and Secondary Education Subcommittee Ranking Member Suzanne Bonamici (OR-01), Representative Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-01), Workforce Protections Subcommittee Ranking Member Alma Adams (NC-12), and Representative Jeff Van Drew (NJ-02) introduced the Protecting Older Workers Against Discrimination Act(POWADA), a bipartisan proposal to strengthen anti-discrimination protections for older workers. In 2009, the Supreme Court’s decision in Gross v. FBL Financial Services, Inc. weakened protections against age discrimination under the Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA). Under Gross, plaintiffs seeking to prove age discrimination in employment are required to demonstrate that age was the decisive motivating factor for the employer’s adverse action. POWADA returns the legal standard for age discrimination claims to the pre-2009 evidentiary threshold, aligning the burden of proof with the same standards for proving discrimination based on based on race and national origin. “Discrimination should never be tolerated in the workplace. Yet too often, older workers encounter discrimination on the job or when seeking employment. And when they do, they face barriers to proving their case because workers who experience age discrimination have to meet a higher burden of proof than people claiming discrimination based on race, national origin, or religion. That’s wrong, and it’s time for a remedy. I’m co-leading the bipartisan Protecting Older Workers Against Discrimination Act to restore protections for older workers and give them the ability to hold employers accountable for age discrimination,”said Ranking Member Bonamici (OR-01). “Everyone—regardless of their age—should be able to go to work every day knowing that they are protected from discrimination. Unfortunately, age discrimination in the workplace is depriving older workers of opportunities a… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T01:14:16Z |
| https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/merkley-wyden-announce-over-900000-coming-to-the-confederated-tribes-of-the-umatilla-indian-reservation-for-recycling-programs | Merkley, Wyden Announce Over $900,000 Coming to the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation for Recycling Programs | 2023-12-04 | 2023 | 2023-12 | Democrat | Senate | OR | Ron Wyden | W000779 | www.wyden.senate.gov | wyden | https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases | scraper | Washington, D.C. – Oregon’s U.S. Senators Jeff Merkley and Ron Wyden announced today that the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is awarding the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation (CTUIR) $915,895 for projects to update and improve the Tribes’ recycling plan, and to focus on practical recycling options that center culturally grounded approaches. “This critical funding for CTUIR will help ensure the Tribe has the resources it needs to implement its new and improved recycling plan,” said Merkley. “This is an environmental win for the CTUIR community that comes at a critical time for our planet.” “This federal investment in the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation will help the Tribes to move forward with a modern and broader approach to recycling,” Wyden said. “I know from my town hall there earlier this year how hard Tribal members are working to build an even stronger community, and I’m glad the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law is providing this grant to help achieve that goal.” In his role as the Senate Chair of the Environment and Public Works subcommittee overseeing environmental justice and chemical safety, Merkley has been holding a series of hearings investigating plastic production and pollution, one of which has examined reuse and refill systems. The grant is funded by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and will be used to replace and upgrade recycling equipment, and expand markets for recycled commodities through Tribal community education and recycled materials management. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T18:56:20Z |
| https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-merkley-central-oregon-organization-earns-300000-federal-grant-to-fight-human-trafficking | Wyden, Merkley: Central Oregon Organization Earns $300,000 Federal Grant to Fight Human Trafficking | 2023-12-04 | 2023 | 2023-12 | Democrat | Senate | OR | Ron Wyden | W000779 | www.wyden.senate.gov | wyden | https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases | scraper | Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley today announced that J Bar J Youth Services in Bend has secured a $300,000 federal grant to battle human trafficking. “The crime of human trafficking devastates lives and demands a serious and substantive effort to end it in Oregon and nationwide,” Wyden said. ”I’m gratified that J Bar J Youth Services has earned these federal resources to fight this scourge in Central Oregon with its local expertise and hard-working staff.” “We must do everything in our power to protect people from the horrors of human trafficking,” Merkley said. “This essential funding to J Bar J Youth Services will help ensure this critically important organization can continue to support youth in Central Oregon and protect Oregonians from dangerous situations.” The $300,000 for J Bar J Youth Services from the federal Administration for Children and Families will fund anti-trafficking efforts for domestic victims. “The at:project is grateful to have received this funding opportunity,” said Breanne Barrett, Program Director for the at:project -- a program of J Bar J Youth Services. “This grant will allow us to extend and enhance crucial services to victims and survivors of human trafficking in Central Oregon. From crisis intervention services to long-term case management, the at:project is committed to supporting survivors through their healing journey. This funding is not just a financial boost; it’s a lifeline for those who need it most. It fuels our passion, determination and commitment to creating a community free of exploitation.” | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T18:56:20Z |
| https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-merkley-hoyle-announce-833000-to-osu-to-support-oregon-food-safety-outreach | Wyden, Merkley, Hoyle Announce $833,000 to OSU to Support Oregon Food Safety Outreach | 2023-12-04 | 2023 | 2023-12 | Democrat | Senate | OR | Ron Wyden | W000779 | www.wyden.senate.gov | wyden | https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases | scraper | Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley with U.S. Representative Val Hoyle today announced a federal investment of $833,127 for Oregon State University to develop food safety outreach programs. “Underserved communities in Oregon and across the nation deserve to know their food is both nutritious and safe to eat,” Wyden said. “This federal investment in Oregon State University and its world-class researchers will help ensure those goals by promoting outreach and education while preserving the traditional practices of Tribal and coastal communities.” “Oregon-grown products are healthy, fresh, and support our local communities and state economy,” said Merkley. “This crucial funding will ensure small to mid-sized farmers are able to access food safety training and education programs from community-based organizations – including safe, traditional Tribal practices – in order to provide Oregonians with healthy and safe food grown in the region.” “I am delighted that Oregon State University (OSU) received two federal grants from the USDA to support food safety education and outreach,” said Rep. Hoyle. “These grants will specifically support Pacific Island communities and Oregon-based Tribal communities in their collaborative partnerships with OSU on culturally appropriate food safety practices and technical assistance. This grant is a testament to OSU’s expertise and commitment to supporting communities through their research and outreach.” The funding to OSU, from the USDA National Institute for Food and Agriculture, includes investment for culturally responsive food safety education in Oregon’s tribal communities and for sharing safe methods of processing and preservation for traditional foods. Also included is investment to engage underserved Pacific communities in food safety education and training to address common food safety issues. “Preserving seasonal foods has been a central part of the food culture of Indigenous people in Oregon since time immemorial, but new technologies and foods ha… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T18:56:20Z |
| https://salinas.house.gov/media/press-releases/salinas-harshbarger-introduce-bipartisan-bill-expand-telehealth-services-rural | Salinas, Harshbarger Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Expand Telehealth Services for Rural Americans | 2023-11-30 | 2023 | 2023-11 | Democrat | House | OR | Andrea Salinas | S001226 | salinas.house.gov | salinas | https://salinas.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | Washington, DC – Today, U.S. Representatives Andrea Salinas (OR-06) and Diana Harshbarger (TN-01) introduced the bipartisan Home-Based Telemental Health Care Act, legislation that would expand access to remote mental health and substance use services in rural America, especially for individuals working in the farming, fishing, and forestry industries. U.S. Senators Mike Rounds (R-SD) and Tina Smith (D-MN) are leading a companion bill in the Senate. “Accessing mental health care shouldn’t require an in-person visit, especially for Americans in rural areas who have to travel long distances to see a provider,” said Rep. Salinas. “Our bipartisan bill would expand telemental health services in rural Oregon, with an emphasis on those working in the farming, fishing, and forestry industries. This legislation would save folks time and resources and help more Oregonians get the care they need, when they need it.” “As a community pharmacist for over three decades in one of the country’s most rural Congressional Districts, I understand the challenges patients face in underserved areas,” said Rep. Harshbarger. “By expanding access to telemental health services, this common-sense legislation will help improve patient outcomes.” The Home-Based Telemental Health Care Act would direct the Secretary of Health and Human Services, in coordination with the Rural Health Liaison of the Department of Agriculture, to award grants to entities to establish mental health and substance use services for rural Americans in their homes, particularly those working in farming, fishing, and forestry occupations. It would also authorize up to $10 million for each fiscal year through 2027 using current funds. The legislation is endorsed by the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), NAMI Oregon, National Rural Health Association, Oregon Rural Health Association, American Psychological Association, American Psychiatric Association, Oregon Council for Behavioral Health, Oregon Cattlemen’s Association, Oregon Psychiatric Physicians Association… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T01:01:09Z |
| https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-nsa-must-answer-whether-it-is-buying-americans-location-data-and-web-browsing-records-before-new-director-is-confirmed | Wyden: NSA Must Answer Whether it is Buying Americans’ Location Data and Web Browsing Records Before New Director Is Confirmed | 2023-11-30 | 2023 | 2023-11 | Democrat | Senate | OR | Ron Wyden | W000779 | www.wyden.senate.gov | wyden | https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases | scraper | Wyden Places Hold on Nomination of Lt. Gen. Timothy Haugh Until NSA Answers Basic Questions About Purchases of Americans’ Data Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Ron Wyden, D-Ore., announced he will place a hold on the nomination of Lt. Gen. Timothy Haugh to serve as director of the National Security Agency (NSA) until the NSA discloses whether it is buying Americans’ location data and web browsing records. In a statement placed in the Congressional record this afternoon, Wyden said the Defense Department has refused to make public important information about purchases of Americans’ personal data — information that the government has already acknowledged is not classified. “The American people have a right to know whether the NSA is conducting warrantless domestic surveillance of Americans in a manner that circumvents the Fourth Amendment to the Constitution,” he said, in a statement placed in the Congressional Record. “Particularly as Congress is currently debating extending Section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act, Congress must be able to have an informed public debate about the scope of the NSA’s warrantless surveillance of Americans.” Wyden is the longest-serving member of the Senate Intelligence Committee and a staunch advocate for protecting the security of Americans without sacrificing their Constitutional rights. He first asked for information about DOD data purchases to be released in 2021, but the department refused to release it, even though the answer is not classified. Wyden did not raise objections to Lt. Gen. Haugh’s qualifications in his hold statement. A hold is a Senate procedure that prevents shortcuts to speed up consideration of a nominee. It can be overcome by a procedural vote. The full statement for the Congressional Record is below: Mr. WYDEN. Madam President, I must regretfully object to the promotion of Lt. Gen. Timothy Haugh to the grade of general, and consequently, to be the Director of the National Security Agency (NSA) and Commander of U.S. Cyber Command. In J… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T18:49:58Z |
| https://salinas.house.gov/media/press-releases/salinas-quantum-science-bill-passes-committee-moves-closer-becoming-law | Salinas’ Quantum Science Bill Passes Committee, Moves Closer to Becoming Law | 2023-11-29 | 2023 | 2023-11 | Democrat | House | OR | Andrea Salinas | S001226 | salinas.house.gov | salinas | https://salinas.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | Washington, DC – Today, a bipartisan bill led by U.S. Representatives Andrea Salinas (OR-06) and Jim Baird (IN-04) passed unanimously out of the House Science, Space, and Technology Committee. The Quantum Instrumentation for Science and Engineering Act, introduced last month by Reps. Salinas and Baird, would amend the National Quantum Initiative Reauthorization Act and drastically accelerate quantum research and development in the United States. The legislation now awaits a vote by the full House of Representatives. “I am deeply proud that my bipartisan bill, the Quantum Instrumentation for Science and Engineering Act, unanimously passed out of committee today.” said Rep. Salinas. “Quantum science has the potential to change lives for the better and vastly improve our communications capabilities. Investing in more research and building a stronger quantum workforce will allow us to fully harness the benefits of these technologies. I am grateful to Congressman Baird and my colleagues on the Committee for their support, and I will continue working to get this legislation to the finish line.” “Leading the world in quantum research will have huge implications for America’s economy and national security,” said Rep. Baird. “This legislation will elevate research facilities nationwide and facilitate cooperation that will supercharge the industry. I’m incredibly excited to have such broad support for this bill in Committee, and I’m confident we will enjoy similar consensus on the House floor.” The Quantum Instrumentation for Science and Engineering Act would direct the National Science Foundation (NSF) to award grants to upgrade research facilities and improve access to research resources, such as equipment and instrumentation, to support research and development in quantum information science, technology, and engineering. This bill would also improve coordination to enable better access to these resources among researchers, students, and companies. Finally, it would help the scientific community access the equipment, … | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T01:01:09Z |
| https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/merkley-wyden-500000-to-harney-country-for-brownfield-cleanup | Merkley, Wyden: $500,000 to Harney County for Brownfield Cleanup | 2023-11-29 | 2023 | 2023-11 | Democrat | Senate | OR | Ron Wyden | W000779 | www.wyden.senate.gov | wyden | https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases | scraper | Washington, D.C. – Oregon’s U.S. Senators Jeff Merkley and Ron Wyden announced Harney County has received $500,000 from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to clean up hazardous materials at the two-acre former Lincoln School site in Burns. “This funding is a major win for Harney County’s natural resources, community member’s health, and the local economy,” said Merkley. “Redeveloping Brownfield sites ignites growth in communities, revitalizes properties long forgotten, and most importantly, creates jobs.” “This federal investment in Burns will convert an old brownfield into bright new job opportunities and more for this rural community,” Wyden said. “I’m gratified Harney County has secured these federal funds, and will keep working to secure similar resources that help build an even stronger economy and quality of life for all of Eastern Oregon.” The EPA announced $8,240,000 to expedite the assessment and cleanup of seven brownfield sites in Oregon, of which Harney County was one. Background: EPA’s Brownfields Program began in 1995 and has provided nearly $2.37 billion in Brownfield Grants to assess and clean up contaminated properties and return blighted properties to productive reuse. EPA’s investments in addressing brownfield sites have leveraged more than $36 billion in cleanup and redevelopment. Over the years, the relatively small investment of federal funding has leveraged, from both public and private sources, nearly 260,000 jobs. Communities that previously received Brownfields Grants used these resources to fund assessments and cleanups of brownfields, and successfully leverage an average of 10.6 jobs per $100,000 of EPA Brownfield Grant funds spent and $19.78 for every dollar. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T18:49:58Z |
| https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-colleagues-introduce-legislation-to-address-rise-in-attacks-on-postal-workers | Wyden, Colleagues Introduce Legislation to Address Rise in Attacks on Postal Workers | 2023-11-29 | 2023 | 2023-11 | Democrat | Senate | OR | Ron Wyden | W000779 | www.wyden.senate.gov | wyden | https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases | scraper | Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Ron Wyden and Senate colleagues today introduced bipartisan legislation that would address the steep increase in armed robberies against postal workers, who are often targeted for their arrow keys that allow access to some mailboxes and their contents. “For over 200 years the United States Postal Service has been a central fixture of the American government. The recent cases of mail theft and the alarming uptick in assaults against postal workers is unacceptable,” Wyden said. “If Postmaster DeJoy refuses to act, Congress must do everything it can to improve protections for these essential workers.” The Postal Inspection Service reports that armed robberies of letter carriers increased sharply between 2018 and 2021, rising fourfold from 36 incidents to 154 incidents. The arrow keys can command thousands of dollars on the clandestine market because they allow access to cluster mailboxes and their contents, which include Social Security checks, prescriptions, and other valuable items. In 2020, under the leadership of Postmaster General Louis DeJoy, the U.S. Postal Service issued a directive that restricted Postal Police Officers to physical USPS properties. This directive has prevented Postal Police Officers from protecting the postal service and the integrity of the postal system outside physical postal properties. Prior to the 2006 Postal Accountability and Enhancement Act, which granted greater authority to USPS to control Postal Law enforcement, Congress regularly granted Postal Police Officers authority to carry out their duties both on and off USPS property through annual appropriations language. The Postal Police Reform Act of 2023 would counteract Postmaster General DeJoy’s 2020 directive and again allow Postal Police Officers to operate outside of Postal Service real property. The Act would clarify provisions in federal law to ensure that Postal Police Officers may be assigned to duty outside of Postal Service real property, for the purpose of protecting the mail, Postal … | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T18:49:58Z |
| https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-merkley-and-colleagues-issue-joint-statement-on-proposed-threats-to-asylum-system-in-supplemental-aid-package-negotiations | Wyden, Merkley and Colleagues issue Joint Statement on Proposed Threats to Asylum System in Supplemental Aid Package Negotiations | 2023-11-29 | 2023 | 2023-11 | Democrat | Senate | OR | Ron Wyden | W000779 | www.wyden.senate.gov | wyden | https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases | scraper | Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley along with Senate colleagues today issued the following joint statement in response to reports of potentially harmful changes to the U.S. asylum system being considered in the ongoing bipartisan negotiations around the supplemental aid package: “As negotiations surrounding the supplemental aid package progress, we are concerned about reports of harmful changes to our asylum system that will potentially deny lifesaving humanitarian protection for vulnerable people, including children, and fail to deliver any meaningful improvement to the situation at the border. Using a one-time spending package to enact these unrelated permanent policy changes sets a dangerous precedent and risks assistance to our international partners. Any proposal considering permanent changes to our asylum and immigration system needs to include a clear path to legalization for long-standing undocumented immigrants. “We remain committed to working in good faith to modernize our outdated immigration system on a bipartisan basis and through a deliberative process. We cannot truly secure our border and help American communities without increasing lawful pathways for migration and legalizing long-time undocumented immigrants who put food on our tables, care for our elderly, and form the fabric of our communities.” The joint statement was led by Senator Alex Padilla, D-Calif.. Along with Wyden and Merkley, the letter was also signed by U.S. Senators Dick Durbin, D-Ill., Cory Booker, D-N.J., Mazie Hirono, D-Hawaii, Ben Ray Luján, D-N.M., Edward J. Markey, D-Mass., Bob Menendez, D-N.J., Elizabeth Warren, D-Mass., and Sheldon Whitehouse, D-R.I. | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T18:49:58Z |
| https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases/sullivan-baldwin-bonamici-joyce-lead-legislation-improve-harmful-algal-bloom | Sullivan, Baldwin, Bonamici & Joyce Lead Legislation to Improve Harmful Algal Bloom Response | 2023-11-28 | 2023 | 2023-11 | Democrat | House | OR | Suzanne Bonamici | B001278 | bonamici.house.gov | bonamici | https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON—U.S. Senators Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska) and Tammy Baldwin (D-Wisc.), and Representatives Suzanne Bonamici (D-Ore.) and Dave Joyce (R-Ohio), have introduced the Harmful Algal Bloom and Hypoxia Research and Control Amendments Act (HABHRCA) of 2023, legislation to reauthorize the HABHRCA of 1998 and to improve monitoring, forecasting, prevention, and mitigation of harmful algal blooms (HABs) and hypoxia by requiring better coordination among task force agencies, and state and local entities, including Indian tribes. This legislation comes in response to the increasing severity of harmful algal blooms in Alaska, with the 2022 algal bloom in the Bering Strait region being one of the largest and most toxic blooms ever observed nationwide. HABs directly threaten food security and subsistence in Alaska. Additionally, HABs can reduce oxygen levels in the water in events called hypoxia, killing fish and other marine life and harming coastal ecosystems and economies. HABs occur in all 50 states, in rivers, lakes, and coastal waters. “Harmful algal blooms and hypoxia events are occurring with increasing frequency, threatening the health of our marine and freshwater ecosystems and communities,” said Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici. “I’m introducing the bipartisan Harmful Algal Bloom and Hypoxia Research and Control Amendments Act to help people in NW Oregon and across the country better protect against and respond quickly to these disasters.” “As America’s leading seafood producer and home to more coastline than the contiguous Lower 48 states combined, Alaska is particularly vulnerable to harmful algal blooms,” Senator Sullivan said. “Unchecked HABs can threaten our marine life and coastal ecosystems, the livelihoods of our commercial fisheries and coastal communities, and the health and well-being of Alaskans. It is critical that we develop and coordinate effective responses to harmful algal blooms and efficiently monitor the health of our oceans for the sake of coastal communities, especially subsistence communit… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T01:01:09Z |
| https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/merkley-wyden-announce-over-4-million-for-water-conservation-projects-coming-to-oregon | Merkley, Wyden Announce Over $4 Million for Water Conservation Projects Coming to Oregon | 2023-11-28 | 2023 | 2023-11 | Democrat | Senate | OR | Ron Wyden | W000779 | www.wyden.senate.gov | wyden | https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases | scraper | Interior Department investments heading to Crooked River Watershed and Deschutes Land Trust Washington, D.C. – Oregon’s U.S. Senators Jeff Merkley and Ron Wyden today announced a total of $4.1 million in federal investments from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law are heading to the Crooked River Watershed Council and the Deschutes Land Trust. These funds will boost collaborative projects focusing on water conservation, management, and restoration efforts. “Our waterways and fish are the lifeblood of the Northwest,” said Merkley. “I’ll continue to do all I can to ensure Oregon has the federal resources needed to carry out creative, forward-thinking projects that conserve water, restore healthy native fish populations, and stretch our water resources further.” “These significant federal resources will help two standout Central Oregon organizations accomplish their crucial goals of conserving water and protecting habitat,” Wyden said. “That adds up to good news for Oregonians in the region who deserve both a dependable water supply and protection of the gifts from nature that make our state such a special place.” The federal resources for these two projects are part of a $51 million overall investment from President Biden’s Investing in America agenda for 30 new Environmental Water Resource Projects in 11 Western states. Oregon project descriptions are below: $1,400,000 — Crooked River Watershed Council, Lower Crooked River Riparian, Floodplain, and Habitat Restoration Project Hydrology in the Crooked River watershed is impacted by upstream dams, including the Bureau of Reclamation’s Bowman Dam, leading to loss of floodplain continuity, degraded channel structures, and water quality impairments, impacting native Spring Chinook Salmon and Columbia River Steelhead populations that inhabit the watershed. The Crooked River Watershed Council, working in partnership with the Ochoco Irrigation District, will restore habitat and enhance ecological features on two project sites just downstream from the city of Prinevil… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T18:49:58Z |
| https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases/wyden-merkley-bonamici-applaud-43-million-portland-business-contract-support | Wyden, Merkley, Bonamici Applaud $43 Million Portland Business Contract to Support U.S. Antarctic Program | 2023-11-27 | 2023 | 2023-11 | Democrat | House | OR | Suzanne Bonamici | B001278 | bonamici.house.gov | bonamici | https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley with U.S. Representative Suzanne Bonamici today welcomed the announcement that a Portland manufacturer secured a $43.5 million contract from the U.S. Army to develop equipment for research in the Antarctic. The Portland manufacturer, Gunderson Marine, LLC, will design and build a steel pier barge to support operations at McMurdo Station for the National Science Foundation’s U.S. Antarctic Program. “The Antarctic is one of the least explored regions in the world, and this contract between Gunderson Marine and the National Science Foundation matches a mainstay Portland business with cutting-edge scientific research,” Wyden said. “This good news means jobs locally and groundbreaking research globally.” “From Northwest Portland to the South Pole, this partnership betweenGundersonMarineand the National Science Foundation will boost the local economy and lead to a greater understanding of one of the earth’s final frontiers,” Merkley said. “It’s exciting to see a longtime Oregon business take the helm on this opportunity to further critical research in Antarctica and beyond.” “Oregon manufacturing companies are at the forefront of innovation. This new contract between Gunderson Marine and the National Science Foundation will support research in the Antarctic and advance the development of vessels equipped to handle the extreme conditions of the region," Bonamici said. “I had the opportunity to visit Antarctica with the National Science Foundation a number of years ago and know how important this research is to understanding our environment and world.” “We are thrilled to have the opportunity to work on this critically important project with great organizations like the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and the National Science Foundation. This is only the beginning of Gunderson Marine diversifying into other markets since the rail car operation is no longer operating at the facility,” said Dee Burch, Gunderson Marine President. | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T01:01:09Z |
| https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-merkley-bonamici-applaud-43-million-portland-business-contract-to-support-us-antarctic-program | Wyden, Merkley, Bonamici Applaud $43 Million Portland Business Contract to Support U.S. Antarctic Program | 2023-11-27 | 2023 | 2023-11 | Democrat | Senate | OR | Ron Wyden | W000779 | www.wyden.senate.gov | wyden | https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases | scraper | Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley with U.S. Representative Suzanne Bonamici today welcomed the announcement that a Portland manufacturer secured a $43.5 million contract from the U.S. Army to develop equipment for research in the Antarctic. The Portland manufacturer, Gunderson Marine, LLC, will design and build a steel pier barge to support operations at McMurdo Station for the National Science Foundation’s U.S. Antarctic Program. “The Antarctic is one of the least explored regions in the world, and this contract between Gunderson Marine and the National Science Foundation matches a mainstay Portland business with cutting-edge scientific research,” Wyden said. “This good news means jobs locally and groundbreaking research globally.” “From Northwest Portland to the South Pole, this partnership betweenGundersonMarineand the National Science Foundation will boost the local economy and lead to a greater understanding of one of the earth’s final frontiers,” Merkley said. “It’s exciting to see a longtime Oregon business take the helm on this opportunity to further critical research in Antarctica and beyond.” “Oregon manufacturing companies are at the forefront of innovation. This new contract between Gunderson Marine and the National Science Foundation will support research in the Antarctic and advance the development of vessels equipped to handle the extreme conditions of the region," Bonamici said. “I had the opportunity to visit Antarctica with the National Science Foundation a number of years ago and know how important this research is to understanding our environment and world.” | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T18:49:58Z |
| https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-merkley-usda-invests-228-million-to-expand-health-care-and-broadband-assistance-in-rural-oregon | Wyden, Merkley: USDA Invests $2.28 Million to Expand Health Care and Broadband Assistance in Rural Oregon | 2023-11-22 | 2023 | 2023-11 | Democrat | Senate | OR | Ron Wyden | W000779 | www.wyden.senate.gov | wyden | https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases | scraper | Communities to benefit include Hood River, Wasco, Marion, Yamhill and Clatsop counties Washington D.C.—U.S. Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley today announced a federal investment of $2.28 million in rural telemedicine help for Clatsop, Hood River, Marion, Wasco, and Yamhill counties. The funding, from USDA Rural Development, includes a first-in-the-nation Broadband Technical Assistance Program investment of $500,000 for Rural Prosperity Partners that will help address fundamental barriers faced by rural communities, giving Oregonians everywhere a fair shot at receiving state and federal broadband funding. “The message from my town halls and other meetings throughout Oregon is clear – Rural communities need better access to healthcare and telehealth is a must to achieve that goal in rural parts of our state,” Wyden said. “I’m gratified these rural communities have earned these federal resources, and will keep battling to secure similar investments benefiting every nook and cranny of Oregon.” “Oregon’s rural communities must continue to be a focus as we work to support access to all aspects of health care,” said Merkley. “These crucial investments across the state will ensure that folks living in more remote communities will have better access to behavioral health services, primary care, and dental care. I will keep working to ensure that these services reach Oregonians in every corner of the state.” The USDA Rural Development’s 2023 distance learning and telemedicine grants include the following One Community Health ($439,629): This investment will equip Hood River and Wasco Counties (and Klickitat County in Washington) with audio-visual and telehealth equipment that enable medical professionals at One Community Health in these counties to deliver diverse medical, behavioral health and dental telehealth treatment. Santiam Memorial Hospital ($996,935): This will help equip one hub site in Multnomah County and one end-user site in rural Marion County with a virtual ICU program to increase the critical care … | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T18:49:58Z |
| https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-merkley-colleagues-introduce-legislation-to-protect-domestic-abuse-survivors-from-gun-violence | Wyden, Merkley, Colleagues Introduce Legislation to Protect Domestic Abuse Survivors from Gun Violence | 2023-11-20 | 2023 | 2023-11 | Democrat | Senate | OR | Ron Wyden | W000779 | www.wyden.senate.gov | wyden | https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases | scraper | Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Ron Wyden, Jeff Merkley and Senate colleagues today announced they introduced legislation that would prevent domestic violence abusers from buying firearms. "The profound grief suffered by Nicolette's family is a tragedy no family should ever have to endure,” Wyden said. “Firearms must remain inaccessible to domestic violence abusers— lives should not be lost due to inexcusable loopholes these criminals take advantage of. Congress must help break the cycle of gun violence and act to avert future tragedies by passing the Nicolette Elias Domestic Violence Survivor Protection Act.” “Domestic abuse survivors have incredible strength and deserve peace of mind to know they will be protected when they escape abusive situations,” said Senator Merkley. “Ensuring abusers and violent offenders are barred from accessing firearms is the least we can do to protect the safety of both domestic abuse survivors and our broader communities.” Federal law protects domestic violence survivors from gun violence by preventing their abusers from buying or having a firearm – but only once the court has issued a final restraining order. This leaves survivors unprotected exactly when they are in the most danger: when a domestic abuser first learns his or her victim has left and only an emergency restraining order is in place. Further, the definition of “intimate partner” used to prohibit respondents to restraining orders from buying or having a firearm includes spouses, former spouses, people with a child in common, and cohabitants. However, there are many survivors of dating violence who were never married, do not live with their abuser, and have no children. The Lori Jackson – Nicolette Elias Domestic Violence Survivor Protection Act would restrict those under emergency restraining orders from buying or having a firearm, and would extend protections to domestic violence survivors who have been abused by their dating partners. The bill is named for two women who were both shot and killed by their abusi… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T18:49:58Z |
| https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-urges-justice-department-to-release-information-about-hemisphere-phone-surveillance-program-that-would-outrage-americans-and-congress | Wyden Urges Justice Department to Release Information About ‘Hemisphere’ Phone Surveillance Program that would Outrage Americans and Congress | 2023-11-20 | 2023 | 2023-11 | Democrat | Senate | OR | Ron Wyden | W000779 | www.wyden.senate.gov | wyden | https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases | scraper | Unclassified Documents Contain Troubling Information About Dragnet Phone Surveillance Program Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Ron Wyden, D-Ore., called on Attorney General Merrick Garland to make public documents related to the Hemisphere phone surveillance program, which allows federal, state, local and Tribal law enforcement agencies to request searches of trillions of U.S. phone records, usually without warrants. Although the documents are not classified, the Justice Department has marked them as “Law Enforcement Sensitive,” which is meant to prevent them from being publicly released. In a letter to Garland sent today, Wyden urged the department to remove those restrictions. “I have serious concerns about the legality of this surveillance program, and the materials provided by the DOJ contain troubling information that would justifiably outrage many Americans and other members of Congress,” Wyden wrote. “While I have long defended the government’s need to protect classified sources and methods, this surveillance program is not classified and its existence has already been acknowledged by the DOJ in federal court. The public interest in an informed debate about government surveillance far outweighs the need to keep this information secret.” Under the Hemisphere program, the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP) indirectly pays AT&T to allow any federal, state, local or Tribal law enforcement agency to search AT&T customers’ phone records as far back as 1987, according to public records about the program. Hemisphere has not been subjected to a federal Privacy Impact Assessment because of its unique funding structure. Rather than directly funding the surveillance program, the ONDCP provides a grant to the Houston High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area, a partnership between federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, which in turn pays AT&T to operate this surveillance program. Law enforcement agencies nationwide are able to request Hemisphere searches, including for investigations … | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T18:49:58Z |
| https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases/bonamici-takano-bowman-hayes-call-divisive-parental-rights-language-be-removed | Bonamici, Takano, Bowman, Hayes Call for Divisive “Parental Rights” Language to Be Removed from NDAA | 2023-11-17 | 2023 | 2023-11 | Democrat | House | OR | Suzanne Bonamici | B001278 | bonamici.house.gov | bonamici | https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON, DC [11/17/23] – Today Representatives Suzanne Bonamici (D-OR), Mark Takano (D-CA), Jamaal Bowman (D-NY), and Jahana Hayes (D-CT) led 23 colleagues in calling for language imposing so-called “parental rights” requirements on public schools run by the Department of Defense to be removed from the proposed National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2024 (FY24). “This section would impose burdensome, unnecessary, and redundant requirements on public schools funded and managed by the Department of Defense Education Activity (DoDEA), an organization within the Department of Defense that provides military connected students and families with access to a high-quality public education,” the Representatives wrote. The Representatives outlined the following reasons for their opposition to Section 651 in the House-passed NDAA, titled, “Rights of parents of children attending schools operated by the Department of Defense Education Activity”: DoDEA schools have a strong track record of high performance that should be recognized and supported. Effective family-school partnerships are best achieved by a collaborative, complementary relationship between educators, families, and community leaders to advance programs, practices, and policies that empower every parent to make their child’s potential a reality. The final Fiscal Year 2023 (FY23) NDAA excluded similar language as the result of a thoughtful bipartisan compromise. In addition to Bonamici, Takano, Bowman, and Hayes the letter was signed by Representatives Norcross, Carbajal, Norton, Grijalva, Wilson (FL), Sablan, Schakowsky, Porter, Williams, Trone, Chu, Adams, and Crockett. The full text of the letter can be read here and below. Earlier this year Bonamici led more than 60 colleagues in introducing the Bill of Rights for Students and Parents, a resolution to advance an inclusive, aspirational, and affirmative vision for public education. Bonamici’s resolution serves as a direct contrast to recent proposals that are unproductive, burdensom… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T01:01:09Z |
| https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-merkley-south-oregon-coast-earns-300000-federal-investment-for-tech-entrepreneurs | Wyden, Merkley: South Oregon Coast Earns $300,000 Federal Investment for Tech Entrepreneurs | 2023-11-17 | 2023 | 2023-11 | Democrat | Senate | OR | Ron Wyden | W000779 | www.wyden.senate.gov | wyden | https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases | scraper | Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley today announced that the South Coast Development Council, Inc. in Coos Bay has secured a $300,000 federal investment to nurture local tech-based start-ups. “This federal investment in the South Coast will generate jobs, innovation and economic activity that will ripple out for years to come,” Wyden said. “I’m gratified that key business, education and civic leaders in this rural Oregon community have teamed up to earn these resources. And I’ll keep battling for communities throughout Oregon to receive similar funds that build strong local economies.” “Small businesses are the backbone of Oregon’s economy, and even more so for our rural and coastal communities,” said Merkley. “These important investments heading to the South Coast Development Council will support jobs, drive innovation, and help strengthen the local economy of the South Coast.” The $300,000 from the federal Economic Development Administration is designed to accelerate technology entrepreneurship on the South Coast by increasing access to entrepreneurial support and startup capital. The South Coast Incubator Technology Industry Ecosystem Development project is led by the South Coast Development Council, Inc. with support from Southwestern Oregon Community College and the cities of Coos Bay and North Bend. “This is a perfectly-timed opportunity for our rural communities on the south Oregon coast. Our center now can develop a technology-based business incubator to help grow new businesses that focus on the fast-evolving Green Energy and Blue Economy sectors,” said Derek Tonn, director of Southwestern’s Small Business Development Center. “That means direct assistance to local entrepreneurs developing tech-based products and services for clean energy innovation and people who work on the ocean and rivers.” "This collaboration between South Coast Development Council, Inc., Southwestern Oregon Community College, their Small Business Development Center, and the cities of Coos Bay and North B… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T18:49:58Z |
| https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/merkley-wyden-announce-nearly-32-million-for-columbia-river-basin-projects-and-programs-in-oregon | Merkley, Wyden Announce Nearly $32 Million for Columbia River Basin Projects and Programs in Oregon | 2023-11-16 | 2023 | 2023-11 | Democrat | Senate | OR | Ron Wyden | W000779 | www.wyden.senate.gov | wyden | https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases | scraper | The federal investments come through the EPA’s Columbia River Restoration Program, which was created by Senator Merkley to restore health, vitality of critical ecosystems Washington, D.C. – Oregon’s U.S. Senators Jeff Merkley and Ron Wyden announced today the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is investing $31,768,530 million across seven Oregon projects and programs to reduce toxics in fish and water, address climate chaos, and help restore the health of the Columbia River Basin. The federal investments come from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law’s historic $79 million total funding infusion into the Columbia River Basin Restoration Program, which is proving essential to the Pacific Northwest’s Tribes, communities, and economy that rely on the critical watershed. The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law was passed two years ago this week. “Our rivers and waterways are the lifeblood of our communities. If they are dirty and polluted, our homes, schools, and businesses are dirty and polluted,” Merkley said. “The federal investments for these homegrown projects and programs will drive solutions that lead to a cleaner, healthier Columbia River Basin for our communities, wildlife, ecosystems, and economy.” “The Columbia River Basin is a rich and essential part of Oregon’s history, as well an integral part of our present and future,” said Wyden. "Clean water is a key ingredient for thriving and healthy communities in the Basin. And I will continue to fight for federal resources just like these that protect this precious natural asset for generations to come.” Toxic pollutants can accumulate in water, sediment, and fish tissues. This threatens to decimate natural ecosystems and risk the health of Tribal communities and other Oregonians who consume affected fish populations. To help tackle the issue, Senator Merkley—who serves as a member of the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee—amended the Clean Water Act in 2016 to create the Columbia River Basin Restoration Program. Since then, he has used his posi… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T18:49:58Z |
| https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-colleagues-call-for-implementation-of-critical-provisions-to-end-road-safety-crisis | Wyden, Colleagues Call for Implementation of Critical Provisions to End Road Safety Crisis | 2023-11-16 | 2023 | 2023-11 | Democrat | Senate | OR | Ron Wyden | W000779 | www.wyden.senate.gov | wyden | https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases | scraper | Washington, D.C. - U.S. Senator Ron Wyden along with Senate colleagues has sent a letter to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration requesting an update on the implementation of critical road safety provisions for Oregon and the country in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. “Last year, nearly 43,000 people died in motor vehicle crashes. While this number represents a slight decrease from 2021 — the deadliest year on the road in sixteen years — bold action is necessary to address this road safety crisis,” wrote the senators. “There is no doubt our nation is at a critical moment for traffic safety, and NHTSA’s task of implementing the much needed … safety provisions will determine whether we continue our progress and leave traffic fatalities in the rear view mirror.” “We commend NHTSA for its work to curb the disturbing increase in traffic related deaths that culminated in 2021, but now is not the time to turn on cruise control when it comes to road safety.” Specifically, the senators requested NHTSA to provide a written update on its progress in implementing ten safety provisions secured in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law: Recall Completion (Sec. 24202), which directs NHTSA to publish an annual list of recall completion rates; Motor Vehicle Seatback Safety Standards (Sec. 24204), which directs NHTSA to issue an advanced notice of proposed rulemaking to update Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard 207 regarding seatback safety standards; Automatic Shutoff (Sec. 24505), which directs NHTSA to issue a final rule to require manufacturers of vehicles with keyless ignitions to install a device that automatically shuts off the vehicle after it idles for a certain period; Crash Avoidance Technology (Sec. 24208), which directs NHTSA to issue minimum performance standards for crash avoidance technologies and to require all cars be equipped with a forward collision warning and automatic emergency braking system as well as a lane departure warning and lane keeping assist system; Reduction in Driver Distra… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T18:49:58Z |
| https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/blumenauer-wyden-introduce-groundbreaking-tribal-co-stewardship-model | Blumenauer, Wyden Introduce Groundbreaking Tribal Co-Stewardship Model | 2023-11-15 | 2023 | 2023-11 | Democrat | Senate | OR | Ron Wyden | W000779 | www.wyden.senate.gov | wyden | https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C.—Today, Congressman Earl Blumenauer and Senator Ron Wyden, along with Senator Jeff Merkley, reintroduced the Wy’east Tribal Resources Restoration Act. The legislation directs the U.S. Forest Service to partner with the Confederated Tribes of the Warm Springs to develop a co-management plan for agreed-upon Treaty Resource Emphasis Zones. The legislation would establish one of the first placed-based co-management strategies in the nation. This legislation was introduced last Congress, and it had a hearing in the U.S. Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources. “Indigenous communities have been responsible stewards of Oregon’s lands and wildlife since time immemorial. We must do more to capitalize on their leadership in our conservation efforts—not just because the federal government has a moral obligation to do so but because we will not be successful without them,” said Congressman Earl Blumenauer. “Tribal co-stewardship represents 21st?century public lands management.” “The Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs have generations-long knowledge of best ecological practices and treaty rights with the federal government that must be protected,” Senator Ron Wyden said. “This legislation would secure both goals in the Mount Hood National Forest by giving the Tribe an important voice and role in the management of its precious cultural resources.” “The Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs are the largest neighbor to the Mt. Hood National Forest and are essential in maintaining and protecting the region’s cultural and ecological resources,” said Senator Jeff Merkley. “This legislation is a critical step in fulfilling our treaty and trust responsibilities to the Warm Springs community by creating a framework for them to take an active role in co-managing the forest and utilizing their knowledge, traditions, and expertise to improve forest management.” The Wy’east Tribal Resources Restoration Act: · Directs the U.S. Forest Service to develop a co-management plan with the Confederated Tribes of the Wa… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T18:49:58Z |
| https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-merkley-announce-nearly-400000-for-bend-small-business-to-research-environmental-solutions | Wyden, Merkley Announce Nearly $400,000 for Bend Small Business to Research Environmental Solutions | 2023-11-15 | 2023 | 2023-11 | Democrat | Senate | OR | Ron Wyden | W000779 | www.wyden.senate.gov | wyden | https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases | scraper | EPA resources for LeapFrog Designs will be used on development of graywater technologies Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley today announced a nearly $400,000 federal grant to LeapFrog Designs in Bend to develop a nature-based treatment technology to reuse onsite non-potable graywater. Graywater is wastewater from sources like kitchen sinks, bathtubs, showers and washing machines that do not include human waste. “Smart and effective solutions to water shortages generated by the climate crisis will often come from small businesses just like LeapFrog Designs with its ethic of innovation and creativity,” said Wyden. “I’m gratified this Bend company has secured this federal investment, and will keep working to support these small businesses in Oregon and across the nation while also investing in the green economy of the future.” “Investing in Oregon’s small businesses that create climate-friendly innovations and solutions is a win-win for local economies and the environment. LeapFrog in Bend is employing a creative use of technology that works to address both water scarcity and water pollution,” said Merkley. “This investment will create local jobs, protect the environment, and help keep small businesses competitive.” The $399,618 grant to LeapFrog Designs from the Environmental Protection Agency’s Small Business Innovation Research program is for researching solutions to complex climate issues. “Water scarcity and water pollution are huge problems nationwide and worldwide,” said Nick Sund, LeapFrog Designs Co-Founder and Head of Product. “Water reuse solves both simultaneously.” | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T18:49:58Z |
| https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-merkley-statement-on-white-house-nomination-of-amy-m-baggio-for-us-district-court-in-oregon | Wyden, Merkley Statement on White House Nomination of Amy M. Baggio for U.S. District Court in Oregon | 2023-11-15 | 2023 | 2023-11 | Democrat | Senate | OR | Ron Wyden | W000779 | www.wyden.senate.gov | wyden | https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases | scraper | Washington, D.C. –U.S. Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley today issued the following statement on the White House nomination of Multnomah County Circuit Court Judge Amy M. Baggio for a seat on the U.S. District Court in Oregon. | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T18:49:58Z |
| https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases/bonamici-cuellar-norcross-dingell-propose-child-care-stipends-union | Bonamici, Cuellar, Norcross, Dingell Propose Child Care Stipends for Union Apprenticeship Programs | 2023-11-14 | 2023 | 2023-11 | Democrat | House | OR | Suzanne Bonamici | B001278 | bonamici.house.gov | bonamici | https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | Washington, DC – In recognition of National Apprenticeship Week, Representatives Suzanne Bonamici (OR-1), Henry Cuellar, Ph.D. (TX-28), Donald Norcross (NJ-1), and Debbie Dingell (MI-6) introduced the Apprentice-Related Child Care (ARCC) Act. The bill would establish a child care stipend pilot program available to Americans enrolled in Registered Apprenticeships and Pre-Apprenticeship programs. The legislation is endorsed by North America’s Building Trades Unions (NABTU), Laborers’ International Union of North America (LiUNA), International Association of Sheet Metal, Air, Rail and Transportation Workers (SMART), United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners of America (UBC), United Association of Union Plumbers & Pipefitters (UA), International Union of Painters and Allied Trades (IUPAT), Operative Plasterers’ and Cement Masons’ International Association (OPCMIA) & Third Way. “Apprenticeships and pre-apprenticeships put workers on a path to quality, good-paying jobs that will support their family for years to come,” said Representative Bonamici. “Increasing access to child care will encourage a more diverse workforce and foster inclusive economic growth by allowing more people to benefit from these programs while caring for their families. I’m pleased to introduce the Apprenticeship-Related Child Care Act with my colleagues to make child care more affordable for apprentices and pre-apprentices and open the doors to opportunity.” “I’ve seen the benefits of the Registered Apprenticeship system first-hand in South Texas, where our local unions sponsor multi-year programs in a variety of trades,” said Dr. Cuellar. “Despite these successes, apprentices still face financial barriers to completion – particularly those with dependent children. The cost of child care has more than tripled in the last three decades. It’s essential that we do more to address these costs and support American workers.” “America will never reach peak workforce participation unless we as a country address the urgent and escalating issue of … | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T01:01:09Z |
| https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases/bonamici-wyden-crapo-valadao-slotkin-introduce-bipartisan-legislation-boost | Bonamici, Wyden, Crapo, Valadao, Slotkin Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Boost Exports of Fruit, Vegetables, Nuts and Other Specialty Crops | 2023-11-14 | 2023 | 2023-11 | Democrat | House | OR | Suzanne Bonamici | B001278 | bonamici.house.gov | bonamici | https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | Washington, D.C. – Representatives Suzanne Bonamici, D-Ore., David Valadao, R-Calif., and Elissa Slotkin, D-Mich, along with Senate Finance Committee Chair Ron Wyden, D-Ore., and Ranking Member Mike Crapo, R-Idaho, introduced legislation today to help farmers fight through trade barriers and sell more fruits, vegetables and other specialty crops in foreign markets. The Specialty Crops Reporting on Opportunities and Promotion Act (Specialty CROP Act), responds to continued high tariffs, burdensome labeling requirements, and other trade barriers that restrict U.S. products from accessing foreign markets, threatening rural communities and agricultural producers who depend on customers overseas. “Oregon is world famous for our specialty crops, and products like blueberries and hazelnuts make up a significant portion of our state's export economy. Unfortunately, growers face many barriers to foreign markets, which limit their competitiveness,” Bonamici said. “The Specialty CROP Act will improve the USDA’s existing specialty crops trade report to better translate its findings into meaningful action and policy. I’m pleased to introduce this important bipartisan legislation with Senator Wyden and several colleagues in the House and Senate.” “The world is hungry for grown-in-the-U.S. blueberries, potatoes, wine and other produce. But all too often our farmers and producers are stymied by unreasonable blockades in foreign markets,” Wyden said. “Our bipartisan bill will help rural Americans by identifying unfair foreign trade barriers and creating specific plans to cut through that red tape.” “From high tariffs to onerous labeling requirements, America’s specialty crop growers face a range of barriers imposed by foreign nations that hinder their ability to export their high-quality products around the world,” Crapo said. Improving the USDA’s Specialty Crop Report will arm producers and trade negotiators with detailed and up-to-date information, helping break down longstanding trade barriers, diversify export markets and… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T01:01:09Z |
| https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases/bonamici-announces-winner-oregon-first-districts-2023-congressional-app | Bonamici Announces Winner of Oregon First District’s 2023 Congressional App Challenge | 2023-11-13 | 2023 | 2023-11 | Democrat | House | OR | Suzanne Bonamici | B001278 | bonamici.house.gov | bonamici | https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. [11/13/23] – Today Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici announced that Aashna Nanal, a senior at Westview High School, won the 2023 Congressional App Challenge for Oregon’s First Congressional District. Her app, AP Course Picker, helps high school students navigate the selection of Advanced Placement (AP) courses. After gathering information about the user’s interests, strengths, and goals through a series of questions, AP Course Picker generates a plan with recommended AP classes for each school year. The app is intended for incoming freshmen who are interested in planning their AP course load over their time in high school. “Congratulations to Aashna for winning the 2023 Congressional App Challenge,” said Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici. “Aashna’s app is an innovative resource for students who attend high schools that offer AP classes. I wish Aashna well in her final year of high school, and I’m excited to see what she accomplishes next.” “A lot of incoming freshmen in high school can be overwhelmed by the amount of AP classes offered as well as the progression of the courses,” said Aashna Nanal. “Considering that AP classes can put students at a great advantage for college, it is very important that all students have accessible information and guidance about AP classes. The purpose of this app is to help high school students navigate choosing Advancement Placement courses by gathering information about their interests, strengths and goals to generate a four year AP course plan for the student.” You can view a video presentation of the app here. Judges gave an honorable mention to Lance Skarada for his app, Summit SAT: Math Made Easy. The app aims to make SAT math learning accessible and easy to understand. The app includes a custom study plan, formulas likely to appear on the SAT, tests, and flashcards. Skarada is a senior at West Salem High School and lives in the First Congressional District. You can view a video presentation of Summit SAT: Math Made Easy here. Expert judges from Northwest O… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T01:01:09Z |
| https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases/bonamici-cortez-masto-introduce-bicameral-bill-support-affordable-manufactured | Bonamici, Cortez Masto Introduce Bicameral Bill to Support Affordable Manufactured Housing Communities | 2023-11-09 | 2023 | 2023-11 | Democrat | House | OR | Suzanne Bonamici | B001278 | bonamici.house.gov | bonamici | https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.), Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), Tina Smith (D-Minn.), and Jon Tester (D-Mont.) introduced bicameral legislation with Representative Suzanne Bonamici (D-Ore.-01) to help preserve and revitalize manufactured housing communities. “We have a severe shortage of housing across the country, and it’s important to maintain and preserve the affordable options we have. Manufactured homes are often more affordable than other housing, but many manufactured housing communities do not have funds to upgrade and repair basic infrastructure such as water and sewer systems, and homeowners typically do not own the land beneath their homes,” said Representative Bonamici. “I’m pleased to work with Senators Cortez Masto and Shaheen to introduce the PRICE Act, which will make the PRICE grant program permanent and protect a crucial source of funding for preserving manufactured housing.” “Manufactured homes are critical for many families, and my legislation would help communities keep lot rents affordable and make vital infrastructure improvements,” said Senator Cortez Masto. “I’ll keep working with my colleagues to address the affordable housing crisis and keep families in their homes.” “Granite State families shouldn’t have to worry about losing the roof over their heads, but unfortunately, that’s a reality that many face every day,” said Senator Shaheen. “New Hampshire has more than 140 resident-owned manufactured housing communities (ROCs), and this crucial legislation would provide resources to those manufactured housing communities to make much-needed water and infrastructure upgrades and will keep working class families in affordable homes.” “The housing crisis is impacting communities all across the country,” said Senator Smith. “Manufactured housing is a key solution to this problem and a vital source of affordable housing all over Minnesota,” said Senator Smith. “We need to be doing everything we can to preserve and improve housing security and affordability, and tha… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T01:01:09Z |
| https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases/house-passes-bill-amend-grand-ronde-reservation-act | House Passes Bill to Amend the Grand Ronde Reservation Act | 2023-11-09 | 2023 | 2023-11 | Democrat | House | OR | Suzanne Bonamici | B001278 | bonamici.house.gov | bonamici | https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | Washington, DC – On Wednesday, November 8, the House passed legislation that amends the Grand Ronde Reservation Act to restore the Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde’s right to pursue land claims and compensation. The legislation is co-led by U.S. Representative Andrea Salinas(OR-06) andU.S. Senator Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), and cosponsored by U.S. Representatives Suzanne Bonamici (OR-01), Earl Blumenauer (OR-03), Val Hoyle (OR-04), and Lori Chavez-DeRemer (OR-05), as well as U.S. Senator Ron Wyden (D-Ore.). It now heads to the Senate for further consideration. “It is fitting that during Native American Heritage Month we have moved a step further toward restoring a vital right held by members of the Confederated Tribes of the Grand Ronde,” said Rep. Bonamici. “The passage of the Grand Ronde Reservation Act amendment in the House brings us closer to correcting historic wrongs, and I hope the Senate brings this needed legislation up for a vote soon.” “Oregon’s Indigenous peoples, including the Confederated Tribes of the Grand Ronde, have faced countless injustices at the hands of our government. Today, we took a historic step toward righting the wrongs of the past,” said Rep. Salinas. “I am very proud that my first bill to pass the House of Representatives would restore Grand Ronde’s ability to pursue land claims and compensation—a right already enjoyed by the rest of Oregon’s federally recognized tribes. I am hopeful that the Senate will swiftly pass this bill and send it to President Biden for his signature. In the meantime, I am grateful for the continued support of Senator Merkley, my Oregon colleagues, and the many stakeholders who helped create the momentum we needed to make this legislation a reality.” “Nearly three decades ago, the Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde sought to fix a historical surveying error within their reservation boundary, only for the federal government to make another error that relinquished the Tribe’s rights to future land claims and compensation. This is just plain wrong,” said Sen.… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T01:01:09Z |
| https://salinas.house.gov/media/press-releases/salinas-merkley-bill-amend-grand-ronde-reservation-act-passes-house | Salinas, Merkley Bill to Amend the Grand Ronde Reservation Act Passes House | 2023-11-09 | 2023 | 2023-11 | Democrat | House | OR | Andrea Salinas | S001226 | salinas.house.gov | salinas | https://salinas.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | Washington, DC – On Wednesday, November 8, U.S. Representative Andrea Salinas(OR-06) successfully passed her first piece of legislation in the U.S. House of Representatives. The bill, which was introduced by Rep. Salinas in March, amends the Grand Ronde Reservation Act to restore the Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde’s right to pursue land claims and compensation. The legislation is co-led by U.S. Senator Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.) and cosponsored by U.S. Representatives Suzanne Bonamici (OR-01), Earl Blumenauer (OR-03), Val Hoyle (OR-04), and Lori Chavez-DeRemer (OR-05), as well as U.S. Senator Ron Wyden (D-Ore.). It now heads to the Senate for further consideration. “Oregon’s Indigenous peoples, including the Confederated Tribes of the Grand Ronde, have faced countless injustices at the hands of our government. Today, we took a historic step toward righting the wrongs of the past,” said Rep. Salinas. “I am very proud that my first bill to pass the House of Representatives would restore Grand Ronde’s ability to pursue land claims and compensation—a right already enjoyed by the rest of Oregon’s federally recognized tribes. I am hopeful that the Senate will swiftly pass this bill and send it to President Biden for his signature. In the meantime, I am grateful for the continued support of Senator Merkley, my Oregon colleagues, and the many stakeholders who helped create the momentum we needed to make this legislation a reality.” “Nearly three decades ago, the Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde sought to fix a historical surveying error within their reservation boundary, only for the federal government to make another error that relinquished the Tribe’s rights to future land claims and compensation. This is just plain wrong,” said Sen. Merkley. “I am thrilled the House passed the legislation I’ve been championing for years, which is a critical step forward in the Grand Ronde’s fight to restore its right to pursue land claims in Oregon—rights already available to other federally-recognized Tribes in Oregon. I will kee… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T01:01:09Z |
| https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-jayapal-introduce-legislation-to-provide-alternatives-to-incarceration-for-parents-and-caregivers-to-keep-families-together-children-out-of-foster-care | Wyden, Jayapal Introduce Legislation to Provide Alternatives to Incarceration for Parents and Caregivers to Keep Families Together, Children Out of Foster Care | 2023-11-09 | 2023 | 2023-11 | Democrat | Senate | OR | Ron Wyden | W000779 | www.wyden.senate.gov | wyden | https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases | scraper | Legislation is endorsed by nearly 40 criminal justice, civil rights and child welfare organizations Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senator Ron Wyden, D-Ore., and U.S. Representative Pramila Jayapal, D-Wash., today reintroduced legislation that would create an alternative to incarceration for eligible parents and caregivers and provide them the resources needed to keep their children safely at home instead of in the foster care system. “Children should not be subjected to trauma and uncertainty caused by a broken criminal justice system, which at times needlessly splits up families,” Wyden said. “I’m proud to once again join Representative Jayapal in introducing legislation to expand the work of successful programs in our home states to reduce mass incarceration nationwide and help keep more families together.” “America’s broken criminal justice system disproportionately impacts Black and Brown communities, breaking up families and adding to our country’s mass incarceration problem,” said Congresswoman Jayapal. “It’s time for us to finally prioritize policies that deliver humane alternatives and shrink the world’s largest prison population, which is why I’m so proud to reintroduce the FAMILIES Act. This legislation, proudly modeled after programs in Washington and Oregon that have reduced recidivism, will divert parents and caregivers from incarceration and invest in their wellbeing with comprehensive services so that we can keep families together and provide resources to ensure their safety and success.” The Finding Alternatives to Mass Incarceration: Lives Improved by Ending Separation (FAMILIES) Act would allow federal judges to divert parents and caregivers from incarceration into a comprehensive program that would better serve them, their families, and society by offering resources, services and training to meet their unique needs. The legislation is modeled after successful programs in Oregon and Washington state that have already kept hundreds of families together and have been vital to reducing recidivism. T… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T18:49:58Z |
| https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-merkley-statement-on-judiciary-committee-vote-advancing-magistrate-mustafa-kasubhais-us-district-court-nomination-to-the-full-senate | Wyden, Merkley Statement on Judiciary Committee Vote Advancing Magistrate Mustafa Kasubhai’s U.S. District Court Nomination to the Full Senate | 2023-11-09 | 2023 | 2023-11 | Democrat | Senate | OR | Ron Wyden | W000779 | www.wyden.senate.gov | wyden | https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases | scraper | Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley issued the following statement after the U.S. Senate Judiciary Committee today voted to advance to the full Senate U.S. Magistrate Mustafa Kasubhai’s nomination to the U.S. District Court. | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T18:49:58Z |
| https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases/bonamici-introduces-bipartisan-bill-lower-costs-cancer-patients | Bonamici Introduces Bipartisan Bill to Lower Costs for Cancer Patients | 2023-11-08 | 2023 | 2023-11 | Democrat | House | OR | Suzanne Bonamici | B001278 | bonamici.house.gov | bonamici | https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | Representatives Suzanne Bonamici (D-OR), Glenn Grothman (R-WI), Gus Bilirakis (R-FL), Joe Morelle (D-NY), Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA), Brian Higgins (D-NY), and Doris Matsui (D-CA) introduced the Cancer Drug Parity Act. This bill lowers costs for cancer patients prescribed oral medications by requiring that health insurers provide coverage for oral cancer treatments that is equivalent to conventional intravenous (IV) treatments. Every year, approximately two million Americans are projected to receive a cancer diagnosis. For cancer patients, oral cancer treatments have proven to be a game-changer because they can be administered in the patient’s own home and are overall less intrusive than IV treatments. Despite their proven success and reliability, oral medications have proved costly for patients. A study of patients prescribed oral cancer medications found that one in eight faced copayments of $2,000 or more for their first prescription. “Oral cancer treatments are an effective option for many patients and can allow for care at home and better disease management,” said Bonamici. “Unlike traditional IV treatments, oral chemotherapy is typically not covered by health insurance plans, leading to high costs and unaffordable co-payments for patients. I’m glad to join my colleagues to introduce the bipartisan Cancer Drug Coverage Parity Act to level the playing field for cancer patients and expand access to lifechanging cancer treatments.” “Every American deserves the most effective cancer treatments available at the most affordable cost,” said Grothman. “As oral medications increase in popularity among cancer patients, we cannot allow outdated health insurance plans to prevent patients from opting for their preferred method of treatment. “I am glad both sides of the aisle have come together to lower costs for patients taking oral medications. Increased access to treatment, along with parity in the cancer drug marketplace, will improve patients’ well-being and help save lives.” "Cancer patients should have access to… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T01:01:09Z |
| https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases/bonamici-kaine-lead-colleagues-pushing-renew-expired-funding-child-care | Bonamici, Kaine Lead Colleagues in Pushing to Renew Expired Funding for Child Care | 2023-11-08 | 2023 | 2023-11 | Democrat | House | OR | Suzanne Bonamici | B001278 | bonamici.house.gov | bonamici | https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Tim Kaine (D-VA), Tina Smith (D-MN), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), and Bob Casey (D-PA), along with U.S. Representatives Suzanne Bonamici (D-OR-1), Sara Jacobs (D-CA-51), Mikie Sherrill (D-NJ-11), and Joaquin Castro (D-TX-20), led a bicameral group of their colleagues in urging congressional leadership to renew expired funding for child care in any supplemental funding package. Funding the lawmakers passed in the American Rescue Plan Act to allow parents to afford child care and keep their jobs during COVID expired in September, but the child care crisis continues. Without this funding, many child care providers are struggling with how they’re going to continue to operate and serve families. The lawmakers’ letter comes after President Biden’s supplemental funding request to Congress included $16 billion to address the child care crisis, which the members called forin August. “We write today to urge you to include robust funding for child care in any supplemental funding package considered by the Appropriations Committee. Child care is unaffordable and hard to find for working families, and child care providers across the country are struggling to stay afloat,” wrote the lawmakers. “The child care workforce has been one of the slowest sectors to recover from the pandemic, and wages for this critical workforce remain unacceptably low, further fueling the shortage of available child care options for families,” the members continued. “Families and child care providers are feeling increasingly squeezed following the expiration of COVID-19 relief funding for child care, as child care providers scramble to fill the gap in resources previously filled by federal funds.” The lawmakers wrote, “It is essential that as supplemental funding to meet emergency needs is considered, Congress take action to address the child care crisis. We have an urgent need to further stabilize an industry that has been long underfunded, and Congress must provide robust funding for this sector through a supp… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T01:01:09Z |
| https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases/house-committee-advances-bonamici-legislation-improve-tsunami-warnings-address | House Committee Advances Bonamici Legislation to Improve Tsunami Warnings, Address Harmful Algal Blooms | 2023-11-08 | 2023 | 2023-11 | Democrat | House | OR | Suzanne Bonamici | B001278 | bonamici.house.gov | bonamici | https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON, DC [11/8/23] – Today the House Committee on Science, Space and Technology approved legislation led by Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici (OR-01) to improve tsunami warning systems and address harmful algal blooms. The Committee advanced the legislation as amendments to the Weather Act Reauthorization Act, which was co-sponsored by Bonamici and designed to improve the United States’ ability to better forecast, understand, and communicate about weather. The two amendments were based on Bonamici’s Tsunami Warning, Education, and Research Act and Harmful Algal Bloom and Hypoxia Research and Control Amendments Act. “Updating the Weather Act provides an important opportunity to make our communities safer,” said Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici. “I’m grateful that the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology approved my bipartisan amendments to improve our tsunami warning systems and help protect coastal, lake, and river communities from harmful algal blooms that can disrupt local ecosystems and threaten health and the economy. I urge House leadership to quickly bring this legislation to the House floor.” The Tsunami Warning, Education, and Research Amendments Act of 2023 strengthens tsunami research, detection, and warning systems, improves response and resiliency efforts, and better protects communities that are vulnerable to tsunami. Video of Bonamici’s remarks on the amendment can be found here. The Harmful Algal Bloom and Hypoxia Research and Control Amendments Act of 2023 (HABHRCA) helps coastal, lake, and river communities better prepare for, mitigate, and intervene in harmful algal bloom and hypoxia events. These events, which release toxins and create massive “dead zones” respectively, have deadly consequences for fish, shellfish, and local ecosystems. Video of Bonamici’s remarks on the amendment can be found here. | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T01:01:09Z |
| https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-merkley-announce-nearly_38-million-in-federal-funds-for-ione | Wyden, Merkley Announce Nearly $3.8 Million in Federal Funds for Ione | 2023-11-08 | 2023 | 2023-11 | Democrat | Senate | OR | Ron Wyden | W000779 | www.wyden.senate.gov | wyden | https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases | scraper | Morrow County city to receive USDA resources for sewer system Washington, D.C. –U.S. Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley today announced the city of Ione will receive nearly $3.8 million in federal funds to build a sewer system for the Eastern Oregon town. “Ensuring Oregon’s rural communities have the infrastructure their residents and small businesses need to grow and develop is paramount for our state’s overall economic health,” Wyden said. “In my Morrow County town hall and others in every corner of the state, I’ve heard how the need to modernize outdated infrastructure is an essential piece to achieve rural quality of life. Ione has worked tirelessly to upgrade its systems so homes keep their value, the new school is supported, and the community can grow.” “Outdated sewer infrastructure is at greater risk of failing and limits growth and development opportunities for communities,” said Senator Merkley. “Investments such as this are critical not just for the safety of Ione community members, but also for helping the City and surrounding areas thrive.” Ione lacks a community-wide wastewater collection or disposal system. Each residence and/or business has an individual septic tank and drain field, which limits community growth and development. The federal investment from USDA Rural Development is both a grant of $1.98 million and a loan of $1.81 million. | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T18:49:58Z |
| https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/merkley-wyden-announce-31-million-investment-for-oregon-air-national-guard-training-facilities-passes-senate | Merkley, Wyden Announce $31 million Investment for Oregon Air National Guard Training Facilities Passes Senate | 2023-11-07 | 2023 | 2023-11 | Democrat | Senate | OR | Ron Wyden | W000779 | www.wyden.senate.gov | wyden | https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases | scraper | Washington, D.C. – Oregon’s U.S. Senators Jeff Merkley and Ron Wyden today announced Senate passage of two critical community-initiated projects totaling $31 million for the Oregon Air National Guard. The investments were included in the FY24 Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies funding bill, which cleared the chamber with strong bipartisan support, putting the Oregon Air National Guard closer than ever to completing phases 3 and 4 of their project to consolidate training facilities for the 125th Special Tactics Squadron (STS). “Oregon’s Air National Guard do critical work to help protect the security of Oregon and our nation,” Merkley said. “This funding for the Special Tactics Complex will help make Oregon a West Coast hub for special tactics training and provide Oregon’s Air National Guard members with up-to-date training and resources.” “Oregon’s Air National Guard and its dedicated service members play an essential role in the defense of our state and country,” Wyden said. “This Oregon unit, so key to national security, fully deserves this federal investment that would modernize its training and ensure it has the resources it needs to be strong and vital in the years ahead.” Merkley is the only Oregon member of Congress from either chamber since Senator Mark Hatfield to serve on the Appropriations Committee, which wrote the bill and is one of the most powerful on Capitol Hill. He joined the committee in 2013 so that Oregon would have a strong voice in decisions about the investments our nation should be making. Senators Merkley and Wyden teamed up to champion the significant investments for the Oregon Air National Guard, as their Special Tactics Squadron’s current buildings for training are set to be returned to the Port of Portland in 2030. The funding will increase operational and energy efficiencies and reduce overall maintenance costs for Oregon National Guard. Once complete, this center is expected to become a West Coast training hub and will be a draw for the 125th Special… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T18:49:58Z |
| https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-lee-davidson-and-lofgren-introduce-bipartisan-legislation-to-reauthorize-and-reform-key-surveillance-law-secure-protections-for-americans-rights | Wyden, Lee, Davidson and Lofgren Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Reauthorize and Reform Key Surveillance Law, Secure Protections for Americans’ Rights | 2023-11-07 | 2023 | 2023-11 | Democrat | Senate | OR | Ron Wyden | W000779 | www.wyden.senate.gov | wyden | https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases | scraper | The Government Surveillance Reform Act Will Establish New Safeguards for Government Surveillance and Accountability for Abuses; Reauthorize and Reform FISA Section 702; Establish Protections for Americans Whose Private Information is Collected Under Other Intelligence Authorities; and Modernize Outdated Surveillance Laws Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Ron Wyden, D-Ore., Sen. Mike Lee, R-Utah, Rep. Warren Davidson, R-Ohio, and Rep. Zoe Lofgren, D-Calif., today introduced the bipartisan, bicameral Government Surveillance Reform Act, to reauthorize Section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act with important new protections for Americans’ constitutional rights. The legislation is cosponsored by Senators Tammy Baldwin, D-Wisc., Steve Daines, R-Mont., Mazie Hirono, D-Hawaii, Cynthia Lummis, R-Wy., Jon Tester, D-Mont., Elizabeth Warren, D-Mass., and Edward Markey, D-Mass. In the House, the bill is cosponsored by Reps. Andy Biggs, R-Ariz., Rep. Pramila Jayapal, D-Wash., Thomas Massie, R-Ky., Rep. Sara Jacobs, D-Calif., Rep. Nancy Mace, R-S.C., Rep. Judy Chu, D-Calif., Rep. Lloyd Doggett, D-Texas, Rep. Barbara Lee, D-Calif., Rep. Lou Correa, D-Calif., and Rep. Ted Lieu, D-Calif. “Americans know that it is possible to confront our country’s adversaries ferociously without throwing our constitutional rights in the trash can. But for too long surveillance laws have not kept up with changing times.” Wyden said. “Our bill continues to give government agencies broad authority to collect information on threats at home and abroad, including the ability to act quickly in emergencies and settle up with the court later. But it creates much stronger protections for the privacy of law-abiding Americans, and restores the warrant protections that are at the heart of the Fourth Amendment.” “The FISA Court and the Director of National Intelligence have confirmed that our government conducted warrantless surveillance of millions of Americans’ private communications,” Senator Lee said. “It is imperative that Congress enact… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T18:49:58Z |
| https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/advisory-wyden-lee-davidson-lofgren-biggs-to-announce-bipartisan-bicameral-surveillance-reform-legislation | ADVISORY: Wyden, Lee, Davidson, Lofgren, Biggs To Announce Bipartisan, Bicameral Surveillance Reform Legislation | 2023-11-06 | 2023 | 2023-11 | Democrat | Senate | OR | Ron Wyden | W000779 | www.wyden.senate.gov | wyden | https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases | scraper | Government Surveillance Reform Act will Reauthorize and Reform FISA Section 702, Add Accountability for Abuses of Government Surveillance and Strengthen Constitutional Protections for Americans WASHINGTON, D.C. – Sen. Ron Wyden, D-Ore., with Sen. Mike Lee, R-Utah, Rep. Warren Davidson, R-Ohio, Rep. Zoe Lofgren, D-Calif., and Rep. Andy Biggs, R-Ariz., will hold a press conference on Tuesday, November 7, to unveil new legislation to reauthorize and reform Section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act, and enact other reforms to protect Americans’ rights while preserving key surveillance authorities. WHO: U.S. Sen. Ron Wyden, D-Ore. U.S. Sen. Mike Lee, R-Utah U.S. Rep. Warren Davidson, R-Ohio U.S. Rep. Zoe Lofgren, D-Calif. U.S. Rep. Andy Biggs, R-Ariz. Speakers representing civil society organizations advocating for civil liberties and Constitutional rights Additional cosponsors of the Government Surveillance Reform Act will be in attendance WHEN: 10:30 a.m., Tuesday, November 7 WHERE: Senate Dirksen 215 -- Senate Finance Committee hearing room WHAT: Press conference to release bipartisan surveillance reform legislation Members of the media are encouraged to attend and RSVP to luis_soriano@wyden.senate.gov For those who cannot attend, the event will be livestreamed on Sen. Wyden’s YouTube channel here: https://www.youtube.com/user/SenRonWyden ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T18:49:58Z |
| https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-merkley-hoyle-oregon-to-receive-nearly-900000-to-promote-local-and-regional-food-systems | Wyden, Merkley, Hoyle: Oregon to Receive Nearly $900,000 to Promote Local and Regional Food Systems | 2023-11-06 | 2023 | 2023-11 | Democrat | Senate | OR | Ron Wyden | W000779 | www.wyden.senate.gov | wyden | https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases | scraper | Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley as well as U.S. Rep. Val Hoyle today announced nearly $900,000 in federal funds for Oregon to help increase the availability of locally sourced agricultural products and strengthen local and regional food systems statewide. “Oregon has some of the best produce in the world growing right here in our state, and supporting hardworking Oregonians in agriculture and fishing is a huge priority,” said Wyden. “This federal investment is key to helping our state’s farmers and fishers as well as all Oregonians to enjoy the bounty of produce from growers across Oregon.” “Oregon’s food, fiber, and fishing products are world-class, and folks across the state deserve to access and enjoy them,” said Merkley. “These federal investments will expand and strengthen our local food systems and increase the availability of locally grown agricultural and fishing products. The result will be a win-win for the fishers and farmers driving our economy, and for Oregon families looking to put more homegrown products on their kitchen tables.” “Oregon’s farmers, fishers and consumers are all better off when we invest in our local and regional food systems,” said Rep. Hoyle. “We’re bringing Oregonians’ tax dollars back home to invest in projects through Central Coast Food Web in Newport to support more local consumption of Oregon’s world-class sustainable seafood, and Friends of Family Farmers in Junction City to help create more opportunities for small local market farmers. This will mean jobs and more access to high-quality local products for Oregonians.” The $867,133 in federal funds comes from the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Local Agriculture Market Program, Farmers Market and Local Food Promotion Programs and the Regional Food System Partnerships grant programs. These awards will be distributed in Oregon as follows: Friends of Family Farmers, Junction City – $264,360 Pacific NW CSA Coalition, Portland – $124,999 Central Coast Food Web, Newport - $477,774 | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T18:49:58Z |
| https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/dea-heeds-wydens-call-for-action-on-adhd-drug-shortage | DEA Heeds Wyden’s Call for Action on ADHD Drug Shortage | 2023-11-03 | 2023 | 2023-11 | Democrat | Senate | OR | Ron Wyden | W000779 | www.wyden.senate.gov | wyden | https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases | scraper | Senator pressed agency to improve drug quota process Washington, D.C.— U.S. Senator Ron Wyden responded today to the Drug Enforcement Agency’s (DEA) announcement that the agency will make changes to its prescription stimulants quota process to respond to shortages of ADHD drugs and other medications. “It is encouraging that ADHD medication manufacturers have committed to the DEA that they will use their allotted quota amounts and increase production,” Wyden said. “It’s clear that part of the reason that Americans are facing these prescription drug shortages, particularly in rural areas in my home state, is that the DEA’s quota system relies on outdated or incomplete data. While I understand there is no silver bullet to fixing the drug shortage, I hope these rule changes will provide much-needed transparency and flexibility to the DEA quota process, which will help more Oregonians and Americans get the medicines they need when they need them. I will continue to watchdog and make sure these changes work as intended, and look for every opportunity to improve this serious crisis hurting families across Oregon and entire United States." The DEA sets production quotas that limit the manufacturing of certain controlled prescription drugs. Over the past several months Senator Wyden has repeatedly pressed DEA Administrator Anne Milgram and Food and Drug Administration Commissioner Robert Califf to address the role that these quotas have played in the ongoing shortage of Adderall and other prescription stimulants. After the DEA and FDA released a joint statement at his request in August, Wyden urged ADHD drug manufacturers to boost their production or relinquish their excess quota to help address the shortage. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T18:49:58Z |
| https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-colleagues-reintroduce-legislation-to-end-criminalization-of-students-and-create-safer-environment-for-kids | Wyden, Colleagues Reintroduce Legislation to End Criminalization of Students and Create Safer Environment for Kids | 2023-11-03 | 2023 | 2023-11 | Democrat | Senate | OR | Ron Wyden | W000779 | www.wyden.senate.gov | wyden | https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases | scraper | Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Ron Wyden said today that he and Senate colleagues have reintroduced legislation that would invest in safe and nurturing school environments that support all students and address over-policing in K-12 schools. “The school to prison pipeline is a problem which disproportionately hurts students of color and creates an environment of learning in fear of being arrested,” Wyden said. “Closing the school to prison pipeline means investing in and improving student well-being. That’s why I’m proud to cosponsor legislation that would help create safer school environments by redirecting federal funding to support additional behavioral health and counseling staff in schools.” Research shows the presence of police in schools leads to an increase in arrests of students — particularly students of color and students with disabilities — often for common misbehavior that a school could address without law enforcement. Meanwhile the presence of mental and behavioral health personnel in schools, like counselors, social workers and psychologists improves educational outcomes for kids — specifically by improving attendance and graduation rates while lowering the rates of suspension, expulsion and other disciplinary incidents. The Counseling Not Criminalization in Schools Act would prohibit the use of federal funds to maintain police presence in schools and instead provide $5 billion in new grant funding to help schools hire more counselors, social workers, and other mental and behavioral health personnel — as well as implement services in schools that create positive and safe climates for all students. Specifically, the legislation would: Prohibit the use of federal funds for maintaining police in schools. Instead, federal funds would be diverted toward other uses related to school safety within applicable grant programs. Invest billions to help schools hire counselors, social workers, and other trauma-informed support personnel necessary to create safe, supportive learning environments for all … | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T18:49:58Z |
| https://salinas.house.gov/media/press-releases/salinas-panetta-introduce-bill-connect-local-farmers-food-banks-keep-families | Salinas, Panetta Introduce Bill to Connect Local Farmers with Food Banks, Keep Families Fed | 2023-11-02 | 2023 | 2023-11 | Democrat | House | OR | Andrea Salinas | S001226 | salinas.house.gov | salinas | https://salinas.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | Washington, DC – Today, U.S. Representatives Andrea Salinas (OR-06) and Jimmy Panetta (CA-19) introduced the Farmers Feeding America Act, a bill that would help food banks meet demand and ensure families stay fed and healthy by expanding the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) ability to purchase food directly from producers, including Oregon’s small family farms. “The pandemic caused higher rates of food insecurity in Oregon and across the country, and food banks have struggled to keep up with the increased demand,” said Rep. Salinas. “The Farmers Feeding America Act will address this problem by providing more funding for The Emergency Food Assistance Program, ensuring our local food banks are fully stocked. Furthermore, this legislation will support local farms by giving USDA more resources to purchase food directly from producers. I’m proud to introduce this bill today because it will connect farmers with our communities and help families put food on the table this holiday season.” “Rising food insecurity around the country has put a strain on community food banks tirelessly working to meet the needs of some of our most vulnerable families,” said Rep. Panetta. “The Farmers Feeding America Act tackles this pressing issue by doubling assistance to our local food banks and better supporting partnerships with local producers. California’s 19th Congressional District is blessed with immense bounty, and as families share in our harvest over the holidays, this legislation would help us combat hunger throughout the year.” Last year, 49 million people – or one in six Americans – received some form of food assistance. However, as higher prices continue to impact working families’ ability to afford food and basic necessities, local food banks are often unable to meet supply and demand needs in their communities. The Farmers Feeding America Act would significantly increase funding for The Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP). TEFAP provides commodities like fruits and vegetables, as well as monetary support, … | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T01:01:09Z |
| https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/merkley-wyden-announce-senate-passage-of-critical-affordable-housing-and-transportation-infrastructure-investments-for-oregon | Merkley, Wyden Announce Senate Passage of Critical Affordable Housing and Transportation Infrastructure Investments for Oregon | 2023-11-02 | 2023 | 2023-11 | Democrat | Senate | OR | Ron Wyden | W000779 | www.wyden.senate.gov | wyden | https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases | scraper | Federal investments included in the Fiscal Year 2024 Senate funding bill champion affordable housing, small ports, and more Washington, D.C. – Oregon’s U.S. Senators Jeff Merkley and Ron Wyden today announced major investments passed the Senate to expand affordable, rural, and veterans housing options and boost transportation infrastructure, including funding for 20 critical community-initiated projects across the state. The investments were included in the FY24 Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies (THUD) bill, which cleared the chamber with strong bipartisan support. “As I held a town hall in each of Oregon’s 36 counties this year, I heard firsthand from folks about what matters most to them, including the need to take on the affordable housing crisis, build drought resilience, and move the state faster toward a renewable energy future,” Merkley said. “The funding included in these bills for programs and critical community-initiated projects will benefit Oregonians in every corner of the state for years to come, and I will keep championing them in Congress until they become law.” “Wherever I go in our state, teachers, nurses, firefighters, veterans and other hardworking Oregonians tell me about the urgent need for housing they can afford,” Wyden said. “I’m gratified to have teamed up with communities across Oregon on these federal funds to work toward those housing goals as well as equally crucial objectives that invest in transportation infrastructure, green energy and more. Merkley is the only Oregon member of Congress from either chamber since Senator Mark Hatfield to serve on the Appropriations Committee, which wrote the bill and is one of the most powerful on Capitol Hill. He joined the committee in 2013 so that Oregon would have a strong voice in decisions about the investments our nation should be making. Senators Merkley and Wyden secured investments for a total of 20 Oregon community-initiated projects in the Senate THUD spending bill, which are as follows: $5 milli… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T18:49:58Z |
| https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-eshoo-lesko-reintroduce-bipartisan-bicameral-legislation-to-prevent-domestic-abusers-from-targeting-survivors-with-technology | Wyden, Eshoo, Lesko Reintroduce Bipartisan, Bicameral Legislation to Prevent Domestic Abusers from Targeting Survivors with Technology | 2023-11-02 | 2023 | 2023-11 | Democrat | Senate | OR | Ron Wyden | W000779 | www.wyden.senate.gov | wyden | https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases | scraper | Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senator Ron Wyden, D-Ore, and U.S. Representatives Anna G. Eshoo, D-Calif., and Debbie Lesko, R-Arizona, today reintroduced their bipartisan, bicameral legislation to help prevent domestic abusers from using technology to stalk, harass or control survivors. “Domestic abuse survivors are already recovering from tough situations – they shouldn’t also have to worry about their abusers hacking their social media or tracking their location. Unfortunately, these frightening scenarios have become increasingly common, and yet, not enough is being done to support and protect survivors from this misuse of technology,” Wyden said. “Increased education, resources and services are essential to making sure survivors get the protection and care they need.” “Technology has allowed domestic violence abusers to threaten, stalk, and harass with little effort and free tools.,” said Eshoo. “That makes the recovery process for survivors even more difficult and longer. It also makes it harder for advocates to support survivors since most of them are not tech professionals. Advocates report that domestic violence victims have low levels of confidence in being able to recognize and address technology-enabled abuse. Our legislation will provide resources to survivors and advocates to prevent and address this heinous psychological abuse.” "I am a survivor of domestic violence, so I know firsthand the devastating impact it has on survivors and the difficulties they face as a result. As more capabilities and opportunities continue to be exploited for technology-enabled abuse of this tragically vulnerable population, our resolve must be even greater to ensure that these survivors receive the care and attention they deserve,” said Lesko. “I am grateful to again join this bipartisan coalition of legislators to show Congress’ unwavering devotion to every one of America’s brave survivors.” Despite the seriousness and rise of technology-enabled abuse — especially during the COVID-19 pandemic — programs providing support… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T18:49:58Z |
| https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-whitehouse-launch-investigation-into-climate-change-fueled-insurance-crisis | Wyden, Whitehouse Launch Investigation into Climate Change-Fueled Insurance Crisis | 2023-11-02 | 2023 | 2023-11 | Democrat | Senate | OR | Ron Wyden | W000779 | www.wyden.senate.gov | wyden | https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases | scraper | Washington, D.C.— U.S. Sen. Ron Wyden (D-OR) said today that he and U.S. Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI) have launched an investigation into how insurance companies are navigating mounting risks from climate change, including where companies will next pull coverage or raise premiums. The inquiry from Wyden, a member of the Senate Budget Committee; and Whitehouse, Chairman of the Senate Budget Committee, builds on a related investigation the committee launched in June into the U.S. insurance industry’s decisions to continue investing in and underwriting fossil fuel expansion projects that drive climate change. In light of the economy-wide harms from widespread uninsurability, the senators sent letters to the 20 largest private sector insurance companies in California, Louisiana, Florida, and Texas—a total of 40 companies—to request documents and information related to the companies’ plans to address increased underwriting losses from climate disasters. “The Committee is increasingly concerned about the potential economic consequences of an eventual widescale decline in property values caused by increasing exposure to climate risks and the attendant increase in insurance premiums and decrease in insurance availability,” the senators wrote. “Should such a situation come to pass, the effects on households—and federal revenues and spending—would be quite damaging and long-lasting, as we saw during and after the 2008 financial crisis.” Among other requests, the senators are seeking information related to the following: Current consideration of risks from climate-related extreme weather events, sea level rise, and/or wildfires when determining property and casualty insurance premiums for homes, rental units, automobiles, commercial properties, and/or crops; Premium rate forecasts over the next five years; Climate-related threats to company solvency; and A list of all counties (or county equivalents) in the United States in which the subject company has not renewed a minimum threshold of homeowners’ policies in ye… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T18:49:58Z |
| https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases/bonamici-collins-durbin-introduce-bipartisan-bicameral-legislation-help | Bonamici, Collins, Durbin Introduce Bipartisan, Bicameral Legislation to Help Runaway and Homeless Youth | 2023-11-01 | 2023 | 2023-11 | Democrat | House | OR | Suzanne Bonamici | B001278 | bonamici.house.gov | bonamici | https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | Washington, D.C. – Representatives Suzanne Bonamici (D-OR), Don Bacon (R-NE), Zach Nunn (R-IA), Morgan McGarvey (D-KY), and U.S. Senator Susan Collins and U.S. Senate Majority Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Chair of the Senate Judiciary Committee, introduced the Runaway and Homeless Youth and Trafficking Prevention Act of 2023. This bipartisan legislation will reauthorize key federal grant programs to provide states with funding to help thousands of homeless young people nationwide. “Young people thrive when they have a safe and stable home,” said Rep. Bonamici, Co-Chair of the Congressional Caucus on Homelessness. “We must help and protect youth experiencing homelessness and survivors of trafficking in their time of need. This bipartisan update to the Runaway and Homeless Youth Act will expand and improve the services many youth need when they do not have a place to call home, and it strengthens programs that can empower them to transition out of homelessness.” “Having a caring and safe place to sleep, eat, grow, and study is crucial for any young person’s development,” said Senator Collins. “Our bipartisan legislation would support young people who run away, are forced out of their homes, or are disconnected from their families, by extending basic social services to these most vulnerable youth in our communities.” “This legislation is an investment in the future of our nation and a promise not to give up on any child,” said Senator Durbin. “It will help us empower our youth—especially those in underserved communities—to realize their dreams for a better and brighter future, regardless of the traumatic experiences they may have faced.” “As the number of homeless and runaway youth increases, we must increase our federal efforts to assist and protect these youth who are particularly susceptible to trafficking,” said Rep. Bacon. “This bill provides agencies with the means to support youth who are in vulnerable positions and gives them the resources to address these problems.” “Every young person deserves a safe and … | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T01:01:09Z |
| https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases/bonamici-torres-introduce-legislation-keep-pedestrians-vulnerable-road-users | Bonamici, Torres Introduce Legislation to Keep Pedestrians & Vulnerable Road Users Safe | 2023-11-01 | 2023 | 2023-11 | Democrat | House | OR | Suzanne Bonamici | B001278 | bonamici.house.gov | bonamici | https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | Washington, D.C. — Representatives Norma J. Torres (CA-35) and Suzanne Bonamici (OR-01) announced today the introduction of the Pedestrian Hazard, Awareness and Safety Expansion (PHASE) Act to address rising pedestrian accidents and fatalities. “Our country has experienced a significant increase in pedestrian fatalities, making us an outlier among peer nations. This is a personal issue for me—earlier this year my husband and I were struck by a car as we walked across the street in a marked crosswalk with the light. We recovered, but too many people are not as fortunate. I’m grateful to join my colleague Congresswoman Norma Torres in introducing the PHASE Act, which will direct needed federal resources to research and implement road safety strategies to prevent deaths and make streets safer for drivers and pedestrians,” said Congresswoman Bonamici. “Whether Americans are choosing to walk, bike, or even take a scooter to their next stop, they deserve the peace of mind and public policy forethought from Congress that we take their safety seriously. With rising pedestrian accidents and fatalities in California and across the nation, our current transportation infrastructure is clearly inadequate at keeping bike and pedestrian road users safe.. My PHASE Act is an important step toward developing stronger pedestrian safety policies and making our roads safer for all vulnerable road users,” said Congresswoman Torres. A report released this year found the number of pedestrians who were struck and killed by vehicles in 2022 was the highest it has been since 1981. To reverse this dangerous trend, the PHASE Act: Directs the National Institute of Standards and Technology to devise solutions to better equip drivers and protect pedestrians, while ensuring its recommendations do not distract drivers. Directs the Department of Transportation to conduct a study on developing physical alternatives to better protect pedestrians. Creates a grant program for cities and municipalities to implement pedestrian-friendly infrastruc… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T01:01:09Z |
| https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases/merkley-wyden-bonamici-hoyle-announce-over-36-million-improve-coastal-ports | Merkley, Wyden, Bonamici, Hoyle Announce Over $36 Million to Improve Coastal Ports in Oregon | 2023-11-01 | 2023 | 2023-11 | Democrat | House | OR | Suzanne Bonamici | B001278 | bonamici.house.gov | bonamici | https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | Washington, D.C. – Today, Oregon’s U.S. Senators Jeff Merkley and Ron Wyden, along with U.S. Representatives Suzanne Bonamici (OR-01) and Val Hoyle (OR-04), announced a total of $36,489,508 in federal investments heading to the ports of Astoria, Coquille Indian Tribe’s Ko’Kwel Wharf, and Newport. “Pier 2 West in Astoria is crucial to the region’s economy, but the structure has been deteriorating over the years,” said Rep. Bonamici. “I’m thrilled that the Port of Astoria will receive close to $25.3 million from USDOT to make overdue repairs to this essential infrastructure.” “Ports play a crucial role in keeping the economies of Oregon and the entire Pacific Northwest running smoothly—transporting goods, people, and services throughout our region—and we rely on them to export our amazing, homegrown products around the world,” Merkley said. “This funding will provide crucial support to Astoria, the Coquille Indian Tribe, and Newport to improve existing infrastructure, increase storage capabilities, and bolster security while improving operational capacity for these critical ports.” “Oregon’s ports produce jobs and act as economic linchpins for their communities as well as the entire state economy,” Wyden said. “I’m glad these three ports have secured these significant federal infrastructure investments to ensure they can keep exporting our state’s world-renowned products as well as generating economic opportunities for Newport, Astoria, the Coquille Indian Tribe and beyond.” “I'm thrilled that the Port of Newport will be receiving this important grant to upgrade its port infrastructure," said Rep. Hoyle. “This is exactly the type of support that the federal government should be providing to Oregon's ports, which are essential for local jobs and businesses on the Oregon coast. I will continue to strongly support investment in Oregon’s coastal communities.” This past spring, Senators Merkley and Wyden and Rep. Bonamici sent a letter to U.S. Maritime Administration urging their support for the Port of Astoria’s r… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T01:01:09Z |
| https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/farms-food-and-fiber-merkley-wyden-announce-senate-passage-of-major-investments-for-oregon-agriculture-and-rural-communities | Farms, Food, and Fiber: Merkley, Wyden Announce Senate Passage of Major Investments for Oregon Agriculture and Rural Communities | 2023-11-01 | 2023 | 2023-11 | Democrat | Senate | OR | Ron Wyden | W000779 | www.wyden.senate.gov | wyden | https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases | scraper | Funding included in the fiscal year 2024 Senate agriculture funding bill champions family farms, rural housing, broadband, and more Washington, D.C. – Oregon’s U.S. Senators Jeff Merkley and Ron Wyden today announced major investments in Oregon agriculture, rural housing, food assistance, and rural business priorities has passed the Senate, including more than $5 million in funding for Oregon community-initiated projects. The investments were included in the FY24 Senate Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies bill, which cleared the full chamber with strong bipartisan support. The federal funding in this legislation will support programs and projects that benefit farms, families, and rural communities throughout the state. “Agriculture is a huge part of Oregon’s economy, and it’s essential to ensure our world-class agriculture sector and rural communities have the support needed to grow and thrive,” said Merkley, who previously served as the top Democrat on the Appropriations subcommittee that writes the agriculture bill. “This agriculture bill includes significant investments for family farms, rural housing, food assistance, habitat restoration, and wildfire smoke recovery. The legislation also prioritizes making Oregon’s agriculture more resilient to the impacts of climate chaos to protect the livelihoods of our farmers, ranchers, and producers. These huge investments will benefit Oregon’s farms and families for years to come, and I will keep championing them in Congress until they become law.” “One of the things Oregon does best is grow things, and investing in farmers and rural life is essential to keep cultivating our state’s world-renowned agriculture,” Wyden said. “As I’ve met throughout this year with Oregonians who grow our state’s bounty, I’ve heard consistently about the need for federal investments that combat drought and wildfire smoke hurting their livelihoods, expand rural broadband, support housing in small communities and more. I’m glad this legisla… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T18:49:58Z |
| https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/merkley-wyden-bonamici-hoyle-announce-over-36-million-to-improve-coastal-ports-in-oregon | Merkley, Wyden, Bonamici, Hoyle Announce Over $36 Million to Improve Coastal Ports in Oregon | 2023-11-01 | 2023 | 2023-11 | Democrat | Senate | OR | Ron Wyden | W000779 | www.wyden.senate.gov | wyden | https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases | scraper | Washington, D.C. – Today, Oregon’s U.S. Senators Jeff Merkley and Ron Wyden, along with U.S. Representatives Suzanne Bonamici (OR-01) and Val Hoyle (OR-04), announced a total of $36,489,508 in federal investments heading to the ports of Astoria, Coquille Indian Tribe’s Ko’Kwel Wharf, and Newport. “Ports play a crucial role in keeping the economies of Oregon and the entire Pacific Northwest running smoothly—transporting goods, people, and services throughout our region—and we rely on them to export our amazing, homegrown products around the world,” Merkley said. “This funding will provide crucial support to Astoria, the Coquille Indian Tribe, and Newport to improve existing infrastructure, increase storage capabilities, and bolster security while improving operational capacity for these critical ports.” “Oregon’s ports produce jobs and act as economic linchpins for their communities as well as the entire state economy,” Wyden said. “I’m glad these three ports have secured these significant federal infrastructure investments to ensure they can keep exporting our state’s world-renowned products as well as generating economic opportunities for Newport, Astoria, the Coquille Indian Tribe and beyond.” “Pier 2 West in Astoria is crucial to the region’s economy, but the structure has been deteriorating over the years,” said Rep. Bonamici. “I’m thrilled that the Port of Astoria will receive close to $25.3 million from USDOT to make overdue repairs to this essential infrastructure.” “I'm thrilled that the Port of Newport will be receiving this important grant to upgrade its port infrastructure," said Rep. Hoyle. “This is exactly the type of support that the federal government should be providing to Oregon's ports, which are essential for local jobs and businesses on the Oregon coast. I will continue to strongly support investment in Oregon’s coastal communities.” This past spring, Senators Merkley and Wyden and Rep. Bonamici sent a letter to U.S. Maritime Administration urging their support for the Port of Astoria’s r… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T18:49:58Z |
| https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/merkley-wyden-urge-good-faith-negotiations-between-the-portland-association-of-teachers-and-portland-public-schools | Merkley, Wyden Urge Good Faith Negotiations Between the Portland Association of Teachers and Portland Public Schools | 2023-11-01 | 2023 | 2023-11 | Democrat | Senate | OR | Ron Wyden | W000779 | www.wyden.senate.gov | wyden | https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases | scraper | Washington, D.C. – Oregon’s U.S. Senators Jeff Merkley and Ron Wyden issued the following statement, urging the Portland Association of Teachers and the Portland Public Schools Board of Education to continue bargaining in good faith amid the first-ever teachers’ strike in the district: “Over the last three years, our educators have strived to maintain a quality, equitable education program for our children through the enormous difficulties of the COVID-19 pandemic. They have been underpaid and overstressed, and we strongly affirm our support for Portland’s educators exercising their right to strike for an equitable collective bargaining agreement. “At the same time, we urge leadership from both the Portland Association of Teachers and Portland Public Schools to continue working in good faith toward an agreement that addresses a number of key issues, including class size, salaries and benefits, safety in the classroom, stronger equity programs, and expanded services for early learning and special education. “With deeply committed, skilled educators and a dedicated Board of Education and administration, we are confident both sides can reach a contract that ensures students are appropriately served, educators are fairly compensated, and community priorities are honored for years to come.” ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T18:49:58Z |
| https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-praises-decision-to-expand-access-to-federal-broadband-program-for-rural-and-underserved-areas | Wyden Praises Decision to Expand Access to Federal Broadband Program for Rural and Underserved Areas | 2023-11-01 | 2023 | 2023-11 | Democrat | Senate | OR | Ron Wyden | W000779 | www.wyden.senate.gov | wyden | https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases | scraper | Administration Announcement Comes After Repeated Pressure From Wyden to Increase Flexibility for Participation in the Federal BEAD program Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Ron Wyden, D-Ore., today praised an announcement by the National Telecommunications Information Administration (NTIA) to help small internet service providers (ISPs) invest in rural and underserved communities across Oregon, by making it easier for them to participate in the Broadband Equity, Access and Deployment (BEAD) program. Oregon will receive a record $689 million from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law’s BEAD program to expand access to broadband internet to rural and underserved communities – the largest single broadband grant in Oregon’s history. NTIA, which is administering the BEAD program at the federal level, had previously required a large financial guarantee from broadband providers, called an irrevocable letter of credit, to participate in the BEAD program. Wyden warned the administration that its policy risked excluding many small, rural, and diverse ISPs across Oregon, as well as nonprofits and municipalities, all of whose participation in the program is vital to its success. “Today’s announcement out of NTIA is great news for communities across Oregon, who will be better able to access critical federal funding to boost broadband access in rural and underserved areas of our state,” Wyden said. “Once again, Assistant Secretary Alan Davidson listened to Oregonians and took steps to address their needs, so my constituents can get a fair shake. I’ll be counting on this partnership to continue until every Oregonian has access to reliable, affordable, high-quality broadband.” NTIA’s announcement will give internet service providers much more flexibility to qualify for the BEAD program, including by allowing Oregon’s credit unions to participate. It will also permit the use of performance bonds, as an alternative to the letter of credit. Additionally, it will also allow the Oregon Broadband Office to reduce obligations on certain … | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T18:49:58Z |
| https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-successfully-presses-the-international-trade-administration-to-prevent-the-promotion-of-surveillance-technology-to-foreign-governments | Wyden Successfully Presses the International Trade Administration to Prevent the Promotion of Surveillance Technology to Foreign Governments | 2023-11-01 | 2023 | 2023-11 | Democrat | Senate | OR | Ron Wyden | W000779 | www.wyden.senate.gov | wyden | https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases | scraper | In a letter to Wyden, the Commerce Department details new policies that would help ensure export promotion efforts do not violate human rights Washington, D.C.— Senate Finance Committee Chair Ron Wyden, D-Ore., today released the following statement in response to a Commerce Department letter detailing new policies the International Trade Administration (ITA) has implemented to prevent the promotion of surveillance technology to foreign governments: “I appreciate the Commerce Department's thoughtful response to my inquiry. For the first time the Department is making clear that the United States will not help companies find foreign markets for products or services that undermine democracy or enable repressive surveillance and discrimination. While I remain concerned about the U.S. government’s prior promotion of these technologies, I look forward to monitoring the implementation of these new policies and ensuring they are followed in practice.” In May, Wyden sent a letter calling on the ITA to answer questions about its promotion of dangerous surveillance technology in foreign markets, and explain what steps it is taking to prevent such technology sales from harming human rights. Wyden chairs the Senate Finance Committee, which has jurisdiction over international trade policy. He first requested information from ITA about its activity promoting the sale of surveillance technology abroad in May 2022. The agency informed Wyden’s office last year it had promoted the sale of surveillance technology, but declined to share which products it promoted, or which foreign markets it targeted. In March 2023 ITA informed Wyden’s office that it had issued a new policy to restrict promotion of surveillance products, but refused to share that policy without a formal letter. The ITA is a component of the Department of Commerce responsible for promoting the sale of American products and services in foreign countries. Read the Commerce Department’s letter to Wyden here. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T18:49:58Z |
| https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases/bonamici-converts-town-hall-meetings-telephone-town-hall-meeting | Bonamici Converts Town Hall Meetings to Telephone Town Hall Meeting | 2023-10-31 | 2023 | 2023-10 | Democrat | House | OR | Suzanne Bonamici | B001278 | bonamici.house.gov | bonamici | https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON, DC [10/31/23] – Today Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici (OR-01) announced that she will hold a telephone town hall meeting on Monday, November 6 at 6 p.m. PT. The U.S. House of Representatives has changed its schedule and representatives will now need to be in Washington, D.C. on dates that conflict with previously scheduled in-person town hall meetings. The meetings are cancelled for Portland on Nov. 6, St. Helens on Nov. 7, and Hillsboro on Nov. 9. Because Rep. Bonamici will be in Washington, D.C. on those dates, she is offering an opportunity for constituents to participate in a town hall meeting by telephone. Anyone interested in participating in the telephone town hall meeting can sign up to receive a call here. The telephone town hall meeting will also be livestreamed here. | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T00:49:26Z |
| https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-merkley-hoyle-oregon-to-receive-nearly-27-million-to-improve-road-safety | Wyden, Merkley, Hoyle: Oregon to Receive Nearly $2.7 Million to Improve Road Safety | 2023-10-30 | 2023 | 2023-10 | Democrat | Senate | OR | Ron Wyden | W000779 | www.wyden.senate.gov | wyden | https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases | scraper | Cities of Medford, Corvallis. Eugene, Bend and Stayton as well as Crook, Benton, Deschutes counties and Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs to benefit Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley along with U.S. Representative Val Hoyle today announced nearly $2.7 million in federal funds for cities, counties and Tribes in Oregon to help plan road improvements and transportation safety. “This is exactly the type of investment I fought for in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law because it will directly save Oregonians’ lives on our state’s busiest roadways ,” Wyden said. “I am committed to making our streets in Oregon and across the nation as safe as possible for this generation and the next.” “Oregonians in every corner of the state deserve safe streets in their communities,” said Merkley. “These investments will transform Oregon’s roadways into safer places for bicyclists, pedestrians, and drivers. I will continue working to ensure every Oregonian is able to move about their daily lives conveniently, without fear of accident or injury.” “These projects mark a significant step forward to help ensure safer roads and streets for every Oregonian. I’m proud that our communities, including Benton County and the Cities of Corvallis and Eugene, are taking proactive measures to enhance safety for all modes of transportation.” said Congresswoman Hoyle. “These initiatives not only safeguard our residents, they also promote equitable access and mobility for all.” The $2.65 million in federal funds come from the federal Department of Transportation’s Safe Streets and Roads for All Planning Grant program through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and will be distributed as follows in Oregon: City of Medford - $400,000 Crook County - $96,000 The Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs - $320,000 Deschutes County - $144,000 Benton County - $320,000 City of Corvallis - $664,000 City of Eugene - $384,000 Bend Metropolitan Planning Organization - $200,000 City of Stayton - $120,000 “This grant will allow the… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T18:43:12Z |
| https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-murray-sanders-baldwin-lead-44-senators-in-urging-the-biden-administration-to-require-insurers-to-fully-cover-over-the-counter-birth-control-with-no-out-of-pocket-costs-or-prescription-barrier | Wyden, Murray, Sanders, Baldwin Lead 44 Senators in Urging the Biden Administration to Require Insurers to Fully Cover Over-the-Counter Birth Control, With No Out-of-Pocket Costs or Prescription Barrier | 2023-10-30 | 2023 | 2023-10 | Democrat | Senate | OR | Ron Wyden | W000779 | www.wyden.senate.gov | wyden | https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases | scraper | More than two-thirds of voters across parties support birth control pills being sold over-the-counter Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Ron Wyden (D-OR), Patty Murray (D-WA), Bernie Sanders (I-VT) and Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) led 44 of their Senate colleagues today in sending a letter urging the Biden Administration to require federally and state-regulated health insurance plans to fully cover over-the-counter contraceptives, including Opill—the first-ever FDA-approved over-the-counter birth control pill, which will become available in early 2024—with no copays or out of pocket costs, and without a prescription requirement. “We urge you to improve health insurance coverage, both public and private, of the full range of FDA-approved, granted, or cleared contraceptive products—including birth control that is available over-the-counter (OTC) without requiring a prescription for coverage,” the senators wrote today in their letter to Department of Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra, Department of Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen, and the Department of Labor Acting Secretary Julie Su. “Over 19 million women live in counties with limited access to health care providers that offer comprehensive contraceptive services, and about one-third of women who have received prescription contraceptives have reported barriers to access. Expanding access to affordable coverage for eligible, uninsured populations would improve the quality of contraceptive care that patients receive.” “The availability of safe and effective OTC birth control products has enormous potential to help people overcome significant barriers to consistent contraceptive use, including the many logistical and financial challenges to obtaining a prescription. The FDA’s approval of Opill is a milestone; however, for an OTC birth control pill to meet its potential and be truly accessible, federal departments must ensure that it is covered without cost-sharing and without the need for a prescription as a condition of coverage,” the senators continued. … | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T18:43:12Z |
| https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-colleagues-demand-answers-from-tax-prep-companies-after-ftc-warns-of-improper-sharing-of-confidential-data | Wyden, Colleagues Demand Answers from Tax Prep Companies After FTC Warns of Improper Sharing of Confidential Data | 2023-10-27 | 2023 | 2023-10 | Democrat | Senate | OR | Ron Wyden | W000779 | www.wyden.senate.gov | wyden | https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases | scraper | Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Ron Wyden said today he and six congressional colleagues are demanding answers from five tax preparation companies that recently received notices of penalty offenses from the Federal Trade Commission. The lawmakers sought those answers in letters sent to H&R Block, TaxAct, TaxSlayer, Ramsey Solutions, and Intuit regarding the improper sharing of taxpayer’s sensitive and confidential information with Meta (formerly Facebook Inc.). “The FTC’s warning followed the release of our months-long investigation revealing that major tax preparation companies sent tens of millions of Americans’ sensitive personal data to Meta without providing appropriate disclosures or obtaining taxpayer consent—in apparent violation of taxpayer privacy laws,” the lawmakers wrote. “Accordingly, we write to confirm that, in accordance with the FTC’s notice of penalty offenses, your company is not engaged and will not be engaged in any further abuses of taxpayer privacy.” In their letters, lawmakers reiterated their support for Direct File, an IRS initiative that would let Americans file their taxes online and directly with the federal government for free. They also asked a series of questions to determine whether the tax preparation companies have been and will be compliant with the FTC’s recent notice and to further ensure that taxpayer privacy will not be violated in this way again. They have demanded answers by Nov. 8, 2023. In addition to Wyden, other lawmakers signing the letters were U.S. Sens. Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.); Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.); Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.); Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.); and Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.); and U.S. Rep. Katie Porter (D-Calif.). | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T18:43:12Z |
| https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-merkley-announce-51-million-to-improve-air-quality-in-oregon | Wyden, Merkley Announce $5.1 Million to Improve Air Quality in Oregon | 2023-10-27 | 2023 | 2023-10 | Democrat | Senate | OR | Ron Wyden | W000779 | www.wyden.senate.gov | wyden | https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases | scraper | Federal investment to help Klamath County and Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation Washington D.C. - U.S. Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley today announced that Klamath County Public Health and the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation have secured a combined $5.1 million in federal funds for air quality. “This federal investment packs a one-two punch because it improves overall air quality and helps Oregonians get efficient heat sources to replace their wood-burning units,” Wyden said. “That adds up to a huge win for quality of life in Klamath County as well as for the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation.” “These critical investments will be used to help ensure folks in Klamath County and on the Confederated Tribes of Umatilla Indian Reservation have the support and innovation to better monitor and improve air quality,” said Senator Merkley. “Air pollution often goes unnoticed, but can contribute greatly to chronic health conditions. This funding will help improve health outcomes and quality of life for thousands of Oregonians." The $4.67 million from the Environmental Protection Agency will go to the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality to partner with Klamath County Public Health, allowing the two agencies to change out around 300 woodstoves and weatherize 100 houses in Klamath County, with a focus on improving services to underserved populations who rely on wood for heat. As part of the $4.67 million, $323,630 in utility assistance will be granted to low-income applicants who change out their woodstoves through the program. An additional $451,250 in EPA funding will go to the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation for air quality monitoring. | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T18:43:12Z |
| https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-merkley-bonamici-salinas-urge-inclusion-of-chips-permitting-reform-in-defense-bill | Wyden, Merkley, Bonamici, Salinas Urge Inclusion of CHIPS Permitting Reform in Defense Bill | 2023-10-27 | 2023 | 2023-10 | Democrat | Senate | OR | Ron Wyden | W000779 | www.wyden.senate.gov | wyden | https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases | scraper | Washington, D.C. – U.S. Sens. Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley as well as U.S. Reps. Suzanne Bonamici and Andrea Salinas said today they are joining more than 100 congressional colleagues to urge leaders of the Senate and House Armed Services Committees to preserve the Building Chips in America Act in the Fiscal Year 2024 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). The chips permitting bill, which passed with overwhelming bipartisan support as an amendment to the Senate NDAA in July, streamlines National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) review requirements for semiconductor manufacturing projects to maximize the impact of the CHIPS and Science Act in Oregon and nationwide. The permitting bill by U.S. Sen. Mark Kelly (D-AZ) clarifies the scope of NEPA reviews while keeping in place state and federal protections for clean air and clean water. Senate and House leaders are preparing to negotiate a final, compromise version of the NDAA that could pass both chambers and be signed into law. The letter signed by Wyden, Merkley, Bonamici and Salinas and their colleagues urges Senate and House leaders to maintain the Senate-passed microchip permitting reforms in that final version. “Historically, NEPA reviews apply to projects that receive a significant portion of federal funding, giving the Federal government sufficient control over the project’s outcome. This is not the case for the CHIPS program,” the lawmakers wrote. Federal funding for CHIPS Act projects will comprise a minimal share of the cost, but would still be deemed “major federal actions.” “This could halt or delay commencement of new projects, impacting the United States’ ability to bolster its national security interests, economic growth, competitiveness, and technological leadership,” the lawmakers’ letter continued. | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T18:43:12Z |
| https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases/bonamici-molinaro-introduce-bipartisan-bill-reduce-childhood-hunger | Bonamici, Molinaro Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Reduce Childhood Hunger | 2023-10-26 | 2023 | 2023-10 | Democrat | House | OR | Suzanne Bonamici | B001278 | bonamici.house.gov | bonamici | https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON, DC [10/26/23] – Today Representatives Suzanne Bonamici (D-OR) and Marcus Molinaro (R-NY) introduced bipartisan legislation to increase access to healthy meals and snacks for children in care settings. The Early Childhood Nutrition Improvement Act updates the Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) to allow an additional meal or snack for children in care for a full day, and streamlines the program to make it easier for early learning programs and child care providers to participate. CACFP currently serves 4.2 million low-income children in child care centers, Head Start and afterschool programs, homeless shelters, and other settings. Affordable child care and access to nutritious meals contribute to the health and economic vitality of working families. “Child care providers play an essential role in the fight against hunger,” said Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici. “Updating and expanding CACFP will allow this effective program to reach more children, reduce food insecurity, and lower the cost of care. This bipartisan legislation is especially important as many providers struggle to keep their doors open amid rising costs. Child care is economic infrastructure, and removing unnecessary paperwork and boosting resources for child care businesses will help families afford the care and education their young children need. I’m grateful to partner with Rep. Molinaro to provide more children with a healthy start to life.” “To fight childhood hunger and combat our nation’s childcare crisis, we are expanding the Child and Adult Care Food Program to adequately feed children in care facilities and make it easier for more providers to participate in the program,” said Congressman Marcus Molinaro. “As a member of the Pre-K and Child Care Caucus, I am proud to lead this bipartisan effort with Rep. Suzanne Bonamici to ensure our nation’s children don’t have to worry about where their next meal is coming from.” The legislation is endorsed by: American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees (AFSCME), A… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T00:49:26Z |
| https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-and-merkley-announce-energy-assistance-for-oregonians | Wyden and Merkley Announce Federal Energy Assistance for Oregonians | 2023-10-26 | 2023 | 2023-10 | Democrat | Senate | OR | Ron Wyden | W000779 | www.wyden.senate.gov | wyden | https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases | scraper | Oregon Awarded $40.2 Million from Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) and Bipartisan Infrastructure Law Washington D.C. - U.S. Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley today announced that Oregon was awarded $40.2 million in federal funding to help low-income households and Tribes pay for energy bills, prevent utility shut-offs and more. “With temperatures forecast to drop near or below freezing this weekend in Oregon, this assistance is especially timely,” Wyden said. “These federal funds will help Oregonians already struggling to make the choice between paying for utilities or food. Maintaining a warm home in cold weather is crucial, especially for households with young children, older adults, and people with disabilities.” “Countless Oregon families are living paycheck-to-paycheck and struggling to pay their monthly bills,” said Merkley. “The assistance from the LIHEAP program will keep the homes of Oregonians warm this winter and help ease the financial burden of rising utility costs.” Administered through the Administration for Children and Families’ Office of Community Services at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, this funding from Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) helps low-income households pay home heating and cooling bills, prevent energy shutoffs, restore services, make minor energy-related home repairs, and weatherize homes to make them more energy efficient. Of the $40.2 million, LIHEAP is funding $38,447,662 to the state, with $639,111 going directly to Tribes; $1,140,973 came from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. “The LIHEAP program is absolutely critical for many low-income Warm Springs residents who face extremely hot summers and cold winters. We are deeply appreciative for this federal assistance for our tribal membership,” said Tribal Council Chairman Jonathan Smith. | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T18:43:12Z |
| https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-thune-reintroduce-tribal-child-support-enforcement-act | Wyden, Thune Reintroduce Tribal Child Support Enforcement Act | 2023-10-26 | 2023 | 2023-10 | Democrat | Senate | OR | Ron Wyden | W000779 | www.wyden.senate.gov | wyden | https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON — U.S. Sens. Ron Wyden (D-Ore.) and John Thune (R-S.D.), today reintroduced the Tribal Child Support Enforcement Act, which would improve child support enforcement for tribal child support agencies by allowing the more than 60 tribes that operate their own child-support programs to access the Federal Tax Refund Offset Program, which lets them collect past-due child support from non-custodial parents. The bill would also, among other things, create parity between tribes and states by ensuring tribal child support agencies have access to the same information as states do to administer their child support programs. “Tribes in Oregon and nationwide need and deserve the same abilities as state child support agencies to ensure families can recover past-due child support payments,” said Wyden, chairman of the Senate Finance Committee. “This common-sense, bipartisan bill takes a significant step to ensure Tribal youngsters aren’t deprived of financial support that can be used for food, housing and other essentials that add up to the healthiest and safest possible childhood.” “Tribal child support agencies do not currently have access to certain federal programs and information that would make it easier for them to collect past-due child support from non-custodial parents,” said Thune, ranking member of the Subcommittee on Taxation and Internal Revenue Service Oversight. “By ensuring that tribes have the same access to these programs and information as states, we can help Native American families in South Dakota – and across the country – receive the child support payments that they are owed, and also put tribal and state programs on equal footing.” “The National Child Support Engagement Association (NCSEA) has long-supported this legislation to provide our tribal partners with the same tax offset tools that states have as well as give all child support agencies necessary access to tax information to further support children,” said Erin Frisch, president of NCSEA. “This legislation is our top priority this … | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T18:43:12Z |
| https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-votes-no-on-reckless-removal-of-us-troops-in-niger | Wyden Votes No on Reckless Removal of U.S. Troops in Niger | 2023-10-26 | 2023 | 2023-10 | Democrat | Senate | OR | Ron Wyden | W000779 | www.wyden.senate.gov | wyden | https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases | scraper | Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Ron Wyden, D-Ore., issued the following statement after voting against a resolution directing the removal of U.S. Armed Forces from the Republic of Niger: “I voted against this resolution, which recklessly removes U.S. troops combating terrorism from the Republic of Niger and the wider region within 30 days. A sudden withdrawal would not only send a harmful message to our partners in West Africa who rely on our support to curb violent extremism, but it would also make it easier for Russian-affiliated mercenaries to deploy to Niger and commit additional atrocities. While I could not in good conscience support this resolution, I urge President Biden to quickly update his plan and seek explicit congressional approval for the U.S. presence in the region. Oregonians can rest assured that I remain steadfast in my commitment to assert Congress’ authority to declare or not declare war and to end forever-wars.” ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T18:43:12Z |
| https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases/bonamici-introduces-3-bipartisan-bills-expand-job-opportunities | Bonamici Introduces 3 Bipartisan Bills to Expand Job Opportunities | 2023-10-25 | 2023 | 2023-10 | Democrat | House | OR | Suzanne Bonamici | B001278 | bonamici.house.gov | bonamici | https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON, DC [10/25/23] – Today Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici (D-OR) introduced a bipartisan package of legislation that will help people get quality jobs by increasing access to apprenticeships, workforce training programs, and youth career counseling programs. The ACCESS Act – introduced with Rep. Glenn “GT” Thompson (R-PA) – would improve career counseling programs for youth to help them access high-skill, high-wage, and in-demand jobs. The BUILDS Act – also co-led by Rep. Thompson – would provide workers with skills needed to fill infrastructure jobs by creating new grants for industry partnerships in the infrastructure sector. The bill includes funding for support services, such as child care and transportation, to help workers with program retention and completion. The PARTNERS Act – co-led with Reps. Brett Guthrie (R-KY), Haley Stevens (D-MI), and Drew Ferguson (R-GA) – would establish a grant program to support the creation and expansion of industry partnerships to help small- and medium-sized businesses develop work-based learning programs and provide mentoring and support services for workers. “Investing in workers and workforce training improves lives, strengthens the economy, and offers Oregonians and Americans a path to the middle class,” said Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici. “Supporting partnerships among businesses, colleges, and other organizations is vital to building a diverse pool of skilled workers. I’m grateful to work with my colleagues to introduce this bipartisan package of legislation to support workers and create more opportunities for people to access good-paying, in-demand jobs.” "As Co-Chair of the Bipartisan Career and Technical Education Caucus, I am proud to join Rep. Bonomici in introducing these two critical pieces of legislation that will help connect the next generation to in-demand jobs and support our nation's infrastructure," said Rep. Glenn “GT” Thompson. "These bills continue to support Americans looking to climb the ladder of opportunity and develop skills to find … | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T00:49:26Z |
| https://salinas.house.gov/media/press-releases/salinas-statement-speaker-mike-johnson | Salinas Statement on Speaker Mike Johnson | 2023-10-25 | 2023 | 2023-10 | Democrat | House | OR | Andrea Salinas | S001226 | salinas.house.gov | salinas | https://salinas.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | Washington, DC – Today, U.S. Representative Andrea Salinas (OR-06) released the following statement after House Republicans voted to elect Rep. Mike Johnson as Speaker as the House: “After 22 days of chaos and disarray, House Republicans have elected a MAGA extremist who voted to overturn the 2020 election as Speaker of the House. Mike Johnson has consistently supported legislation that would rip away Americans’ reproductive freedom and slash critical programs like Social Security and Medicare. I have deep concerns about Speaker Johnson’s ability to govern responsibly. Nevertheless, I am hopeful that the new Speaker will set aside his extreme views and work to find a bipartisan path forward. It is past time for Congress to get back to work for Oregonians and for the American people.” | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T00:49:26Z |
| https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/key-committee-holds-hearing-on-bill-that-provides-critical-funding-to-oregon-counties | Key Committee Holds Hearing on Bill that Provides Critical Funding to Oregon Counties | 2023-10-25 | 2023 | 2023-10 | Democrat | Senate | OR | Ron Wyden | W000779 | www.wyden.senate.gov | wyden | https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases | scraper | The Secure Rural Schools and Community Self-Determination Act provides funding for schools, roads, and other essential services Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Ron Wyden, D-Ore., today applauded the Energy and Natural Resources Subcommittee on Public Lands, Forests, and Mining for holding a hearing on the Secure Rural Schools and Community Self-Determination Act—bipartisan legislation that Wyden co-leads with Senators Mike Crapo, R-Idaho, Jeff Merkley, D-Ore., and James Risch, R-Idaho. The legislation would invest in rural communities across Oregon and the nation for essential services such as education, road maintenance, search and rescue, wildfire prevention and watershed restoration by reauthorizing the U.S. Forest Service Secure Rural Schools and Self-Determination Program (SRS) through 2026. “The Secure Rural Schools program has been a vital lifeline for rural counties in Oregon and nationwide, but lapses in Congressional action leave rural counties dangling on an annual fiscal cliff,” Wyden said. “Reauthorizing Secure Rural Schools is critical and necessary to support education, road maintenance, forest and watershed health, fire prevention, search and rescue, and other essential services in rural communities. That’s why I’m working hard to continue this important program, and I applaud ENR Subcommittee Chair Catherine Cortez Masto for aiding in this effort by holding a hearing on my bill. Reauthorization of Secure Rural Schools is one step closer to the finish line.” Since Wyden first authored the program in 2000, SRS has provided nearly $4 billion to Oregon counties. To preserve this vital lifeline for rural communities, Secure Rural Schools must be reauthorized in fiscal year 2024. | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T18:43:12Z |
| https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/merkley-wyden-join-colleagues-urging-the-fcc-to-improve-access-to-local-journalism | Merkley, Wyden Join Colleagues Urging the FCC to Improve Access to Local Journalism | 2023-10-24 | 2023 | 2023-10 | Democrat | Senate | OR | Ron Wyden | W000779 | www.wyden.senate.gov | wyden | https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases | scraper | Washington, D.C. – Oregon’s U.S. Senators Jeff Merkley and Ron Wyden joined colleagues in a letter urging the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to improve access to local media on streaming platforms. Current law and FCC rules state that traditional cable and satellite networks must work directly with a local television station before broadcasting local news, sports, and other programming. However, linear streaming services over the internet are not required to negotiate directly with local television stations. Streaming services have a large and growing portion of the video media market as consumers are switching from traditional television providers, like cable and satellite TV, to streaming services over the internet. In 2014, nearly 9 in 10 households subscribed to cable or satellite. In 2023, fewer than half of families are subscribed. As streaming services surge, it is critical for Congress to ensure consumers have continued access to local journalism. “Internet-based streaming services now have a sizable portion of the video programming distribution market – and this is only expected to grow as streaming companies actively urge consumers to switch from traditional television providers like cable and satellite TV to virtual offerings and other video streaming services. The shift from broadcast, cable, and satellite to streaming has profound impact on existing laws, regulations, and agreements that have been foundational in support of public safety and access to local news,” wrote the Senators. The Senators continued, “In light of these marketplace changes, we urge the Commission to examine the video marketplace and seriously consider how it can ensure the viability of local broadcast stations and promote localism.” This letter is led by U.S. Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.) and – along with Merkley and Wyden – is signed by U.S. Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Raphael Warnock (D-Ga.), Sherrod Brown (D-Ohio), Peter Welch (D-Vt.), Michael Bennett (D-Colo.), Maggie Hassan (D-N.H.), Angus King (I-… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T18:43:12Z |
| https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/oregon-congressional-delegation-announces-two-national-tech-hubs-coming-to-oregon | Oregon Congressional Delegation Announces Two National Tech Hubs Coming to Oregon | 2023-10-23 | 2023 | 2023-10 | Democrat | Senate | OR | Ron Wyden | W000779 | www.wyden.senate.gov | wyden | https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases | scraper | Tech hub designations primed for technological innovation and job creation benefiting national security and sustainable housing Washington, D.C. – Oregon’s U.S. Senators Jeff Merkley and Ron Wyden, along with U.S. Representatives Earl Blumenauer, Suzanne Bonamici, Val Hoyle, and Andrea Salinas, today announced the designation of two tech hubs coming to Oregon from the U.S. Economic Development Administration. These hubs are created through the Tech Hubs program and the 2022 bipartisan CHIPS and Science Act, an economic development initiative intended to strengthen manufacturing, commercialization, and deployment of technology that advances American competitiveness. Today’s announcement also includes a federal grant heading to Portland State University for smart battery energy storage systems. “Strengthening manufacturing in Oregon is a win-win. If we don't make things in America, we won't have a middle class in America,” said Senator Merkley. “These hubs coming to Oregon will generate jobs, help support our state’s leadership in semiconductor manufacturing and national security, renewable energy, and ensure Oregon’s Mass Timber economy remains sustainable and can continue to innovate and thrive.” “This is great news for our entire state when it comes to jobs in Oregon and cutting-edge research that flows from the investments made by the CHIPS & Science Act,” said Senator Wyden. “I’m gratified this landmark legislation that I worked to pass continues to generate such positive benefits for mass timber, semiconductor technology and green energy.” “The Pacific Northwest is poised to play a critical role in the development of sustainable building materials,” said Rep. Blumenauer. “Mass timber is the key to a low carbon, sustainable future. I am pleased with the Biden Administration’s selection of the Pacific Northwest Mass Timber Tech Hub. It recognizes that Oregon already has a great deal of experience and some terrific mass timber projects. This will further reinforce our progress and our prospects for the futur… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T18:43:12Z |
| https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-announces-virtual-town-hall-on-oct-31-for-malheur-county | Wyden Announces Virtual Town Hall on Oct. 31 for Malheur County | 2023-10-23 | 2023 | 2023-10 | Democrat | Senate | OR | Ron Wyden | W000779 | www.wyden.senate.gov | wyden | https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases | scraper | Online town hall is open to all county residents to ask questions of Wyden staff & local supporters of the senator’s Community Empowerment for the Owyhee (CEO) Act Portland – U.S. Senator Ron Wyden today announced a live on-line town hall Oct. 31 hosted by People’s Town Hall for residents of Malheur County to ask questions of his staff and local supporters of his Community Empowerment for the Owyhee (CEO) Act. “This landmark Owyhee legislation shows the entire country how a rural Oregon community can come together to preserve both a natural treasure and a rich agriculture heritage that generates jobs,” Wyden said. “The Malheur CEO Act is the product of a local process driven by ranchers, conservationists and Tribal leaders putting the ‘Oregon Way’ into practice by rolling up their sleeves and designing solid solutions.” The virtual town hall will begin at noon MT (11 am PT) on Tuesday, Oct. 31 and can be watched here on Facebook Live. Malheur County residents who want to ask a question during the town hall can RSVP here. The online Oct. 31 town hall follows an in-person town hall Wyden held June 23 in Ontario for Malheur County residents to discuss the Owyhee bill and other issues of local and national significance. “Constituents showing up and speaking out about pending legislation is vital to our democracy,” said Nathan Williams of People's Town Hall, a town hall series from the founders of Town Hall Project. “People’s Town Hall invites all Malheur County residents to join this community conversation about the Malheur CEO Act.” Next Article Previous Article | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T18:43:12Z |
| https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-colleagues-introduce-legislation-to-help-homeowners-install-new-renewable-energy-systems | Wyden, Colleagues Introduce Legislation to Help Homeowners Install New Renewable Energy Systems | 2023-10-23 | 2023 | 2023-10 | Democrat | Senate | OR | Ron Wyden | W000779 | www.wyden.senate.gov | wyden | https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases | scraper | Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Ron Wyden said today he has introduced legislation that would help state, local and Tribal governments accelerate the permitting and inspection process for residents to install home energy systems, like rooftop solar panels. “Each year, more Americans are installing solar panels and other clean energy products into their homes but local governments are struggling to streamline the permitting and inspection process for qualifying clean home energy systems,” said Wyden. “That’s why I’m proud to cosponsor the SHINE Act which would simplify the permitting process for homeowners and local governments and build on the clean energy tax credits I authored in the Inflation Reduction Act. Together, these two pieces of legislation would create more green jobs in Oregon and nationwide and lower energy costs for homeowners.” Across the country, local governments are struggling to keep pace with the number of permit applications they are receiving for home energy systems like rooftop solar. When these permits take weeks, or even months, to process, it means higher prices, fewer local jobs, and a worse customer experience for homeowners. The Streamlining Homeowner Installation of New Energies (SHINE) Act directs the Department of Energy to work with local authorities to automate permitting and approvals of residential renewable energy systems, saving time, lowering utility costs, and creating new jobs in the transition to a clean energy future. The legislation was led by U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich, D-N.M. Alongside Wyden, the bill was cosponsored by U.S. Senators Catherine Cortez-Masto, D-Nev., Mark Kelly, D-Ariz., and Alex Padilla, D-Calif. The SHINE Act is supported by the Solar Energy Industries Association; Advanced Energy United; GRID Alternatives; Solar United Neighbors Action; Vote Solar and others. The text of the bill is here. A fact sheet on the bill is here. Earlier this year, Wyden successfully urged the Biden Administration to establish a Civilian Climate Corps program and … | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T18:43:12Z |
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ON [releases] ([party]);
CREATE INDEX [idx_releases_chamber]
ON [releases] ([chamber]);
CREATE INDEX [idx_releases_state]
ON [releases] ([state]);
CREATE INDEX [idx_releases_bioguide_id]
ON [releases] ([bioguide_id]);
CREATE INDEX [idx_releases_has_text]
ON [releases] ([has_text]);