Press releases
Data license: MIT · Data source: dwillis/congress-press
- url
- Link to the original release on the member's official site
- text
- Extracted body text (may be empty if the page could not be fetched)
- has_text
- 1 if body text was successfully extracted
- date_source
- How the publication date was determined
- bioguide_id
- Bioguide ID of the member
559 rows where party = "Independent", state = "ME" and year = 2015 sorted by date descending
This data as json, CSV (advanced)
| url | title | date ▲ | year | month | party | chamber | state | member_name | bioguide_id | domain | scraper | source | date_source | text | has_text | collected_at | updated_at |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-supports-government-funding-bill-with-important-provisions-for-maine- | King Supports Government Funding Bill with Important Provisions for Maine | 2015-12-18 | 2015 | 2015-12 | Independent | House | ME | Angus King | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | legacy | King Supports Government Funding Bill with Important Provisions for Maine Legislation averts shutdown, avoids fiscal uncertainty of years past Friday, December 18, 2015 WASHINGTON, D.C. Today, U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine) voted for an omnibus appropriations bill that will fund the government through September 2016, extend tax policies that support American families and businesses, and contains a host of other provisions important to Maine. Though Senator King had concerns about how the costs of the tax deal will add to the national debt, he was not willing to vote to shut down the government or sacrifice the numerous provisions that will benefit the people of Maine. By passing this bill, weve avoided another government shutdown, managed to extend or enhance several tax provisions important to Maine families and businesses, and given our economy some semblance of calm and predictability for the coming fiscal year. But unfortunately, the tax provisions in this bill are a short-term solution to a long-term problem, said Senator King. We cannot continue to mortgage our childrens future with these massive, last minute agreements even though this negotiating process was more deliberate and inclusive than it has been in the past. I hope that in the coming years, we can find a way to pay for expiring tax provisions and return to a more thoughtful, regular appropriations process that allows us to responsibly invest in our future, grow the economy, and leave our kids and grandkids with an opportunity to succeed rather than a mountain of debt. An omnibus appropriations bill is legislation that combines various smaller government funding bills into one large package that can be passed all together at once, usually to avoid a pending fiscal deadline. The omnibus legislation passed today was negotiated by Congressional leaders and the Obama Administration in order to avoid a government shutdown by funding federal departments, agencies, and programs over the next fiscal … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/in-letter-to-president-king-calls-for-increased-funding-to-address-opioid-epidemic | In Letter to President, King Calls for Increased Funding to Address Opioid Epidemic | 2015-12-17 | 2015 | 2015-12 | Independent | House | ME | Angus King | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | legacy | In Letter to President, King Calls for Increased Funding to Address Opioid Epidemic Thursday, December 17, 2015 WASHINGTON, D.C. Today, U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine) wrote a letter to President Barack Obama urging him to increase funding in the 2017 Fiscal Year budget to address the prescription drug and heroin epidemic in Maine and across the country. In the letter, Senator King underscored his call for a comprehensive approach to combat drug addiction and support the communities dealing with this public health and safety crisis. As you are well aware, addiction to opioids, such as oxycodone, hydrocodone, and heroin is tearing at the fabric of our communities and families and devastating peoples lives across the country, Senator King wrote in the letter. Addressing this epidemic will require a multi-faceted approach, including a strong commitment to prevention, treatment, enforcement and various measures to support communities feeling its acute effects. []Ultimately, the opioid and heroin crisis we face demands an aggressive approach at the federal level to create lasting solutions on behalf of families and communities in Maine and across the United States. Senator Kings letter also discussed how increased funding for programs and initiatives like Maine Healthy Communities, Prescription Drug Monitoring Programs (PDMPs) and Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) will be balanced by significant savings in the long run through decreases in emergency care and long-term treatment, as well as a reduction in crime associated with heroin use and distribution. The most significant savings however, is that of saving valuable young lives and saving families and communities the pain of watching people struggle with opioid dependence and so often dying. Senator Kings letter also outlines the tragic story of Michael Fielders, of Eliot, Maine, who died of a suspected heroin overdose in November while waiting for treatment. Michaels parents have been vocal about addressing the opioid c… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-warns-tax-extender-deal-will-shift-costs-to-future-generations- | King Warns Tax Extender Deal Will Shift Costs to Future Generations | 2015-12-17 | 2015 | 2015-12 | Independent | House | ME | Angus King | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | legacy | King Warns Tax Extender Deal Will Shift Costs to Future Generations Thursday, December 17, 2015 WASHINGTON, D.C. Today, U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine) joined with his colleagues Mark Warner (D-Va.) and Joe Manchin (D-W.V.) to express concern about the cost of the tax extenders package set to come before the Senate tomorrow. Despite his support for many of the tax policies in the legislation, such as permanent enhancements to tax credits for working families and investment incentives for businesses, Senator King worries that the $680 billion package negotiated by Congressional leadership will saddle future generations with debt because it is not offset by other spending reductions or revenue increases. This bill should be called the Tax Your Grandchildren Act, because were cutting our own taxes, but were borrowing the money that otherwise would be collected, and the kids are going to have to pay it back, at some point, with interest, said Senator King. Ultimately for me, this is an issue of ethical stewardship. [] Our generation is not keeping our infrastructure up, is not adequately providing for the common defense, and is shifting the costs from us to our children. Thats not stewardship, that is inter-generational theft. The Protecting Americans from Tax Hikes Act of 2015, a $680 billion agreement reached by Congressional leaders, would extend many expired tax provisions for families and businesses and carries an enormous cost without containing any offsets in spending or revenue increases. Despite Senator Kings support for many of the bills individual policies such as the Earned Income Tax Credit, the Research and Development tax credit, and tax provisions that support renewable energy he is concerned that using this year-end, unpaid tax extenders package to advance these policies is fiscally irresponsible and only shift taxes to future generations. Senator King has long believed that Congress needs to stop making short-sighted decisions that pass along long-ter… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/collins-king-congratulate-alba-technic-for-winning-head-health-challenge- | Collins, King Congratulate Alba-Technic for Winning Head Health Challenge | 2015-12-16 | 2015 | 2015-12 | Independent | House | ME | Angus King | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | legacy | Collins, King Congratulate Alba-Technic for Winning Head Health Challenge Winthrop-based company is one of five winners nationwide to receive award from National Institute of Standards and Technology, National Football League, Under Armour, and General Electric Wednesday, December 16, 2015 WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King today congratulated Alba-Technic, LLC, one of five companies nationwide to win the Head Health Challenge III. The challenge is an open innovation competition held by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), the National Football League, Under Armour, and General Electric (GE) to support the discovery, design and development of advanced materials that better absorb and dissipate impact. Alba-Technic has been doing innovative and exciting things in Winthrop to advance head health and safety, and were thrilled that this Maine company is being recognized so prominently at the national level, said Senators Collins and King in a joint statement. As we learn more and more about brain injuries and brain trauma, the need for new protective technologies becomes that much clearer and Alba Technic has an important role to play. We commend the National Institute of Standards and Technology, the NFL, Under Armour, and GE for organizing this competition, and look forward to following Alba Technic as it continues to compete for additional prize money and, more importantly, develop this potentially life-saving material. Winthrop-based Alba-Technic has developed a patented, shock-absorbent honeycomb material with an outer layer that diverts the energy from a fall or hit. The material is normally soft and compliant, but upon impact, the outer layer changes into a hard shell to spread the energy and protect the user from injury. As one of the competition winners, the company will receive $250,000 to advance their work in developing its state-of-the-art material. A panel of leading experts in the field of materials scie… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senators-collins-and-king-announce-that-usda-is-now-accepting-applications-for-the-rural-energy-for-america-program-funding | Senators Collins and King Announce that USDA is Now Accepting Applications for the Rural Energy for America Program Funding | 2015-12-16 | 2015 | 2015-12 | Independent | House | ME | Angus King | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | legacy | Senators Collins and King Announce that USDA is Now Accepting Applications for the Rural Energy for America Program Funding Wednesday, December 16, 2015 WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King today announced that the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is accepting applications for funding through the Rural Energy for America Program (REAP), which provides guaranteed loan financing and grant funding to agricultural producers and small rural businesses to purchase or install renewable energy systems or make energy efficiency improvements. REAP funding will make it possible to rehabilitate housing, encourage energy efficiency, and help improve facilities throughout Maine, said Senators King and Collins in a joint statement. We encourage Maine farmers and rural small business owners to apply for these loans, which provide vital opportunities to install energy efficiency measures that save money, better protect the environment, and boost economic growth. Funding available through the REAP guaranteed loan program includes financing for renewable energy systems and making energy efficiency improvements, such as efficient lighting conversions, motor upgrades, building envelope improvements, HVAC upgrades, and more. Loan amounts can range from $5,000 to $25 million and can cover up to 75 percent of the total eligible project cost. For more information, you may contact Brian Wilson at 990-9168 or brian.wilson@me.usda.gov, or you may visit http://www.rd.usda.gov/programs-services/rural-energy-america-program-renewable-energy-systems-energy-efficiency/me. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senators-collins-king-announce-approval-of-1-billion-toward-additional-destroyer-likely-to-be-built-at-biw- | Senators Collins, King Announce Approval of $1 billion Toward Additional Destroyer Likely to be built at BIW | 2015-12-16 | 2015 | 2015-12 | Independent | House | ME | Angus King | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | legacy | Senators Collins, King Announce Approval of $1 billion Toward Additional Destroyer Likely to be built at BIW Wednesday, December 16, 2015 WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Senators Susan Collins, a senior member of the Defense Appropriations Committee, and Angus King, a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, announced today that the final omnibus bill includes $1 billion toward the construction of an additional DDG-51 destroyer. This destroyer would likely be built at Bath Iron Works. This destroyer would be in addition to those already included in the current multi-year procurement contract. The omnibus bill will be considered by Congress later this week. As a senior member of the Defense Appropriations Committee, Senator Collins requested the funding toward the additional DDG-51 to help meet combatant commander requirements for destroyers across the globe. Senator Collins successfully advocated for the inclusion of the $1 billion in funding in the Senate Defense Appropriations Bill. The House Defense Appropriations Bill, however, allocated no funding for this additional destroyer. Following weeks of negotiations between the House and Senate regarding the bill, the omnibus bill appropriates the full $1 billion in funding toward this additional ship, affirming the strategic importance of our Navy and shipbuilding programs. Our destroyers are the workhorses of the Navy, and I am proud of the highly skilled, hardworking men and women at Bath Iron Works who continue to deliver the highest quality ships for our nations sailors, said Senator Collins. The power of presence cannot be taken for granted or ignored, which is why the investments for this new destroyer funded by this bill are so necessary. In a time of serious budget constraints for our Defense Department, this important investment underscores the value and importance of our naval assets to the security and stability of our country. The equation is simple: fewer ships means less presence, less security at home, and … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-colleagues-send-letter-to-homeland-security-urging-more-rigorous-screening-of-visa-applicants-on-social-media- | King, Colleagues Send Letter to Homeland Security Urging More Rigorous Screening of Visa Applicants on Social Media | 2015-12-15 | 2015 | 2015-12 | Independent | House | ME | Angus King | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | legacy | King, Colleagues Send Letter to Homeland Security Urging More Rigorous Screening of Visa Applicants on Social Media Tuesday, December 15, 2015 WASHINGTON, D.C. Today, U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine) joined with 24 Senators in sending a letter a to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary, Jeh Johnson, expressing concern about the reported lack of consistency in how the agency monitors the social media activity of people applying for U.S. Visas. The letter comes after reports that the female assailant involved in the San Bernardino terrorist attack earlier this month, who entered the country on a K-1 fianc visa, may have expressed radical jihadist sentiments on social media. We write to express our deep concern regarding reports that critical background information of individuals participating in American visa programs has been largely omitted from the visa security screening process, wrote the Senators in their letter. Ensuring that the screening processes for our nations visa programs are rigorous and comprehensive must be a top priority, as these programs are critical to our security, our economy, and for our bilateral relationships with nations around the world. We look forward to working with you to establish a more robust social media background check process for all visitors and immigrants to the United States. In the letter, which was led by Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), the Senators asked DHS for more information on how social media background checks are used in the Visa review process now, and how that process can be improved. They also expressed their commitment to making sure Americas Visa programs have rigorous and comprehensive screening processes. Also signing the letter were Senators Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.), Barbara Mikulski (D-Md.), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Christopher Murphey (D-Conn.), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), Gary Peters (D-Mich.), Diane Feinstein (D-Calif.), Tammy Baldwin (D-Wisc.), Cory Booker (D-… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/collins-king-statement-in-response-to-bath-iron-works-labor-contract-approval | Collins, King Statement In Response to Bath Iron Works Labor Contract Approval | 2015-12-13 | 2015 | 2015-12 | Independent | House | ME | Angus King | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | legacy | Collins, King Statement In Response to Bath Iron Works Labor Contract Approval Sunday, December 13, 2015 WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King issued the following statement today following approval of the new labor contract between Bath Iron Works and the Local S6 Machinists Union: The ratification of the labor contract required collaboration, hard work, and compromise by all parties. This represents a significant achievement and will put BIW on a viable track moving forward as they work as a team to fulfill critical Navy requirements. Bath Iron Works and its highly-skilled workers are national strategic assets essential to our countrys defense and to our states economy. Simply put, there is no workforce better able to build the Zumwalt and Arleigh Burke-class destroyers than the men and women of BIW. We have secured funding for the construction of the DDG-1000s and the DDG-51s, and we remain strong advocates for BIWs opportunity to compete for the construction of the Coast Guards new Offshore Patrol Cutters, which would diversify BIWs workload, and make the yard more competitive for future Arleigh Burke destroyer contracts. Senator Collins is a member of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Defense, and Senator King is a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/in-video-king-applauds-students-and-event-organizers-at-maine-robotics-expo- | In Video, King Applauds Students and Event Organizers at Maine Robotics EXPO | 2015-12-12 | 2015 | 2015-12 | Independent | House | ME | Angus King | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | legacy | In Video, King Applauds Students and Event Organizers at Maine Robotics EXPO Recorded remarks played at Augusta Civic Center highlight importance of STEM education Saturday, December 12, 2015 ARLINGTON, VA In a pre-recorded video message played today at the Maine Robotics EXPO in Augusta, U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine) congratulated the student participants and event organizers for their interest in and commitment to the Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) fields. In his remarks, Senator King highlighted the importance of STEM education and told the students that they can change the world through ingenuity and innovation. What a great day for Maine at the Augusta Civic Center. This is an amazing gathering of some of the best and the brightest from across Maine, said Senator King. I want you to know how important what youre doing is not only to have some fun but also to see what you can do with science, technology, engineering, and math, and how you can literally move the world. Im hoping that in this room today is the next Bill Gates or the next Steve Jobs, because the world is yours. The 3rd annual Maine Robotics EXPO welcomed more than 800 students and 2,000 guests from all over the state to the Augusta Civic Center. This full-day event is meant to inspire Maines future workforce and foster an early interest in the STEM fields. The EXPO was organized by Maine Robotics and several other groups and companies including the Robotics Institute of Maine, the Maine App Challenge, Tyler Technologies, Project>Login, and Educate Maine. Senator Kings video message is available here, and the full transcript is below: +++ What a great day for Maine at the Augusta Civic Center. What a great day for robotics for computers for programming. This is an amazing gathering of some of the best and the brightest from across Maine. I want to thank Maine Robotics, The First Lego League, Central Maine Vex, Educate Maine, Maine First Robotics Competiti… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/on-national-wreaths-across-america-day-king-honors-americas-fallen-heroes-at-arlington-national-cemetery- | On National Wreaths Across America Day, King Honors America’s Fallen Heroes at Arlington National Cemetery | 2015-12-12 | 2015 | 2015-12 | Independent | House | ME | Angus King | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | legacy | On National Wreaths Across America Day, King Honors Americas Fallen Heroes at Arlington National Cemetery Lays wreath on Maine Senator Hathaways grave and attends ceremony at USS Maine memorial Saturday, December 12, 2015 ARLINGTON, VA This morning, U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine) joined with thousands of volunteers at Arlington National Cemetery to place wreaths on the graves of Americas fallen heroes as part of the Maine-based initiative Wreaths Across America. During this powerful tribute to Americas veterans and their families, Senator King delivered remarks during a ceremony at the USS Maine Mast Memorial and placed a wreath on the grave of Maines former U.S. Senator William Hathaway, who served in the U.S. Army Air Corps during World War II. Senator King worked for former Senator Hathaway during part of his tenure in the U.S. Senate in the 1970s. Wreaths Across America is an amazing tribute to our heroes who have made the ultimate sacrifice, to our heroic veterans still with us today, and to their families who stand by their side through it all, said Senator King. I was honored to participate in todays tribute and see firsthand the energy and spirit of community that make this event so special. We can and should be proud that this Maine-led effort has such a powerful impact across the country. Senator King welcomed the Wreaths Across America convoy of volunteers who arrived at Arlington National Cemetery today to lay the Maine-made balsam wreaths at the grave site of American veterans interred there. The procession down the East Coast began on December 6th in Harrington, where Patriot Guard Riders continued their tradition of escorting trucks filled with wreaths. In addition to placing an estimated 230,000 wreaths today at Arlington National Cemetery, volunteers will place wreaths at over 1,000 locations in all 50 states and in numerous national veteran cemeteries on foreign soil. Wreaths Across America was started 24 years ago by Morrill and Karen Worce… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/collins-and-king-statement-in-response-to-department-of-commerces-final-countervailing-duty-order-on-supercalendered-paper-from-canada | Collins and King Statement in Response to Department of Commerce’s Final Countervailing Duty Order on Supercalendered Paper from Canada | 2015-12-11 | 2015 | 2015-12 | Independent | House | ME | Angus King | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | legacy | Collins and King Statement in Response to Department of Commerces Final Countervailing Duty Order on Supercalendered Paper from Canada Friday, December 11, 2015 WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King released the following statement today in response to the Department of Commerces countervailing duty order on supercalendered paper from Canada that was published today: The Department of Commerces order is welcome news for the hardworking men and women of Madison Paper Industries who have for far too long fought an uphill battle against illegal and unfair provincial subsidies like the ones provided to the Port Hawkesbury Mill. The duties levied on companies that have been found to receive illegal and unfair trade advantages will help even the playing field in this important segment of the paper market. However, we remain extremely concerned with how the Department of Commerce conducted its investigation of the Canadian producers. The Department should have, as we strongly advocated, reviewed all four Canadian producers of supercalendered paper to ensure a fair and fact-based process. Rather than conduct a careful assessment of the actual subsidies received by each company, the Department relied on Port Hawkesburys and Resolutes subsidies to determine an arbitrary and unfair duty rate for Irving and Catalyst. This ill-advised decision could affect more than 1,000 Maine workers employed at J.D. Irving and the Catalyst-owned mill in Rumford. On behalf of these Maine workers, we urge the Department of Commerce to prioritize individual examinations of Irving and Catalyst through the expedited review process. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/collins-king-statement-on-bath-iron-works-tentative-labor-contract-proposal | Collins, King Statement on Bath Iron Works Tentative Labor Contract Proposal | 2015-12-10 | 2015 | 2015-12 | Independent | House | ME | Angus King | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | legacy | Collins, King Statement on Bath Iron Works Tentative Labor Contract Proposal Thursday, December 10, 2015 WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King issued the following statement today on the tentative labor contract proposal reached between Bath Iron Works andtheMachinists Union Local S6: Bath Iron Works and its highly-skilled workers are national strategic assets essential to our countrys defense and to our states economy. Simply put, there is no workforce better positioned to build the Zumwalt- and Arleigh Burke-class destroyers than the men and women of BIW. We have secured funding for the construction of the DDG-1000s and the DDG-51s, and we remain strong advocates for BIWs opportunity to compete for the construction of the Coast Guards new Offshore Patrol Cutters, which would diversify BIWs workload,and forfutureArleigh Burke destroyers. We are very pleased that BIW management and labor union leadership have worked cooperatively to reach a tentative proposal for a labor contract. Conversations with senior Navy and Coast Guard officials convince us that cost is a key consideration in nearly every shipbuilding competition. That fact underscores the importance of BIWs ongoing work to increase operational efficiency at the shipyard because it must offer cost-effective bids in order to win these contracts. Senator Collins is a member of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Defense and Senator King is a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senate-committee-passes-king-backed-bill-to-revitalize-waterfront-communities | Senate Committee Passes King-Backed Bill to Revitalize Waterfront Communities | 2015-12-10 | 2015 | 2015-12 | Independent | House | ME | Angus King | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | legacy | Senate Committee Passes King-Backed Bill to Revitalize Waterfront Communities Supports local efforts to strengthen Maine waterfronts and promote economic development Thursday, December 10, 2015 WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Senator Angus King announced today the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation has passed the Waterfront Community Revitalization and Resiliency Act, legislation he cosponsored that would boost efforts to revitalize waterfront communities. The bill now moves to the full Senate. Maines waterfront communities are not only a central part of our states heritage, but theyre also a crucial part of our states economy, generating hundreds of millions of dollars every year, Senator King said. These communities are also undergoing significant changes from modernizing outdated infrastructure to developing strategies to deal with climate change. This legislation would help streamline government resources for these communities so they can have the tools and resources needed to grow, adapt, and sustain themselves in the future. The Waterfront Community Revitalization and Resiliency Act will support community efforts to make the most of water resources by attracting water-dependent industries and investments that leverage water-proximity to sustainably revitalize neighborhoods and enhance recreation and tourism. In addition, the bill will support communities to plan for their future and help them attract private and non-profit investment. Many waterfront communities were built around their water resources years ago, and they are now working to reposition and overcome issues such as limited public access and poor alignment with modern development. In addition to adapting to economic shifts, waterfront communities are facing pressures to meet increasing demands on water resources; make resilient investments that can withstand weather extremes like storms, floods, and fluctuating water levels; and adapt to changing ecosystem conditions that range fr… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://web.archive.org/web/20160225201139/http://www.king.senate.gov/news/video-and-audio/view/king-urges-military-leader-to-cut-off-flow-of-heroin-at-southern-border | King Urges Military Leader to Cut Off Flow of Heroin At Southern Border | 2015-12-09 | 2015 | 2015-12 | Independent | House | ME | Angus King | K000383 | web.archive.org | legacy | Your Neighborhood We know the value of people-to-people connections, and my state staff is committed to serving the people of Maine by getting out of the office and into your community. Click here to see where we will be this month. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-urges-military-leader-to-cut-off-flow-of-heroin-at-southern-border | King Urges Military Leader to Cut Off Flow of Heroin At Southern Border | 2015-12-09 | 2015 | 2015-12 | Independent | House | ME | Angus King | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | legacy | King Urges Military Leader to Cut Off Flow of Heroin At Southern Border Wednesday, December 9, 2015 WASHINGTON, D.C. During a confirmation hearing today before the Senate Armed Services Committee, U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine) today urged the nominee for Commander of United States Southern Command (SOUTHCOM), which oversees all military operations in Central and South America, to work to reduce the flow of heroin from those countries into the United States. We are, at this moment in time, suffering literally from a heroin epidemic all over the country, including, tragically, in my state of Maine. What is it that you need to interdict more of those ships [carrying heroin]? Senator King asked. Were spending a lot of time here talking about the threat of ISIS and in the meantime weve got this other threat that is killing, in my state, two or three hundred people a year. Assuming that you are approved at SOUTHCOM, youre going to be at the point of this, and to the extent that you can tell us what you need not necessarily in terms of military assets, but comprehensively because this is a true crisis in this country today and supply is part of the problem, Senator King continued. Obviously we need to talk about treatment and prevention and all of those issues, but supply is part of it and my understanding is a great deal of this heroin is coming up through south of our borders. In March 2015, General John Kelly, the current Commander of SOUTHCOM, testified before the Armed Services Committee that one hundred percent of the heroin entering the United States is produced in Latin America, with approximately half of it being produced in Mexico, which is a part of United States Northern Commands area of responsibility. In his testimony today, nominee Vice Admiral Kurt W. Tidd, USN said that demand for heroin has more than doubled since 2007, and that in response, criminal organizations have increased heroin production in Mexico, Colombia, and Guatemala. In fact, according t… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senate-passes-major-education-reform-bill | Senate Passes Major Education Reform Bill | 2015-12-09 | 2015 | 2015-12 | Independent | House | ME | Angus King | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | legacy | Senate Passes Major Education Reform Bill Legislation includes King-backed measures to close the Homework Gap and provide greater testing flexibility for states Wednesday, December 9, 2015 WASHINGTON D.C. With the support of U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine), the Senate today overwhelmingly passed the Every Student Succeeds Act, a major bipartisan education reform bill that curtails the burdensome requirements of No Child Left Behind, reduces reliance on high-stakes testing, and ensures access to a quality education for all students. Senator King released the following statement: Today is a victory for students, parents, and educators in Maine and across the country who have struggled for too long with unpredictable, top-down federal education policy that focused more on punishing schools than on promoting student achievement, Senator King said. This bipartisan bill will replace the broken No Child Left Behind law and finally turn the federal government into a partner in education rather than the obstacle it has been by empowering those who know our students best with the ability to make the decisions that will improve their futures. I commend Maines congressional delegation for their terrific work in reauthorizing the Elementary and Secondary Education Act, said Duke Albanese, former Maine Commissioner of Education and Senior Policy Advisor at the Great Schools Partnership. Educators and policymakers across Maine have been waiting for nearly eight years for Congress to act to ensure that the authority to set education policy is returned to the states and to school districts. This legislation will ensure that the needs and goals of Maine students can be adequately met by those closest to them. This is an important day for students, parents, and educators across the country, and I am pleased that Congress has finally completed the important task of reauthorizing this important law. The legislation also includes provisions authored by Senator King that will gr… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/collins-king-announce-trade-adjustment-assistance-for-displaced-expera-mill-workers | Collins, King Announce Trade Adjustment Assistance for Displaced Expera Mill Workers | 2015-12-08 | 2015 | 2015-12 | Independent | House | ME | Angus King | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | legacy | Collins, King Announce Trade Adjustment Assistance for Displaced Expera Mill Workers Tuesday, December 8, 2015 WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King announced today that the petition for Trade Adjustment Assistance (TAA) for the 195 workers displaced by the closure of the Expera Specialty Solutions pulp mill in Old Town has been approved by the U.S. Department of Labor. It is our hope that this announcement brings relief to the many hard-working men and women at the Old Town mill who, through no fault of their own, lost their jobs as a result of increased foreign competition, said Senators Collins and King in a joint statement. TAA assistance will help these workers get back on their feet by providing them with the opportunity to acquire the new skills and new training necessary to prepare for jobs in other industries. It is a crucial lifeline for workers in Maine and across the nation. In October, Senators Collins and King sent a letter to Labor Secretary Thomas Perez urging him to quickly approve this assistance. This June, the Senate passed a bipartisan reauthorization of Trade Adjustment Assistance (TAA), which was based upon The Trade Adjustment Assistance Enhancement Act of 2015 that Senator Collins co-authored with Senator Ron Wyden (D-OR). TAA is a program of the Department of Labor that helps workers who have lost their jobs as a result of increased imports or a shift of production outside of the United States. TAA provides these trade-affected workers with a variety of reemployment services and benefits to help them find new jobs and get back to work. In the 2013 fiscal year alone, more than 700 Mainers used TAA programs, and more than 70 percent of those participants found employment within three months of completing their retraining programs. In addition, of the participants who found employment, more than 90 percent were still employed in their new jobs six months later. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-fischer-introduce-bipartisan-paid-leave-bill | King, Fischer Introduce Bipartisan Paid Leave Bill | 2015-12-08 | 2015 | 2015-12 | Independent | House | ME | Angus King | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | legacy | King, Fischer Introduce Bipartisan Paid Leave Bill Strong Families Act Would Provide Tax Incentives to Employers Who Provide Paid Family or Medical Leave Tuesday, December 8, 2015 WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Senators Angus King (I-Maine) and Deb Fischer (R-Neb.) announced this morning they have reintroduced legislation that would offer employers incentives to voluntarily provide paid family or medical leave to their employees. The bill, known as S. 2354 The Strong Families Act, offers new options for working families. Senator King released the following statement: Because of our countrys outdated family leave policies, working parents too often have to struggle to balance the needs of their families and the needs of their job. Thats not how it should be in America today and thats why this legislation aims to provide them with the flexibility they need to succeed in both. By bringing family leave policies into the 21st century, we can make it easier for working Americans to make a living and take care of their families at the same time all of which will only help strengthen our workforce and allow us to better compete in todays global economy. Im pleased to join with Senator Deb Fischer to reintroduce this common sense and much-needed bill. Senator Fischer released the following statement: Im proud to join my friend Senator Angus King to reintroduce a bill to provide needed flexibility for working families. Employees face the increasingly complicated demands of caring for aging parents and young children while balancing careers and workplace schedules. Our bipartisan legislation is an important step forward to offer more workers, particularly low-wage, hourly workers, peace of mind and the opportunity to earn pay while meeting needs at home. The Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) of 1993 requires employers of 50 or more employees to provide up to 12 weeks of unpaid leave. This time can be used for events like the birth or adoption of children, serious medical issu… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-statement-on-mainegeneral-health-cyber-breach | King Statement on MaineGeneral Health Cyber Breach | 2015-12-08 | 2015 | 2015-12 | Independent | House | ME | Angus King | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | legacy | King Statement on MaineGeneral Health Cyber Breach Tuesday, December 8, 2015 WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine), a member of the Senate Intelligence Committee, issued the following statement today following an announcement by MaineGeneral Health that its computer network had been breached: Numerous Maine businesses, including those in the health care sector, have told me that they are confronting thousands of attempts to hack their systems and steal sensitive data. Unfortunately, thats the sad reality of todays world where the click of a mouse can have seriously damaging consequences, Senator King said. I have contacted the FBI to inquire about the extent and severity of the data breach and will work with the both the Bureau and MaineGeneral to remedy the situation and to safeguard personal information. I will also continue to work to connect Maine businesses with cyber experts in the federal government so that they know where to turn to rapidly respond and prevent further losses. Everyone in Maine, in one form or another, shares personal information with businesses. Its just commonplace today. But its also why Maine people deserve the enhanced protection that would come as a result of Congress passing long-overdue cyber-security information sharing legislation. Todays breach further underscores how we need to push this bill across the finish-line to give Maine businesses, both large and small, improved tools to better protect themselves against cyber-attacks. Over the past few years, Senator Kings office has been in frequent contact with a variety of Maine businesses in the health, defense, financial, education, and consumer products sectors to understand how cyber-attacks and data breaches impact them. According to the Maine Credit Union League, data breaches over the past year in have cost Maine credit unions approximately $2 million to replace debit and credit cards and an additional $500,000 to cover fraud. Furthermore, one Maine healthcare provider … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senate-passes-collins-king-resolution-marking-december-12-2015-as-wreaths-across-america-day | Senate Passes Collins, King Resolution Marking December 12, 2015 as “Wreaths Across America Day” | 2015-12-08 | 2015 | 2015-12 | Independent | House | ME | Angus King | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | legacy | Senate Passes Collins, King Resolution Marking December 12, 2015 as Wreaths Across America Day Tuesday, December 8, 2015 WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King today announced that the U.S. Senate unanimously passed a resolution designating Saturday, December 12, 2015 as Wreaths Across America Day. On December 12th, a convoy of volunteers is scheduled to arrive at Arlington National Cemetery to lay approximately 230,000 Maine-made balsam wreaths at the grave site of each American veteran interred there. This is the 24th consecutive year that Morrill and Karen Worcester, owners of Worcester Wreath Company in Harrington, Maine will make this generous donation. The procession to Arlington began on December 6th in Harrington where Patriot Guard Riders continued their tradition of escorting the wreath trucks down the East Coast. In addition to Arlington National Cemetery, volunteers will place wreaths at over 1,000 locations in all 50 states and in numerous national veteran cemeteries on foreign soil. Wreaths Across America is a powerful demonstration of respect and appreciation for our veterans both those that weve lost and those still with us that reminds them and their families that we are eternally grateful for their service and sacrifice, said Senators Collins and King in a joint statement. And this proud tradition, still going strong after the Worcesters started it 24 years ago, is built on the same spirit of generosity that helps make the holiday season so special. We are honored to join with the countless volunteers and supporters who come together to make Wreaths Across America possible and share in honoring and remembering those who have made the ultimate sacrifice for our country. The resolution is available HERE and the full text is below: +++ Whereas, 24 years before the date of adoption of this resolution, the Wreaths Across America project began with an annual tradition that occurs in December, of donating, transporting, and placing 5… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-announces-two-portland-high-school-students-as-interns-in-scarborough-office | King Announces Two Portland High School Students as Interns in Scarborough Office | 2015-12-07 | 2015 | 2015-12 | Independent | House | ME | Angus King | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | legacy | King Announces Two Portland High School Students as Interns in Scarborough Office Monday, December 7, 2015 WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Senator Angus King announced today that Oona Mackinnon Hoban and Eamonn Dundon of Portland High School will serve as part-time interns in his Scarborough office. The internship, which will provide both students with school credit, is the result of a collaborative effort with the nonprofit Jobs for Maines Graduates (JMG) and Portland High School aimed at giving local students an opportunity to learn more about the work of a U.S. Senators office through observation, assistance, and mentoring. Im delighted to welcome Oona and Eamonn to my Scarborough office. Both of them are outstanding students and hard workers, and I look forward to having them involved in the legislative process on behalf of the people of Maine, Senator King said. I also want to thank everyone at Jobs for Maines Graduates for working with my office to make this internship possible and applaud them for all of their meaningful work to help students across the state. We are extremely pleased with the continued development of the relationship being forged between Portland High School and Senator Kings office, said Eric Moynihan, JMG Expanded Learning Opportunities Coordinator at Portland High School. This tremendous opportunity is the second internship offered to PHS students by the Senators office in three years. Expanded Learning Opportunities like these internships provide relevant, real-world experiences, are invaluable to the student and are an integral piece of the Portland High School model of education. A junior at Portland High School, Oona Mackinnon-Hoban is involved in student government, the drama program, and numerous other clubs, including the Womens Rights Club and the Shakespeare Club. Outside of school, she is a member of the girl choir Musica de Filia, and also enjoys writing in her spare time. She was a national semifinalist at the American Legion Oratorical Contes… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senators-collins-and-king-attend-wreaths-across-america-ceremony-at-us-capitol | Senators Collins and King Attend Wreaths Across America Ceremony at U.S. Capitol | 2015-12-07 | 2015 | 2015-12 | Independent | House | ME | Angus King | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | legacy | Senators Collins and King Attend Wreaths Across America Ceremony at U.S. Capitol Monday, December 7, 2015 WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King took part in the Wreaths Across America Capitol wreath laying ceremony this morning in Washington. Beginning in 2007, and each December since, Wreaths Across America, based out of Columbia Falls, Maine, has placed a Remembrance Wreath at the U.S. Capitol Building. The wreath laid at the U.S. Capitol is adorned with flags representing each branch of the U.S. Armed Forces and POWs/MIAs, and decorated with a red bow. During the ceremony, which coincided with similar ceremonies at all 50 state capitols across our country, Senators Collins and King delivered remarks and joined in a moment of silence to reflect on the holiday season and to honor and remember our nations veterans and their families for their service and sacrifices. Wreaths Across America is a powerful demonstration of respect and appreciation for our veterans both those that weve lost and those still with us, said Senators Collins and King. The mission of Wreaths Across America is: Remember. Honor. Teach. Thanks to the spirit of this Maine-made tradition, we will remember and honor Americas veterans this holiday season, while also teaching generations to come of the sacrifices that have been made to secure our freedoms and to defend our liberty. A convoy of volunteers and approximately 248,000 Maine-made balsam wreaths departed from Maine this past Sunday, December 6th, and is scheduled to arrive at Arlington National Cemetery on December 12th. Between 30,000 and 40,000 volunteers are expected to lay the wreaths at the graves of each American veteran. This is the 24th consecutive year that Morrill and Karen Worcester, owners of Worcester Wreath Company in Harrington, Maine will make this generous donation. In addition to Arlington National Cemetery, volunteers will place more than 900,000 wreaths at over 1,000 locations in all 50 states and numerou… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-cotton-introduce-legislation-to-strengthen-counterterrorism-tools-in-wake-of-paris-san-bernardino-attacks | King, Cotton Introduce Legislation to Strengthen Counterterrorism Tools in Wake of Paris, San Bernardino Attacks | 2015-12-03 | 2015 | 2015-12 | Independent | House | ME | Angus King | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | legacy | King, Cotton Introduce Legislation to Strengthen Counterterrorism Tools in Wake of Paris, San Bernardino Attacks Thursday, December 3, 2015 WASHINGTON, D.C. In the wake of the brutal terrorist attacks in Paris last month, as well as initial reports that this weeks attack in San Bernardino may be tied to terrorism, U.S. Senators Angus King (I-Maine) and Tom Cotton (R-Ark.) today introduced legislation that would ensure that U.S. counterterrorism officials have the necessary tools to track suspected terrorists and prevent terrorist attacks in the United States. The first line of defense against terrorism is intelligence, and today, our government is reliant on telecommunication companies to retain records that we use to connect the dots that can help us prevent attacks, Senator King said. Our legislation would simply require that U.S. officials are provided with adequate warning if a company decides it no longer will hold these vital records, allowing time to ensure that we dont lose a potentially valuable tool in the battle against terrorism. Our Intelligence Community and Law Enforcement professionals are skilled at connecting the dots to thwart and respond to terrorist attacks. But if there are no dots to connect, those skills wont do us any good, Senator Cotton said. The King-Cotton legislation will help preserve metadata currently stored by phone carriers by forcing them to notify the federal government if they change the amount of time they retain billing records to less than 18 months. This will give Congress and the Executive Branch an opportunity to respond before those dots are lost forever. Signed into law on June 2, 2015, the USA Freedom Act requires the government to apply to the FISA Court for an order to retrieve call detail records, which include telephone numbers and not the content of calls from telecommunications carriers. As of that date, the Act gave the government 180 days to end its bulk collection of call detail records, which expired on November 2… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-opposes-effort-to-repeal-affordable-care-act | King Opposes Effort to Repeal Affordable Care Act | 2015-12-03 | 2015 | 2015-12 | Independent | House | ME | Angus King | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | legacy | King Opposes Effort to Repeal Affordable Care Act Thursday, December 3, 2015 WASHINGTON, D.C. Today, U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine) voted against legislation that would repeal the Affordable Care Act and deny federal funding to Planned Parenthood facilities across the country: The Affordable Care Act has provided thousands of people in Maine and millions more across the country with affordable, high-quality health insurance, Senator King said. Rather than try to take that away, Congress should focus on how we can improve and strengthen the law so that we can extend health insurance to even more people in this country who need it. Thats how we best serve the people who sent us here and, frankly, they deserve nothing less. Today, the Senate voted and, regrettably, passed legislation that would repeal the Affordable Care Act (ACA). The President has said he will veto the bill. Todays vote represents the 16th time that the Senate has voted to repeal all or part of the ACA. The House of Representatives has voted more than 50 times to do the same. The Affordable Care Act provides more than 70,000 people in Maine with health insurance. In addition to lowering health care costs, the landmark health care law, which has been upheld by the Supreme Court multiple times, prohibits insurance companies from denying coverage to people due to pre-existing conditions, eliminates lifetime caps on insurance, and allows children to remain on their parents insurance until the age of 26. The law has also contributed millions of dollars in funding to community health centers across the state of Maine, which serve the health care needs of hundreds of thousands of people. The legislation would also eliminate all federal funding to Planned Parenthood facilities across the country, including the four that operate in Maine, which provide important family planning, cancer screenings, and basic preventive health care services. Senator King voted in favor of an amendment offered by Senator Susan Coll… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/transportation-bill-with-king-backed-measures-passes-senate | Transportation Bill with King-Backed Measures Passes Senate | 2015-12-03 | 2015 | 2015-12 | Independent | House | ME | Angus King | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | legacy | Transportation Bill with King-Backed Measures Passes Senate Bill also renews Export-Import Bank, streamlines federal permitting process, and delivers regulatory relief to small banks Thursday, December 3, 2015 WASHINGTON, D.C. With the support of U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine), the Senate tonight overwhelmingly approved a long-term transportation bill that authorizes $305 billion in funding over the next five years for vital transportation infrastructure projects across the country. The bill will result in increased highway and transit funding for Maine and also includes several provisions either authored or strongly supported by Senator King. Our countrys aging transportation infrastructure has been crumbling under our feet as Congress passed one short-term fix after the other. With this bill, Congress has crafted a long-term solution that provides stable and predictablefunding to improve our transportation network, bolster commerce, and put people to work doing it, Senator King said. The bill is by no means perfect, but at the end of the day, its a step forward for the American people and our country. The legislation passed this evening, titled the FAST Act, would provide an increased and stable source of funding for highway, transit, and other infrastructure projects, and is the product of extensive bipartisan negotiations between leaders in the Senate and House of Representatives. If signed into law, the legislation will provide Maine with a five percent increase in highway funding and an eight percent increase in transit funding in the first year of the bill and result in a 15 percent increase in highway funding and an 18 percent increase in transit by the last year. For more information on how the bill will impact infrastructure projects in Maine, clickHERE. Senator King has repeatedly called for a long-term highway solution and has been critical of Congress for passing 36 short-term highway extensions over the past several years, which has only created… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/collins-king-announce-application-period-for-assistance-to-firefighters-grants | Collins, King Announce Application Period for Assistance to Firefighters Grants | 2015-12-02 | 2015 | 2015-12 | Independent | House | ME | Angus King | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | legacy | Collins, King Announce Application Period for Assistance to Firefighters Grants Wednesday, December 2, 2015 WASHINGTON, D.C. Today, U.S. Senators Susan Collins, Co-Chair of the Congressional Fire Services Caucus, and Angus King, a member of the Congressional Fire Services Caucus, announced that the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) will begin accepting applications for grant funding through the Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) Program on Monday, December 7th at 8:00 a.m. The application period will close on January 15, 2015 at 5:00 p.m. The AFG Program funding assists fire departments and nonaffiliated ambulance and emergency medical service organizations in meeting their firefighting and emergency response needs. The program provides federal funding that enables these organizations to purchase equipment, protective gear, emergency vehicles, training, and other resources to better protect the public and emergency personnel. The Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program provides invaluable support to protect the firefighters and emergency health professionals who risk their lives protecting us every day, said Senators Collins and King in a joint statement. We encourage Maine fire departments and emergency organizations to utilize this program for help obtaining the vital resources they need to do their jobs. Grant guidance for fire departments and other organizations interested in applying for AFG grants is available at www.grants.gov and at http://www.fema.gov/firegrants/afggrants/index.shtm. Applicants that require assistance should go to www.fema.gov/grants, or contact the AFG Help Desk at firegrants@fema.gov or by calling 1-866-274-0960. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/collins-king-applaud-196-million-for-maine-water-infrastructure-projects | Collins, King Applaud $19.6 Million for Maine Water Infrastructure Projects | 2015-12-02 | 2015 | 2015-12 | Independent | House | ME | Angus King | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | legacy | Collins, King Applaud $19.6 Million for Maine Water Infrastructure Projects Wednesday, December 2, 2015 WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King today applauded an announcement from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) that the State of Maine will receive $19.6 million to support water infrastructure projects. The funds will be used to upgrade sewage plants and drinking water systems, replace aging infrastructure, and bolster water projects essential to environmental protection and public health safety across the state. Maintaining strong water infrastructure is critical to ensuring the health of Maine people, Senators Collins and King said in a joint statement. We welcome this funding from the EPA, which will help upgrade water treatment systems that will result in improved water quality and public health. The $19.6 million is distributed as follows: The Clean Water State Revolving Fund (CWSRF) program, administrated by the Maine Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) and Maine Municipal Bond Bank (MMBB), received $10.8 million. EPAs funding provides low-interest loans for water quality protection projects to make improvements to wastewater treatment systems, control pollution from stormwater runoff, and protect sensitive water bodies and estuaries. The Drinking Water State Revolving Fund (DWSRF) program, administrated by the Maine Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) and MMBB, received $8.8 million. EPAs funding provides low-interest loans to finance improvements to drinking water systems, with a particular focus on providing funds to small and disadvantaged communities and to programs that encourage pollution prevention as a tool for ensuring safe drinking water. According to the EPA, since the beginning of this program, approximately $497 million has been awarded to Maine for the construction, expansion and upgrading of clean water infrastructure resulting in decreased pollutant loadings to waterbodies through… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/in-wake-of-paris-attacks-collins-king-cosponsor-bipartisan-bill-to-strengthen-visa-waiver-program | In Wake of Paris Attacks, Collins, King Cosponsor Bipartisan Bill to Strengthen Visa Waiver Program | 2015-12-02 | 2015 | 2015-12 | Independent | House | ME | Angus King | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | legacy | In Wake of Paris Attacks, Collins, King Cosponsor Bipartisan Bill to Strengthen Visa Waiver Program Wednesday, December 2, 2015 WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King, members of the Senate Intelligence Committee, have joined with Senators Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.) and Jeff Flake (R-Ariz.) to introduce bipartisan legislation that would strengthen the security of the Visa Waiver Program to help prevent terrorists from entering the United States. Protecting the safety and security of the people of Maine and across our country remains our most important consideration as we seek to combat ISIS, said Senator Collins. While most of the refugees are fleeing the same terrorists in their home countries that concern us as Americans, we must assume that ISIS will exploit any opportunity to attack the American people, our allies in Europe, or Muslims who do not share their extremist ideology. This bipartisan legislation tightens the Visa Waiver Program to help prevent Islamic terrorists and other radical extremists from hijacking the program to enter the United States from trusted countries without a visa and the scrutiny it entails. The Visa Waiver Program is an important tool that has increased the ease of travel between member countries and improved security measures associated with that travel, Senator King said. But with an increasing number of citizens from visa waiver countries traveling to the Middle East and North Africa to train and fight in support of terrorism, its critical that we ensure the program cant be exploited as a potential gateway to the United States. Thats why Congress should immediately strengthen the Visa Waiver program to reflect the realities of todays world. Doing so will help deny terrorists an opportunity to do us harm and take a substantial step towards better protecting the American people. The Visa Waiver Program allows citizens of participating countries, including most of those in Europe, to travel to the United States withou… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-scores-legislative-hat-trick-in-federal-highway-bill | King Scores Legislative Hat-Trick in Federal Highway Bill | 2015-12-02 | 2015 | 2015-12 | Independent | House | ME | Angus King | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | legacy | King Scores Legislative Hat-Trick in Federal Highway Bill Bill renews Export-Import Bank, streamlines federal permitting process, and delivers regulatory relief to small banks Wednesday, December 2, 2015 WASHINGTON, D.C. An agreement reached yesterday on a long-term highway funding bill includes a hat-trick of legislative victories for Maine long championed by U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine). In addition to providing an increased and stable source of funding for highway, transit, and other infrastructure projects, the legislation would (1) reauthorize the Export-Import Bank, (2) boost jobs by simplifying the federal permitting process for major projects, and (3) deliver regulatory relief to small banks. I am pleased that Senate and House negotiators have reached an agreement to move forward with a long-term bill that will provide a stable source of funding to properly invest in repairing our roads, bridges, and other vital infrastructure. After far too many short-term patches, this bill while not perfect is a positive step forward that will improve our transportation network, bolster the economy, and better protect the safety of traveling Americans, Senator King said. This bill also renews the Export-Import Bank, which supports jobs in Maine, makes significant strides in reducing government red tape to help businesses grow and thrive, and makes it easier for small banks across Maine to serve their customers, Senator King said. These measures will go a long way to supporting jobs in Maine, and I look forward to getting this much-needed bill across the finish-line. The 5-year highway bill announced yesterday titled the FAST Act will provide Maine with a five percent increase in highway funding and an eight percent increase in transit funding in the first year of the bill and result in a 15 percent increase in highway funding and an 18 percent increase in transit by the last year. For more information on how the bill will impact infrastructure projects in Mai… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senators-collins-king-announce-funding-award-for-maine-maritime-academy | Senators Collins, King Announce Funding Award for Maine Maritime Academy | 2015-12-02 | 2015 | 2015-12 | Independent | House | ME | Angus King | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | legacy | Senators Collins, King Announce Funding Award for Maine Maritime Academy Wednesday, December 2, 2015 WASHINGTON, D.C. United States Senators Susan Collins, Chairman of the Senate Transportation Appropriations Subcommittee, and Angus King, member of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, today announced an award of $469,000 to the Maine Maritime Academy (MMA) from the U.S. Department of Transportation. The funding will support the Marine Engine Testing and Emissions Laboratory (METEL) at MMA. Finding practical solutions for reducing harmful emissions is a top priority, and we are pleased that the U.S. Department of Transportation has recognized the tremendous work being done by Maine Maritime Academy at its Marine Engine Testing and Emissions Laboratory, said Senators Collins and King in a statement. This investment will enable the Academy, in partnership with the University of Maine, to continue to develop emissions reductions and efficiency solutions for marine diesel engines, conduct critical research, and help to advance the maritime industry. This grant was provided through the U.S. Department of Transportations University Transportation Center Discretionary Grants. Intended to advance U.S. technology and expertise in the many disciplines of transportation through the mechanisms of education, research and technology transfer at university-based centers of excellence, the U.S. Department of Transportation chooses internationally recognized centers of excellence, fully integrated within institutions of higher learning, that serve as a vital source of leaders who are prepared to meet the nations need for safe, efficient, and environmentally sound movement of people and goods. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-epa-administrator-tour-westbrook-farm-hold-roundtable-for-maine-farmers-on-clean-water-rule | King, EPA Administrator Tour Westbrook Farm, Hold Roundtable for Maine Farmers on Clean Water Rule | 2015-11-30 | 2015 | 2015-11 | Independent | House | ME | Angus King | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | legacy | King, EPA Administrator Tour Westbrook Farm, Hold Roundtable for Maine Farmers on Clean Water Rule King continues to press EPA to clarify rule and issue clearer compliance guidelines for Maine farmers Monday, November 30, 2015 WESTBROOK, ME Today, U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine) and U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Gina McCarthy toured Smiling Hill Farm in Westbrook and held a roundtable with agricultural officials from across the state to discuss the EPAs Clean Water Rule and its impact on farmers in Maine. The roundtable follows a letter to the agency led by Senator King and signed by ten of his colleagues expressing concern over the ambiguity of the rule and how it may create uncertainty that could have a detrimental impact on farming operations in Maine. During the roundtable today, Senator King joined with farmers from across the state to reiterate those concerns to Administrator McCarthy, and he also pledged to continue to work with the EPA to see that the agency clarifies agricultural exemptions and provides more concise compliance guidelines for Maine farmers. No one is more committed to preserving and protecting the environment than the people of Maine. Our natural resources are not only a hallmark of our state, but theyre also the foundation of our economy, Senator King said. But for Maines farmers and for everyone who relies on the land for a living, the ambiguity of the Clean Water Rule has caused a lot of justifiable concern. Farmers here just want to know that they wont have to hire a lawyer or a soil scientist to dig something like an irrigation ditch, and the EPA owes it to them to address those concerns, clarify the rule, and provide more concise compliance guidance. Todays roundtable was a positive step in that direction, and I look forward to further engaging with the EPA to ensure that it enacts a common-sense rule that protects the environment and allows our farmers to do their jobs. Earlier this year, the EPA and t… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senators-collins-and-king-announce-more-than-400000-in-grant-funding-to-assist-maine-families-living-in-public-housing | Senators Collins and King Announce More Than $400,000 in Grant Funding to Assist Maine Families Living in Public Housing | 2015-11-30 | 2015 | 2015-11 | Independent | House | ME | Angus King | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | legacy | Senators Collins and King Announce More Than $400,000 in Grant Funding to Assist Maine Families Living in Public Housing Monday, November 30, 2015 WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Senators Susan Collins, the Chairman the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Transportation, Housing, and Urban Development, and Angus King today announced that several housing authorities and municipalities in Maine will receive a total of $439,537 from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). The grant funding will come through HUDs Family Self-Sufficiency Program and will be used to help public housing residents and individuals participating in the Housing Choice Voucher Program increase their education and gain marketable skills that will allow them to find employment and advance in their current work. Public Housing Authorities in Maine play an indispensable role in helping some of our most vulnerable citizens find safe and affordable housing, said Senators Collins and King in a joint statement. This funding will provide crucial support to individuals and families across our state, connecting them with a range of job training and educational services. HUDs Family Self Sufficiency program intends to help low-income families who receive federal housing assistance receive training and education, find jobs, save money, and eventually become financially independent. The awards are as follows: Augusta Housing Authority, $32,484 Bangor Housing Authority, $57,050 Housing Authority of the City of Brewer, $52,832 City of Caribou, $48,729 Housing Authority of the City of Old Town, $23,972 Lewiston Housing Authority, $57,820 Maine State Housing Authority, $54,031 Portland Housing Authority, $72,012 Westbrook Housing Authority, $40,607 ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/media/wgans-inside-maine-with-senator-angus-king-and-bruce-bickford-from-starc-systems-november-2015 | WGAN's Inside Maine with Senator Angus King and Bruce Bickford from STARC Systems, November 2015 | 2015-11-28 | 2015 | 2015-11 | Independent | House | ME | Angus King | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | legacy | Skip to primary navigation Skip to main content WGAN's Inside Maine with Senator Angus King and Bruce Bickford from STARC Systems, November 2015 | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/media/wgans-inside-maine-with-senator-angus-king-and-steve-levesque-executive-director-of-the-midcoast-regional-redevelopment-authority-november-2015 | WGAN's Inside Maine with Senator Angus King and MRRA Executive Director Steve Levesque, November 2015 | 2015-11-28 | 2015 | 2015-11 | Independent | House | ME | Angus King | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | legacy | Skip to primary navigation Skip to main content WGAN's Inside Maine with Senator Angus King and MRRA Executive Director Steve Levesque, November 2015 | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-announces-proposal-to-create-national-mail-back-drug-program | King Announces Proposal to Create National Mail-Back Drug Program | 2015-11-24 | 2015 | 2015-11 | Independent | House | ME | Angus King | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | legacy | King Announces Proposal to Create National Mail-Back Drug Program Based on successful Maine pilot program, proposal seeks to make getting rid of excess prescription drugs easier, helping better protect public health and safety across the state Tuesday, November 24, 2015 PORTLAND, ME During a roundtable discussion today focused on how the federal government can close the prescription painkillers to opioid addiction gateway, U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine) announced a new federal proposal that would help people across the country more quickly, safely, and responsibly dispose of excess prescription drugs. During the discussion, Senator King also announced his support for bipartisan legislation that would expand specialized treatment for prescription drug and heroin addiction. Opioid addiction knows no bounds. It can grip anyone at any time, and sadly, in more cases than not, it starts at home with an unsuspecting pain medication meant to help someone,Senator King said. Today, there are far too many of those painkillers sitting unused in homes across this country, and the longer they do, the more serious a risk they pose to peoples health and safety. The federal government needs to work more closely with doctors to curb the number of drugs unnecessarily provided on the front end, and then work to ensure theres an easy and responsible way to dispose of excess drugs on the back end as well. I believe a drug mail-back program holds the potential to helppeople moreeasily and safely dispose of their unwanted medications, and I will engage with people to see how the government can best accomplish that goal. The proposal announced by Senator King today would create a national program that builds on the successful Maine pilot project known as Safe Medicine Disposal for ME, which allowed people to mail back their unused prescription drugs to Maine DEA.Currently, federal regulations allow pharmacies, hospitals, clinics, and other authorized collectors to serve as collection … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/collins-king-announce-usda-grants-for-six-maine-communities-and-organizations | Collins, King Announce USDA Grants for Six Maine Communities and Organizations | 2015-11-23 | 2015 | 2015-11 | Independent | House | ME | Angus King | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | legacy | Collins, King Announce USDA Grants for Six Maine Communities and Organizations Monday, November 23, 2015 WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Senator Susan Collins and Angus King announced more than $2 million in funding from the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) that will provide support for distance learning and telemedicine programs throughout the state. It is important that we recognize the hard work and dedication of community leaders and health care professionals throughout our state and continue to support projects in Maine's rural areas,said Senator Collins and King in a statement.This important investmentindistance learning and telemedicine programswill improve educational opportunities and access to vital health care servicesin Maines rural communities. The USDAs Distance Learning and Telemedicine program helps rural communities develop and maintain telecommunication networks in order connect to each other and to the world. Funding through this program supports the acquisition of audio-video equipment, network components and software, as well as technical assistance and instruction for using eligible equipment.? Listed below are the recipients from Maine: Home Health Visiting Nurses of Southern Maine: $129,400 Kno-Wal-Lin Home Health Care Management, Inc.:$130,000 Regional School Unit 64:$498,535 Maine Rural Health Collaborative, LLC: $431,599 Region Two School of Applied Technology (Maine Adult Education and Cooperative Extension Distance Learning Consortium): $499,378 Easton School District: $499,773 ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/collins-king-dedicate-harold-alfond-ocean-and-advanced-manufacturing-laboratories-at-university-of-maine | Collins, King Dedicate Harold Alfond Ocean and Advanced Manufacturing Laboratories at University of Maine | 2015-11-23 | 2015 | 2015-11 | Independent | House | ME | Angus King | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | legacy | Collins, King Dedicate Harold Alfond Ocean and Advanced Manufacturing Laboratories at University of Maine Monday, November 23, 2015 ORONO, ME Joined by federal officials, local business leaders and University of Maine leadership, U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King today helped officially unveil the Harold Alfond Ocean Engineering and Advanced Manufacturing Laboratories. The new facility, which is part of UMaines national-recognized Advanced Structures and Composites Center, will assist businesses in developing products for the marine economy while also offering hands-on training for students. This remarkable grant from the Harold Alfond Foundation is an investment in Maine that demonstrates the pride and confidence people throughout our State have in our University, said Senator Collins. The world-class research capabilities this lab will provide in Ocean Engineering and Advanced Composites Manufacturing will help secure Maine's place as a national leader in the ocean economy of the future, help advance our industrial competitiveness in boatbuilding and renewable energy such as offshore wind, and help ensure the resiliency of our coastal communities. The future belongs to those who innovate, and today, the University of Maine has once again proven that it is on the vanguard of 21st century innovation, Senator King said. With this impressive facility and the generous support of the Harold Alfond Foundation, the University of Maine is poised to unlock incredible new advancements that will bolster our renewable energy future, strengthen our coastal communities and infrastructure, and ensure that the ocean remains a vital part of our economy. More specifically, the world-class ocean engineering facility will lead to the creation of products such as improved boat and ship hulls; renewable energy production devices from wind, wave, and tidal resources; oil and gas structures; waterfront infrastructure including more resilient bridges, piers, docks and port facilities; a… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/collins-king-poliquin-send-letter-to-president-on-possible-national-monument-designation-in-maine-north-woods | Collins, King, Poliquin Send Letter to President on Possible National Monument Designation in Maine North Woods | 2015-11-23 | 2015 | 2015-11 | Independent | House | ME | Angus King | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | legacy | Collins, King, Poliquin Send Letter to President on Possible National Monument Designation in Maine North Woods Monday, November 23, 2015 WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King and Representative Bruce Poliquin have sent a letter to President Barack Obama regarding the possible designation of land in the Katahdin region as a national monument. The complete text of the letter can be read HERE and is available below. +++ November 20, 2015 The President The White House 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue, N.W. Washington, D.C. 20500 Dear Mr. President: We understand that you are considering using your executive power under the Antiquities Act to designate unilaterally as a national monument more than 100,000 acres of what is currently privately owned land in northern Maine and write to express our serious reservations and significant concerns about such a proposal. The private land owner, Elliotsville Plantation Inc. (EPI), has made clear that it would like to donate its land in the Katahdin Region to the federal government for the purpose of establishing a national park and national recreation area, which would require an act of Congress. The president of EPIs board, Mr. Lucas St. Clair, has recently informed us that he is in discussions with the Department of Interior to bypass Congress to seek a national monument designation. This concerns us because residents in the Katahdin Region have the most to gain or lose from federal land encroaching on their doorstep, and it is clear that deep divisions remain. While we acknowledge the right of private land owners to donate their land, we have serious concerns about the executive branch using its power to unilaterally designate a national monument in our state. Mainers have a long and proud history of private land ownership, independence, and local control, and do not take lightly any forced action by the federal government to increase its footprint in our state. Recognizing that despite these concerns, you ne… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/collins-king-statement-in-response-to-itc-vote-in-canadian-paper-producers-trade-case | Collins, King Statement in Response to ITC Vote in Canadian Paper Producers Trade Case | 2015-11-19 | 2015 | 2015-11 | Independent | House | ME | Angus King | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | legacy | Collins, King Statement in Response to ITC Vote in Canadian Paper Producers Trade Case Thursday, November 19, 2015 WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King released the following statement today in response to the U.S. International Trade Commissions determination that the U.S. supercalendered paper industry is materially injured by reason of imports of subsidized supercalendered paper from Canada: The International Trade Commissions decision is welcome news for the hardworking men and women of Madison Paper Industries who have for far too long fought against illegal and unfair provincial subsidies like the ones provided to the Port Hawkesbury Mill, Senators Collins and King said in a joint statement. The Commissions decision validates American producers long held concerns and will help even the playing field in this important segment of the paper market. However, we remain concerned with how the Department of Commerce conducted its investigation of the Canadian producers. The Department of Commerce should have, as we requested, reviewed all four Canadian producers of supercalendered paper to ensure a fair and fact-based process. Rather than conduct a careful assessment of the actual subsidies received by each company, the Department relied on Port Hawkesburys and Resolutes subsidies to determine an arbitrary and unfair duty rate for Irving and Catalyst, Senators Collins and King continued. This ill-advised decision could affect more than 1,000 Maine workers employed at J.D. Irving and the Catalyst-owned mill in Rumford, and it is wrong. We will support Irving and Catalyst as they request an expedited review of the findings to ensure the companies receive the individual examinations to which they are entitled as part of a fair and fact-based investigation. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-backed-sportsmens-bill-passes-enr-committee-with-strong-bipartisan-support- | King-Backed Sportsmen’s Bill Passes ENR Committee with Strong Bipartisan Support | 2015-11-19 | 2015 | 2015-11 | Independent | House | ME | Angus King | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | legacy | King-Backed Sportsmens Bill Passes ENR Committee with Strong Bipartisan Support Bill would expand opportunities for Americas sportsmen, permanently reauthorize LWCF Thursday, November 19, 2015 WASHINGTON, D.C. With the support of U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine), the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee today approved a bipartisan bill that would expand outdoor recreation opportunities for sportsmen in Maine and across America. The Sportsmens Act of 2015, which Senator King cosponsored, would prioritize recreation on federal lands and promote cooperation with state and local governments. Additionally, the bill would permanently reauthorize the Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF), which expired at the end of September. The legislation passed out of Committee with near unanimous support. Outdoor recreation, like hunting, fishing, and hiking, is not only a strong part of our tradition as a state, but its also a central force in our economy that supports our rural communities, Senator King said. By building on existing opportunities for our sportsmen, this legislation will enhance our recreation economy and ensure that time-honored traditions enjoyed by Maine families will continue for future generations. The Sportsmens Act of 2015 includes a broad array of bipartisan measures to enhance opportunities for hunters, anglers, and outdoor recreation enthusiasts, reauthorize key conservation programs, improve access to public lands, and help boost the outdoor recreation economy. The legislation also permanently reauthorizes the LWCF, a move Senator King has repeatedly called for, and which would ensure the strength and sustainability of this successful program that has helped increase access to outdoor recreation for the last 50 years. The LWCF is one of the most important and significant conservation measures ever passed by Congress, Senator King said. It has helped to preserve hundreds of thousands of acres of land in Maine and it supports local progr… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-congratulates-lewiston-high-school-boys-soccer-team | King Congratulates Lewiston High School Boys Soccer Team | 2015-11-19 | 2015 | 2015-11 | Independent | House | ME | Angus King | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | legacy | King Congratulates Lewiston High School Boys Soccer Team Thursday, November 19, 2015 WASHINGTON, D.C. In statement submitted to the Congressional Record today, U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine) congratulated the Lewiston High School Boys Soccer Team for their recent state championship victory. The team, which has a diverse group of student athletes from various backgrounds, religions and cultures, went undefeated in the regular season and clinched its first title in program history. This is a team with a long history, and deep friendships, that have spanned many years and continents. A number of the players originally hail from Somalia, and have known each other and played soccer together since they were children in a refugee camp in Kenya. Others native Mainers and immigrants alike have bonded and shared their passion for the sport since grade school, said Senator King in the statement. This fraternal bond between the players and the supportiveness of the Lewiston community is a fine example of Maine citizens from diverse ethnic, religious, and experiential backgrounds coming together to achieve victory, while championing Maines spirit and Americas highest ideals of inclusiveness and unity. The complete statement is as follows: Mr. KING. Mr. President, at the end of the fall season we see the culmination of youth athletics across the country. In each sport, whether it is field hockey, football, soccer, or the like, we as parents and spectators see the aggregation of hard work, sportsmanship, and perseverance come together to produce outstanding championship athletes. Today I wish to draw attention to all of the talented Maine youths who won athletic championships across the state this year. In particular, I would like to congratulate the members of the Lewiston High School Blue Devils boys soccer team, who, on the path to their undefeated regular season and recent state championship victory, have demonstrated remarkable levels of teamwork and sportsmanship. The Blue… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-merkley-collins-urge-justice-department-to-protect-americas-craft-brewers | King, Merkley, Collins Urge Justice Department to Protect America’s Craft Brewers | 2015-11-19 | 2015 | 2015-11 | Independent | House | ME | Angus King | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | legacy | King, Merkley, Collins Urge Justice Department to Protect Americas Craft Brewers Senators express concern about potentially anti-competitive practices by large beer conglomerates and distributors Thursday, November 19, 2015 WASHINGTON, D.C. Today, U.S. Senators Angus King (I-Maine) and Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.) led a bipartisan group of Senators, including U.S. Senator Susan Collins (R-Maine), on a letter urging the U.S. Department of Justice to protect craft brewers across America from potentially unfair and illegal trade practices on the part of larger beer companies. In the letter, which was sent to U.S. Attorney General Loretta Lynch, the senators express concern aboutthe possibility of larger beer companies pressuring beer distributers to favor their products, creating an unfair advantage for beer giants and limiting the ability of consumer to find craft brewers products in the stores, bars and restaurants where they shop. The past decade has seen a dramatic change in the American beer industry, which was long dominated by a small number of products from large brewers such as AB InBev and SABMiller. Craft beer now drives expansion of domestic beer sales. Small and independent craft breweries exist in all 50 states and the District of Columbia,the Senators wrote in their letter. As members with robust craft brewing industries in our states, we ask that you take the necessary steps to ensure that AB InBevs purchase of SABMiller does not allow the new combined company to squeeze out Americas craft brewing industry, stifle innovation, further constrain beer distribution to U.S. retailers, or create further barriers to entry. Large multinational brewers should not be allowed to use their market power to limit consumer choice and access to small innovative breweries.Put simply, we believe craft brewers must be able to conduct their business without being denied access to necessary raw materials and distribution companies. The Senators particularly expressed concern abo… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senate-confirms-nomination-of-mike-michaud-to-be-department-of-labor-assistant-secretary | Senate Confirms Nomination of Mike Michaud to be Department of Labor Assistant Secretary | 2015-11-19 | 2015 | 2015-11 | Independent | House | ME | Angus King | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | legacy | Senate Confirms Nomination of Mike Michaud to be Department of Labor Assistant Secretary Thursday, November 19, 2015 WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King announced tonight that the Senate has approved the nomination of former U.S. Representative Mike Michaud for the post of Assistant Secretary of Labor for Veterans' Employment and Training. I worked with Mike for many years when he represented Maines Second District and have seen his dedication to our veterans. His commitment to ensuring that our veterans have the training and jobs they deserve when they return to civilian life will serve our veterans well, said Senator Collins. Mike is a man of true character whose commitment to veterans extends decades, Senator King said. I know that in his new position he will continue to fight to ensure that Americas veterans have the resources and opportunities they need and deserve to succeed in life after the military. He has demonstrated his dedication to Maine veterans time and again, and I have no doubt that he will bring that same tenacity and passion to the Department of Labor as he works on behalf of veterans around the country. The Assistant Secretary of Labor for Veterans' Employment and Training oversees the Veterans Employment and Training Service, which provides career service and preparation to America's veterans, service members, and their spouses. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/collins-king-announce-45000-for-auburn-school-districts-farm-to-school-program | Collins, King Announce $45,000 for Auburn School District’s Farm to School Program | 2015-11-18 | 2015 | 2015-11 | Independent | House | ME | Angus King | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | legacy | Collins, King Announce $45,000 for Auburn School Districts Farm to School Program Wednesday, November 18, 2015 WASHINGTON, D.C. United States Senators Susan Collins and Angus King announced today the Auburn School District will receive $45,000 in grant funding from the United States Department of Agricultures Farm to School program. This important investment will help to increase the availability of local food products on the menus of schools across the Auburn school district, the Senators said in a joint statement. In Maine, we are lucky enough to have a vibrant local food movement, and this investment will make locally-grown food a greater part of the good nutrition that helps put our students in a position to succeed. USDAs Farm to School grants fund school districts, state and local agencies, tribal nations, agricultural producers, and non-profit organizations in their efforts to increase local foods served through child nutrition programs. In addition, the program helps teach children about food and agriculture through garden and classroom education and develops schools and farmers capacities to participate in the program. Senator King is a cosponsor of the bipartisan Farm to School Act of 2015, which would strengthen and expand the federal Farm to School grant program. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-capito-daines-call-on-fcc-to-increase-transparency-enforcement-for-rural-broadband-funding | King, Capito, Daines Call on FCC to Increase Transparency, Enforcement for Rural Broadband Funding | 2015-11-18 | 2015 | 2015-11 | Independent | House | ME | Angus King | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | legacy | King, Capito, Daines Call on FCC to Increase Transparency, Enforcement for Rural Broadband Funding Wednesday, November 18, 2015 WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Senators Angus King (I-Maine), Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.), and Steve Daines (R-Mont.) are urging the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to consider strict enforcement measures and increase transparency for the recently announced Connect America Fund funding. The FCC announced more than $1.5 billion in annual funding as part of the second phase of the Connect America Fund to expand and support broadband service in rural areas. We believe strict enforcement measures, coupled with transparency around how, where, and when the funds are used are necessary to ensure the integrity of the [Connect America Fund] program and the success of the FCCs efforts to advance rural broadband. We seek to maximize the success of the program and ensure that these limited funds are put to the best, appropriate use, the Senators wrote. In a letter to FCC Chairman Tom Wheeler yesterday, the Senators call on the FCC to provide a publically available list of accountability measures for proper use of the federal funds, and to explain what enforcement mechanisms will be implemented if carriers fail to meet their obligations under the Connect America Fund program. In states like Maine and West Virginia where a single carrier receives the funding, it is critical that these limited funds are effectively and efficiently used. The complete text of the letter can be read HERE and is below: +++ November 17, 2015 Dear Chairman Wheeler: The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) plays an imperative and unique role in supporting rural connectivity. In the 21st century economy, robust telecommunications networks are increasingly important for todays users, and serve as the foundation of future innovation and economic progress. As the Commission continues to reform its universal service funding mechanisms to adapt to a changing technological environme… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/collins-king-announce-nearly-10-million-in-federal-loans-to-support-public-health-and-safety-in-maine-communities- | Collins, King Announce Nearly $10 Million in Federal Loans to Support Public Health and Safety in Maine Communities | 2015-11-17 | 2015 | 2015-11 | Independent | House | ME | Angus King | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | legacy | Collins, King Announce Nearly $10 Million in Federal Loans to Support Public Health and Safety in Maine Communities Tuesday, November 17, 2015 WASHINGTON, D.C. Today, U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King announced that the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) will award $9,985,000 in federal loans to three initiatives in Maine to support rural health and public safety. Downeast Horizons of Ellsworth, Down East Community Hospital of Machias, and Orono-based Independence Advocates of Maine will each receive a loan through the USDA Community Facilities Program to improve their operations. We welcome these federal loans as an important investment in Maines health care and social service providers that will empower them to improve their facilities and strengthen their ability to provide high-quality services to Maine people, Senators Collins and King said in a joint statement. Downeast Horizons will receive a $1 million loan, Down East Community Hospital will receive a $4 million loan, and Independence Advocates of Maine will receive $4,985,000 loan. The Community Facilities Program is administered by Rural Development, an agency within the USDA that works to improve the economy and quality of life in rural America. The Community Facilities Program invests in rural community infrastructure in order to support essential services and improve access to health care in rural areas. The announcement of this USDA support comes as the department celebrates National Rural Health Week. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/collins-king-urge-sec-to-reconsider-proposed-rule- | Collins, King Urge SEC to Reconsider Proposed Rule | 2015-11-13 | 2015 | 2015-11 | Independent | House | ME | Angus King | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | legacy | Collins, King Urge SEC to Reconsider Proposed Rule Senators argue that paper forms provide a vital alternative means to access important financial information for those who lack reliable internet access Friday, November 13, 2015 WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King sent a letter this week to the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) urging the agency to reconsider proposed Rule 30e-3, which would eliminate the current requirement that mutual fund information be delivered to investors in paper form. The new rule, if implemented, would make electronic delivery the default delivery method unless otherwise selected, a move Senators Collins and King say could negatively affect Maine people who do not have regular and reliable access to the Internet by reducing their ability to access the information central to important financial decisions. Senators Collins and King urge the agency to preserve the existing requirement that mutual funds send out their shareholder reports in paper form. Experience shows that paper shareholder reporting is a critical necessity for some of our constituents, Senators Collins and King wrote in the letter. Rule 30e-3 may impede access to important shareholder data for many demographics within the investor community, especially the elderly, those with disabilities, and other Americans who are often less likely to have regular and reliable internet access. We urge you to give the concerns outlined above strong consideration as you decide whether to proceed with Rule 30e-3. In their letter, the Senators also point out that although current SEC rules allow investors to opt-in to electronic delivery, very few have chosen to do so, indicating that most investors prefer to have the information in paper form. Also joining Senators Collins and King in sending the bipartisan letter were Senators John Boozman (R-Ark.) and Debbie Stabenow (D-Mich.). The letter is available HERE and the full text is below: +++ The Honorable … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-announces-federal-proposals-to-help-mainers-with-disabilities-enter-the-workforce | King Announces Federal Proposals To Help Mainers with Disabilities Enter the Workforce | 2015-11-13 | 2015 | 2015-11 | Independent | House | ME | Angus King | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | legacy | King Announces Federal Proposals To Help Mainers with Disabilities Enter the Workforce During roundtable with business leaders, disability advocates, King charts path to employment opportunities for people with disabilities Friday, November 13, 2015 AUGUSTA, ME During a disability and employment roundtable discussion this morning, U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine) announced five new proposals that would improve federal policy and increase employment opportunities for Mainers with disabilities. The proposals come at a time when Maine faces a significant decline in the size of its workforce and a forecast that the state may be unable to supply new workers to meet its needs in the coming decades. At the same time, nearly 70 percent of the states working-age adults with disabilities are currently not engaged in the workforce, marking one of the lowest employment rates for individuals with disabilities in the country. Senator Kings proposals aim to increase employment among Maines citizens with disabilities by making changes to the federal Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) programs and by encouraging greater collaboration between the federal and state governments. The proposals represent a starting point for an ongoing discussion. Following todays roundtable, Senator King will continue to solicit feedback in the coming weeks and months, including from his colleagues in Washington, and will ultimately pursue a legislative path to adopt changes. Our state and our economy are strengthened when we have a more inclusive workforce. But today, federal policies seem to create more barriers to employment than opportunities, Senator King. Right now, there are people with disabilities across Maine who want to work and there are businesses that need their talents. The proposals I announced today are a first step toward bridging that gap and engaging more people with disabilities in the workforce. Doing so will not only improve the… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-statement-on-paris-attacks | King Statement on Paris Attacks | 2015-11-13 | 2015 | 2015-11 | Independent | House | ME | Angus King | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | legacy | King Statement on Paris Attacks Friday, November 13, 2015 UNITY, ME U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine), a member of the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence, released the following statement this evening in response to the attacks in Paris: My thoughts and prayers are with the people of Paris tonight as the details of these tragic events continue to unfold. These acts of violence are an unconscionable assault on freedom and liberty, and America stands ready to assist our French friends and allies as they work to bring this situation to an end, identify those responsible, and bring them to justice. There is still much we dont know about the attacks but the coordinated nature leaves little doubt that these are acts of terror. And as ever, we stand united against the hatred and brutality of violent extremism. I will continue to be briefed as more information becomes available, and as we learn more, the victims and their families will remain in our hearts and minds. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/collins-king-congratulate-the-telling-room-on-national-arts-and-humanities-award | Collins, King Congratulate The Telling Room on National Arts and Humanities Award | 2015-11-12 | 2015 | 2015-11 | Independent | House | ME | Angus King | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | legacy | Collins, King Congratulate The Telling Room on National Arts and Humanities Award Senators will meet with representatives from the youth writing center when they visit Washington next week Thursday, November 12, 2015 WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King today congratulated The Telling Room, a writing center in Portland that helps children and young adults develop and build on their storytelling skills, on winning a National Arts and Humanities Youth Program Award from the White House. The award recognizes outstanding after-school and out-of-school programs that are transforming the lives of young people. Senators Collins and King will meet representatives from The Telling Room next week while they are in Washington to receive the award at the White House. Arts and humanities programs foster greater student engagement and help our young people to maximize their potential, said Senators Collins and King. The Telling Room is doing fantastic work that helps our young people develop the skills and confidence to help them succeed not only as great story tellers, but as active members of their communities. Were thrilled the White House has recognized The Telling Room for its meaningful contributions to the future of Maine. The Telling Room will receive one of several National Arts and Humanities Youth Program Awards at the White House ceremony next Tuesday, November 17. First Lady Michelle Obama is expected to present the award, which also includes $10,000 to support the writing center. The Telling Room focuses on young writers ages 6 to 18 and works to build their confidence and literary skills while providing real audiences for them to practice and showcase their work. The center enlists the help of local writers, artists, teachers, and community groups, and also holds writing workshops at local schools and other organizations. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/collins-reed-king-push-to-increase-funding-for-winter-heating-and-weatherization-assistance | Collins, Reed, King Push to Increase Funding for Winter Heating & Weatherization Assistance | 2015-11-11 | 2015 | 2015-11 | Independent | House | ME | Angus King | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | legacy | Collins, Reed, King Push to Increase Funding for Winter Heating & Weatherization Assistance Wednesday, November 11, 2015 WASHINGTON, DC In an effort to help provide as much assistance as possible to households struggling to afford their winter heating bills, U.S. Senators Susan Collins (R-Maine) and Jack Reed (D-R.I.) led a bipartisan letter, signed by Senator Angus King (I-ME), to increase the amount of available federal heating assistance for low-income families and seniors in the final appropriations bill for fiscal year (FY) 2016. In a letter to the Chairman and Ranking Member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, Senators Collins and Reed led a group of 36 senators, including Senator King, in urging the appropriations leaders to increase funding for the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) and the Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) this fiscal year. The Senate Appropriations Committee has approved $3.39 billion for LIHEAP in its Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education Appropriations bill, which is the same amount that was provided in FY 2015, and $197 million for WAP in its Energy and Water Development Appropriations bill, which is $7 million more than the level provided in FY 2015. However, in their letter, the senators say the number of households eligible for LIHEAP assistance continues to exceed the available funding for the program, which saw cuts in past years, necessitating increased investment in the program. Access to affordable home energy is a matter of health and safety for many low-income households, children, and seniors in Maine. The LIHEAP program remains an important lifeline that helps prevent people from having to choose between heating their home, paying their bills, or going without food or medicine. In addition, the Weatherization program helps low-income families and seniors to permanently reduce their home energy bills. We must ensure that these critical programs are adequately funded and able to help our most v… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/on-veterans-day-king-honors-american-heroes | On Veterans Day, King Honors American Heroes | 2015-11-11 | 2015 | 2015-11 | Independent | House | ME | Angus King | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | legacy | On Veterans Day, King Honors American Heroes Wednesday, November 11, 2015 PORTLAND, ME In honor of Veterans Day, U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine) today released a video message and the following statement: On this Veterans Day, it is my privilege to recognize and thank all the men and women who have served in our armed forces for their unwavering commitment to our country. These selfless patriots, and their dedicated families, embody the very best of America, and today we acknowledge not only what they have accomplished, but also what they have inspired. It is also fitting that we use this occasion to rededicate ourselves to caring for those who have fought on our behalf. Today, all across America, too many veterans are left struggling with homelessness, unemployment, poverty, and a lack of access to healthcare. Additionally, too many families are left shouldering the burden that comes with the uncertainty of not knowing the fate of their loved ones who remain unaccounted for overseas. President Lincoln's promise, "[t]o care for him who shall have borne the battle, and for his widow, and his orphan are more than just words, they are a call to action that we are still duty-bound to fulfill. In Maine, this same sense of duty to our veterans resonates throughout our communities. It might be because we have one of the highest rates of veterans per capita of any state in the nation, and we know first-hand how much these individuals contribute to the fabric of our society because they are our neighbors, our friends, and our family. We should all be proud that over 127,000 Maine citizens today have served in the military but pride and gratitude are not enough. We know that we also have a responsibility to act on behalf of the brave men and women who did not hesitate to act in defense of America. So, today and every day let us celebrate the accomplishments and sacrifices of our veterans and reaffirm our commitment to supporting them just as they have supported us. This mo… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-colleagues-applaud-cdc-for-new-prescribing-guidelines | King, Colleagues Applaud CDC for New Prescribing Guidelines | 2015-11-10 | 2015 | 2015-11 | Independent | House | ME | Angus King | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | legacy | King, Colleagues Applaud CDC for New Prescribing Guidelines In a letter to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Director Frieden, the Senators commend the Draft Guidelines for Opioid Prescribing Tuesday, November 10, 2015 WASHINGTON, D.C. As the prescription drug abuse epidemic continues to have devastating effects on individuals, families and communities across America, U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine) and a group of his colleagues sent a letter to the Centers for Disease and Control Prevention (CDC) Director Thomas Frieden applauding the agencys newly released Draft Guidelines for Opioid Prescribing. In the letter, Senator King and his colleagues expressed optimism that the new guidelines will help encourage responsible opioid prescribing practices and curb the growing opioid epidemic. The final Guidelines for Opioid Prescribing will be released early next year. As you know, under the CDCs guidelines, physicians would be encouraged to recommend non-pharmacological therapy as the preferred treatment for chronic, non-cancer pain, prescribe the lowest dose and the fewest number of pills considered effective for the patient, and regularly evaluate the risks to the patient from the prescription opioids they are taking, Senator King wrote in the letter. These and the other guidelines reflect the latest science and represent a commonsense approach that will help us reduce opioid addiction and diversion and save lives without compromising access to needed treatment. The complete text of the letter, which was also signed by Senators Joe Manchin (D-W.W.), Ed Markey (D-Mass.), Tammy Baldwin (D-Wisc.), Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.), Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), and Bill Nelson (D-Fla.), can be read HERE and is below: +++ Dear Dr. Frieden, As United States Senators, we have seen firsthand the devastating effects of prescription drug abuse on individuals, families, and communities in our states, and we believe that encouraging the res… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senate-passes-defense-authorization-bill-with-king-measures-supporting-maine | Senate Passes Defense Authorization Bill with King-Measures Supporting Maine | 2015-11-10 | 2015 | 2015-11 | Independent | House | ME | Angus King | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | legacy | Senate Passes Defense Authorization Bill with King-Measures Supporting Maine Authorizations for shipbuilding & HUBZone improvement set to become law Tuesday, November 10, 2015 WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine) announced today that the Senate has passed the 2016 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) by a vote of 91-3. The legislation includes a $250 million authorization secured by Senator King for a DDG-51 Arleigh Burke Class Destroyer that could be built at Bath Iron Works. It also includes a provision authored in part by Senator King that would improve the HUBZone program to better stimulate economic activity at former military installations, like the former Brunswick Naval Air Station. The bill now heads to the Presidents desk for his signature to become law. The men and women of the Armed Forces, along with the thousands of people across the country who work in defense-related industries, serve our country with honor and distinction. By approving this bill, the Senate ensured that they will have the tools, resources, and support they need to do their jobs, protect our national security, and meet the challenges presented by ongoing conflicts across the globe, Senator King said. I am pleased Congress and the President were able to work together to resolve our differences, and I look forward to seeing this bill and all of its important policy initiatives signed into law. As a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, which writes the legislation, Senator King secured an additional $250 million authorization for a DDG-51 Arleigh Burke Class Destroyer that could be built by Bath Iron Works. The authorization lays the groundwork for the construction of a ship that Senator King believes is owed to Bath Iron Works by the Navy under the terms of a 2002 Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). However, if the Navy determines that it does not owe a ship to BIW, then the $250 million could be used in Fiscal Year 2018 or afterward as part of a fu… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senators-collins-and-king-announce-taa-benefits-for-workers-at-three-maine-businesses | Senators Collins and King Announce TAA Benefits for Workers at Three Maine Businesses | 2015-11-10 | 2015 | 2015-11 | Independent | House | ME | Angus King | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | legacy | Senators Collins and King Announce TAA Benefits for Workers at Three Maine Businesses Tuesday, November 10, 2015 WASHINGTON, D.C. Today, U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King announced that the U.S. Department of Labor has approved much-needed Trade Adjustment Assistance (TAA) for displaced employees at Verso Paper, Eastland Shoe, and Kelly-Smith Printing & Paper. This announcement is welcome news for these hardworking men and women in Maine. TAA plays an essential role in helping Americans across our country who, through no fault of their own, have lost their jobs as a result of foreign, often unfair competition. Our workers are the best in the world, and they can compete when there is a level playing field. TAA programs provide a crucial lifeline that enables displaced workers to acquire the new skills and the new training necessary to prepare for and purse jobs in other industries, Senator Collins and King said in a joint statement. TAA is a program of the Department of Labor that helps workers who have lost their jobs as a result of increased imports or a shift of production outside of the United States. TAA provides these trade-affected workers with a variety of reemployment services and benefits to help them find new jobs and get back to work This June, the Senate passed a bipartisan reauthorization of Trade Adjustment Assistance (TAA), which was based upon The Trade Adjustment Assistance Enhancement Act of 2015 that Senator Collins co-authored with Senator Ron Wyden (D-OR). In the 2013 fiscal year alone, more than 700 Mainers used TAA programs, and more than 70 percent of those participants found employment within three months of completing their retraining programs. In addition, of the participants who found employment, more than 90 percent were still employed in their new jobs six months later. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/-senators-collins-king-announce-that-the-133rd-engineer-battalion-will-remain-in-maine | Senators Collins, King Announce that the 133rd Engineer Battalion Will Remain in Maine | 2015-11-06 | 2015 | 2015-11 | Independent | House | ME | Angus King | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | legacy | Senators Collins, King Announce that the 133rd Engineer Battalion Will Remain in Maine Friday, November 6, 2015 WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Senators Susan Collins, a member of the Senate Defense Appropriations Subcommittee and the Senate National Guard Caucus, and Angus King, a member of the Senates Armed Services Committee, announced this afternoon that the 133rd Engineer Battalion will remain based in Brunswick, Maine. I am so pleased to learn that the Army National Guard 133rd Engineer Battalion will stay in Maine. This is the right decision for the great state of Maine and for our nation. The 133rd Engineer Battalion conducts operations that increase military effectiveness, including general engineering tasks in support of state and federal missions, said Senator Collins. During my discussions with Lieutenant General Kadavy, the Director of the Army National Guard, in October 2015, and my recent travel to U.S. European Command, it could not be clearer how important the National Guard is to Maine and to enabling national security missions overseas. I look forward to continuing to work to ensure that our National Guard, and their important missions and programs, are adequately resourced and ready to respond when called upon to do so. The 133rd Engineering Battalion is a vital asset to Maine, and I am relieved it will remain in the state, Senator King said. During my time as Governor, I relied on the 133rd many times, most significantly in the aftermath of the Ice Storm of 1998. The battalions skill, professionalism, and versatility unquestionably saved lives then, and it continues its important work today, supporting various missions in Maine and throughout New England. Im pleased the 133rd will continue to call Maine home and that we will continue to be able to draw upon their extensive experience when necessary. On October 23, 2015, Senator Collins met with Lieutenant General Timothy Kadavy, the Director of the Army National Guard. During the meeting, Senator Collins and LT… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/collins-king-moran-express-frustration-with-ambiguity-in-va-report-on-continuity-of-care | Collins, King, Moran Express Frustration with Ambiguity in VA Report on Continuity of Care | 2015-11-05 | 2015 | 2015-11 | Independent | House | ME | Angus King | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | legacy | Collins, King, Moran Express Frustration with Ambiguity in VA Report on Continuity of Care Senators Want Answers on Future of ARCH Program, Care for Veterans Thursday, November 5, 2015 WASHINGTON, D.C.U.S. Senators Susan Collins (R-Maine), Angus King (I-Maine), and Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) today expressed frustration with the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) plan for the Access Received Closer to Home (ARCH) program in a report delivered to Congress to consolidate all non-VA provider programs. The ARCH program has made a real difference for our veterans in Maine and across our country. I remember one of our veterans telling me about breaking his hip last winter at the height of a terrible winter storm. Instead of enduring a painful and bumpy ride for more than four hours to get to the VA hospital in Augusta, he was able through the ARCH program to receive care at his local hospital, Cary Memorial in Caribou, Maine. He also had the benefit of being able to receive care closer to where his family and friends live, said Senator Collins. We will continue to urge the VA to articulate a clear vision for the future of this critically important program and work to ensure that all veterans receive the health care they need close to home. In a rural state like Maine, veterans can sometimes be forced to travel several hours just to get care at the closest VA facility, turning something like a simple check-up into a serious challenge, especially for older or disabled veterans. Thats not right, and its unfair to the men and women who bravely served our nation, Senator King said. The ARCH Program brought that care closer to home, and as veterans can attest, its been immensely effective in helping them access more timely and convenient health care services. Rather than sunset an enormously successful program, the VA should be looking for ways to expand ARCH or, at the very least, use it as a model for how the Department can better deliver health care to veterans across rural Ame… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-announces-maine-native-cashwell-as-legislative-assistant-for-energy-and-environment-issues | King Announces Maine-Native Cashwell as Legislative Assistant for Energy and Environment Issues | 2015-11-04 | 2015 | 2015-11 | Independent | House | ME | Angus King | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | legacy | King Announces Maine-Native Cashwell as Legislative Assistant for Energy and Environment Issues Wednesday, November 4, 2015 WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine) announced today that he has hired Maine-native Morgan Cashwell as a Legislative Assistant in his Washington, D.C. office. Morgan will serve as Senator Kings principal advisor on energy and environment-related issues and will staff him for his work on the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee. With her firsthand knowledge of Maine and her wealth of legislative experience, Morgan understands the energy challenges facing Maine and how we can work in Washington to fix them, Senator King said. Im excited to welcome her to the team and look forward to working with her to help diversify Maines energy base and protect our states valued natural resources. I couldnt be happier to join Senator Kings office and work on behalf of my home state again, Cashwell said. As a member of the Energy and Natural Resources Committee, Senator King has been working hard to advance Maines energy and environmental interests, and I look forward to supporting him in that work. Born in Calais, Maine, Morgan grew up in the towns of China and Winterport, and her family resides in Bangor today. She studied at Goucher College in Baltimore for her undergraduate degree and then earned her law degree at the City University of New York School of Law where she focused on public interest law. Morgan began working on public policy issues in Washington for Senator Susan Collins (R-Maine) and most recently worked for Congressman Patrick Murphy (D-Florida-18) where she advised him on environmental policy and helped advance environmental restoration initiatives. Morgan replaces Chris Rauscher who left in October to pursue work in the private sector. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senators-collins-king-announce-grant-awards-for-water-and-waste-infrastructure-improvements- | Senators Collins, King Announce Grant Awards for Water and Waste Infrastructure Improvements | 2015-11-04 | 2015 | 2015-11 | Independent | House | ME | Angus King | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | legacy | Senators Collins, King Announce Grant Awards for Water and Waste Infrastructure Improvements Wednesday, November 4, 2015 WASHINGTON, D.C.Today, U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King announced more than $2.7 million in grant funding from the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Water and Waste Disposal grant program for the communities of Brewer, Oxford, and Wilton. Brewer will receive a $400,000 grant along with a $1,500,000 loan for sewer system improvements. Oxford will receive a $999,000 grant and a $3,601,000 loan for its new waste water treatment facility and collection system. Wilton will receive a $1,350,000 grant and a $2,750,000 loan for wastewater treatment facility sewer upgrades. These important investments will help enable these communities to make critical upgrades and repairs to their water and wastewater systems, Senators Collins and King said in a joint statement. This restoration will help rural Maine communities extend and improve water and waste treatment facilities that serve local households and businesses. The Water and Waste Disposal grant program aims to help rural communities establish best practices that can save tax dollars, improve the environment, and help manufacturers and businesses to establish or expand operations. This year, the USDA awarded $299 million for 88 projects nationwide. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-preserves-additional-funding-authorizations-for-future-ddg-51 | King Preserves Additional Funding Authorizations for Future DDG-51 | 2015-11-03 | 2015 | 2015-11 | Independent | House | ME | Angus King | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | legacy | King Preserves Additional Funding Authorizations for Future DDG-51 Tuesday, November 3, 2015 WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine) announced today that, at his request, leaders of the Senate and House Armed Services Committee have preserved a $250 million authorization in the 2016 National Defense Authorization Act for an additional DDG-51 Arleigh Burke Class Destroyer that could be built at Bath Iron Works. I am very encouraged that we were able to maintain this critical authorization, which will position Bath Iron Works to either receive another DDG-51 contract under the terms of the 2002 MOU or compete to build another one in the coming years a significant win for Maine and for our Navy, Senator King said. The Arleigh Burke Class destroyers are the backbone of our Navy, and no one builds them better than the hardworking men and women at Bath Iron Works. Senator Kings request came as leaders of the Senate and House Armed Services Committees were working to find $5 billion in funding reductions in the NDAA so that the bill would conform to the spending levels established under the two-year budget deal negotiated by Congressional leadership and the President and passed by Congress on October 30th to avoid a government default on its debt. Senator King had originally secured and ushered through Congress an authorization for $400 million in incremental funding for an additional DDG-51 that the Navy could procure in the next three years, potentially at Bath Iron Works. However, because the $400 million was an additional authorization meaning that it was added by Senator King during the Committee process and not requested by the Administration it had been publicly identified as a potential easy target for elimination as Committee leaders sought to find $5 billion in reductions. Senator King urged Senator John McCain (R-Ariz.), the Chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee, to preserve as much of the authorization as possible. Senator McCain and his Hou… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-to-epa-get-clean-water-rule-right-for-maine-farmers_ | King to EPA: Get Clean Water Rule Right for Maine Farmers | 2015-11-03 | 2015 | 2015-11 | Independent | House | ME | Angus King | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | legacy | King to EPA: Get Clean Water Rule Right for Maine Farmers Leads letter to EPA calling for clearer guidance for environmental rules Tuesday, November 3, 2015 WASHINGTON, D.C. Rather than vote to advance legislation that would severely undermine environmental protections for streams and wetlands, U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine) announced today that he is leading a letter to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) demanding that the agency provide clarity on agricultural exemptions and more concise guidelines on compliance in the EPA-issued clean water rules. Senator Kings letter addresses concerns that Senator King and many farmers across the country share about the ambiguity of the EPAs Clean Water Rule as currently written and how it may create uncertainty that could have a detrimental impact on farming operations. However, rather than voting to proceed to legislation that would dismantle the rule in its entirety and undermine key environmental protections, Senator King led his colleagues in calling on the EPA to work with farmers to get the rule right. Senator King released the following statement: While Maines farmers shouldnt have to hire a lawyer and a soil scientist just to build an irrigation ditch, my concern is that this bill goes too far its the legislative equivalent of using a sledgehammer to crack a walnut, Senator King said. For our farmers and everyone in Maine who relies on the land to make a living, the EPAs clean water rule has created some uncertainty, but the bill on the Senate floor today goes too far in undermining the very critical protections for our environment. These protections that keep our waterways free of pollution are too important to the people of Maine and to Senator Ed Muskies legacy to toss aside haphazardly. I believe it is the responsibility of the EPA to provide more clear and concise guidance on how this rule will work in the real world, he continued. And, while I wont support the bill on the floor today, I will ma… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senators-collins-king-announce-us-department-of-agriculture-funding-to-support-low-income-housing- | Senators Collins, King Announce U.S. Department of Agriculture Funding to Support Low-Income Housing | 2015-11-03 | 2015 | 2015-11 | Independent | House | ME | Angus King | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | legacy | Senators Collins, King Announce U.S. Department of Agriculture Funding to Support Low-Income Housing Tuesday, November 3, 2015 WASHINGTON, D.C.U.S. Senators Susan Collins, Chairman of the Transportation, Housing and Urban Development Appropriations Subcommittee, and Angus King announced today that the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) has awarded two Housing Preservation Grants to Penquis Community Action Program Inc. (Penquis CAP) and Western Maine Community Action (WMCA) to support housing rehabilitation projects in Franklin, Penobscot, Piscataquis, Knox, and Waldo Counties. This important investment will help low-income families across Maine maintain good, safe homes, the Senators said in a joint statement. Maines bitterly cold winters present serious challenges for our states most vulnerable families, and this funding will help dozens of Mainersprepare their homes for the coming months. USDAs Housing Preservation Grant program provides grants to sponsoring organizations for the repair or rehabilitation of housing occupied by low and very low-income individuals. The rural development funds provided through this program will be combined with funding from other Maine-based organizations to provide assistance to those in need. The funding totals are as follows: WMCA: USDA Grant: $25,000 Funding from other organizations: $67,000 Total: $92,000 Penquis CAP: USDA Grant: $25,000 Funding from other organizations: $230,800 Total: $255,800 ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-colleagues-urge-robust-education-technology-funding-in-education-bill | King, Colleagues Urge Robust Education Technology Funding in Education Bill | 2015-11-02 | 2015 | 2015-11 | Independent | House | ME | Angus King | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | legacy | King, Colleagues Urge Robust Education Technology Funding in Education Bill Monday, November 2, 2015 BRUNSWICK, ME In a bipartisan letter today, U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine) and several of his colleagues urged leaders of the Senate and House education committees to maintain strong education technology provisions as they begin conference proceedings for the reauthorization of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA). This bicameral and bipartisan letter, which was addressed to the Chairs and Ranking Members of the Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions Committee and the House Education and Workforce Committee, asks members to include robust support in their bill for education technology and technology-specific educator professional development, preferably through a stand-alone program. Technology plays a pivotal role in everything we do today, and when it comes to the classroom, students arent going to be able to get ahead without knowing how to use technology to their advantage, Senator King said. As Committee leaders work to finalize ESEA, I urge them to maintain a strong commitment to education technology so that we can continue to close the digital divide and ensure that students are equipped with the 21st century skills they need to succeed. In July, the Senate passed the Every Child Achieves Act (ECAA), a major education reform bill that makes critical reforms to address the overly prescriptive approach and unrealistic goals of the No Child Left Behind Act that was passed in 2002. Senator King helped secure several provisions in the ECAA that would expand digital learning opportunities for Americas students, particularly those in rural areas, including: An amendment inspired by an innovative educational initiative in Washington County that would ensure digital services or devices that help students access the Internet outside of the school day, like mobile hotspots, are eligible for technology funding under the bills I-TECH program.… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/peace-comes-through-strength-king-says-at-peralta-christening-ceremony | Peace Comes Through Strength, King Says at Peralta Christening Ceremony | 2015-10-31 | 2015 | 2015-10 | Independent | House | ME | Angus King | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | legacy | Peace Comes Through Strength, King Says at Peralta Christening Ceremony Through their work on DDG-115, men and women of BIW & Navy sailors preserve peace, the highest recognition to Sgt. Peralta, King says in remarks Saturday, October 31, 2015 BATH, ME Today, U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine), a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, delivered remarks at the Rafael Peralta (DDG-115) christening ceremony at Bath Iron Works. As I think about this day, I think about an apparent conflict, but one which I believe is not so. We are here in the presence of a great weapon of war, but we are really creating an instrument of peace, Senator King said. Civilization takes work. Conflict is inherent. Throughout history we have gone through the process of conflict, so the question is: how do we deter it? How do we find peace? How do we sustain peace? The best way to preserve peace is by deterring war through unassailable strength, Senator King continued. The men and women who built this ship and the men and women who will man it are doing the work of civilization, and that is the ultimate honor and recognition to Rafael Peralta that his name will be born on a mighty instrument of peace for our country and the world. The Rafael Peralta (DDG-115), built at Bath Iron Works, is the 35thArleigh Burke Class Guided Missile Destroyer and is named in honor of Marine Corps Sergeant Rafael Peralta who was killed in action on November 15, 2004 in Fallujah, Iraq. Sergeant Peralta was posthumously awarded the Navy Cross for his heroism and courage under fire. Specifically, he fell on a live grenade and absorbed the blast with his body to save the lives of his fellow Marines. Senator Susan Collins, Representatives Chellie Pingree and Bruce Poliquin, as well as Chief of Navy Reserves Vice Admiral Robin Braun, Assistant Secretary of the Navy Sean Stackley, and Commandant of the U.S. Marine Corps General Robert Neller all spoke at the christening as well. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-participates-in-climate-business-roundtable | King Participates in Climate Business Roundtable | 2015-10-30 | 2015 | 2015-10 | Independent | House | ME | Angus King | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | legacy | King Participates in Climate Business Roundtable Friday, October 30, 2015 WASHINGTON, D.C. This morning, U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine), a member of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee and Climate Action Task Force, participated in a Climate Business Roundtable hosted by the Natural Resources Council of Maine. The roundtable, which Senator King video-conferenced into from Washington, included local business leaders and energy experts and focused on the opportunities and challenges that climate change presents to businesses in Maine. The impact of climate change is not a joke. Its real and its serious, particularly in terms of its impact on Maines economy and the iconic parts of our identity as a state, Senator King said. The good news is that we are starting to do something about it. The Clean Power Plan is a significant step forward in terms of federal action, but right here in Maine businesses are recognizing that addressing climate change makes sense economically and environmentally. Its small steps like these, in combination with state and federal action, that will help make the difference in stemming the tide of climate change. In his remarks, Senator King once again underscored how climate change is taking a serious toll on Maines businesses and economy. As a member of the Climate Action Task Force, he has repeatedly sounded the warning on the long-term dangers that climate change poses to Maine, pointing out that the lobster stock continues to move northward due in search of colder waters. Senator Kings concerns about warming waters are also supported by a recent study by the Gulf of Maine Research Institute, which says that rapidly warming coastal waters in Maine have contributed significantly to the depletion of the Atlantic-cod stock, hurting Maines fishing industry. However, in recognition of that impact, businesses in Maine are also taking steps to reduce their dependency on the fossil fuels driving climate change in an effort to help reduce b… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-statement-on-administrations-introduction-of-us-special-operations-forces-into-syria | King Statement on Administration’s Introduction of U.S. Special Operations Forces into Syria | 2015-10-30 | 2015 | 2015-10 | Independent | House | ME | Angus King | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | legacy | King Statement on Administrations Introduction of U.S. Special Operations Forces into Syria Friday, October 30, 2015 WASHINGTON, D.C. In response to the announcement from the Obama Administration thatit intends to introduce U.S Special Operations Forces into Syria, U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine), a member of the Senate Armed Services and Intelligence Committees, released the following statement today: For far too long, Congress has stood by while U.S. forces haveconducted operations against ISIL in Iraq and Syria and todays announcement will very likely put more U.S. personnel directly in harms way. Its Congress Constitutional duty to consider and debate the AUMF submitted by the Administration last year, Senator King said. While no one believes that Congress should handcuff the Presidents ability to fight terrorism and protect the American people, it would be a mistake to allow this to turn into an American-led ground war, and the fact that the Administration plans to introduce U.S. Special Operations Forces in Syria only underscores the need for Congress to constructively weigh in through an AUMF. Senator King joined MSNBCs Andrea Mitchell Reports to discuss the announcement. To watch the interview, click HERE. Currently, the Administration is justifying American engagement against ISIL under the 2001 AUMF, which was passed by Congress following the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks, as well as under the 2002 AUMF that authorized the invasion of Iraq in 2003. The Administrations proposal for a new authorization was submitted to Congress in February 2015 but Congress has not acted on it. Senator King has consistently expressed concern about the scope of the 2001 AUMF and has urged his colleagues and the Administration to take action to bring it in line with current requirements. Inremarks on the Senate floor last December, Senator King urged his colleagues to specifically authorize the mission against ISIL. In January 2014, Senator King joined Senator Tim Kaine (… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-supports-budget-to-lift-sequestration-end-crisis-governing | King Supports Budget to Lift Sequestration, End Crisis Governing | 2015-10-30 | 2015 | 2015-10 | Independent | House | ME | Angus King | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | legacy | King Supports Budget to Lift Sequestration, End Crisis Governing Certainty provided under new spending agreement will help protect jobs in Maine Friday, October 30, 2015 WASHINGTON, D.C. With the support of U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine), the Senate early this morning passed a two-year budget agreement that avoids a default on government debt and lifts sequestration for defense and non-defense domestic spending, a move which Senator King has long advocated. Following the vote, Senator King released the following statement: No budget is ever perfect, and this one certainly isnt an exception but the stability and certainty provided under this agreement will go a long way for Maine in supporting the economy and job creation. By lifting arbitrary spending caps, this bill will allow for greater investment in a wide-range of priorities, from education to infrastructure to the military. Importantly, this also puts at least a temporary end to the cycles of governing by crisis that have only damaged our economy and further eroded this institutions credibility in the eyes of the American people. Senator King has been a strong proponent of lifting the caps established by sequestration, as this budget agreement does, repeatedly expressing concern for how sequestration hurts the economy and hurts Maine. As a member of the Senate Budget Committee, he has advocated for a more balanced approach to budgeting that does not focus exclusively on spending cuts or revenue increases but rather, that adopts a measured approach that incorporates both. Senator King led an informal, bipartisan group of his colleagues in trying to develop a plan to provide responsible sequester relief to non-defense domestic and defense discretionary spending, and earlier this year, he partnered with Senator Tim Kaine (D-Va.) to offer an amendment to the Senate budget, which was accepted by a vote of 50-48, that was similar in concept to the agreement finally adopted Friday morning. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/collins-king-sign-letter-urging-secretary-of-veterans-affairs-to-support-arch-program | Collins, King Sign Letter Urging Secretary of Veterans Affairs to Support ARCH Program | 2015-10-29 | 2015 | 2015-10 | Independent | House | ME | Angus King | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | legacy | Collins, King Sign Letter Urging Secretary of Veterans Affairs to Support ARCH Program Thursday, October 29, 2015 WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Senators Susan Collins, Angus King, and Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) have sent a letter to Robert McDonald, Secretary of the Department of Veterans Affairs, urging him to provide support for the crucial Access Received Closer to Home (ARCH) program for veterans who live in rural communities. In the letter, the senators stated, ARCH provides medical care for veterans living in rural areas or for those who are burdened with long wait times for services.According to congressionally mandated reports to the House and Senate Committees on Veterans Affairs, more than 90 percent of veterans participating in ARCH are overwhelmingly satisfied with their access to care and the medical services they receive from the participating community providers. ARCH ensures that participating veterans, who often have a difficult time accessing care through the regular VA health care system, can receive care closer to where they live. One of the five locations for the pilot program is in Caribou, Maine, which has a long-standing partnership with Cary Medical Center. Without this partnership, veterans in northern Maine would have to travel approximately 600 miles round trip to access care at the Togus VA Hospital in Augusta, ME. This can be especially daunting during Maines long, snowy winter months, as Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) member Peter Miesburger recently attested. Peter Miesburgur was able to use the Arch Program for emergency surgery for a broken hip. Had the ARCH program not been in place, he would have had to endure a 500-mile roundtrip ambulance ride to Togus. The ride would have taken more than eight hours, over bumpy, winter roads, while he was in extreme pain. Often veterans and their families are forced to stay overnight and miss work as a result of the distance they are forced to travel to receive care. In addition to eliminating long and di… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/collins-king-urge-senate-leadership-to-pass-extension-of-perkins-loan-program | Collins, King Urge Senate Leadership to Pass Extension of Perkins Loan Program | 2015-10-29 | 2015 | 2015-10 | Independent | House | ME | Angus King | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | legacy | Collins, King Urge Senate Leadership to Pass Extension of Perkins Loan Program Critical lifeline for low-income students expired on September 30 Thursday, October 29, 2015 WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Senator Susan Collins, a member of the Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions Committee, led a bipartisan letter, along with Senators Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Robert Casey (D-PA), and Rob Portman (R-OH), to Majority Leader Mitch McConnell and Minority Leader Harry Reid urging them to take up and pass legislation to extend the Perkins Loan Program. The letter was cosigned by Senator Angus King and a majority of the Senate.This critical lifeline for many low-income students expired on September 30, despite receiving a unanimous one-year, no-cost extension from the House of Representatives on September 28. The Senators wrote to express strong support for the Perkins Loan Program and to request that the Senate take up and pass the Higher Education Extension Act as soon as possible. The Perkins Loan Program, the nations older federal student loan program, has existed with broad bipartisan support since 1958 and has provided more than $28 billion in loans through almost 26 million awards to students in all 50 states. In the last academic year alone, the program lent $1.1 billion to more than half a million students with financial need across more than 1,500 institutions of higher education. In Maine, more than 5,000 students received a Perkins Loan last year, providing $9.2 million in financial aid, said Senator Collins. Students at our colleges and universities are depending on us for the assistance that this vital and proven program provides. I urge the leadership in the Senate to take up and pass the one-year extension of this critical program immediately. Each year, thousands of students in Maine rely on federal aid provided through the Perkins Loan program to help them pursue a college education and open doors of opportunity that can change their lives, Senator King s… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/collins-king-announce-more-than-16-million-for-renewable-energy-and-energy-efficiency-projects-in-maine | Collins, King Announce More than $1.6 Million for Renewable Energy & Energy Efficiency Projects in Maine | 2015-10-27 | 2015 | 2015-10 | Independent | House | ME | Angus King | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | legacy | Collins, King Announce More than $1.6 Million for Renewable Energy & Energy Efficiency Projects in Maine Tuesday, October 27, 2015 WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King, a member of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, today announced that fourteen Maine businesses will receive federal grants totaling more than $1.6 million to support renewable energy and energy efficiency projects in the state. The funding is provided through the U.S. Department of Agricultures (USDA) Rural Energy for America (REAP) program. More and more Maine businesses are turning to renewable energy sources and energy efficiency measures in order to save money and better protect the environment, said Senators King and Collins in a joint statement. Federal investment can often be a catalyst in spurring these important changes, which is why we welcome this USDA funding to support clean energy development and energy efficiency in Maines rural communities. This is a win-win for our small businesses and for our environment. The list of newly-announced Maine award recipients is below: Athens Energy, LLC, Somerset County, $56,520 grantforenergy efficiency Athens Energy, LLC, Somerset County, $500,000 grant forthermal conversion Janel Inc. DBA Camp Tapawingo, Somerset County, $29,900 grant forsolar Justice Farm, Inc., Cumberland County, $8,565 grant for solar Labrie Farms, LLC, Aroostook County, $49,500 grant forsolar Maine Beer Company LLC, Cumberland County $49,273 grant forsolar Michaud, Gilles, Aroostook County, $106,862 grantforsolar North Branch, LLC, Waldo County, $5,048 grant for solar Planson International Corporation, Cumberland County, $27,222 grant forsolar Ricker Hill Orchards, Androscoggin County, $22,261 grant forenergy efficiency Smith's Farm, Inc., Aroostook County, $227,681 grant forsolar Sparky's Apiaries, Inc., Knox County, $1,867 grantforenergy efficiency The Wildwood Corporation, Cumberland County,$59,301grant forsolar … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-applauds-passage-of-cyber-security-legislation | King Applauds Passage of Cyber-Security Legislation | 2015-10-27 | 2015 | 2015-10 | Independent | House | ME | Angus King | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | legacy | King Applauds Passage of Cyber-Security Legislation Tuesday, October 27, 2015 WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine) released the following statement today after the Senate passed the Cybersecurity Information Sharing Act of 2015: Today, the Senate took a significant step forward in bolstering our countrys cyber-defenses and giving businesses the tools they need to better protect themselves against cyber-attacks, Senator King said. Every day, thousands of cyber-criminals attempt to breach our digital defenses, threatening our national security and the stability of our economy. By strengthening collaboration between the public and private sector, and by improving information sharing practices, this bill helps shield us against those threats. More work needs to be done, but this is much-needed progress. Senator King has consistently called for the U.S. to shore up its cyber-defenses. In remarks delivered last week on the Senate floor, he discussed how recent cyber-attacks on government agencies and private companies have underscored the increased need for improved public-private cooperation to combat the growing threat. Those threats led Senator King in August to co-host a cyber-security briefing with the Department of Homeland Security and Maine State Chamber of Commerce in Portland to inform local businesses about best practices that can help protect them from cyber-attacks. According to the Maine Credit Union League, data breaches over the past year have cost Maine credit unions approximately $2 million to replace debit and credit cards and an additional $500,000 to cover fraud. Furthermore, one Maine healthcare provider explained how it experiences thousands of attempts every day to steal confidential data. A 2014 report by McAfee and the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) found that the annual cost to the global economy from cyber-crime is more than $445 billion. The report also estimated that the impact of cyber-crime could translate in… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-rounds-johnson-manchin-announce-new-senate-regulations-caucus | King, Rounds, Johnson, Manchin Announce New Senate Regulations Caucus | 2015-10-27 | 2015 | 2015-10 | Independent | House | ME | Angus King | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | legacy | King, Rounds, Johnson, Manchin Announce New Senate Regulations Caucus Bipartisan group to lead effort to advance regulatory reform in Congress Tuesday, October 27, 2015 WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Senators Angus King (I-Maine), Mike Rounds (R-S.D.), Ron Johnson (R-Wisc.), and Joe Manchin (D-W.V.) today announced the formation of the bipartisan Senate Regulations Caucus to address regulatory reform at the federal level. With many legislative efforts currently underway to address over-regulation, the goal of the Senate Regulations Caucus is to unify and lead these efforts to advance meaningful regulatory reform in Congress. With thousands of new regulations taking effect every year, its far past time that Congress got a better handle on the regulatory system that impedes American businesses and hampers vital growth and innovation, Senator King said. The Senate Regulations Caucus can lead that effort and spearhead an overhaul of ineffective, duplicative, or outdated regulations so that businesses in Maine and across the country can do what they do best create jobs and grow the economy. From introducing large-scale reform legislation to tackling smaller, poorly-tailored regulations head-on, improving the regulatory process to cultivate an environment for economic growth is one of Senator Kings top priorities particularly as the U.S. issues nearly 3,000 new regulations every year but has limited capacity or processes to review the effectiveness of regulations already in place. To address that very issue, Senator King, along with Senator Roy Blunt (R-Mo.), has introduced the Regulatory Improvement Act, bipartisan legislation that would create a Regulatory Improvement Commission to review outdated regulations with the goal of modifying, consolidating, or repealing regulations in order to reduce compliance costs, encourage growth and innovation, and improve competitiveness. Senator King has also introduced the PROTECT Act as well as the Federal Permitting Improvement Act, b… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-statement-on-budget-agreement | King Statement on Budget Agreement | 2015-10-27 | 2015 | 2015-10 | Independent | House | ME | Angus King | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | legacy | King Statement on Budget Agreement Tuesday, October 27, 2015 WASHINGTON, D.C. In response to reports that a two-year budget deal has been reached, U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine), a member of the Senate Budget Committee, released the following statement: For far too long, the economy has stared down the threat of a budget calamity with sequestration and teetered under the weight of crises manufactured by Congress. The American people deserve better. They deserve an economy thats not crushed by the harsh grip of spending cuts and they deserve a paycheck thats not hollowed out by tax increases. Instead, they deserve a balanced, common-sense approach to growing the economy, and I hope thats where this budget deal will lead us. I look forward to reviewing the details in the coming days, but the fact that we have an agreement is a significant and positive step in the right direction. As a member of the Senate Budget and Armed Services Committees, Senator King led an informal, bipartisan group of his colleagues in trying to develop a plan to provide responsible sequester relief to non-defense and defense discretionary spending. During the Senate budget process earlier this year, Senator King and Senator Tim Kaine (D-Va.) also offered an amendment, which was accepted by a vote of 50-48, that would have paved a legislative path for adopting a more sensible, compromise budget that would promote economic growth and reduce the debt and deficit by striking an appropriate balance between spending reductions and revenue increases. Throughout the Congressional budget process, Senator King has been a strong advocate of a more balanced approach replacing sequestration with more targeted cuts and a close review of tax loopholes to raise revenues while also protecting the beneficiaries of important programs. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-applauds-20-million-tiger-grant-to-maine-railways-project | King Applauds $20 Million TIGER Grant to Maine Railways Project | 2015-10-26 | 2015 | 2015-10 | Independent | House | ME | Angus King | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | legacy | King Applauds $20 Million TIGER Grant to Maine Railways Project Monday, October 26, 2015 WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine) today applauded an announcement by the U.S. Department of Transportation that it has awarded $20 million in Transportation Investment Generation Economic Recovery (TIGER) funding to the Maine Railways Project. The funding will be used to help rehabilitate approximately 380 miles of track throughout Maine. Maines railways are economic lifelines, helping to move goods and support jobs across the state, Senator King said. When our railways arent in good working order, our economy suffers, which is why this TIGER grant is such a welcome investment. By repairing our railway infrastructure, this grant funding will enhance commerce, put Maine people to work, and keep surrounding communities safe. The Maine Regional Railways Project provides investment in new rail, ties, surfacing, and upgraded road crossings and signal systems on the railroad mainlines in the state. The project will rehabilitate approximately 380 miles of track throughout Maine, removing longstanding bottlenecks and creating faster and more reliable freight service. The TIGER funding will support 54 percent of the total project cost of $37,348,516. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-colleagues-urge-social-security-administration-to-implement-supreme-court-marriage-decision-not-penalize-previously-married-same-sex-couples | King, Colleagues Urge Social Security Administration to Implement Supreme Court Marriage Decision, Not Penalize Previously Married Same-Sex Couples | 2015-10-26 | 2015 | 2015-10 | Independent | House | ME | Angus King | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | legacy | King, Colleagues Urge Social Security Administration to Implement Supreme Court Marriage Decision, Not Penalize Previously Married Same-Sex Couples Monday, October 26, 2015 WASHINGTON, DC U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine), along with several of his Senate and House colleagues, today sent a letter to the Acting Commissioner of the Social Security Administration Carolyn W. Colvin and U.S. Attorney General Loretta Lynch urging them to ensure that the Supreme Courts landmark marriage decisions are implemented and that the Social Security Administration (SSA) is treating marriages equally. The letter urges SSA not to penalize married same-sex couples who received Supplemental Security Income (SSI) overpayments due to SSAs delayed implementation of the law following the Supreme Courts decision in United States v. Windsor. We are concerned to hear that, for some time after the Supreme Courts Windsor decision, SSA continued to issue benefits to Supplemental Security Income recipients in same-sex marriages as though these individuals were single, and that for some SSI recipients, SSA is still doing so, Senator King and his colleagues wrote. SSA should not penalize people who are poor, elderly or disabled because SSA continued issuing benefits to these married individuals as though they were single. According to SSAs statute and regulations, SSA shall avoid penalizing an individual for overpayment if the individual is without fault and if recovery of the overpayment would be against equity and good conscience. [W]e urge SSA to issue a blanket waiver for recovery of overpayment for all of these individuals automatically especially since SSAs inability to update its systems resulted in SSAs continuing to apply Section 3 of the Defense of Marriage Act long after the Supreme Court struck it down as unconstitutional, the letter continues. In the letter, Senator King and his colleagues also ask SSA to respond with information about how the agency is identifying affected SSI recipients a… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-surveys-energy-conservation-project-at-maine-machine-products-in-south-paris | King Surveys Energy Conservation Project at Maine Machine Products in South Paris | 2015-10-23 | 2015 | 2015-10 | Independent | House | ME | Angus King | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | legacy | King Surveys Energy Conservation Project at Maine Machine Products in South Paris Promotes energy efficiency as a boon for both businesses and the environment Friday, October 23, 2015 SOUTH PARIS, ME Today, U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine) toured precision manufacturer Maine Machine Products Company in South Paris where he surveyed newly-completed energy efficiency upgrades that are expected to save the company approximately $100,000 per year. In remarks delivered at the event, Senator King emphasized how energy conservation projects, like that at Maine Machine, can help Maine businesses reduce energy consumption, protect the environment, and save money in the process. Energy bills in Maine are too high and it hurts families whose budgets are stretched and it hurts businesses that cant grow or create jobs as a result. The single best way to reduce those bills is to reduce consumption because the cheapest kilowatt hour is the one never used,Senator King said.And thats exactly what Maine Machine has done through its energy conservation project. As a result of the innovative partnership with Efficiency Maine and Thayer Corp., Maine Machine will save energy, which helps the environment, and save money, which helps its bottom line a true win-win for everyone. Projects like these are important because it highlights the importance of energy efficiency, illustrates what can be done throughout Maine, and demonstrates how we can make our manufacturing sector more competitive, all of which are reasons why the federal government must continue to encourage these efforts. The recently completed energy efficiency project at Maine Machine Products, which was completed with the help of Thayer Corporation of Auburn and Efficiency Maine, is expected to save the plant over $100,000 per year in electricity expenses, improve temperature control, reduce maintenance and repair expenses, extend the life of their HVAC equipment, and better illuminate work spaces in all areas of the … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senators-collins-king-announce-more-than-34-million-in-liheap-funding-for-maine- | Senators Collins, King Announce More Than $34 Million in LIHEAP Funding for Maine | 2015-10-23 | 2015 | 2015-10 | Independent | House | ME | Angus King | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | legacy | Senators Collins, King Announce More Than $34 Million in LIHEAP Funding for Maine Friday, October 23, 2015 WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King today announced that Maine will receive $34,847,767 in Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) assistance. The funding from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) will help low-income households and seniors with their energy bills. The long, cold Maine winter can present low-income families and seniors with the impossible choice between paying for heat and paying for other necessities like food or medicine, said Senator Collins and King in a joint statement. Thanks to the LIHEAP program, Mainers across our state will be able to keep their homes warm without having to make that choice. This important investment will support some of our most vulnerable citizens this winter. Earlier this month, Senators Collins and Jack Reed (D-RI) led a bipartisan letter also signed by Senator King to HHS Secretary Sylvia Mathews Burwell, urging her to release LIHEAP funds without delay and at as high a level as possible. Preserving LIHEAP funding has been a continued priority for both Senators Collins and King, both of whom have worked together to oppose recent attempts to scale back the funding appropriated for this critical program. LIHEAP is the main federal program that helps low-income households and seniors with their energy bills, providing vital assistance during both the cold winter and hot summer months. LIHEAP households are among the most vulnerable in the country. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-testifies-in-support-of-maine-supercalendered-paper-industry-at-us-international-trade-commission-hearing | King Testifies in Support of Maine Supercalendered Paper Industry at U.S. International Trade Commission Hearing | 2015-10-22 | 2015 | 2015-10 | Independent | House | ME | Angus King | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | legacy | King Testifies in Support of Maine Supercalendered Paper Industry at U.S. International Trade Commission Hearing Criticizes unfair Canadian subsidies that have injured Maine businesses, workers Thursday, October 22, 2015 WASHINGTON, D.C. Today, U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine) testified before the U.S. International Trade Commission (ITC) in support of Maines supercalendered paper industry and outlined the damaging impact that unfair Canadian trade subsidies have had on Maine businesses such as Madison Paper. The mill workers in Madison are talented, dedicated, open to challenges, and innovative; in short, they are part of a proud paper-making community and tradition in Maine. The workforce at Madison is also justifiably frustrated with the conditions under which theyre effectively being asked to compete for business. When the Government of Nova Scotia rescued the Port Hawkesbury Paper mill from closure in October 2012, it brought a large, previously unprofitable supercalendered paper mill back onto the market that would not otherwise be there if not for the governments substantial assistance, said Senator King in his testimony. Even in a rapidly changing market environment, Madisons workers any of Maines paper mill workers, in fact - can compete and win. But they require a level playing field and the strong enforcement of fair trade practices. Your Commissions hard work and final decision confirming injury by reason of imports will be an important step toward providing the relief that Madison Paper and other domestic supercalendered paper producers deserve. On behalf of all Maine paper mill workers, I appreciate your attention to this matter. Todays hearing, which focused on the countervailing duty case regarding supercalandered paper from Canada, will help the ITC make a final determination as to whether unfair Canadian subsidies have materially injured or threatened to injure the U.S. supercalendered paper industry. The subsidies in question include those pr… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senate-passes-king-backed-bill-to-prevent-newborn-opioid-dependency | Senate Passes King-Backed Bill to Prevent Newborn Opioid Dependency | 2015-10-22 | 2015 | 2015-10 | Independent | House | ME | Angus King | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | legacy | Senate Passes King-Backed Bill to Prevent Newborn Opioid Dependency Thursday, October 22, 2015 WASHINGTON, D.C. The U.S. Senate today passed the Protecting Our Infants Act of 2015, bipartisan legislation cosponsored by U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine) that would help address the alarming rise of opioid abuse among pregnant women and its effect on newborn babies. Maines opioid epidemic doesnt just affect those struggling with addiction. It hurts parents, siblings, friends, and even newborn babies, Senator King said. By developing an improved strategy to prevent opioid abuse and provide more comprehensive treatment, we can help mothers struggling with addictions and curb the disturbing rise of infants suffering from withdrawal. According to the Maine Department of Health and Human Services, there have been 995 infants diagnosed with neonatal abstinence syndrome after being exposed to opioids while in the womb. From 2010 to 2014, the number of affected infants grew from 572 to 961, an increase of 68 percent. Additionally, the number of individuals seeking treatment for opiate abuse in Maine has increased from 1,115 in 2010 to 3,463 in 2014. In 2014, almost three percent of all adult women admitted to substance abuse treatment were pregnant. The Protecting Our Infants Act would: Direct the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) to conduct a departmental review to identify gaps in research and any duplication, overlap or gaps in prevention and treatment programs related to prenatal opioid abuse and infants born with opioid withdrawal Require HHS to study and develop recommendations for the prevention and treatment of prenatal opioid use disorders, soliciting input from nongovernmental entities representing patients, health care providers, and treatment facilities. Authorize the Centers for Disease Control to continue providing technical assistance to support states and tribes in collecting information on neonatal abstinence syndrome and implementing effective publ… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-highlights-cost-of-cyber-attacks-for-maine-businesses-calls-on-congress-to-pass-cyber-security-legislation | King Highlights Cost of Cyber-Attacks for Maine Businesses, Calls on Congress to Pass Cyber-Security Legislation | 2015-10-21 | 2015 | 2015-10 | Independent | House | ME | Angus King | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | legacy | King Highlights Cost of Cyber-Attacks for Maine Businesses, Calls on Congress to Pass Cyber-Security Legislation Wednesday, October 21, 2015 WASHINGTON, D.C. In remarks delivered on the Senate floor today, U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine), a member of the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence, highlighted the growing financial toll that cyber-attacks and data breaches are inflicting on Maine businesses. Senator Kings remarks come as Congress begins consideration of the Cybersecurity Information Sharing Act of 2015 (CISA), legislation which seeks to strengthen U.S. cyber-defenses and protect businesses by incentivizing information-sharing practices. In his remarks, Senator King expressed support for the bill and encouraged his colleagues to pass it. In the state of Maine, we have to worry about it. Ive been meeting with businesses large and small across the state. Every single one with one exception listed cyber-intrusion as one of their greatest issues, Senator King said. This is real in our state. Today, no business is immune. No individual is immune, and, of course, this country is not immune. The price of inaction is just too high. Over the past few years, Senator Kings office has been in frequent contact with a variety of Maine businesses in the health, defense, financial, education, and consumer products sectors to understand how cyber-attacks and data breaches impact them. According to the Maine Credit Union League, data breaches over the past year in have cost Maine credit unions approximately $2 million to replace debit and credit cards and an additional $500,000 to cover fraud. Furthermore, one Maine healthcare provider explained how it experiences thousands of attempts every day to steal confidential data. Those threats led Senator King in August to co-host a cyber-security briefing with the Department of Homeland Security and Maine State Chamber of Commerce in Portland to inform local businesses about best practices to protect them from cyber-attacks. … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-welcomes-presidents-plan-to-address-prescription-drug-abuse-and-heroin-use | King Welcomes President’s Plan to Address Prescription Drug Abuse and Heroin Use | 2015-10-21 | 2015 | 2015-10 | Independent | House | ME | Angus King | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | legacy | King Welcomes Presidents Plan to Address Prescription Drug Abuse and Heroin Use Wednesday, October 21, 2015 WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine) released the following statement in advance of President Obamas expected announcement today of a series of public and private efforts aimed at addressing the prescription drug abuse and heroin epidemic: In Maine, weve lost too many friends and loved ones to opioid abuse, and today, too many people still continue to suffer under the grip of addiction most of them in silence, not knowing where to turn, Senator King said. One thing is clear: to address this terrible epidemic, we need a comprehensive effort, and the Presidents announcement moves us in that direction. By engaging both the public and private sectors, and by looking at every facet of the problem from prevention to treatment, this strategy is a concrete step forward in the effort to stem the tide of prescription drug abuse and heroin addiction. Today, the White House has said that President Obama will announce a series of federal, state, local and private sector efforts aimed at addressing the prescription drug abuse and heroin epidemic that include improving provider training and access to treatment. To see the complete list of initiatives expected today, click HERE. In August, Senator King, a member of the Senate Prescription Drug Abuse Caucus, and Director of National Drug Control Policy Michael Botticelli convened a roundtable discussion in Brewer focused on how to build on current federal policies to better address the threat that opioid abuse poses to personal and public health and safety. Earlier this month, Senator King also spoke at the UNITE to Face Addiction Rally on the National Mall, where he highlighted the importance of raising the profile of addiction in America and underscored how those who have faced addiction are critical to helping fight it today. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senate-passes-collins-king-resolution-honoring-lives-of-el-faro-crew- | Senate Passes Collins, King Resolution Honoring Lives of El Faro Crew | 2015-10-21 | 2015 | 2015-10 | Independent | House | ME | Angus King | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | legacy | Senate Passes Collins, King Resolution Honoring Lives of El Faro Crew Wednesday, October 21, 2015 WASHINGTON, D.C. Today, the U.S. Senate unanimously passed a resolution cosponsored by U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King honoring the lives of the 33 lost crew members of the El Faro, four of whom were from Maine and had graduated from the Maine Maritime Academy (MMA) in Castine along with another crew member who had also attended MMA. The resolution also recognizes the tireless search efforts conducted by the U.S. Coast Guard, Navy, and Airforce, and offers condolences to the family, friends, and loved ones of the crew. As Mainers, we know that life on the high seas can be dangerous, which is why we also know that anyone who is willing to confront those dangers embodies a rare type of courage and skill. That was certainly true when it came to the crewmembers of the El Faro, Senators Collins and King said in a joint statement. With the unanimous approval of this resolution, the Senate on behalf of the entire country honors and pays tribute to those we lost in that heartbreaking accident. We continue to hold them, as well as their friends, families, and loved ones, in our thoughts and prayers, and hope that all touched by this tragedy can find some measure of peace and comfort knowing that their loved ones will not be forgotten. TheCoast Guardannounced on October 5th that itbelieves the 790-foot cargo ship sankas a result of encountering Hurricane Joaquinon its way from Jacksonville, Florida to San Juan, Puerto Rico. The ship had four Mainers on board, all of whom went to MMA: Captain Michael Davidson of Windham, Michael Holland of Wilton, Danielle Randolph of Rockland, and Dylan Meklin of Rockland. Also on board was Mitchell Kuflik of Connecticut, who graduated from MMA in 2011. The resolution was led by Senators Marco Rubio (R-Fla.) and Senators Bill Nelson (D-Fla.). Senators Ed Markey (D-Mass.), Tim Kaine (D-Va.), Tom Carper (D-Del.), Lamar Alexander (R-Tenn.) K… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.king.senate.gov/ | King Questions Defense Secretary on U.S. Strategy to Counter ISIS | 2015-10-20 | 2015 | 2015-10 | Independent | House | ME | Angus King | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | legacy | About every month, I go on the air on WGAN with local and national leaders to discuss issues of the day and my work as one of only two independents in the United States Senate. Ive launched the Inside Maine podcast so that you can listen to those discussions here or in iTunes, and stay up to date on how those issues impact Maine and the country. Click HERE to listen. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/collins-king-applaud-65-million-in-nasa-funding-for-gulf-of-maine-research-institute | Collins, King Applaud $6.5 Million in NASA Funding for Gulf of Maine Research Institute | 2015-10-20 | 2015 | 2015-10 | Independent | House | ME | Angus King | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | legacy | Collins, King Applaud $6.5 Million in NASA Funding for Gulf of Maine Research Institute Tuesday, October 20, 2015 WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King today applauded an announcement that the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) has awarded $6.5 million in grant funding to Gulf of Maine Research Institute (GMRI) to support climate change education in Maine and across the country. Providing students with innovative educational opportunities is crucial to engaging our nations students with STEM fields,said Senator Collins. GMRI gives students from Maine and from around the country the chance to gain first-hand experience in understanding the challenges faced by our states coastal communities. This important investment continues to build on the impressive educational opportunities already provided by the Gulf of Maine Research Institute, and will help to empower students to pursue careers in STEM and scientific discovery. The scientists and educators at the Gulf of Maine Research Institute embody Maines innovative spirit, and this exciting collaboration with NASA is yet another example of their forward-thinking leadership, Senator King said. GMRIs work to equip students and teachers with interactive science and technology will help inspire the next generation of scientists and, ultimately, advance our knowledge of climate change. With the changes were seeing in the Gulf of Maine and around the globe, this mission has never been more important. I am thrilled NASA has recognized GMRIs excellence in science and technology education, and look forward to following this innovative program as it enables our students build a deeper understanding of the impact of climate change on the world around them. The grant, titled Real World, Real Science: Using NASA Data to explore Weather and Climate, will support a redevelopment of GMRIS existing LabVenture! Program, which is currently featured in the Cohen Center for Interactive Learning in Portland. … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-statement-on-sanctuary-cities-legislation | King Statement on Sanctuary Cities Legislation | 2015-10-20 | 2015 | 2015-10 | Independent | House | ME | Angus King | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | legacy | King Statement on Sanctuary Cities Legislation Tuesday, October 20, 2015 WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine) today released the following statement after opposing the advancement of a bill that would place burdensome requirements on local law enforcement as they work to safeguard communities: State and local police departments know how to best protect and keep safe the communities they serve. The federal government should be a partner when it comes to that not another obstacle. I agree that we need to fix our broken immigration system, but thats not what this bill does. Instead, this bill would wrest away local control by dictating how law enforcement should interact with communities, slam cities with unfunded federal mandates by forcing them to foot the bill to detain people a Constitutionally questionable practice anyway, and undermine safety by revoking critical state and police grants if local law enforcement decides to pursue a different course it believes is better suited to local conditions. Rather than punishing local police and straining local budgets, the federal government should be working to find better ways to empower and work collaboratively with them to tackle the problem of illegal immigration and taking up comprehensive immigration reform would be a good place to start. Today, Senator King opposed a procedural motion to advance legislation that broadly defines sanctuary jurisdictions as any jurisdiction that fails to comply with a federal immigration detainer or request to notify. However, the more than 300 jurisdictions in the U.S. that would be impacted none of which are in Maine have chosen their law enforcement approaches for various reasons such as building better relationships between law enforcement and the communities in which they serve, focusing limited resources on the most serious criminals, or limiting potential legal liability due to constitutional concerns associated with immigration detainers. The legislation reject… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/at-international-assembly-in-iceland-king-continues-push-for-greater-us-leadership-in-arctic | At International Assembly in Iceland, King Continues Push for Greater U.S. Leadership in Arctic | 2015-10-18 | 2015 | 2015-10 | Independent | House | ME | Angus King | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | legacy | At International Assembly in Iceland, King Continues Push for Greater U.S. Leadership in Arctic Outlines challenges, opportunities in rapidly changing region Sunday, October 18, 2015 REYKJAVIK, ICELAND U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine), a founding co-chair of the Senate Arctic Caucus and a member of both the Senate Armed Services and Energy and Natural Resources Committees, this morning participated in an Arctic Circle Assembly Plenary Session in which he continued his push for increased U.S. leadership in the Arctic. In his remarks, Senator Kingalso spoke to the various security, environmental, economic, and social issues that make the region a significant policy priority for the U.S. and the world. The rapidly changing Arctic environment presents the United States, our Arctic neighbors, and the global community with a host of challenges, likeworking to blunt the impact of climate change or finding ways to peacefullyand responsiblypursue new commercial ventures, Senator King said. But inherent in those challenges are also opportunities opportunities for nations to work together to cultivate prosperity and expand educational and cultural exchanges that could define the future of the Arctic. The United States and Maine in particular is well-positioned to take advantage of those opportunities, and I believe it is our responsibility to advance constructive, forward-thinking leadership that will foster cooperation and ensure stability in the regionfor generationsto come, and I believe we must start doing so now. The Plenary Session, which was moderated by Rob Barber, the U.S. Ambassador to Iceland, and included Rear Admiral Mathias Winter, the U.S. Navy Chief of Naval Research; Fran Ulmer, Chair of the U.S. Arctic Research Commission and Special Advisor to the State Department on Arctic Science and Policy; Mark Brzezinkski, the former U.S. Ambassador to Sweden, and Ben Ziff, State Department Deputy Assistant Secretary for Nordic/Baltic Affairs, focused on U.S. Chai… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/oped/a-call-for-responsible-governance | A Call for Responsible Governance | 2015-10-16 | 2015 | 2015-10 | Independent | House | ME | Angus King | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | legacy | A Call for Responsible Governance By: Senator Angus King Friday, October 16, 2015 I returned to Washington this week after an eventful month of work in Maine that provided some great insights into the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. And while its always difficult to leave home, I arrived back in our nations capital last week reinvigorated by the common-sense thinking that I encountered so often during my visits across Maine. That same common-sense will guide me as I work on several issues that will have a substantial impact on our state and the country, including the looming fight over the federal budget. The federal government is set to run out of money at the end of September unless Congress acts. Even though the 16 day government shutdown of October 2013 is estimated to have significantly reduced economic growth in the final quarter of 2013, we are openly flirting with the possibility of a second government shutdown just two years later. That means we are moving towards another predictable fiscal crisis, and it is one of my top priorities to ensure that Congress passes the spending measure required for the government to remain open. In fact, I have joined with my colleagues in writing a letter to Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell to request that he schedule bipartisan negotiations as soon as possible, so that we can work together to craft a responsible budget for the upcoming fiscal year. The budget passed by Congress earlier this year, unfortunately, was not a serious document. That budget locked in sequestration the across-the-board spending cuts that indiscriminately axes funding to programs regardless of their effectiveness or necessity for our nations important non-defense programs for another year and de… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/collins-king-announce-federal-funding-award-to-new-beginnings-in-lewiston | Collins, King Announce Federal Funding Award to New Beginnings in Lewiston | 2015-10-16 | 2015 | 2015-10 | Independent | House | ME | Angus King | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | legacy | Collins, King Announce Federal Funding Award to New Beginnings in Lewiston Friday, October 16, 2015 WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King announced today that Lewiston non-profit New Beginnings, which works to improve the lives of homeless youth and families in crisis, has been awarded $179,367 in grant funding through the Administration for Children and Families (ACYF). The funds will be used to support their emergency shelter. This funding was awarded through the ACYFs Family and Youth Services Bureau. ACYF is a subsidiary of the United States Department of Health and Human Services, which oversees major federal programs that deal with social services, protective services, and adoption for children. The work done by New Beginnings has a direct impact on the Lewiston community and the lives of youth and families, said Senators Collins and King in a joint statement.It has been truly inspiring to learn about the wonderful work that New Beginnings is doing for homeless youth, and it is a model for organizations across the country on how to successfully reach out to young people who find themselves homeless." From its start 35 years ago to the opening of the new Ann Geiger Center this spring, New Beginnings has helped homeless youth gain the sense of safety and security of having a place to call home, and provided them with other resources to succeed, from assistance with college applications to developing such life skills as living on a budget and learning to cook. Funding through the Basic Center Program is authorized through the Runaway and Homeless Youth Act. Senators Collins and King are cosponsors of the Runaway and Homeless Youth and Trafficking Prevention Act, which would reauthorize and update the important federal programs that serve homeless youth. The Basic Center Program has helped thousands of homeless youth meet their immediate needs. In June, Senator Collins, a long-time supporter of homeless youth programs, was joined b… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/collins-king-announce-more-than-17-million-to-support-organic-farming-in-maine | Collins, King Announce More Than $1.7 Million to Support Organic Farming in Maine | 2015-10-16 | 2015 | 2015-10 | Independent | House | ME | Angus King | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | legacy | Collins, King Announce More Than $1.7 Million to Support Organic Farming in Maine Friday, October 16, 2015 WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King today announced that the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has awarded $709,713 to the Maine Organic Farmers and Gardeners Association (MOFGA) and $999,120 to the University of Maine to support ongoing efforts to support producers of organic agricultural products throughout the state of Maine and the northeast region. Maines thriving local food movement is driven in part by an encouraging wave of young and new farmers who have helped energize agriculture in our state, said Senators Collins and King in a joint statement. The Maine Organic Farmers and Gardeners Association and the University of Maine are an important part of that growth. This grant funding will further MOFGA and the University of Maines missions to assist farmers in developing sound agricultural practices as they build on Maines rich farming tradition. The grant funding awarded to MOFGA was allocated through the Beginning Farmer and Rancher Development Program, which is administered under the USDAs National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA). Based in Unity, MOFGA was founded in 1971 and is the oldest and largest state organic organization in the country. The Association has more than 5,000 members and operates a year-round education program offering conferences, presentations, and workshops throughout Maine. Through its Journeyperson Program, MOFGA also provides advanced training for people interested in organic farming. In 1996, MOFGA purchased 200 acres in the Unity where it now hosts the Common Ground Country Fair to celebrate Maines agricultural traditions. The University of Maines funding was awarded as part of USDAs Organic Agriculture Research and Extension Initiative (OREI), which focuses on helping producers and processors who have already adopted organic practices to grow and market high quality organic agricul… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-colleagues-call-for-full-implementation-of-mental-health-parity-law | King, Colleagues Call for Full Implementation of Mental Health Parity Law | 2015-10-15 | 2015 | 2015-10 | Independent | House | ME | Angus King | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | legacy | King, Colleagues Call for Full Implementation of Mental Health Parity Law Bipartisan Group of Senators urge HHS & DOL to ensure that individuals seeking behavioral health treatment have access to benefits promised under Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act Thursday, October 15, 2015 PORTLAND, ME In a letter today, U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine) and a bipartisan group of his colleagues called on the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) to take immediate, overdue action to fully implement and enforce the Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act (MHPAEA). We are writing to urge you to take immediate action to implement and enforce the MHPAEA. It has now been over 7 years since MHPAEA was passed and signed into law by President Bush, but our constituents continue to report denials of care and great difficulties in accessing substance use and mental health disorder treatment and services, wrote the Senators in their letter. We look forward to working together to ensure individuals in and seeking recovery from substance use and mental health disorders can access the benefits promised to them under the law. In the letter addressed to HHS Secretary Sylvia Mathews Burwell and DOL Secretary Thomas E. Perez, which was led by Senators Chris Murphey (D-Conn.) and Kelly Ayotte (R-N.H.), the group of Senators emphasized that implementation of MHPAEA a law enacted more than seven years ago to ensure that health insurance plans cover behavioral and physical health equally has been incomplete and inconsistent. The Senators warned that parity is still not a reality for individuals living with mental illness and addiction, and thathealth plans routinely refuse to disclose medical management informationmaking it impossible for consumers and providers to determine if the plans are treatingbehavioral and physical health equally. Noting that HHS and DOL are chiefly responsible for implementation and enforcement… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-statement-on-presidents-decision-to-maintain-troop-levels-in-afghanistan | King Statement on President’s Decision to Maintain Troop Levels in Afghanistan | 2015-10-15 | 2015 | 2015-10 | Independent | House | ME | Angus King | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | legacy | King Statement on Presidents Decision to Maintain Troop Levels in Afghanistan Thursday, October 15, 2015 BRUNSWICK, ME U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine), a member of the Senate Armed Services and Intelligence Committees, released the following statement today in response to President Obamas announcement that he will maintain current troop levels in Afghanistan: The President has made a difficult decision, but it is the right one, Senator King said. Over the past few years, with the assistance of U.S. and coalition military forces, the new unity Afghan government hasworked to bring greater stability to the country and forge significant progress in improving the lives of Afghan citizens. To reduce our forces in order to meet an arbitrary deadline would have been a mistake and could have jeopardized that progress. I am encouraged by the Presidents decision and will continue to evaluate how the U.S. can play a constructive role in Afghanistan that also supports our shared security interests. As a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, Senator Kinghas consistently advocated for the U.S.to withdraw its military forces in Afghanistan on a conditions-based timeline as the unity government, led by President Ashraf Ghaniand Chief Executive OfficerAbdullah Abdullah, continues to implement its reform agenda and make progress that is in the interest of all Afghans. In October 2014, Senator Kingtraveled to Afghanistanwhere he was one of the first members of Congress to meet with President Ghaniand Dr. Abdullah. During the meeting, they discussed economic and security challenges and explored ways the U.S. could work with the Afghanistan government to sustain progress. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-tours-portland-vet-center-with-va-official | King Tours Portland Vet Center with VA Official | 2015-10-15 | 2015 | 2015-10 | Independent | House | ME | Angus King | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | legacy | King Tours Portland Vet Center with VA Official Continues push to solve staffing issues in order to provide highest quality services for Maine veterans Thursday, October 15, 2015 PORTLAND, ME Today, U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine) toured the Portland Vet Center with U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Interim Regional Manager Steven Reeves. During the tour, Senator King and Mr. Reeves met with veterans and Dr. Clifford Trott, the team leader for both the Portland and Lewiston Vet Centers, to discuss the services provided at each facility and the current staffing challenges. Senator King urged Director Reeves to continue to work to fill staffing vacancies in Maines network of five veterans outreach centers, which provide critical counseling services to veterans across the state. Maine veterans deserve nothing but the highest quality care, and I wont rest until they receive it, Senator King said. I appreciate Mr. Reevess visit to Maine and his commitment to ensuring that every Vet Center in the state is fully staffed and able to meet the needs of the veterans they serve. I will continue to work with him, the Maine VA, and the rest of the congressional delegation to identify ways we can improve the hiring process and deliver the care and services Maine veterans have earned. Mr. Reevess visit to Maine comes at the request of Senator King, Senator Susan Collins, and Congressman Bruce Poliquin. The lawmakers have actively engaged Reeves and his office, as well as the Maine VA Healthcare System, following reports that certain Vet Centers in Maine, particularly the Lewiston-based facility, are inadequately staffed. Mr. Reeves visited the Lewiston Vet Center on Tuesday and will tour every Vet Center across the state while he is in Maine. The VA administers veterans outreach centers, known as Vet Centers, across the country to provide various counseling services to veterans, including readjustment counseling for combat veterans, military sexual trauma counseling, … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senators-collins-king-announce-lwcf-grants-to-help-preserve-parks-and-public-lands-across-maine | Senators Collins, King Announce LWCF Grants to Help Preserve Parks and Public Lands Across Maine | 2015-10-13 | 2015 | 2015-10 | Independent | House | ME | Angus King | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | legacy | Senators Collins, King Announce LWCF Grants to Help Preserve Parks and Public Lands Across Maine Tuesday, October 13, 2015 WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King, a member of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, announced today that the National Park Service has awarded funding to 10 organizations and municipalities throughout the state of Maine. This funding is provided through the Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF), a partnership program that provides matching funds to states and local communities for conservation of parks and open space The LWCF is Americas most successful conservation and outdoor recreation program. The LWCF has been instrumental in establishing and maintaining outdoor recreation space in Maine and across our nation. These important investments will help protect and preserve a number of Maines parks and recreation facilities that are vital not only to our communities, but to our way of life, said Senators Collins and King. The LWCF is a partnership program that provides matching funds to states and local communities for acquisition, development, and conservation of parks and open spaces. Despite strong support bipartisan support for the LWCF, on September 30th, 2015, the authority to collect revenue into the LWCF Fund expired. While the program will continue to be funded under the short-term funding agreement beyond the September 30 expiration date, we must act quickly to make certain this critical program is properly supported, Senators Collins and King continued. We have long advocated for a permanent reauthorization of the LWCF to ensure that this important connection to our nations conservation effort in Maine and across our country is not lost. We will continue to work with our colleagues on both sides of the isle to permanently extend our nations premier federal conservation program. Senator Collins and Senator King are both cosponsors of bipartisan legislation that would permanently reau… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-joins-collins-reed-in-urging-hhs-secretary-to-quickly-release-critical-federal-home-heating-aid | King Joins Collins, Reed in Urging HHS Secretary to Quickly Release Critical Federal Home Heating Aid | 2015-10-09 | 2015 | 2015-10 | Independent | House | ME | Angus King | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | legacy | King Joins Collins, Reed in Urging HHS Secretary to Quickly Release Critical Federal Home Heating Aid Senators call on HHS Secretary to release LIHEAP funds to help local communities prepare for the coming winter season Friday, October 9, 2015 BRUNSWICK, ME In an effort to help millions of low-income families and seniors on fixed incomes afford their energy bills this coming winter, U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine) joined with a bipartisan group of 40 of his colleagues, led by Susan Collins (R-Maine) and Jack Reed (D-R.I.), to call on the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to quickly release as much federal Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) heating aid as possible. LIHEAP is the main federal program that helps low-income households and seniors with their energy bills, providing critical assistance during the cold winter and hot summer months, said the Senators in their letter. This funding has been an indispensable lifeline during challenging economic times, helping to ensure that recipients do not have to choose between paying their energy bills and paying for other necessities like food or medicine. The Senators bipartisan letter to HHS Secretary Sylvia Mathews Burwell urged her to release LIHEAP funds without delay and at as high a level as possible. Preserving LIHEAP funding has been a continued priority for both King and Collins, and they have joined together to oppose recent attempts to scale back the funding appropriated for this critical program. LIHEAP is a federal grant program that provides states with annual funding to operate home energy assistance programs for low-income households. Eligibility for LIHEAP is based on income, family size, and the availability of resources. The full text of the letter is below: +++ October 8, 2015 Dear Secretary Burwell: As state agencies prepare their Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) programs for the winter, we respectfully request that the Department of Healt… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/-king-renews-push-to-curb-gun-violence-in-america | King Renews Push to Curb Gun Violence in America | 2015-10-08 | 2015 | 2015-10 | Independent | House | ME | Angus King | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | legacy | King Renews Push to Curb Gun Violence in America Calls on Congress to pass comprehensive, common-sense gun safety and mental health measures Thursday, October 8, 2015 WASHINGTON, D.C. Following last weeks tragedy at Umpqua Community College in Roseburg, Oregon, U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine) today renewed his push to enact common-sense gun safety legislation and take action to reform the mental health system in an effort to curb gun violence in America. Were here today because of one more incident in a depressingly familiar series of mass shootings. All over the country this is happening in a repetitive way, and its important to use this occasion to reflect upon the dangers that we are ignoring the epidemic that we are ignoring, Senator King said. We must move in a comprehensive way, not only here on the federal level but on the state level as well not to compromise the second amendment, not to take the guns out of the hands of law-abiding citizens, but to put into place common-sense solutions to deal with this epidemic of gun violence. In his remarks on the Senate floor today, Senator King called for a comprehensive solution that improves the countrys mental health system, strengthens the national background check program, and allows states the flexibility to tailor solutions to their specific needs. Senator King supports the Mental Health Reform Act of 2015, legislation that would comprehensively overhaul and strengthen Americas mental health care system, and today he also endorsed a set of legislative principles unveiled today by Senator Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) that would: close loopholes that allow people to purchase guns without having first passed a background check. strengthen the national background check system by making sure that all domestic abusers are prohibited from purchasing guns and that states submit all relevant records to the federal database. make straw purchasing and gun trafficking federal crimes to help give law enforcement th… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-introduces-legislation-to-help-make-college-textbooks-more-affordable | King Introduces Legislation to Help Make College Textbooks More Affordable | 2015-10-08 | 2015 | 2015-10 | Independent | House | ME | Angus King | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | legacy | King Introduces Legislation to Help Make College Textbooks More Affordable The cost of new textbooks has increased 82 percent, four times faster than inflation, over the last decade Thursday, October 8, 2015 WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine), along with Senators Dick Durbin (D-Ill.) and Al Franken (D-Min.), today introduced legislation designed to help students manage costs by making high quality textbooks easily accessible to students, professors and the public for free.This bill, the Affordable College Textbook Act, would create a competitive grant program to support the creation and use of open college textbooks which are available under an open license, allowing professors, students, researchers and others to freely access the materials. College students spend thousands of dollars on textbooks over the course of their academic career and as the cost of those textbooks increases, the harder it becomes to afford them, which only forces students to reach deeper into their pockets or risk jeopardizing their academic careers, Senator King said. To help solve this problem, our bill would encourage colleges to develop innovative educational resources, like open textbooks, that can provide the information students need in an affordable way. As we look for ways to gain a better handle on rising college costs, creative programs like these can help position students to succeed academically while saving them money a win-win for their future. Textbook costs are one of the most overlooked costs of going to college, but they can be substantial and can be a barrier to attaining a college education. According to College Board, the average student budget for college books and supplies during the 2014-2015 academic year was $1,225. While a June 2013 GAO Report required by the law found that students had more information and publishers and schools were generally complying with the new disclosure requirements, it also found that the price of textbooks had c… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/-king-statement-on-suspended-search-for-crew-of-the-el-faro | King Statement on Suspended Search for Crew of the El Faro | 2015-10-07 | 2015 | 2015-10 | Independent | House | ME | Angus King | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | legacy | King Statement on Suspended Search for Crew of the El Faro Wednesday, October 7, 2015 WASHINGTON, D.C. Following an announcement by the U.S. Coast Guard that it will suspend the search for survivors of the El Faro at sunset today, U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine) released the following statement: I am deeply saddened that no survivors have been found. Like everyone in Maine, my thoughts and prayers are with the family, friends, and loved ones of the El Faros crew members. My heart goes out to them and to the Maine Maritime Academy community during this tremendously difficult time. I hope in the days ahead we may find comfort and solace in our continued support of one another, Senator King said. I would also like to express my gratitude to the men and women of the U.S. Coast Guard for their tireless efforts this week. I have spoken with Rear Admiral Buschman and will continue to remain in contact with the Coast Guard and the National Transportation Safety Board as we try to find out more information about this terrible tragedy. At a news conference this afternoon, the U.S. Coast Guard announced that it would suspend the search for the missing crew of the El Faro at sunset today. TheCoast Guardannounced on Monday that itbelieves the 790-foot cargo ship sankas a result of encountering Hurricane Joaquinon its way from Jacksonville, Florida to San Juan, Puerto Rico. Prior to this afternoons announcement, Senator King was briefed by search and rescue leader Rear Admiral Scott A. Buschman, the Commander of the Seventh Coast Guard District headquartered in Miami, Florida. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senate-passes-defense-bill-with-king-backed-hubzone-improvements-and-additional-shipbuilding-authorizations | Senate Passes Defense Bill with King-Backed HUBZone Improvements & Additional Shipbuilding Authorizations | 2015-10-07 | 2015 | 2015-10 | Independent | House | ME | Angus King | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | legacy | Senate Passes Defense Bill with King-Backed HUBZone Improvements & Additional Shipbuilding Authorizations Wednesday, October 7, 2015 WASHINGTON, D.C. With the support of U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine), the U.S. Senate today passed the 2016 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). The bill includes provisions authored by Senator King that increase authorizations for the construction of DDG-51 Arleigh Burke Class Destroyers, which are built at Bath Iron Works, and that improve the Small Business Administrations HUBZone program, which helps revitalize former military bases like the former Brunswick Naval Air Station. The NDAA is a vital bill that sets policy for the Defense Department and bolsters our national security, Senator King said. And Im pleased to say that this legislation continues to recognize the important role that Maine plays in supporting our national defense. The legislation, which passed today by a vote of 70-27, authorizes almost $4 billion for Navy destroyer programs, including $433 million for the construction of DDG-1000 Zumwalt-class destroyers, and $3.1 billion for the procurement of two DDG-51 Arleigh Burke-class destroyers, one of which will be built at Bath. Importantly, the bill also includes $400 million in incremental funding secured by Senator King for an additional DDG-51 that the Navy could procure in the next three years, potentially at Bath Iron Works. Conflicts and ongoing tensions across the globe continue to require a strong American naval presence, Senator King said. By making critical investments in shipbuilding including an additional $400 million authorization for another DDG-51 that Bath Iron Works could build this bill makes progress in strengthening our naval fleet and supports the highly-skilled men and women of BIW whose work is invaluable to our Navy. The bill also includes a provision authored by Senator King that improves the eligibility criteria of HUBZones located at former U.S. military installations closed th… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senators-collins-king-announce-rural-development-grant-for-community-concepts-inc_ | Senators Collins, King Announce Rural Development Grant for Community Concepts Inc. | 2015-10-07 | 2015 | 2015-10 | Independent | House | ME | Angus King | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | legacy | Senators Collins, King Announce Rural Development Grant for Community Concepts Inc. Important Funding will Help Construct Homes for 30 Low Income Families in Rural Maine Wednesday, October 7, 2015 WASHINGTON, D.C.United States Senators Susan Collins, Chairman of the Transportation, Housing and Urban Development Appropriations Subcommittee, and Angus King announced today that the United States Department of Agriculture has awarded Community Concepts Inc. in Lewiston $793,800 in grant funding to help 30 very-low and low-income families construct their own homes in rural areas across Maine. Through the Mutual Self-Help Housing Program, this funding will help families, through partnership with Community Concepts, build homes in Androscoggin, Cumberland, Franklin, Kennebec, and Oxford Counties. This important investment will help 30 low-income families across Maine build good, safe homes, the Senators said in a joint statement. Home-ownership has long been a hallmark of the American dream and this important investment will help some of the most vulnerable Mainers build their own homes and achieve that dream. The Mutual Self Help Housing Program provides grants to qualified organizations to help them carry out local self-help housing construction projects. Grant recipients supervise groups of very-low and low-income individuals and families as they construct their own homes in rural areas. The group members provide most of the construction labor on each others homes, with technical assistance from the organization overseeing the project. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/collins-king-announce-135-million-in-funding-for-maine-math-and-science-alliance | Collins, King Announce $1.35 Million in Funding for Maine Math and Science Alliance | 2015-10-06 | 2015 | 2015-10 | Independent | House | ME | Angus King | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | legacy | Collins, King Announce $1.35 Million in Funding for Maine Math and Science Alliance Tuesday, October 6, 2015 WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King today announced that the National Science Foundation (NSF) has awarded $1.35 million in grant funding to the Maine Math and Science Alliance (MMSA) to develop an online learning community that explores the impact of weather and climate along the coast. The Maine Math and Science Alliance continues to build on innovative science and technology opportunities around the state, and this project will empower students, teachers, and others to become scientific observers in their own right, Senators Collins and King said in a joint statement. This funding will support MMSAs pioneering online initiative to foster information sharing between scientists and members of the community as they work to better understand the impact that weather and climate have on Maines coastal communities. This grant funding will support the development of the Next Generation WeatherBlur Project, an online community for students (K-8), teachers, fishermen and interested community members. Using the online forum, members of the public can study and comment on local weather that will provide important feedback and data for scientists. The Maine Math and Science Alliance is a leader in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) education and policy. MMSA works to advance STEM education in Maine and across the nation and establish relationships among schools, organizations, individuals, and communities to further this mission. The funding has been awarded through the NSFs Cyberlearning and Future Learning Technologies program. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z |
Advanced export
JSON shape: default, array, newline-delimited, object
CREATE TABLE [releases] (
[url] TEXT PRIMARY KEY,
[title] TEXT,
[date] TEXT,
[year] TEXT,
[month] TEXT,
[party] TEXT,
[chamber] TEXT,
[state] TEXT,
[member_name] TEXT,
[bioguide_id] TEXT,
[domain] TEXT,
[scraper] TEXT,
[source] TEXT,
[date_source] TEXT,
[text] TEXT,
[has_text] INTEGER,
[collected_at] TEXT,
[updated_at] TEXT
);
CREATE INDEX [idx_releases_date]
ON [releases] ([date]);
CREATE INDEX [idx_releases_year]
ON [releases] ([year]);
CREATE INDEX [idx_releases_party]
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]);