Press releases
Data license: MIT · Data source: dwillis/congress-press
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117 rows where party = "Independent" and year = 2022 sorted by date descending
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| url | title | date ▲ | year | month | party | chamber | state | member_name | bioguide_id | domain | scraper | source | date_source | text | has_text | collected_at | updated_at |
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| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/in-holiday-podcast-senator-king-discusses-the-virtues-of-community-service | In Holiday Podcast, Senator King Discusses the Virtues of Community Service | 2022-12-31 | 2022 | 2022-12 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | Listen to the November edition of Senator King’s podcast here or on Apple Podcasts. WASHINGTON, D.C. – The Office of U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine) today released the December episode of Senator King’s “Inside Maine” podcast – a special holiday season edition that features a timely discussion about community service, volunteerism, and how Maine people can give back to their communities this holiday season. Senator King was joined by Charley Martin-Berry, the Director of Community Caring Collaborative (CCC); Vassie Fowler, the Executive Director of Seeds of Hope; David Patch, the Commander of American Legion Post 36, Veterans Resource Center and Mid-Coast Veterans Council; and Sarah Duncan, the Executive Director of United Way Aroostook. During the conversation, Senator King and his guests share how volunteerism has helped Maine communities weather the economic and social challenges that unfolded over the past year. Specifically, his guests highlighted the affordable housing crisis and the need for organizations to cut through red tape and bureaucracy to connect Maine people in need with food banks, shelters, and other nonprofits. Senator King and his guests also discussed the role Congress can play in promoting more community service across the country. “Maine’s nonprofits and volunteers have always stepped up to support our neighbors and communities in need,” said Senator King. “In the face of daunting obstacles, these leaders have responded with energy, joy, and compassion – bringing light in dark moments. Their work has been critical to Maine people. During this holiday season, I hope everyone will continue to build on this work by finding a local volunteer opportunity near them. Each of us can do something to make someone’s day a little brighter. I’m deeply thankful for everything that my guests this month do for our communities, it was a pleasure to learn more about their organizations and what volunteer opportunities they offer.” Charley Martin-Berry is the director of the Community Caring Collaborat… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:32:05Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-celebrates-approval-of-over-250-million-in-congressional-funding-for-140-projects-across-maine | King Celebrates Approval of Over $250 Million in Congressional Funding for 140 Projects Across Maine | 2022-12-23 | 2022 | 2022-12 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | Download an Excel spreadsheet of the 140 projects HERE and view a map of projects HERE WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine) today celebrated the final Congressional approval of 140 Maine projects that will be receiving $250,083,018 from his Congressionally-Directed Spending (CDS) requests included in the bipartisan Fiscal Year 2023 Omnibus Appropriations Package. The funding will be used by a broad range of state, local, and nonprofit organizations to strengthen Maine communities. “From food banks and hospitals to job training programs and infrastructure upgrades, Maine’s 2023 Congressionally-Directed Spending supports important projects across the state that will improve the lives of Maine people and invest in the future of our communities. These historic investments are going directly to the local organizations who need them the most and can effectively provide economic opportunities, personal enrichment, and other vital public services,” said Senator King. “Maine people have always looked out for each other, and the 140 nonprofits and local governments receiving these funds are no different – they have proven track records of success in our communities and will use this support to expand and improve their efforts. I’m grateful that Congress approved so many of my CDS requests, and deeply appreciate all of the Maine organizations who submitted projects for consideration. I look forward to seeing these investments support people across our state for years to come.” CDS funding is included in annual federal appropriations legislation and provides a specific amount of discretionary funding to a state, locality, or nonprofit organization for projects with demonstrated civic and community value. Last year, Senator King secured over $137 million in Congressionally-Directed Spending for 93 Maine projects. Senator King will begin accepting preliminary requests for FY24 Maine-based Congressionally-Directed Spending projects in upcoming months. | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:32:05Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-golden-led-downeast-national-heritage-area-legislation-passes-congress-heads-to-presidents-desk | King, Golden Led Downeast National Heritage Area Legislation Passes Congress, Heads to President’s Desk | 2022-12-23 | 2022 | 2022-12 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Angus King, Chairman of the Senate National Parks Subcommittee, and Representative Jared Golden announced that their bipartisan, bicameral bill to designate a Downeast Maine National Heritage Area has passed Congress and now heads to the President’s desk to be signed into law. The legislation, which is cosponsored by Senator Susan Collins and Representative Chellie Pingree, will designate all of Hancock and Washington counties as an area with national importance, qualifying the counties for additional federal investment and helping to drive economic activity to the rural Maine region. The bill specifically recognizes the contributions of Downeast Maine’s agriculture industry – including wild blueberry growers – as well as the impacts of heritage fishing and forestry. “For much of the year, the rocky coasts of Downeast Maine greet the first rays of sunshine to reach the United States,” said Senators King and Collins and Representatives Golden and Pingree. “The region literally starts America’s day, and its rugged coastline, rolling mountains and lush forests are a fundamental part of the American identity. There is nowhere more deserving of a heritage area designation. Making Hancock and Washington counties a National Heritage Area will open the door for critical federal funding, and drive important economic activity and investments to support Downeast communities and the hardworking, resilient people who call these counties home. We are deeply grateful to our colleagues in both chambers who helped us get this bill past the finish line and we look forward to seeing the positive impacts of this new designation.” “The people of Downeast Maine are fiercely proud of their heritage and are motivated to develop quality opportunities that carry us into the future while being rooted in our historic values,” said Crystal Hitchings, Director of Community Infrastructure at Sunrise County Economic Council. “Designation as a National Heritage Area provides Downeast communities with more… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:32:05Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/annual-spending-bill-passes-senate-with-king-backed-initiatives-to-support-maine-jobs-bolster-national-defense | Annual Spending Bill Passes Senate with King-Backed Initiatives to Support Maine Jobs, Bolster National Defense | 2022-12-22 | 2022 | 2022-12 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine) today voted along with sixty-seven of his Senate colleagues to pass the 2023 Omnibus Appropriations Bill, which funds government programs through next September and advances a number of Senator King’s policy priorities. The annual funding bill will support Maine jobs, increase affordability for working families, and invest in our national security. The bill is expected to pass the House by the end of the week. “The 2023 Omnibus Appropriations Bill includes a wide range of provisions to strengthen Maine communities, protect our economy, and improve life for people across the state,” said Senator King. “This forward-thinking legislation supports high-paying jobs for Maine people, whether it be at Bath Iron Works or one of our craft breweries, and will help working Maine families afford essential needs, like housing and child care. The bill also takes important steps to enhance our national security by funding shipbuilding priorities, stopping illegal drug imports, and bolstering America’s leadership in global public health. Finally, it invests in Maine’s greatest outdoor natural resources by designating the York River as ‘wild and scenic,’ expanding affordable worker housing on Mount Desert Island, and increasing the amount of staff at National Parks. There is so much worth celebrating in the bill, and all told, I’m grateful to see this bipartisan product pass the Senate. I am eager to continue working across the aisle with my colleagues in the coming year on more policies that help Maine people.” Provisions supported by Senator King included in the legislative package include: Defending Democracy and Securing Elections. Nearly two years after insurrectionists on January 6th tried to use the 1887 Electoral Count Act to overturn a free and fair election, the spending bill modernizes the outdated law to protect the will of voters by updating procedures for the counting and certification of electoral votes for the presidency. This effort incorporates many proposa… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:32:05Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-celebrates-passage-of-electoral-count-act-reforms-to-protect-democracy | King Celebrates Passage of Electoral Count Act Reforms to Protect Democracy | 2022-12-22 | 2022 | 2022-12 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine), a member of the Senate Committee on Rules and Administration with oversight of federal elections, today celebrated the Senate passing a package of democracy protections to ensure election results can’t be exploited by bad-actors and prevent another January 6th, 2021. The bipartisan Electoral Count Reform and Presidential Transition Improvement Act – which contains several policy recommendations from Senator King’s ECA discussion draft released in February – clarifies ambiguities in the outdated 1887 Electoral Count Act (ECA) to protect the will of voters and updates procedures for the counting and certification of electoral votes for the presidency. The ECA Reform Act passed the Senate in a bipartisan 68-29 vote as part of the 2023 Omnibus Appropriations Package. “Today, the Senate took a necessary, historic, and commonsense step to remove dangerous ambiguities from the process governing presidential elections and protect our fragile American democracy. The Electoral Count Reform Act is the most important piece of legislation we’ve passed this Congress because it protects the foundation of our entire democratic system,” said Senator King. “After attempts to overturn a free and fair election in 2021 exposed dangerous vulnerabilities in the antiquated Electoral Count Act, this bill was essential to defuse the ticking timebomb at the heart of our system of government. Now, as some continue to raise doubts about our electoral system, the bill ensures the ECA can never again be used as a weapon by disappointed candidates. The bipartisan Electoral Count Reform Act we passed today prevents abuse of the 1887 law by making the process for certifying a presidential election clearer and more resistant to manipulation and mischief. “Make no mistake, this bill is no substitute for the comprehensive voting rights and process reforms we need to confront the wider challenges facing our democracy,” Senator King continued. “While I continue to look for ways to better protect… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:32:05Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/an-economic-death-sentence-averted-king-champions-provision-to-pause-lobster-gear-regulations-on-senate-floor | “An Economic Death Sentence” Averted, King Champions Provision To Pause Lobster Gear Regulations on Senate Floor | 2022-12-21 | 2022 | 2022-12 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | Watch Senator King’s full floor speech HERE and download broadcast quality HERE. WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Angus King today delivered remarks from the Senate Floor on the importance of Maine’s lobster fishery to the state’s communities and the devastating implications that proposed lobster gear regulations would have on thousands of Maine families and small businesses. In his speech, King lays out the lack of evidence backing the arbitrary regulations and explains how the six-year regulatory pause secured by Maine Congressional Delegation and Governor Mills in the annual omnibus spending bill will avert an “economic death sentence” for the state. Earlier today, the Maine Congressional Delegation and Governor Mills released a joint statement HERE announcing the successful inclusion of the regulatory pause into the annual spending bill. The bill is expected to be passed and signed into law later this week. King began his remarks by laying out the serious crisis facing the Maine lobstering community and the state’s economy. “My state is facing its most serious crisis, in my view, in my 18 years of public service on behalf of Maine. There is a provision in the bill that we'll be voting on tomorrow that is of vital, critical importance to Maine and I believe the country,” began Senator King. “In November, a federal court here in Washington issued a ruling under the Endangered Species and Marine Mammal Protection Acts that effectively shuts down the entire Maine lobster fishery in two years. It issues requirements that simply can't be met in that time frame. The only choice will be to shut down the fishery.” “What does that mean? What is the fishery? What is the lobster industry? The lobster industry is this guy right here – thousands of small, independent businesses. These boats aren't owned by Amazon or Walmart or Whole Foods. They're owned by individual people, families, generations in a town like this. That's what we're talking about. We're talking about the livelihoods of thousands of Maine people that … | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:32:05Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senator-king-urges-passage-of-most-important-bill-this-congress-protections-for-the-peaceful-transfer-of-power | Senator King Urges Passage of “Most Important” Bill this Congress: Protections for the Peaceful Transfer of Power | 2022-12-21 | 2022 | 2022-12 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | Watch Senator King’s full floor speech HERE. WASHINGTON, D.C.— U.S. Senator Angus King, a member of the Senate Committee on Rules and Administration with oversight over federal elections, gave a speech on the Senate floor to highlight what he considers the most important bill under Senate consideration: the Electoral Count Reform and Presidential Transition Improvement Act which provides democratic protections for the peaceful transfer of power. During his speech, King explained why his top priority for the remainder of this Congress is this bill and why it is needed to clarify the ambiguous 19th century law that spurred the January 6th insurrection. Senator King underscored that while other policies are important, all of them are negligible without serious protections for our democratic system. “The bill that we have before us now is, I believe, one of the most important pieces of legislation in this Congress. Because it deals with the structure of democracy itself. All of our policy issues, whether it's the Defense Department, Ukraine, all of the policy issues, health care, all of those things are critically important, but the infrastructure that underlies the system is even more important. We can't do good policy if we don't have a solid underpinning of a structure of our democracy,” Senator King said. Senator King also highlighted the bipartisan nature of the bill and of the desire for electoral protections. “And that's why the bill that is now part of the budget bill, the omnibus bill, is so important. The bill is bipartisan. I think that's critically important. I sat in the Rules Committee. It passed 14-1. Supported by Leader McConnell, supported by Leader Schumer. 14-1. I rarely see votes like that in that committee,” Senator King continued, “But because there was universal realization that we needed to do something about this, we had a hearing on it and I remember Senator Blunt speaking at the end of that hearing and saying this is something we need to take care of before the end of this Congress. An… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:32:05Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/maine-delegation-governor-mills-announce-lifeline-for-maines-lobster-industry-secured-in-government-funding-package | Maine Delegation, Governor Mills Announce Lifeline for Maine’s Lobster Industry Secured in Government Funding Package | 2022-12-20 | 2022 | 2022-12 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | Washington, D.C.—Today, U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King, Representatives Chellie Pingree and Jared Golden, and Governor Janet Mills announced that they were successful in securing a regulatory pause for Maine’s lobster industry in the omnibus appropriations bill that is expected to pass the Senate and House this week. “Maine’s lobstermen and women have long demonstrated their commitment to maintaining and protecting a sustainable fishery in the Gulf of Maine. They have invested in countless precautionary measures to protect right whales, including removing more than 30,000 miles of line from the water and switching to weaker rope to prevent whales from being entangled. And the fact is — there has never been a right whale death attributed to Maine lobster gear. We know the right whale population can be protected along with a thriving fishery because Maine lobstermen are already doing it,” said the Maine Delegation and Governor Mills. “Despite our industry’s good stewardship and compliance with NMFS’ most recent regulations to protect right whales, our lobstermen and women are now faced with further punitive regulations that will not meaningfully protect the right whale, but will threaten the livelihoods of thousands of Maine families and small businesses. “We have always said that we will pursue any and all policy solutions to protect our hardworking lobstermen and women along Maine’s coast,” they continued. “Our provision, which relies upon the expertise of the professionals at the Maine Department of Marine Resources, was included in the government funding bill released this morning. It will enable our lobster fishery to continue to operate while still complying with NMFS’ most recent right whale rule. Without our provision, Maine’s iconic industry could be facing a complete shutdown—and the ripple effects across our state would have been widespread.” Although there has never been a right whale death attributed to Maine lobster gear, misguided environmental groups have been seeking actions that wou… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:32:05Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/icymi-senate-passes-2023-defense-bill-with-king-backed-provisions-to-invest-in-maine-shipbuilding-strengthen-national-security-and-support-jobs | ICYMI: Senate Passes 2023 Defense Bill with King-Backed Provisions to Invest in Maine Shipbuilding, Strengthen National Security and Support Jobs | 2022-12-16 | 2022 | 2022-12 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine), a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee and co-chair of the Cyberspace Solarium Commission (CSC), celebrated the Senate’s passage of the Fiscal Year 2023 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), yearly legislation which has now passed 62 times on a bipartisan basis, and which focuses on strengthening American national security and improving the lives of servicemembers and their families. The 2023 legislation authorizes 3 DDG-51 destroyers that Bath Iron Works can compete to build, bolsters America’s nuclear defenses, and supports other key defense technologies that protect the nation. Also included are significant pay raises for servicemembers and steps to improve mental healthcare for America’s armed forces. “This year’s National Defense Authorization Act – named after my friend and colleague Senator Jim Inhofe – is a bipartisan bill that will address the pressing national security challenges facing our country and strengthen Maine’s role in contributing to our national defense,” said Senator King. “The bill authorizes one of the largest-ever multi-year procurement of DDG-51 destroyers, which Bath Iron Works can compete to build, bringing important stability to the Maine shipyard’s planning, and allowing them to scale up their production in the years to come. These ships – known as the workhorse of the Navy – are absolutely critical to our national security, and are an important economic driver for Maine communities. “This year’s legislation provides the backbone of our national defense, including key provisions to ensure our nation can counter growing and rapidly changing threats. It also contains new authorizations to address Russia’s unprovoked invasion of Ukraine, and supporting the brave Ukrainians fighting for their sovereignty. This bill improves our defensive and offensive hypersonic capabilities, bolsters key cyber defenses, and will help modernize how we assess the capabilities of our enemies and allies alike,” continued Senator King. “… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:32:05Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/collins-king-announce-more-than-22-million-in-funding-to-ease-fish-migration-patterns | Collins, King Announce More Than $22 Million in Funding to Ease Fish Migration Patterns | 2022-12-15 | 2022 | 2022-12 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King today announced that two Maine organizations will receive a total of $22,381,297 in funding from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) to improve fish migration in Maine rivers. The Atlantic Salmon Federation and the Maine Department of Marine Resources will use this funding to remove two dams that are no longer in use and install fish ladders at two additional dams in the Penobscot and St. Croix Rivers, allowing the endangered Atlantic salmon, along with other fish species and wildlife, to move along migrations routes with ease. “Allowing unimpeded fish migration along Maine’s rivers will help to preserve species that have long held cultural and economic significance to our state. Rivers like the St. Croix and the Penobscot – which is home to the largest Atlantic salmon run in the United States — have proven to be invaluable to the health of Maine’s environment and our tribal communities,” said Senators Collins and King. “This funding, along with the hard work of both the Atlantic Salmon Federation and the Maine Department of Marine Resources, will help strengthen Maine’s long conservation legacy and preserve sea-run habitats. We remain committed to protecting these species and look forward to our continued work with Maine organizations that dedicate themselves to protecting the culture and economy of our state.” The funding will be allocated as follows: The Atlantic Salmon Federation will receive $7,554,797 The Maine Department of Marine Resources will receive up to $14,826,500 over three years The removal of the dams will reconnect more than 9,700 suitable habitat units towards the delisting criteria of 30,000 units for the Penobscot Basin Salmon Habitat Recovery Unit. Additionally, the projects will provide access to 600 miles for all migratory fish species and 60,000 acres of habitat for alewife. This is a top priority for the State of Maine and the Passamaquoddy people to significantly improve fish populations in the reg… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:32:05Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/essential-to-ensure-america-does-not-fall-behind-king-lauds-bipartisan-passage-of-ndaa-with-key-nuclear-and-cyber-provisions | “Essential to Ensure America Does Not Fall Behind,” King Lauds Bipartisan Passage of NDAA With Key Nuclear and Cyber Provisions | 2022-12-15 | 2022 | 2022-12 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine), a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee and Co-Chair of the Cyberspace Solarium Commission, today praised the Senate’s 83-11 passage of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2023. With rising threats from Russia, China, and other adversaries, the annual bipartisan defense bill contains King-led provisions to modernize America’s nuclear defenses, better assess the “will to fight” of allies and enemies, and improve international cyberdefenses. The bill also includes increased support for Ukraine as it fights Russia’s illegal, unprovoked invasion along with improvements to ensure the aid receives proper oversight and does not dangerously deplete America’s own stockpiles. King also worked to secure provisions to better support the wellbeing of America’s servicemembers. With military suicide rates at an all-time high, the bill requires the Department of Defense to study and release data on suicides by military occupation, and the Government Accountability Office to study how to improve the transition from military to civilian life. “This year’s National Defense Authorization Act – named after my friend and colleague Senator Jim Inhofe – is a bipartisan bill that will meet the pressing 21st century national security challenges facing our country,” said Senator King. “As threats from adversaries like Russia and China grow, the legislation is absolutely essential to ensure America does not fall behind. Along with new authorizations to address Russia’s unprovoked invasion of Ukraine, this bill improves our defensive and offensive hypersonic capabilities, bolsters key cyberdefenses, and will help modernize how we assess the capabilities of our enemies and allies alike. Without these provisions, the credibility of America’s bedrock principle of peace through deterrence would have been put at risk. “All told, Congress and the Armed Services Committees have once again produced an important, strong, and bipartisan bill,” continued Senator … | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:32:05Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-statement-on-failed-permitting-reform-vote | King Statement on Failed Permitting Reform Vote | 2022-12-15 | 2022 | 2022-12 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C.— Today, U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine), a member of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee – and an advocate for pragmatic, realistic, and rapid permitting reform to reach America’s clean energy goals – released the following statement after he supported permitting reform as an amendment to the FY2023 National Defense Authorization Act: “The world is literally in a race with climate change. We cannot afford to waste valuable time — time which we really don’t have — to implement viable, efficient solutions in our transition to renewable energy,” said Senator King. “For example, it takes fifteen years just to permit a mine producing the minerals needed for batteries of electric vehicles given all the red tape and bureaucracy – and that’s just one project of hundreds that are needed. By failing to pass commonsense permitting reform, the Senate has sent the country’s clean energy future back to the drawing board and potentially put us years behind where we should be. I have always advocated for strict environmental standards, but also for a timely and predicable environmental process – that is exactly what this bill was all about. “I think that we’ve reached a point where most Americans realize that climate change is real. The fishermen, farmers, and loggers in Maine know the urgency of this threat, and it’s deeply disappointing that some of my Senate colleagues do not share this understanding,” continued Senator King. “This bill should not be controversial. It would have made simple changes that both sides of the aisle have long called for to expedite energy projects without diluting environmental standards in the slightest. Despite the frustrating partisan games today, I will keep working on a bipartisan basis with my colleagues to find a path forward so that we can make our clean energy future a reality.” Senator King recently spoke from the Senate floor on the need for permitting reform, and the tradeoffs that will be required in the transition to renewable energy, which can be w… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:32:05Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/65000-additional-h-2b-visas-to-be-issued-following-push-from-senators-collins-king | 65,000 Additional H-2B Visas to be Issued Following Push from Senators Collins, King | 2022-12-13 | 2022 | 2022-12 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | Washington, D.C. —Following a push led by U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the Department of Labor (DOL) announced that they are issuing a temporary final rule that makes available 64,716 additional H-2B temporary nonagricultural worker visas for fiscal year (FY) 2023. This rule implements the supplemental H-2B visa allocations announced on October 12, 2022. This is the first time that the Departments have issued a single rule making available H-2B supplemental visas for several allocations throughout the entire fiscal year. Senator Collins and Senator King had previously called on the agencies to increase the number of H-2B visas for Fiscal Year 2023 to the maximum number, approximately 65,000 visas, to help small businesses hire workers. These visas are on top of the 66,000 H-2B visas that are normally available each fiscal year. Notably, the rule reserves a portion of the additional visas to help meet the demand for workers during the peak summer season. “These 65,000 additional H-2B visas will provide much-needed relief for small businesses that are continuing to face extreme difficulty finding workers in a tight labor market,” said Senators Collins and King. “Without these visas, many small businesses, particularly hotels and restaurants in our hospitality industry, would be unable to open or would have to curtail their operations, hurting local communities and Maine employees. We must improve the H-2B program to ensure Maine small businesses do not continue to suffer from a lack of workers.” Senators Collins and King have long led efforts to address workforce shortages. Following a push in May, DHS and DOL announced that a temporary rule had been finalized that provided an additional 35,000 H-2B visas to help small businesses fill seasonal job openings during the busy summer season. These visas supplemented the previous supply of 33,000 H-2B visas for the second half of Fiscal Year 2022. | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:32:05Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/collins-king-announce-more-than-500000-in-funding-to-support-small-businesses-in-rural-maine | Collins, King Announce More Than $500,000 in Funding to Support Small Businesses in Rural Maine | 2022-12-13 | 2022 | 2022-12 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King today announced a total of $528,563 in new funding from the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) that will expand development and training opportunities for small businesses in rural areas of Maine. The Androscoggin Valley Council of Governments, Eastern Maine Development Corporation, and Sunrise County Economic Council will use this funding to provide business training, technical help, and loan assistance to small businesses in Androscoggin, Franklin, Oxford, Hancock, Penobscot, Piscataquis, Waldo, and Washington counties. “Small businesses are vital to our rural communities – it means something more when the shopkeeper or the vendor is your neighbor, friend or fellow PTA member – this funding will help dozens of small businesses throughout the state continue to operate and contribute to Maine’s economy,” said Senators Collins and King. “The incredible staff at the Androscoggin Valley Council of Governments, Eastern Maine Development Corporation, and Sunrise County Economic Council are a driving force in providing economic development, business financing, job creation, and many other services. This investment will pay off in the form of meaningful jobs and technical training, and it will improve the livelihoods of families across rural Maine.” The funding will be allocated as follows: Androscoggin Valley Council of Governments will receive $12,884 Eastern Maine Development Corporation will receive $500,000 Sunrise County Economic Council will receive $15,679 The United States Department of Agriculture works to provide leadership on issues related to food, agriculture, natural resources, rural development, nutrition, and related issues. USDA consists of 29 agencies and offices and employs nearly 100,000 people. | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:32:05Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/parks-chairman-king-presses-biden-administration-on-inadequate-parks-maintenance-budget-and-staffing-shortages | Parks Chairman King Presses Biden Administration on “Inadequate” Parks Maintenance Budget, and Staffing Shortages | 2022-12-13 | 2022 | 2022-12 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | Senator cites Acadia visitor surge as example of hiring necessary; view questioning HERE WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S Senator Angus King (I-Maine), Chair of the Senate National Parks Subcommittee, today pressed a top Biden administration official on two of his top priorities for the National Park Service (NPS): securing enough funding for necessary park maintenance and ensuring sufficient staffing of America’s greatest treasures. In a hearing of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, King questioned Department of Interior Deputy Secretary Tommy Beaudreau on the Department’s plans to address both of these issues as it processes the NPS funding of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Bill and the Inflation Reduction Act. The Deputy Secretary agreed that more needs to be done to support the Parks System. This builds on the Chairman’s recent pushes to expand maintenance funding and increase NPS staffing in the forthcoming fiscal year 2023 budget bill. Beginning his remarks, Chairman King highlighted the administration’s recent budget requests and the need for additional funding to ensure maintenance and upkeep of our National Parks “What bothered me is the administration's budget for maintenance in the national parks was inadequate. The general rule of thumb is 2 to 4% of capital value for maintenance every year. I think the budget this year is about 1%. That's not an indictment of this administration. That's been the pattern for the past 25 or 30 years. That's how we got into this hole,” said Senator King. “This committee and the Congress worked very hard on the Great American Outdoors Act to tackle the maintenance backlog. But it's pretty frustrating to see that we're still digging the hole. So I hope you'll take back to the department the point that we can't expect Congress to come to the rescue of the maintenance backlog every four or five years, if indeed the budget is inadequate and makes the hole deeper every four or five years.” “Thank you. And thank you for your leadership and partnership on these issues… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:32:05Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/healthcare-provisions-in-the-inflation-reduction-act | Healthcare Provisions in the Inflation Reduction Act | 2022-12-12 | 2022 | 2022-12 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | Overview The Inflation Reduction Act has laid the groundwork for—and in some cases already implemented—long-term changes in federal policy that will keep people healthier and deliver higher quality care at lower cost to patients. Even better, these benefits are delivered while simultaneously reducing the deficit by finally allowing Medicare to negotiating bulk discounts on the price it pays for prescription drugs. This will save taxpayers hundreds-of-billions. It’s a well named bill. The IRA will provide lasting relief and protection from inflation for years to come, especially with regards to healthcare. It was a long process to get the bill passed—taking more than a year—but the final product is something to be proud of. Immediate Impact Extend Affordable Care Act premium subsides. The Inflation Reduction Act makes a three year extension of premium subsidies for American’s who receive their healthcare through the Affordable Care Act – more than 100,000 Maine people – Congress extended enhanced premium assistance for ACA marketplace plans through 2025; 80 percent of Maine ACA enrollees saved on insurance, and average savings per enrollee were more than $600 in 2022. Beginning in 2023 Provide free vaccines for seniors. The Inflation Reduction Act makes all vaccines free in Medicare for seniors, the only population for which vaccines were not already free. Institute a new “inflation rebate” under Medicare. Drug companies should not be allowed to make arbitrary and rapid price increases on products that are not changing year-to-year. The Inflation Reduction Act requires drug companies rebate back the difference to Medicare if they raise prices higher than inflation. Limits insulin copays to $35/month. For too long, Maine seniors have faced uncertainty when paying for insulin which could costs hundreds of dollars out of pocket. The Inflation Reduction Act ensures no senior will pay more than $35/month for this life-sustaining medication. Beginning in 2024 Caps Medicare Part D Premium Growth. For seniors o… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:32:05Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senators-collins-king-announce-maine-2023-nominees-to-the-united-states-military-service-academies | Senators Collins, King Announce Maine 2023 Nominees to the United States Military Service Academies | 2022-12-12 | 2022 | 2022-12 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King today announced their nominees to the United States Military Academies. To be considered for an appointment to a service academy, applicants must be nominated by an authorized nominating source, which includes Members of Congress. Admission to the United States Coast Guard Academy, also a federal service academy, does not require a congressional nomination. “We are proud to have the honor to nominate such an impressive group of Maine students to our nation’s distinguished service academies,” said Senators Collins and King in a joint statement. “The young people we have nominated have earned this honor through a commitment to strong scholarship, leadership, and character.” The following students from Maine have received nominations as candidates to the military academies from Senators Collins and King: United States Air Force Academy – Colorado Springs Name Home Town High School Jarek Fryzlewicz Alfred Massabesic High School Austin Sellinger Auburn Edward Little High School Avery Theriault Augusta Cony High School Benjamin Beckerman Bethel Burke Mountain Academy Nora Spratt Castine George Stevens Academy Thomas Brearly East Baldwin Sacopee Valley High School Sarah Neal East Machias Washington Academy Camden Hamilton Falmouth Falmouth High School Matthew Bellatoni Gorham Cheverus High School Leonardo Mlynski Hampden Hampden Academy Emma Richard North Yarmouth Greely High School James Jones Oakland Messalonskee High School Katelynn Kinney Sebec Bangor Christian Schools Roman Thomas Windham Windham High School Ryan Cole Woodland Washburn District High School Jonathan “Jack” Curtis Woolwich North Yarmouth Academy Joseph Neal York York High School United States Merchant Marine Academy - Kings Point Name Home Town High School Addison “Tadd” Nelson Bath Cheverus High School Julian Henderson Camden Camden Hills Regional High School Jameson Buck Hampden Hampden Academy Benjamin Cloutier Lewiston Lewiston High School Nicholas Biberstei… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:32:05Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-collins-introduce-legislation-lowering-costs-of-home-heating-options | King, Collins Introduce Legislation Lowering Costs of Home Heating Options | 2022-12-09 | 2022 | 2022-12 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Angus King and Susan Collins introduced a bipartisan bill to help more Maine families afford residential home heating technologies that can save them thousands a year. The BTU Tax Credit Expansion Act incentivizes the purchase of these innovative heating sources by increasing the maximum rebate for biomass stoves and boilers from $2,000 to $8,000. Once purchased, the stoves only cost a few hundred dollars a year to fuel and maintain – significantly lower than other heating options. “With heating costs on the rise, and global temperature norms changing due to climate change, it is vital that we make home heating options like pellet stoves more affordable for Maine families,” Senator King said. “The BTU Tax Credit Expansion Act will add financial benefits for families trying to find less expensive alternatives to traditional home heating systems – helping them to enjoy significant long-term savings. This tax credit is a win-win for Maine families that will cut utility costs, reduce fossil fuel emissions, and prevent tough choices like paying for heating, or putting food on the table.” “Wood biomass is a cost-effective, renewable, and environmentally friendly source of energy that helps individuals heat their homes in the winter months, supports our forest products industry, and creates jobs here in Maine,” said Senator Collins. “By increasing the credits available for biomass stoves and boilers to more closely align with incentives provided for other energy systems, this legislation would encourage the use of this proven and highly efficient heating technology.” The bill was also cosponsored by Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Maggie Hassan (D-NH), and Lisa Murkowski (R-AK). The initial clean energy rebates were included in the Inflation Reduction Act which passed the Senate in August 2022. | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:32:05Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/collins-king-announce-nearly-3-million-in-funding-for-head-start-in-maine-1222 | Collins, King Announce Nearly $3 Million in Funding for Head Start in Maine | 2022-12-08 | 2022 | 2022-12 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King today announced that two Maine organizations will receive a total of $2,913,484 from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to strengthen Head Start programs and promote early childhood development opportunities for children in poverty. Androscoggin Head Start and Child Care in Lewiston and Downeast Community Partners in Ellsworth will use the funding to develop new approaches to learning, strengthen social and emotional development programs, and expand physical health education. “Maine’s Head Start programs empower both parents and their children. From kickstarting educations to promoting positive parent-child relationships, Head Start’s opportunities are invaluable to Maine students’ success,” said Senators Collins and King. “The dedicated teachers and staff at Androscoggin Head Start and Downeast Community Partners work hard to support Maine families and help our children grow. This significant new investment will improve access to critical development resources in Maine communities.” “Down East Community Partners’ Head Start program is a critical flagship service in Hancock and Washington Counties. This funding provides the foundation of DCP’s efforts and partnerships with parents, local public schools, and community organizations,” said Rebecca Palmer, Executive Director of Downeast Community Partners. “It has never been more critical to serve the families and children in our respective counties living in poverty needing school readiness supports of physical and health development, language and literacy development, social and emotional development, and cognition of literacy and approaches to learning.” The funding will be allocated as follows: Androscoggin Head Start and Child Care will receive $1,704,790 for its Early Education Center Downeast Community Partners will receive $1,208,694 for its quality of life and poverty reduction programs | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:32:05Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/cyberspace-solarium-co-chairs-applaud-critical-timely-cybersecurity-provisions-in-annual-defense-bill | Cyberspace Solarium Co-Chairs Applaud “Critical, Timely” Cybersecurity Provisions in Annual Defense Bill | 2022-12-08 | 2022 | 2022-12 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine) and Representative Mike Gallagher (R-Wisc.), Co-Chairs of the Cyberspace Solarium Commission (CSC), today applauded the inclusion of several key cybersecurity provisions in the final version of the 2023 National Defense Authorization Act. The joint House and Senate version of the annual defense bill released this week includes legislation to establish a Bureau of International Cyberspace Policy to coordinate international cyber affairs at the U.S. Department of State – a top recommendation of the CSC. The released text also requires U.S. Cyber Command (CYBERCOM) to research its methods for responding and deterring cyberattacks and recommends that the Navy create a cyber officer position. As Co-Chairs of the commission, King and Gallagher pushed for these provisions to be included in the final version of the bill. “As threats from Russia, China, and other adversaries grow, the United States must continue to invest in strong cyberdefenses. That’s why the 2023 National Defense Authorization Act includes critical, timely provisions to improve the Pentagon’s cyber coordination and ensure that CYBERCOM has the tools it needs to successfully deter any foe,” said Senator King. “The bill’s creation of a Bureau of International Cyberspace Policy is another important step towards the Cyberspace Solarium Commission’s goal of giving cyber a voice at the table both in our government and on the world stage. When the Solarium released our list of recommendations, we made it clear this was an action document, not a report designed to collect dust. I’m proud of the significant progress we’ve made over the last few years and look forward to getting this bill across the finish line.” “This NDAA takes another important step towards better securing our country in cyberspace,” said Rep. Gallagher. “From the inclusion of the Cyber Diplomacy Act, which ensures the State Department is structured to promote our values in cyberspace, to continued guidance on CYBERCOM on force generatio… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:32:05Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senate-unanimously-passes-collins-king-resolution-recognizing-december-17-2022-as-wreaths-across-america-day | Senate Unanimously Passes Collins, King Resolution Recognizing December 17, 2022, as “Wreaths Across America Day” | 2022-12-07 | 2022 | 2022-12 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | Washington, D.C. – The Senate unanimously passed a resolution introduced by U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King designating Saturday, December 17, 2022, as “Wreaths Across America Day.” A convoy of volunteers will travel from Maine to Arlington National Cemetery to lay Maine-made balsam wreaths at the headstones of fallen American soldiers. Over the past 31 years, Wreaths Across America has sent more than 14.4 million wreaths to various locations, including national cemeteries and veterans’ memorials in all 50 states and overseas. “From Arlington National Cemetery that overlooks our nation’s capital, to Normandy American Cemetery above the beaches that Allied troops stormed on D-Day, the wreath laying ceremonies on December 17th are a powerful demonstration of respect and appreciation for our veterans,” said Senators Collins and King. “For more than thirty years, the fields of Maine-made wreaths have served as a solemn reminder of the sacrifices of America’s veterans. The longevity of this event is a testament to the spirit of Maine people, our overwhelming gratitude to our nation’s servicemembers, and the extraordinary dedication of all those who have made the tribute possible. This resolution remembers and honors America’s veterans this holiday season, while also teaching younger generations of the sacrifices that have been made to secure our freedoms and to defend our liberty.” The general public can register to participate in Wreaths Across America at Arlington National Cemetery HERE. Thousands of volunteers are expected to lay the wreaths at the graves of each American veteran. In addition to Arlington National Cemetery, volunteers will place wreaths at 3,100 locations nationwide. | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:32:05Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/icymi-king-joins-checks-and-balance-podcast-to-discuss-need-for-electoral-count-act-reform | ICYMI: King Joins “Checks and Balance” Podcast to Discuss Need for Electoral Count Act Reform | 2022-12-05 | 2022 | 2022-12 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | Listen to the Checks and Balances podcast on Spotify or Apple Podcasts WASHINGTON D.C. – U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine), a member of the Senate Committee on Rules and Administration with oversight over federal elections, joined The Economist’s weekly “Check and Balances” podcast to discuss democratic protections that must be passed in the last month of the congressional session. During the episode, King explains why his top priority for the remainder of this Congress is the Electoral Count Reform and Presidential Transition Improvement Act – informed by his February reform proposal – to clarify ambiguous 19th century laws that spurred the January 6th insurrection. King also highlights the 2023 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) and annual omnibus appropriations package as two other key priorities. Speaking about his priorities in the last month of the Congressional session, King lays out why “the infrastructure of democracy” is his top priority. “I list[ed] the Electoral Count Act first because that goes to the infrastructure of democracy itself. And everything else in terms of budgets and marriage equality, all of those things are basically policy questions that are important. But if the structure of the system isn't working, nothing else works. So that's why I put Electoral Count Act at the top of the list.” King continued by explaining the historical need for the proposed reforms in the Electoral Count Reform and Presidential Transition Improvement Act. “I hope you'll allow me a bit of historical digression. It rests in the provision of the Constitution that establishes the Electoral College. And if you go back and read the Federalist 68 – which is Hamilton's justification for the Electoral College – I don't often disagree with Hamilton, but he got it wrong. The framers were of two minds. They liked the idea of public participation and democracy with a small d, but only so far. They were very concerned about what they called the mob. The only body in the US Constitution at the time of its adopti… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:32:05Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senators-collins-king-announce-over-1-million-for-upgrades-to-maine-recreation-facilities | Senators Collins, King Announce Over $1 Million for Upgrades to Maine Recreation Facilities | 2022-12-05 | 2022 | 2022-12 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King announced that the Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry has received $1,077,257 to support four projects across Maine. Each of the projects will use the funding to repair, renovate, or improve existing recreational facilities. This funding was awarded through the National Park Service’s Land and Water Conservation Fund State and Local Assistance Program. “Increasing access to outdoor recreational opportunities helps people stay active and healthy, and it benefits the entire region,” said Senators Collins and King in a joint statement. “This investment through the Land and Water Conservation Fund will repair and upgrade existing facilities for tennis, basketball, football, and baseball as well as other community resources that will be used by current residents as well as by future generations.” The funding was allocated as follows: Cherryfield received $40,000 to renovate existing town-owned tennis and basketball courts. The parking area will be updated with gravel, barriers, and a handicap accessible ramp. The project also includes installing raised vegetable beds for a community garden as well as a picnic area. Jay received $206,624 to demolish existing, obsolete tennis courts and construct three new, ADA-compliant courts in their place. Jay also will install new LED lighting and ADA-compliant walkways leading to the courts. Skowhegan received $330,633 to upgrade infrastructure at an existing football field complex, install new dugouts at the Carl Wright Baseball Complex, and increase ADA accessibility at the Skowhegan Recreation Complex. The Maine Bureau of Parks and Lands received $500,000 to make improvements to Recreation Hall, an existing building at the Lake George Regional Park in Canaan. The updates include roof and flooring renovations, general maintenance, safety feature installations, and increased ADA access. A new road with tiered parking and handicap spaces will also be installed. | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:32:05Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/icymi-on-fox-news-sunday-king-says-putin-growing-more-dangerous-to-ukraine-and-nato-speaks-of-chinese-threat | ICYMI: On Fox News Sunday, King Says Putin Growing “More Dangerous” to Ukraine and NATO, Speaks of Chinese Threat | 2022-12-04 | 2022 | 2022-12 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | Watch the interview here WASHINGTON D.C. – U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine), Co-Chair of the Cyberspace Solarium Commission and a member of the Senate Armed Services and Intelligence Committees, today joined Fox News Sunday for a bipartisan interview with Senator Joni Ernst (R-Iowa) on some of the most pressing national security issues facing the United States, including growing threats from adversaries like Russia and China. During the interview, conducted by Shannon Bream at the annual Reagan National Defense Forum, King stressed the urgency of confronting Vladimir Putin, explained why the Free World must continue to support Ukraine’s fight for freedom, and laid out the dangers of Chinese-controlled tech products like TikTok. During the interview, Bream asked Senator King about President Vladimir Putin’s next steps in his illegal and unprovoked invasion of Ukraine. “Let’s talk about Ukraine, that is another hot topic. You will receive I understand a briefing on Wednesday that will update you where we are,” said Shannon Bream. ”The President said he would being willing to talk with Mr. Putin, but that they would have to leave Russia. Kremlin says that is no-go, they can't have that kind of conversation, how does this end?" “I think Putin is extremely dangerous right now. The ironic situation that we’re in is that the better the Ukrainians do, the more dangerous Putin becomes – because he is running out of options. And what we’re seeing now is actually his go-to option in Syria, in Grozny, where he is just bombing the hell out of the civilian population and the problem is that is just below the level where he knows we'll get into it in a more serious way. So we're in a very difficult situation,” said Senator King. “I think what we've supplied to Ukrainians has been enormously important and we need to continue to do so. Putin number one priority is to divide the West in terms of our support for Ukraine, we can't fall for it.” Bream continued by asking about America’s commitment to the conflict, and why we ne… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:32:05Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/collins-king-warn-chinese-government-against-violent-crackdown-on-protesters | Collins, King Warn Chinese Government Against Violent Crackdown on Protesters | 2022-12-02 | 2022 | 2022-12 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King, members of the Senate Intelligence Committee, are warning the Chinese Communist Party against a violent crackdown on the country’s growing pro-freedom protests. In a bipartisan letter with nearly half of their Senate colleagues, Collins and King tell the Chinese ambassador to the United States that violence by the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) against the peaceful protesters will cause extraordinary damage to the US-China relationship. “The protests in China, and the subsequent crackdowns, are clear evidence that the Chinese Communist Party is not listening to the will of its people. The United States Senate understands the importance of democratic principles—like freedom of expression and freedom of speech—and will always stand up for those values,” said Senators Collins and King. “We applaud the Chinese people for their bravery and urge the Chinese Communist Party to refrain from violent crackdowns on peaceful protesters as we have seen in the past.” The letter is signed by a bipartisan group of forty-two Senators. The full text of the letter can be read HERE and below. ### Ambassador Qin Gang Embassy of the People’s Republic of China 3505 International Place NW Washington, D.C. 20008-3025 Dear Ambassador Qin: We are following the current peaceful protests in China over your government’s policies very carefully. We are also closely watching the Chinese Communist Party’s (CCP) reaction to them. In 1989, the Chinese Communist Party and People’s Liberation Army undertook a violent crackdown on peacefully protesting Chinese students, killing hundreds, if not thousands. We caution the CCP in the strongest possible terms not to once again undertake a violent crackdown on peaceful Chinese protesters who simply want more freedom. If that happens, we believe there will be grave consequences for the US-China relationship, causing extraordinary damage to it. Sincerely, | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:32:05Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/maine-delegation-welcomes-5-million-to-aid-passamaquoddy-impacted-by-climate-change | Maine Delegation Welcomes $5 Million to Aid Passamaquoddy Impacted by Climate Change | 2022-12-02 | 2022 | 2022-12 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King and U.S. Representatives Chellie Pingree and Jared Golden welcomed a $5 million planning grant for the Passamaquoddy Tribe to respond to climate-related environmental threats. The grant was awarded through the U.S. Department of the Interior’s newly announced Voluntary Community-Driven Relocation program and funded by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. “From rising sea levels to warming waters, the impacts of climate change are already threatening communities across Maine. This federal program, one of the first of its kind, will help the Passamaquoddy Tribe prepare for climate change with long-term resilience measures,” the Maine Delegation said. “As proud supporters of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, we’re thrilled to see its investments are working to protect tribal communities in Maine and across the nation.” The Passamaquoddy Tribe is one of eight Tribal communities nationwide receiving a total of $40 million for planning grants. The Administration’s funding announcement was made during the 2022 White House Tribal Nations Summit, which provides an opportunity for the Administration and Tribal leaders from the 574 federally recognized Tribes to discuss ways the federal government can invest in and strengthen nation-to-nation relationships as well as ensure that progress in Indian Country endures for years to come. Alaska Native villages and Tribal communities in the contiguous 48 states are at risk of severe infrastructure damage due to climate-related environmental impacts, including sea-level rise, coastal erosion, extreme weather events threats, and threats from flooding, drought, and wildland fire. A 2020 Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) study estimated that up to $5 billion will be needed over the next 50 years to address Tribal relocation infrastructure needs in response to climate change impacts. The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law provides a total of $466 million to the BIA over five years, including $216 million for climate resilience programs, provided a… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:32:05Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senators-collins-king-announce-800000-to-support-refugee-mental-health-services-in-maine | Senators Collins, King Announce $800,000 to Support Refugee Mental Health Services in Maine | 2022-12-02 | 2022 | 2022-12 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King announced that Spurwink has received $800,000 to support their ShifaME Trauma Systems Therapy for refugees. The funding was allocated through the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ (HHS) Center for Mental Health Services. This federal funding will help to expand the trauma therapy capabilities of ShifaME, Spurwink’s refugee service provider. The organization currently offers case management and counseling services to refugees across the state. “No community is immune from mental health crises, but refugees who fled violence, disasters, or persecution in their home countries often experience unique traumas in addition to the challenges of adjusting to a new life in the United States,” said Senators Collins and King in a joint statement. “Spurwink provides vital support to Maine’s refugee population, and this funding will help the dedicated staff expand access to mental health services for youth and families.” “Spurwink is grateful for the ongoing commitment of Senators Collins and King, and SAMHSA, to support our critical work with refugees in Portland,” said Eric Meyer, President & CEO of Spurwink. “Refugees contribute to a thriving economy in Maine and add a richness to our community, and our team is committed to working with them on a path to better health.” The Spurwink Refugee Mental Health Project is a multi-tiered mental health promotion model used to improve access to trauma-informed mental health services for refugee children and adolescents in Maine. The project is based on work with the Refugee Trauma and Resiliency Center at Boston Children’s Hospital and multiple partners in Maine including schools, community providers and immigrant and refugee-led organizations. The initiative includes broad-based prevention and community resilience building, community-based skill-building groups for youth, and intensive home-based family therapy for those with significant mental health needs. Spurwink’s project will increase access to effec… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:32:05Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/strategic-forces-chair-king-ranking-member-fischer-celebrate-launch-of-next-generation-bomber | Strategic Forces Chair King, Ranking Member Fischer Celebrate Launch of Next-Generation Bomber | 2022-12-02 | 2022 | 2022-12 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senators Angus King (I-Maine) and Deb Fischer (R-Nebraska), the Chair and Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on Strategic Forces, today celebrated the launch of America’s new nuclear-capable B-21 bomber. The next-generation stealth plane, unveiled by the Air Force and Northrop Grumman, will replace parts of the nation’s aging bomber fleet and help modernize the United States’ nuclear defense against growing aggression from Russia and China. For the last several years, Chairman King and Ranking Member Fischer have worked to modernize America’s land, air, and sea nuclear defenses – known as the Triad. Currently, only 10 percent of America’s bomber force is capable of penetrating advanced air defenses. As enemies continue investing in sophisticated technologies and weapons platforms like hypersonics, the capabilities of the new B-21 aircraft will be a critical deterrent for potential adversaries. “As history has shown time and again, the cost of defense can be high, but the cost of war is much higher. To prevent war, we must invest in modern defense systems, like the B-21, that can meet the rapidly growing threats of our adversaries,” said Senator King. “This new next-generation aircraft sends a clear signal of deterrence to our adversaries and is a significant step in the critical process of updating our nation’s ability to address, prepare, and respond to potential threats. As Russia continues its unprovoked assault on Ukraine and China rapidly grows its nuclear arsenal, it is vitally important that the United States is not left relying on our current Cold War-era deterrents. I’m grateful for all the hard work done by the Air Force and Northrop Grumman to develop this aircraft, and will continue to conduct the oversight necessary to make this project and the rest of the triad modernization a success.” “Earlier this week, a public report from the Dept. of Defense stated China will at least triple its nuclear arsenal by 2035. This is just the latest example of how the global threat environ… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:32:05Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/collins-king-announce-nearly-750000-to-increase-mental-health-resources-alleviate-pressure-on-law-enforcement-services | Collins, King Announce Nearly $750,000 to Increase Mental Health Resources, Alleviate Pressure on Law Enforcement Services | 2022-12-01 | 2022 | 2022-12 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King announced that $746,562 has been awarded to emergency service providers in Cumberland, Knox, and Waldo counties to enhance their ability to safely respond to mental health crises. The funding will also help to divert more mental health calls to the appropriate service providers. This funding was awarded through the Fiscal Year (FY) 2022 Connect and Protect: Law Enforcement Behavioral Health Response Program. “When Mainers experience a mental health crisis, it’s important they can get quality and efficient assistance. Too often the only option available is to call 911 – this creates a missed opportunity to connect these individuals with long-term treatment services, and it puts unnecessary strain on law enforcement officers who are overwhelmed with calls and may not have the appropriate training for these types of situations,” said Senators Collins and King in a joint statement. “We welcome this important funding, which will help local law enforcement agencies to do their jobs more effectively, strengthen resources for individuals with mental health or substance use disorders, and promote public safety.” $203,319 will help the Cumberland County Sheriff’s Office address a dramatic increase in mental health-related services, which have risen from 220 calls in 2019 to 648 calls in 2021. A significant number of these calls are for repeat subjects, thus putting a significant strain on the resources of the agency to answer routine calls for service. The Cumberland County Sheriff’s Office believes that an embedded mental health professional would provide targeted assistance to persons with mental health disorders by directing the individuals to local resources. $543,243 will help support ongoing efforts in Knox and Waldo counties to reduce encounters between law enforcement officers and those suffering with behavioral health issues. The funding will be used to expand the Co-occurring Community Connection (CCC) Project, which promotes effective strategies to… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:32:05Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-cosponsors-bipartisan-bill-to-reduce-global-hunger | King Cosponsors Bipartisan Bill to Reduce Global Hunger | 2022-12-01 | 2022 | 2022-12 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Angus King is cosponsoring bipartisan legislation to reduce global hunger and continue the United States’ worldwide leadership in combatting food insecurity as Russia’s war on Ukraine imperils global food supply chains. The Global Food Security Reauthorization Act would reauthorize the nation’s Feed the Future hunger and agriculture initiative through 2028, improve food aid oversight, and require the Biden administration to develop a whole-of-government strategy to address global food challenges. Feed the Future is an initiative led by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) to combat global food insecurity. The program addresses the root causes of hunger and poverty by boosting agriculture-led growth and nutrition in countries with great need and opportunity for improvement. “As dictators like Vladimir Putin seek to use hunger as a weapon, we must make sure that people have access to basic food and nutrition, regardless of the country or continent they live in,” said Senator King. “It’s imperative the United States helps people around the world access nutritious meals. The Global Food Security Reauthorization Act would strengthen our international leadership and global stability by building on the successful Feed the Future program that provides critical support for countries to develop agriculture and improve nutrition. I’m grateful for the broad bipartisan support the bill has already received, and hope we can get it passed for the sake of all the world’s most vulnerable communities.” The Global Food Security Act was first passed into law in 2016 and is set to expire in 2023. The bipartisan legislation cosponsored by Senator King is currently expected to be included as an amendment in the FY23 National Defense Authorization Act, and would extend the law for another five years. The bill also: Requires the Administration to develop a whole-of-government strategy to address global food insecurity and hunger. The strategy would emphasize agricultural develo… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:32:05Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/with-winter-looming-king-and-new-england-colleagues-urge-biden-administration-to-develop-energy-and-heating-plan | With Winter Looming, King and New England Colleagues Urge Biden Administration to Develop Energy and Heating Plan | 2022-11-30 | 2022 | 2022-11 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Angus King and a group of his New England Senate colleagues are urging the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) to develop a plan that will prevent blackouts or price hikes for New England households this winter; a serious concern given Russia’s continued disruptions to global energy markets. In a letter to Energy Secretary Jennifer Granholm, the Senators ask the Secretary to work with key stakeholders and local governments to mitigate the risk of price hikes and shortages of natural gas, liquefied natural gas (LNG), and heating oil. “With the upcoming winter season comes a real threat to energy reliability for residents and businesses in New England. Global events caused by Russia’s invasion of Ukraine are exacerbating the risk that the region will not have the fuel supplies needed to maintain heat and power during an extended cold snap,” wrote King and his New England colleagues. “We write to ask that you work with federal, regional, state, and local stakeholders to identify actions available to prevent energy disruption during the coldest months of the year.” “ISO New England, the region’s grid operator, has warned that colder-than-usual conditions could put the reliability of the grid at risk - perhaps even leading to extreme measures like rolling blackouts,” the Senators continued. “This could be devastating, particularly during the coldest days of winter. While the region’s overreliance on natural gas has long been an issue, the continued global disruption caused by the Russian invasion of Ukraine means the risk is more urgent than ever,” “Given the gravity of these concerns, we urge you to convene key stakeholders, including the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC), ISO New England, New England governors, public utility officials, generators, suppliers, and utilities to mitigate these risks. Additionally, we ask that you leverage resources within the Department of Energy to identify barriers to bringing non-fossil fuel energy online as quickly as possible. Lastly, we as… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:24:37Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-statement-after-senate-passes-protections-for-marriage-equality | King Statement After Senate Passes Protections for Marriage Equality | 2022-11-29 | 2022 | 2022-11 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Angus King released the following statement after the United States Senate passed the Respect For Marriage Act on a bipartisan 61-36 vote. The bill, cosponsored by Senator King, expands federal protections for same-sex and interracial marriages by requiring federal recognition of valid state marriages. The bill also guarantees that all marriages are given full legal status regardless of the couple’s sex, race, ethnicity, or national origin. “Marriage is one of life’s great gifts; it brings companionship, support, love, and joy. The decision to get married is a deeply personal choice between two people who love each other, it’s not an easy decision, and it’s not one where the government should have a say,” said Senator King. “The Respect For Marriage Act is a historic, long-overdue step to ensure Americans can marry the person they love without government interference while receiving significant tax and other benefits that come from the legally-recognized partnerships. “My decades-long marriage to my wife has been among the greatest privileges of my life. We were lucky that our marriage did not face legal barriers, and there shouldn’t be for others who share the same love. Maine has long understood this fundamental right – it’s why we were the first state in the nation to legalize same-sex civil marriage by popular vote, and it’s why I was a proud cosponsor of this bipartisan legislation. “It’s unfortunate that a law protecting the right to marry the person you love is even necessary. But with an activist Supreme Court that has repeatedly imposed their own religious views on the country and indicated it was open to reconsidering marriage equality rights, I feel this effort was critical to defend current and future loving couples. I’m deeply grateful that the Senate was able to come together and pass a commonsense, bipartisan law that carefully enshrines the right to same-sex and interracial marriage while respecting religious freedoms.” The Respect for Marriage Act, cosponsored … | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:24:37Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/collins-king-announce-5-million-to-restore-fish-habitat-on-the-st-croix-river | Collins, King Announce $5 Million to Restore Fish Habitat on the St. Croix River | 2022-11-28 | 2022 | 2022-11 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King announced that Maine is receiving $5,000,000 to improve fish migration at the Milltown and Woodland dams on the St. Croix River. The funding was allocated under the bipartisan infrastructure law through the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation’s America the Beautiful Challenge (ATBC). The Maine Department of Marine Resources’ project will expand aquatic connectivity for river herring and other at-risk species. The project will also help to enhance watershed health and local economic vitality in the St. Croix River and the Bay of Fundy. The project will significantly improve fish passage in historic spawning habitat and continue collaboration between U.S. federal agencies, Canadian agencies, Tribal Nations, the State of Maine and other conservation partners. “The St. Croix River and its watershed play a key role in sustaining the health of the ecosystem and the economy in Eastern Maine,” said Senators Collins and King in a joint statement. “By improving fish passages along the river, this project will help restore critical habitat to protect native fish populations, while also supporting migratory birds and other wildlife. We welcome this investment to preserve the environment and benefit current and future generations of anglers.” ATBC grants support projects that conserve, restore, and connect habitats for wildlife while improving community resilience and access to nature. These grants are highly competitive. This year, applicants submitted 527 proposals requesting a total of $1.1 billion, and 55 were selected. | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:24:37Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/nov-22-pod | Arctic Caucus Co-Chair King Discusses Challenges and Opportunities of the High North in November Podcast | 2022-11-28 | 2022 | 2022-11 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | Listen to the November edition of Senator King’s podcast here or on Apple Podcasts. WASHINGTON D.C. – The Office of U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine) today released the November episode of the Senator’s “Inside Maine” podcast, in which he and his guests discuss the opportunities and challenges of a warming Arctic. King, Co-Chair of the Senate Arctic Caucus, was joined by President of the Maine International Trade Center, Wade Merritt, and former Alaska Lieutenant Governor and US Arctic Research Commission Chair, Fran Ulmer. Together, the Senator and his guests lay out the local and global implications of the shifting region; including the changing environment, better shipping routes and trade opportunities, and expanded competition with Russia and China. “It’s an unfortunate reality that the Arctic is warming, but it’s critical we realize that the region’s rapid changes are creating historic opportunities and challenges,” said Senator King. “From new trade routes to military instillations, the United States, Maine, and our global partners must be ready for this growing area of competition and collaboration – countries like China and India are already making major moves to gain leverage in the High North. It was great to be joined by Wade Merritt and Fran Ulmer to discuss the implications of the newly accessible region. I’m grateful for the work they are doing to study and seize Arctic opportunities and look forward to our continued efforts together to ensure Maine is well positioned in our Arctic future.” The Arctic is one of the world’s most rapidly changing bodies of water – warming 5° Fahrenheit since the mid-1960s, three times faster than the global average. The melting sea ice opens northern shipping lanes for northern ports in Alaska and Maine, while also increasing the potential for territorial disputes and greater militarization in the region. Currently, Russia is far outpacing the U.S. in the region, having already invested billions of dollars in military infrastructure along its northern Arctic coast… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:24:37Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-introduces-bipartisan-bill-to-ensure-students-arent-forced-to-choose-between-housing-and-education | King Introduces Bipartisan Bill to Ensure Students Aren’t Forced to Choose Between Housing and Education | 2022-11-22 | 2022 | 2022-11 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | BRUNSWICK, ME – U.S. Senators Angus King (I-Maine), Sherrod Brown (D-Ohio), and Rob Portman (R-Ohio) have introduced bipartisan legislation to ensure students are not forced to choose between housing or pursuing an education. The Housing for Homeless Students Act would update current law to ensure students, including veterans, who have experienced homelessness or are currently homeless, can access affordable housing while pursuing their education. The legislation would also benefit youth who age out of foster care who experience higher rates of homelessness and unemployment. Currently, individuals pursuing full-time education are not eligible for the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) program and can lose access to scholarships and grants if they switch to part-time education in order to retain access to affordable housing. “It should go without saying – no one should have to choose between getting an education or keeping a roof above their head,” said Senator King. “Our youth and veterans pursuing higher education are there to improve their lives and invest in their future and it’s completely unfair for them to lose federal housing support because they are investing their time and energy in seeking a college degree. The Housing for Homeless Students Act is a necessary, commonsense, and bipartisan step to right this wrong and ensure America’s youth and veterans have equal opportunities to grow, learn, and succeed.” “Students and veterans who have experienced homelessness shouldn’t be forced to choose between pursuing an education and access to affordable housing,” said Senator Brown. “I’m proud to work with Sens. King and Portman on the Housing for Homeless Students Act to ensure the housing tax credit works for students investing in their futures.” “Students shouldn’t have to choose between stable housing and going to school full-time,” said Senator Portman. “This legislation will provide low-income students access to affordable housing while they attend school. With secure housing we can help to ensure t… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:24:37Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/collins-king-join-celebration-of-waterville-downtown-revitalization-project | Collins, King Join Celebration of Waterville Downtown Revitalization Project | 2022-11-18 | 2022 | 2022-11 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | Waterville, ME – Today, U.S. Senators Susan Collins (R-ME) and Angus King (I-ME) joined representatives from the Maine Department of Transportation, the City of Waterville, and Colby College to celebrate the completion of the Downtown Waterville Revitalization Project. The project improved roadways, sidewalks, intersections, and public green spaces. In addition, traffic was reconfigured from one-way to two-way, and intersections and gateways were reconstructed to be safer for pedestrians and motorists. Colby College is also making significant downtown investments that will help the town draw more visitors. Senators Collins and King both strongly supported a $7.4 million federal grant for the project, and Senator Collins secured the funding through this highly competitive grant program as a leader of the Transportation Appropriations Subcommittee. “This transformational project will contribute to the ongoing revitalization of downtown Waterville, expand access to the arts and education, create jobs, and bring the community together. The improvements to roadways, sidewalks, and public spaces we are celebrating are the result of the strong partnerships that have been forged among the city, Colby, and MaineDOT,” said Senator Collins. “As a leader of the Transportation Appropriations Subcommittee, I was delighted to secure a $7.4 million BUILD grant to help move this remarkable project forward.” “Waterville has historically been the center of activity in northern Kennebec County and neighboring communities in Somerset; it’s a cornerstone of the economy for the region,” said Senator King. “The new two way-traffic on Main Street will bring more customers to small businesses, improve traffic flow, and make foot traffic better for pedestrians. Today’s ribbon cutting is a testament to the hard work of the city and to the value of the partnerships they’ve formed with Colby College and the MaineDOT. I’m proud to have supported funding for this significant project and look forward to seeing its impacts for years to come.” … | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:24:37Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-bipartisan-group-of-colleagues-urge-biden-administration-to-address-winter-season-worker-shortage | King, Bipartisan Group of Colleagues Urge Biden Administration to Address Winter Season Worker Shortage | 2022-11-18 | 2022 | 2022-11 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine) today joined a bipartisan group of colleagues to call on the Biden administration to expedite H-2B work visas as many of Maine’s businesses prepare for the approaching winter ski and tourism season in Maine. In a letter to Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas and Department of Labor (DOL) Marty Walsh, the Senators highlight the urgent need for workers across the nation’s ski and winter tourism industry and stress that failure to quickly provide H-2Bs will cause harm to Maine skiing communities. Over the last several years, the seasonal tourism industry has struggled to hire enough American workers to meet demand. The H2-B work visa program allows U.S. employers to fill these open roles with foreign nationals in temporary nonagricultural jobs when the local workforce is not applying for them. “H-2B workers are especially vital to the ski and winter tourism industry nationwide, which is anticipating severe workforce shortages ahead of hiring for its busiest season,” the Senators wrote. “According to the National Ski Areas Association, 81% of all ski areas in the U.S. had unfilled winter jobs in the 2022 ski season. Additionally, the average number of winter positions that went unfilled at ski areas was 76 – a steep increase from an average of 55 unfilled positions in 2021.” “The urgency of addressing these workforce shortages cannot be overstated. In addition to ski and winter tourism businesses themselves, the rural mountain communities who host them depend heavily on winter tourism and recreation visitors for their overall economic health and growth. Because employment start dates for ski area employees typically occur in early December, the statutory H-2B cap has been met too early for the industry to effectively utilize the program every year since 2018,” the Senators continued. “Given the lengthy timelines involved in securing H-2B visa slots and hiring and onboarding recipients, each day that passes without action contribut… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:24:37Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-cosponsors-bipartisan-bill-to-protect-veterans-from-benefits-fraud | King Cosponsors Bipartisan Bill to Protect Veterans from Benefits Fraud | 2022-11-17 | 2022 | 2022-11 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. –– U.S. Senator Angus King, a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, is cosponsoring bipartisan legislation to protect veterans from benefits fraud. The Governing Unaccredited Representatives Defrauding (GUARD) VA Benefits Act would reinstate criminal penalties for unaccredited scam benefit representatives who charge unauthorized fees while helping veterans file a disability claim – something prohibited under current law, but without criminal charges in the statutes. “America’s veterans have served, sacrificed, and fought for their benefits and it is reprehensible that scammers would take advantage of servicemembers during their time of need,” said Senator King. “Unfortunately, while the shameful act of charging veterans fake ‘fees’ to file a disability claim is illegal, there are currently no legal penalties to deter bad actors. The GUARD VA Benefits Act would fix this oversight and ensure that scammers and unauthorized organizations are held responsible for exploiting our heroes. This is a commonsense bill to protect out veterans and I hope it can continue to receive bipartisan support across Congress.” The bipartisan measure has the support of numerous veterans advocacy organizations including the American Legion and the Veterans of Foreign Wars. “The Department of Maine Veterans of Foreign Wars and it Auxiliary are very happy that Senator Angus King has signed on as a Cosponsor to the GUARD Act,” said Steven Sanpedro, VFW Department of Maine Legislative Chairman. “These predatory unaccredited companies have taken advantage of our Veterans and their families way too long. This law will create penalties on these business that over charge our Veterans. More importantly this will put them on notice that they are being watched and will no longer be allowed to take advantage of our Veterans and their families. Thank you Senator King for signing on to this very important bill!” "The American Legion Department of Maine is proud hear Senator King is supporting and cosponsoring the Governin… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:24:37Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senators-collins-king-announce-nearly-182-million-contract-awarded-to-bath-iron-works | Senators Collins, King Announce Nearly $182 Million Contract Awarded to Bath Iron Works | 2022-11-17 | 2022 | 2022-11 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | Washington, D.C.—U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King announced today that the U.S. Navy has awarded Bath Iron Works (BIW) a $181,983,583 contract modification to a previously awarded contract for Planning Yard Services for the DDG-51 Class Guided Missile Destroyer program. “Time and time again, the hardworking, highly-skilled men and women at Bath Iron Works demonstrate that Bath built is best built. This new funding is a testament to the shipyard’s expertise that will strengthen Maine’s economy and allow BIW’s engineers, designers, and planners to continue producing their world-class ships,” said Senators Collins and King in a joint statement. “Arleigh Burke-class destroyers are the workhorses of the Navy. We will continue our efforts to ensure that the shipyard has the resources it needs to construct these critical elements of our national security that protect our interests around the globe.” This funding is a cost-plus-award-fee modification to a previously awarded contract for planning yard services. The work will be performed in Bath and is expected to be completed by January 2024. Senator Collins is a senior member of the Appropriations Committee and the Defense Appropriations Subcommittee. Senator King is a member of the Armed Services Committee and Chairman of the Strategic Forces Subcommittee. | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:24:37Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/collins-king-announce-5-million-to-help-expand-broadband-in-rural-maine-communities | Collins, King Announce $5 Million to Help Expand Broadband in Rural Maine Communities | 2022-11-16 | 2022 | 2022-11 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Susan Collins (R-ME) and Angus King (I-ME) announced that the Maine Connectivity Authority will receive a total of $5,000,000 to support the development of a Five-Year action plan to close the broadband gap in rural Maine. This funding was authorized through the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act and provided through the Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) Program that was created and funded by the bipartisan infrastructure law. Senator Collins, the Ranking Member of the Transportation Appropriations Subcommittee, was part of the core group of 10 Senators who negotiated the text of the bipartisan infrastructure law. Senators Collins and King both worked to negotiate and pass this historic legislation, which will deliver billions of dollars to Maine for investments in broadband, roads, bridges, and more. “Access to high-speed Internet is critical to the vitality of rural communities, which is why I have long championed expanding access to broadband across Maine,” said Senator Collins. “From spurring job creation to supporting telemedicine and education, the Internet unlocks almost endless benefits and possibilities. I co-authored the broadband section of the law to help bridge the digital divide between rural and urban areas, and I am pleased that this funding will help Maine to take another step forward to extend its high-speed network to ensure that families have a reliable connection to their loved ones, co-workers, schools, and medical services.” “High-speed, affordable broadband access is essential for small businesses, telehealth patients, families, and students across rural and urban Maine,” said Senator King. “This investment from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law will improve internet speeds and bring important new opportunities to communities that need it most. I’m proud to see the continued impact of this bipartisan bill, and will continue working with my colleagues on programs that close the digital divide and help rural Maine thrive.” The BEAD Progr… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:24:37Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/delegation-msc-response | Maine Delegation and Governor Mills Respond to Suspension of Lobster Fishery Certification by Marine Stewardship Council | 2022-11-16 | 2022 | 2022-11 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | PORTLAND, ME – Maine Senators Susan Collins and Angus King, Representatives Chellie Pingree and Jared Golden, and Governor Janet Mills today released the following statement after the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) announced plans to temporarily suspend their certification of Maine’s lobster fishery. In their decision, MSC acknowledges that while the Maine fishery meets standards for sustainability and environmental impact and is unlikely to cause harm to right whales, it is unable to certify any fishery that is not in compliance with federal regulations – a standard MSC believes the fishery does not meet due to the ongoing litigation in CBD v. Ross. “Today’s decision by the Marine Stewardship Council to temporarily suspend certification of Maine’s lobster fishery is the result of a years-long campaign from misguided environmentalist groups who seem to be hellbent on putting a proud, sustainable industry out of business without regard to the consequences of their actions. While the Maine industry met the highest standards for environmental sustainability and impact, the current pending CBD v. Ross court case led by the Center for Biological Diversity, Conservation Law Foundation, Defenders of Wildlife, and the Humane Society of the United States made certification impossible. This litigation is based more on activism than evidence and is putting livelihoods in jeopardy. “To be clear, this decision is not a reflection on the Maine lobster industry. As the MSC clearly states, ‘there is no recent evidence that the Maine lobster fishery is responsible for entanglements or interactions with right whales.’ The temporary suspension is purely because activists with an axe to grind have weaponized the court system and the Endangered Species Act to target the livelihoods of thousands of Maine lobstermen, their families, and the communities who work responsibly to maintain the delicate balance in Maine’s waters. The Maine lobster fishery has always complied with National Marine Fisheries Service regulations, and had the… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:24:37Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-cosponsors-bipartisan-legislation-to-ensure-federal-broadband-grants-are-delivered-in-full-not-taxed | King Cosponsors Bipartisan Legislation to Ensure Federal Broadband Grants Are Delivered in Full, Not Taxed | 2022-11-16 | 2022 | 2022-11 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Angus King, has cosponsored a bipartisan bill to maximize the historic broadband funding for residents across Maine. The Broadband Grant Tax Treatment Act (BGTTA) would classify broadband funding from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and the American Rescue Plan (ARP) as non-taxable income, ensuring that the entirety of federal dollars awarded to companies for the purpose of deploying broadband in Maine can be used wholly for that purpose, rather than going back to the government through taxes. Currently, grants awarded to industry for broadband deployment are factored into a company’s income unless Congress acts to address the problem. This new bipartisan legislation moves to exclude broadband deployment grants awarded through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and ARP from an organization’s income. “The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and American Rescue Plan made once-in-a-generation investments to help every Maine household get an affordable, reliable broadband connection. Now, we have to ensure the funding is delivered in full to accomplish our connectivity goals,” said Senator King. “Taxing federal broadband grants as income undermines the purpose of these historic internet connectivity programs and creates unnecessary hurdles for companies looking to invest in Maine. The Broadband Grant Tax Treatment Act (BGTTA) is a commonsense step to make the most of the new broadband funding. As we approach the one-year anniversary of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law’s signing, I hope Congress will pass this bipartisan effort to further improve legislation that is providing game changing opportunities for Maine communities.” "This is smart and focused legislation that will amplify the impact of both the BIL and ARP directly benefiting small businesses, communities, and consumers,” said Andrew Butcher, President of the Maine Connectivity Authority. “Maine's Internet Service Providers, contractors, and consumers have a huge job to build modern, world class high speed internet infrastruct… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:24:37Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-statement-after-senate-votes-to-advance-protections-for-marriage-equality | King Statement after Senate Votes to Advance Protections for Marriage Equality | 2022-11-16 | 2022 | 2022-11 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Angus King released the following statement after the United States Senate advanced the Respect For Marriage Act on a bipartisan 62-37 vote. The bill, cosponsored by Senator King, expands federal protections for same-sex and interracial marriages by requiring federal recognition of valid state marriages. The bill also guarantees that all marriages are given full legal status regardless of the couple’s sex, race, ethnicity, or national origin. “Marriage is one of life’s great gifts; it brings companionship, support, love, and joy. The decision to get married is a deeply personal choice between two people who love each other, it’s not an easy decision, and it’s not one where the government should have a say,” said Senator King. “The Respect For Marriage Act is a historic, long-overdue step to ensure Americans can marry the person they love without government interference while receiving significant tax and other benefits that come from the legally-recognized partnerships. “My decades-long marriage to my wife has been among the greatest privileges of my life. We were lucky that that our marriage did not face legal barriers, and there shouldn’t be for others who share the same love. Maine has long understood this fundamental right – it’s why we were the first state in the nation to legalize same-sex civil marriage by popular vote, and it’s why I’m a proud cosponsor of this bipartisan legislation. “It’s unfortunate that a law protecting the right to marry the person you love is even necessary. But with an activist Supreme Court that has repeatedly imposed their own religious views on the country and indicated it was open to reconsidering marriage equality rights, I feel this effort was critical to defend current and future loving couples. I’m deeply grateful that the Senate was able to come together and craft a commonsense, bipartisan law that carefully enshrines the right to same-sex and interracial marriage while respecting religious freedoms.” The Respect for Marriage Act, cospon… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:24:37Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/maine-delegation-blasts-inconsistencies-of-noaas-vessel-strike-rule-that-treats-lobster-industry-unequally | Maine Delegation Blasts Inconsistencies of NOAA’s Vessel Strike Rule that Treats Lobster Industry Unequally | 2022-11-16 | 2022 | 2022-11 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | Washington, D.C.—In response to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Agency (NOAA) favoring the shipping industry over the lobster industry in its attempts to reduce the risk of right whale deaths, U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King and Representatives Chellie Pingree and Jared Golden wrote to Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo to express their opposition to imposing stricter regulations on fishermen compared to other groups. Since 2019, there were six documented right whale deaths due to vessel strikes. NOAA recently proposed expanding the current mandatory seasonal vessel speed restrictions of 10 knots or fewer in designated ocean areas, which would reduce the risk of vessel strikes by only 27.5 percent. By contrast, NOAA is moving forward with implementing an onerous and unnecessary lobster gear rule that would purportedly reduce the risk of right whale mortalities by nearly 90 percent, even though there has never been a single right whale death or serious injury attributed to Maine’s lobster industry. “[T]this rule imposes different requirements on vessel traffic than it does commercial fisheries,” the Maine Delegation wrote. “Through this proposed rule, it is clear that the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) is holding Maine’s lobster industry to a much more stringent standard than other sectors…We encourage NMFS to take a hard look at the disparate regulatory treatment of vessel traffic and commercial fisheries before moving forward with additional rules for both sectors.” In their letter, the Maine Delegation outlined the numerous steps that Maine lobstermen have taken to reduce risks to right whales, and they renewed their push for NOAA to work with its Canadian counterpart to protect this fragile population. They also pointed out a number of contradictions of the new rule. For instance, unlike the lobster gear rule, which is based on estimated rather than confirmed deaths caused by entanglements, the vessel speed rule is confined to documented mortalities caused by ship strikes. Moreove… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:24:37Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/on-senate-floor-king-touts-historic-urgency-of-2023-defense-bill | On Senate Floor, King Touts Historic Urgency of 2023 Defense Bill | 2022-11-15 | 2022 | 2022-11 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | Watch Senator King’s full floor speech HERE and download broadcast quality HERE. WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine), a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee and Chairman of the Strategic Forces Subcommittee, today delivered remarks from the Senate Floor on the importance of protecting peace through strong military deterrence and passing the bipartisan 2023 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). In his speech, King explained the need to modernize the nation’s nuclear arsenal, support Ukraine as it fights for freedom, and improve resources for America’s servicemembers with pay raises and mental health care. Beginning his speech, Senator King explained the historic importance of preserving peace through strong military deterrence: “[The National Defense Authorization Act] is important because the essence of our defense policy since World War II has been deterrence. Deterrence means maintaining the capacity to inflict unacceptable costs on any potential adversary and the will to impose those costs if necessary,” began Senator King. “What we're really talking about in the National Defense Authorization Act is the capacity that we have at our disposal that can impose costs on our potential adversaries such that they will refrain from aggression and initiating a conflict, a conflict which in this day and age would be catastrophic.” “I would urge anyone who questions this assumption to Google Rhineland, 1936, Sudetenland, 1938, those were places Hitler could have been stopped, not with an enormous expenditure or enormous investment of troops or material, but by almost token resistance from the Western European powers that they utterly failed to do,” Senator King continued. “Had Hitler been confronted earlier before he completely rebuilt the Nazi war machine, World War II could have been avoided and all of those losses – tremendous losses in this country and around the world would have never happened… the only way to avoid war is to be prepared.” King, who chairs the Senate Armed Service… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:24:37Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/congressionally-directed-funding-secured-by-king-pingree-awarded-to-create-4-h-club-foundations-innovation-lab-in-bridgton | Congressionally-Directed Funding Secured by King, Pingree Awarded to Create 4-H Club Foundation’s Innovation Lab in Bridgton | 2022-11-14 | 2022 | 2022-11 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | WASHINGTON, DC—U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine) and Representative Chellie Pingree (D-Maine) today announced that $450,000 in Congressionally-Directed Spending secured by the Maine leaders is headed to the Maine 4-H Club Foundation. The Maine 4-H Club Foundation intends to use the investment to leverage the purchase of Bridgton’s historic Magic Lantern Theater and operate an Innovation Lab and Learning Center. Run by the University of Maine Cooperative Extension, the Innovation Lab and Learning Center is the most recent addition to the 4-H Foundation’s family of learning centers across Maine and will serve as a hub of creative activity for rural youth in the Maine Lakes Region. The center will engage 3,000-4,000 students annually in activities encompassing STEAM, theater, engineering, small business management, marketing and culinary arts, raising student performance in Bridgton and the surrounding Cumberland and Oxford County communities. This is the first award of Congressionally-Directed Spending to be announced in Maine since the signing of the FY 2022 Appropriations Bill by President Biden. “Maine 4-H Club Foundation’s Innovation Lab and Learning Center will transform an underused historic Bridgton landmark into a place for young people to be creative and engaged outside of the classroom. This community hub will createnew enrichment opportunities for local youth, catalyze economic development in the region by providing workforce development opportunities, and provide resources to parents and teachers,” King and Pingree said. “This project showshow beneficial Congressionally-Directed Spending has been to Maine. We’re proud to have fought for and secured federal funding to support this rural youth initiative and hundreds of other vital projects across Maine.” In 2021, the House and Senate Appropriations Committees brought back Congressionally-Directed Spending after a decade-long hiatus. A study by the House Select Committee on the Modernization of Congress found that congressionally directed spending boos… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:24:37Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senators-collins-king-announce-more-than-15-million-for-atlantic-salmon-habitat-restoration-projects | Senators Collins, King Announce More Than $1.5 Million for Atlantic Salmon Habitat Restoration Projects | 2022-11-14 | 2022 | 2022-11 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King announced that four conservation organizations will receive a total of $1,569,333 to restore habitats for coastal and marine species in Maine, help support our nation’s fisheries, contribute to the recovery of threatened and endangered species, and build resilient coastal ecosystems and communities. The funding was awarded through the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). “We welcome this funding, which will help to conserve and restore marine habitats and ecosystems for endangered Atlantic Salmon in waterways across Maine,” said Senators Collins and King in a joint statement. “In addition to making substantial ecological improvements, these projects will also produce significant benefits to private landowners and local communities, improve public safety, enhance opportunities for recreational and commercial fisheries, and create jobs in rural areas of the state.” The funding was allocated as follows: The Nature Conservancy received $570,000 to complete the final designs to remove Guilford Dam and restore the adjacent floodplain, which will reconnect habitat for Atlantic salmon in the Piscataquis River watershed. The Nature Conservancy will also restore access to high-quality habitat by improving fish passage at three high-priority road crossings over streams. Project SHARE received $444,237 to replace undersized culverts at 13 sites, connecting habitat for Atlantic salmon across multiple watersheds. Project SHARE will also conduct fish passage feasibility studies at the Great Works Dam and Marion Falls fishway, as well as perform freshwater habitat restoration work in the Narraguagus River watershed. The Atlantic Salmon Federation received $401,514 to implement five projects to restore access to Atlantic salmon spawning and rearing habitats in the Kennebec River watershed. They will also conduct a fish passage feasibility study at the Chesterville Wildlife Management Area Dam on Little Norridgewock Stream. | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:24:37Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-statement-honoring-veterans-day-2022 | King Statement Honoring Veterans Day | 2022-11-11 | 2022 | 2022-11 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | Watch Senator King’s Veterans Day video message and download broadcast quality HERE BRUNSWICK, ME – Today, U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine), a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, released the following statement in honor of Veterans Day. “In 1954, President Dwight D. Eisenhower issued the first Veterans Day Proclamation declaring November 11th as a day of ‘common purpose’ for all Americans to ‘remember the sacrifices of those who fought so valiantly to preserve our freedoms.’ Nearly 70 years later, we are still bound by this common purpose — to honor our servicemembers and to care for those who have shouldered the burden of our nation’s defense. “This sacrifice has resonated in our state from the nation’s earliest days as Maine people have embodied the Dirigo motto and proudly fought for the United States. With one of the nation’s highest rates of veterans per capita, those who served are woven into the fabric of every town and city across our state. So today at the dinner table, the grocery store, or the local veterans memorial, be sure to stop and thank a veteran – for their service and for their continued commitment to our communities. “While thanks are important and well deserved, that’s just the start. We also must commit to supporting our veterans in deeds as well as words. That means delivering stronger benefits, better healthcare, and improved educational and economic opportunity for those who served. These are all areas where, historically, the country has not done enough. We’ve made a lot of progress over the last few years, including with the passage of the PACT Act to support veterans exposed to burn pits and toxic hazards; but there is more work to be done. Today and every day, we must recommit ourselves to improving the lives of American veterans. “On this Veterans Day, it is my privilege to thank the Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, Marines, Guardians, and Coast Guardsmen who served and those that continue to serve our nation. I hope all Americans can join together in common purpose to h… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:24:37Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/on-veterans-day-senator-king-interviews-librarian-of-congress-on-importance-of-preserving-veterans-history | On Veterans Day, Senator King Interviews Librarian of Congress on Importance of Preserving Veterans History | 2022-11-11 | 2022 | 2022-11 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | Watch the interview and download broadcast quality HERE BRUNSWICK, ME – Today, on Veterans Day, U.S. Senator Angus King, a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, released a conversation with Librarian of Congress Dr. Carla Hayden on the importance of preserving veteran history. In the interview, King and Dr. Hayden discussed Senator King’s ongoing contributions to the Library’s Veterans History Project (VHP) and the urgent need to save the stories of veterans for future generations. The conversation was recorded after King submitted nine of his Answering the Call Maine veteran interviews to the VHP. The project is an effort by the Library to collect, preserve, and distribute the personal accounts of American war veterans so that future generations may hear directly from veterans and better understand the realities of what it means to serve our country. “The first interview I did for our Veterans History Project in Maine was with a fellow named Carmine Pecorelli,” said Senator King. “Carmine enlisted at 17 in the Navy and World War Two. He then came back into service in the Air Force in Korea and came back into service in the Army in Vietnam. Three wars, three different services. We just lost him a few months ago – so that's a piece of history that would have been lost but is preserved because of this project.” “That's the whole point, really – capturing those stories while you can and having them for future generations. There are so many veterans that will say, ‘well, I didn't do that much.’ Well, everyone did something,” replied Dr. Hayden. “That’s the difference with the Veterans History Project from a lot of the other histories written about wars: we tell the individual story.” “Usually history is about generals and presidents and dictators, but the history, as seen through the eyes of the people who actually had to execute those policies, was very powerful,” added Senator King. Continuing their conversation, Senator King explained to Dr. Hayden how lessons from his Answering the Call interviews … | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:24:37Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senators-collins-king-applaud-sappi-north-americas-investment-in-skowhegan-paper-mill-2022 | Senators Collins, King Applaud Sappi North America’s Investment in Skowhegan Paper Mill | 2022-11-10 | 2022 | 2022-11 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Susan Collins (R-Maine) and Angus King (I-Maine) applauded the announcement of a $418 million investment from Sappi North America, Inc. at the Somerset Mill in Skowhegan. The significant investment will help the mill convert?Paper Machine No. 2 to diversify its specialty product line and double its production capacity. Construction of the expansion is expected to support 1,000 contractor jobs across Maine. “The forest products industry is a vital part of our state’s economy and identity, particularly in rural communities,” said Senators Collins and King. “As the industry embraces new opportunities, it’s essential that companies make the necessary investments to evolve with the market and secure long-term success. Sappi has done just that with their recent upgrades at the Somerset Mill in Skowhegan, which supports hundreds of Maine jobs. This investment will help Sappi reach new customers, support their hard-working employees, and keep the local economy strong. We are excited about this upcoming project and look forward to working alongside Sappi and other state leaders to find new opportunities and markets for Maine’s forest products industry.” “This move complements our long-term Thrive25 strategy, which focuses on growing our portfolio in packaging and specialty papers, pulp and biomaterials,” said Mike Haws, President and CEO of Sappi North America. “By investing in our business to pursue growing areas of demand, we can remain profitable and competitive in the global marketplace” With this investment, Sappi will convert?its Paper Machine No. 2 from a mix of coated wood-free graphics paper and coated one-sided label papers to solid bleached sulphate (SBS) board. The machine capacity will increase from 235,000 metric tons to 470,000 metric tons per year. The project will be phased in and is expected to be completed in early 2025. Currently, the Somerset Mill supports approximately 800 jobs in Skowhegan and 1,300 jobs in Maine. Senators Collins and King are strong suppo… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:24:37Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/collins-king-pingree-announce-12-million-to-strengthen-maines-lobster-industry-hold-noaa-accountable | Collins, King, Pingree Announce $1.2 Million to Strengthen Maine’s Lobster Industry, Hold NOAA Accountable | 2022-11-04 | 2022 | 2022-11 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King, and Representative Chellie Pingree, announced today that two Maine organizations will be receiving a total of $1.2 million from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) Sea Grant American Lobster Initiative to support the health of Maine’s lobster industry and help lobstermen adapt to any potential regulatory changes. The funding will be used by the Maine Department of Marine Resources (DMR) to research new, innovative gear technology, and by the Gulf of Maine Lobster Foundation to improve information and communications systems for lobstermen. These grants come after the Maine Delegation included language in the 2022 appropriations package that required Sea Grant to utilize this funding to support gear modernization. “The lobster industry is an integral part of Maine’s economy, plays a central role in our communities, and represents our state around the world. It is more than a fishery – it’s part of our identity,” said Senators Collins and King and Representative Pingree. “With the industry facing new regulatory challenges from NOAA, these funds are a critical step to give our lobstermen the resources and gear options they need to stay in business. It is simply unacceptable for NOAA to demand changes of the Maine lobster industry without providing them the resources to do so – that is why we secured this funding in last year’s appropriations bill, and why we will continue to do everything in our power to protect the country’s most valuable and iconic fishery. There’s more to be done to secure the long-term health and success of our coastal communities, but this is real progress.” “Testing of new gear technology is critically important since it is currently far from a viable option for industry and managers,” said Maine Department of Marine Resource Commissioner Patrick Keliher. “This award will support the evaluation of different gear retrieval and location systems, all of which must work for this technology to be a feasible pa… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:24:37Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senators-collins-king-announce-more-than-2-million-to-assist-native-american-crime-victims | Senators Collins, King Announce More Than $2 Million to Assist Native American Crime Victims | 2022-11-03 | 2022 | 2022-11 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King announced that Maine tribes will receive a total of $2,074,901 from the U.S. Department of Justice’s Office for Victims of Crime and Office on Violence Against Women to fund victim assistance programs and to help compensate Native American victims for crime-related losses. “We all have a responsibility to ensure that survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault receive the resources they need for their safety, wellbeing and recovery,” said Senators Collins and King in a joint statement. “This important investment will provide greater access to necessary services for Native American victims of domestic abuse and sexual assault, who are disproportionately affected by these crimes. In addition, this funding will help Maine Tribes to strengthen their response to these crimes and protect vulnerable members of their communities.” The funding was allocated as follows: Mi'kmaq Nation received $410,246 to implement services for victims of crime that meet needs identified by the community and reflect tribal community values and traditions. The Houlton Band of Maliseet Indians received $408,408 to implement services for victims of crime that meet needs identified by the community and reflect tribal community values and traditions. The Passamaquoddy Tribe of Indian Township received $410,246 to implement services for victims of crime that meet needs identified by the community and reflect tribal community values and traditions. Penobscot Nation received $410,246 to implement services for victims of crime that meet needs identified by the community and reflect tribal community values and traditions and $100,000 to expand Back to Traditional Values. The goal of this youth program is to provide purpose and meaning for Penobscot youth by building a learning community grounded in cultural traditions, environmental stewardship, and creative expression that fosters mentorship, peer-to-peer support, intergenerational exchange, and leadership that results in bet… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:24:37Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/collins-king-golden-celebrate-announcement-of-new-lp-houlton-mill-production-line | Collins, King, Golden Celebrate Announcement of New LP Houlton Mill Production Line | 2022-11-02 | 2022 | 2022-11 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | Houlton, ME – U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King and Representative Jared Golden today celebrated Louisiana Pacific Building Solutions’ (LP) announcement that a new siding production line will be constructed at their Houlton facility. The $400 million investment will increase LP Houlton’s capacity by 340 million square feet of SmartSide siding a year and is expected to create approximately 100 jobs at the plant. This significant investment is in addition to the $150 million SmartSide facility LP Houlton announced earlier this summer. “LP Houlton’s new siding production line is a huge investment in the future of Northern Maine and its people. The $400 million expansion will create an estimated 100 additional jobs at LP and increase opportunities across the forest products industry – benefiting loggers, haulers, and everyone else in between who relies on Maine forests,” said Senators Collins and King and Representative Golden. “For over a generation, LP Houlton workers have embodied The County’s work ethic and spirit as they’ve manufactured modern wood products used around the globe. The new line will build on this proud legacy of excellence, grow the region’s economy, and help LP reach emerging markets with their world-class products. We’re grateful for this vote of confidence in the skill and dedication of LP’s workers and look forward to seeing the positive effect it will have across Aroostook communities.” | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:24:37Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senator-king-discusses-challenges-facing-maine-lobster-industry-in-october-podcast | Senator King Discusses Challenges Facing Maine Lobster Industry in October Podcast | 2022-10-31 | 2022 | 2022-10 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | WASHINGTON D.C. – The Office of U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine) today released the October episode of Senator King’s “Inside Maine” podcast, in which Senator King and his guests discuss the current regulatory challenges facing Maine lobstermen and what the state and Congressional delegation are doing to support the industry. Senator King was joined by Pat Keliher, Commissioner of the Maine Department of Marine Resources (DMR), and Curt Brown, a second-generation lobsterman and marine biologist. Together, King and his guests lay out the implications of new proposed lobster regulations from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) to protect right whales and explain how the regulations completely miss the facts on the ground – including sustainability measures already taken by lobstermen and the lack of any whale entanglements since 2004 or deaths attributed to the fishery. The Maine leaders also react to the harmful decision by Monterey Bay Aquarium’s Seafood Watch to “Red List” Maine lobster without any real scientific evidence. “Maine lobstermen are fighting for their livelihoods. Between the possibility of harmful new federal regulations and baseless attacks from Seafood Watch, the iconic industry that supports countless coastal communities and contributes over $1 billion to our economy is facing serious challenges,” said Senator King. “As NOAA continues to move forward with its unreasonable lobster regulations, Maine leaders like Commissioner Pat Keliher and lobsterman Curt Brown are doing vital work to debunk the faulty science behind the proposed restrictions. Together, the state and Congressional Delegation will continue to oppose unfair and unwarranted burdens on the fishery and protect Maine’s future. There are no professionals more committed to the sustainability of Maine’s fisheries than Pat and his team, nor those who work the water and want to hand off a thriving future to children. It was a privilege to have these knowledgeable leaders join Inside Maine – I’m deeply thankful for… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:20:33Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/collins-king-announce-more-than-33-million-for-23-maine-fire-departments | Collins, King Announce More Than $3.3 Million for 23 Maine Fire Departments | 2022-10-27 | 2022 | 2022-10 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King announced that 23 fire departments and organizations in Maine have received a total of $3,311,791 to upgrade equipment and support personnel. This funding was awarded through the Fiscal Year (FY) 2021 Assistance to Firefighters Grants (AFG) and the FY 2021 Staffing for Adequate Fire Emergency Response (SAFER) Grants. As a senior member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, Senator Collins champions annual funding for these grant programs within the budget of the Federal Emergency Management Agency. “Firefighters put their lives on the line every day to protect Maine residents, homes, and businesses,” said Senators Collins and King in a joint statement. “This funding will allow Maine firefighters to acquire updated equipment so they have the best tools available to protect themselves as they serve our families and communities.” The funding was allocated as follows: Bangor Fire Department received $273,021 for paramedic training Belgrade Fire Department received $104,905 to purchase firefighter breathing apparatus Boothbay Harbor Fire Department received $30,000 to purchase a vehicle exhaust removal system Casco Fire Rescue Department received $14,362 to purchase fit testers for firefighter breathing apparatus facepieces Clinton Fire Department received $62,527 to purchase a breathing air compressor and fill station Eddington Fire Department received $26,948 to purchase firefighting hose and equipment Falmouth Fire-EMS received $165,713 for firefighter training Gorham Fire Department received $84,000 to purchase vehicle exhaust removal systems Gray Fire Rescue received $18,321 to purchase a firefighter breathing air cylinder fill station. Maine Fire Service Institute in South Portland received $108,609 for firefighter turnout gear, portable radios, training props and equipment. Med-Care Ambulance Service in Mexico received $82,739 to purchase portable radios and mobile repeaters. Oakland Fire and Rescue received $47,159 to purchase firefi… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:20:33Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senators-collins-king-announce-over-725000-to-support-law-enforcement-officers-in-five-communities-across-maine | Senators Collins, King Announce Over $725,000 to Support Law Enforcement Officers in Five Communities Across Maine | 2022-10-26 | 2022 | 2022-10 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King announced that four Maine municipalities and Penobscot County have received a total of $726,492 to hire law enforcement officers. This funding was awarded through the U.S. Department of Justice’s Office of Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS) Hiring Program. “In Maine and throughout the country, the dedicated men and women of our nation’s law enforcement community put their lives on the line every day to keep our communities safe,” said Senators Collins and King in a joint statement. “We welcome this important funding, which will help provide our local law enforcement agencies with the necessary resources and officers to protect families and promote public safety.” The funding was allocated as follows: The City of Biddeford received $125,000 The Town of Brunswick received $125,000 The City of Caribou received $125,000 The Town of Mexico received $101,492 Penobscot County received $250,000 The COPS Hiring Program is a competitive award program intended to reduce crime and advance public safety through community policing by providing direct funding for the hiring of career law enforcement officers. The program provides funds directly to law enforcement agencies to hire new or rehire additional career law enforcement officers, thereby increasing their community policing capacity and crime prevention efforts. | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:20:33Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senators-collins-king-announce-nearly-350000-to-increase-school-safety-in-franklin-county | Senators Collins, King Announce Nearly $350,000 to Increase School Safety in Franklin County | 2022-10-25 | 2022 | 2022-10 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King announced that $347,495 has been awarded to the Franklin County Sheriff’s Office to increase school safety across western Maine. The funding will be used to improve coordination with local law enforcement, train local law enforcement officers to prevent school violence, upgrade infrastructure such as lighting, acquire technology for expedited notification of local law enforcement during an emergency, and other measures. The Franklin County Sheriff’s Office collaborated on the grant application process with the Jay, Farmington, Rangeley, Wilton, and Carrabasset Valley Police Departments. The school districts that will receive funding include: RSU 73, RSU 9, RSU 58, Rangeley Schools, and Stratton Schools. “Protecting students and ensuring that Maine schools remain safe learning environments are of paramount importance,” said Senators Collins and King in a joint statement. “We welcome this investment, which will increase school safety by assisting communities with installing security measures and enhancing connections between schools and law enforcement to ensure that potential threats can be rapidly addressed. This funding is provided through the Department of Justice’s Students, Teachers, and Officers Preventing (STOP): School Violence Prevention Program (SVPP), a competitive grant program that assists schools in purchasing and installing technology to increase safety in schools throughout the country through evidence-based school safety programs. The nearly $72 million in grants awarded during 2022 will fund 235 projects. | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:20:33Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senators-collins-king-announce-maine-locations-for-2022-drug-take-back-day | Senators Collins, King Announce Maine Locations for 2022 Drug Take-Back Day | 2022-10-24 | 2022 | 2022-10 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | Washington, D.C. – Ahead of the U.S. Drug Enforcement Agency’s (DEA) National Prescription Drug Take-Back Day on Saturday, October 29, U.S. Senators Susan Collins (R-ME) and Angus King (I-ME) announced the locations of the Maine collection sites. “Unused prescription drugs that collect in our homes can accidentally fall into the wrong hands, creating unintended gateways to opioid addiction,” said Senators Collins and King in a joint statement. “Maine is one of the top 10 states disposing prescription drugs through the DEA’s Drug Take-Back Program, and we are confident that our state will continue to lead efforts to stop the misuse of unused drugs that pose a serious threat to our children, our homes, and our environment.” National Prescription Drug Take-Back Day aims to provide a safe, convenient, and responsible means of disposing of prescription drugs, while also educating the general public about the potential for abuse of medications. In 2020, the collection sites began accepting vaping devices and associated substances. At a previous Take-Back Event in April 2022, federal, state, and local government entities took back more than 721,000 pounds of unused, expired, or unwanted drugs at more than 5,100 locations across the United States. Over the course of the program, more than 15.9 million pounds of prescription drugs have been safely collected across the country, including over 525,000 pounds of medication in Maine alone. Federal regulations allow pharmacies, hospitals, clinics, and other authorized collectors to serve as collection points for unused prescription medication. In 2014, following a bipartisan effort led by Senators Collins and Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), the Department of Justice granted the Departments of Defense (DoD) and Veterans Affairs (VA) the ability to participate in prescription drug take-back programs at DoD and VA facilities. This initiative has helped to address the role of prescription drug abuse in many military and veteran suicides. In 2018, a sweeping opioids package known a… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:20:33Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/collins-king-announce-45-million-to-rehabilitate-and-replace-maine-bridges | Collins, King Announce $45 Million to Rehabilitate and Replace Maine Bridges | 2022-10-19 | 2022 | 2022-10 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Susan Collins (R-ME) and Angus King (I-ME) announced that Maine will receive a total of $45,000,000 to maintain and reconstruct bridges across the state. This funding was authorized through the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act and provided through the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Highway Administration (FHWA). Senator Collins, the Ranking Member of the Transportation Appropriations Subcommittee, was part of the core group of 10 Senators who negotiated the text of the bipartisan infrastructure law. Senators Collins and King both worked to negotiate and pass this historic legislation, which will deliver billions of dollars to Maine for investments in roads, bridges, broadband, and more. This funding will help to address the backlog of repairs needed for Maine’s transportation network. Maine currently has more than 300 bridges considered to be “structurally deficient.” “Improving Maine’s infrastructure is one of my top priorities as Ranking Member of the Transportation Appropriations Subcommittee,” said Senator Collins. “This $45 million investment to replace and rehabilitate deteriorated bridges will benefit residents and local economies across the state, particularly in rural communities. Without adequate funding for maintenance, bridges that fall into disrepair become unsafe and subject to eventual closure, resulting in substantial detours and economic harm. By supporting projects that will strengthen bridge reconstruction programs, this funding through the bipartisan infrastructure law will help ensure that Mainers can reach their homes and jobs quickly and safely.” “Go for a drive basically anywhere in the State of Maine, and you’ll see the need for investments in roads and bridges. Whether it’s potholes, erosion damage, or rust, these vital arteries of our communities are aging – creating unsafe conditions, hampering our economy, and inflicting an average of more than $500 in annual repair costs for Maine drivers. Fortunately, thanks to funding from the… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:20:33Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/65000-additional-h-2b-visas-to-be-issued-to-support-small-businesses-and-address-worker-shortage | 65,000 Additional H-2B Visas to be Issued to Support Small Businesses & Address Worker Shortage | 2022-10-17 | 2022 | 2022-10 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | Washington, D.C. —Following a push led by U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the Department of Labor (DOL) announced today that they will increase the number of H-2B visas for Fiscal Year 2023 to the maximum number, approximately 65,000 additional visas, to help small businesses hire workers. These visas are on top of the 66,000 H-2B visas that are normally available each fiscal year. Notably, the announcement made clear that a portion of these additional visas will be “reserved to meet the demand for workers during the peak summer season.” DHS Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas called Senator Collins and Senator King to inform them of the additional visas. “As small businesses in Maine and America continue to face severe workforce shortages, these 65,000 additional H-2B visas will help our employers find the help they urgently need, ” said Senators Collins and King. “Although this relief is welcome news to many Maine small businesses, there is still an overwhelming need given the current tight labor market and record low unemployment. We must improve the H-2B program to ensure Maine small businesses do not continue to suffer from a lack of workers.” Senators Collins and King have long led efforts to address workforce shortages. Following a push in May, DHS and DOL announced that a temporary rule had been finalized that provided an additional 35,000 H-2B visas to help small businesses fill seasonal job openings during the busy summer season. These visas supplemented the previous supply of 33,000 H-2B visas for the second half of Fiscal Year 2022. | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:20:33Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/maine-delegation-governor-call-on-noaa-to-hold-additional-scoping-meetings-for-lobstermen-in-downeast-maine | Maine Delegation, Governor Call on NOAA to Hold Additional Scoping Meetings for Lobstermen in Downeast Maine | 2022-10-07 | 2022 | 2022-10 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | WASHINGTON — U.S. Senators Susan Collins (R-ME), Angus King (I-ME), Representatives Jared Golden (ME-02), Chellie Pingree (ME-01), and Governor Janet Mills sent a letter today to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) urging them to hold at least one additional in-person scoping hearing in Downeast Maine as the agency initiates Phase 2 of its heavily criticized Atlantic Large Whale Take Reduction Plan (ALWTRP) and corresponding regulations. The letter was sent following Wednesday evening’s widely attended public scoping meeting held by NOAA in Portland to gather community input to develop modifications to the ALWTRP. “As we have previously expressed to you, if implemented, the 90 percent risk reduction target NOAA Fisheries is pursuing in just two years would be a death knell for our nation’s lobster industry,” wrote the lawmakers. “It would close off thousands of miles of prime fishing areas and require lobstermen and women to make significant changes to how they harvest the resource, including the use of ‘ropeless’ fishing gear when it is not technologically or economically viable. Given these possible outcomes, it is unacceptable that your agency is only holding one in-person meeting hours away from some of our state’s largest lobster ports, forcing lobstermen to spend time off the water, which is their primary if not only source of income. This decision to knowingly limit opportunities to directly engage with the lobstermen and our coastal communities speaks volumes about your concern for their future.” As the lawmakers wrote in their letter, the site of Wednesday evening’s scoping meeting was hours away from some of the state’s most heavily trafficked lobster ports, the largest of which is in Stonington, a community over three hours away. The meeting was so highly attended that many of those present were not afforded the opportunity to speak in the time allotted for the meeting. “There is still time for NOAA officials to demonstrate their commitment to engaging with the people they are… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:20:33Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/golden-king-to-introduce-bill-that-blocks-federal-funding-for-monterey-bay-aquarium-seafood-watch | Golden, King to Introduce Bill that Blocks Federal Funding for Monterey Bay Aquarium, Seafood Watch | 2022-10-05 | 2022 | 2022-10 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | WASHINGTON— Following the unsubstantiated and speculative decision by Monterey Bay Aquarium's Seafood Watch to place Maine lobster on their seafood “Red List,” Congressman Jared Golden (ME-02) and Senator Angus King (I-ME) today announced that they will be introducing the Red Listing Monterey Bay Aquarium Act in the House and Senate. This bill would prohibit federal taxpayer funds from going to the Monterey Bay Aquarium, which has received nearly $197 million in federal taxpayer dollars since 2001, and demonstrated a lack of adherence to transparency and basic scientific methods [source, source]. Senator Susan Collins (R-ME) and Congresswoman Chellie Pingree (ME-01) will sign on as cosponsors of the legislation. “Institutions like Monterey Bay Aquarium that claim to be scientific but openly flout available evidence and data should not receive taxpayer funds. It’s that simple,” said Congressman Golden. “This organization’s red list designation of American lobster could have a serious impact on the livelihoods of thousands of hard-working lobstermen, and I believe Congress must do something about it. There has never been a serious injury or death of the endangered North Atlantic right whale attributed to the Maine lobster fishery and to make recommendations or regulations in spite of that fact is a slap in the face to lobstermen and their families.” “The Monterey Bay Aquarium’s ‘Red Listing’ of Maine lobster is a baseless attack on a proud, sustainable fishery and a clear attempt to put thousands of Maine people out of work. By refusing to provide any evidence supporting their harmful decision and ignoring facts that undercut their conclusion, the Aquarium has made it clear that they are not a serious scientific organization, and certainly not one that deserves taxpayer funding,” said Senator King. “The Red Listing Monterey Bay Aquarium Act would ensure that Maine people’s hard-earned tax dollars aren’t funding the Aquarium’s pseudoscientific assault on our lobstering communities. It sends a clear message that w… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:20:33Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senator-kings-remarks-as-prepared-for-delivery-at-noaa-lobster-regulation-meeting | Senator King’s Remarks as Prepared for Delivery at NOAA Lobster Regulation Meeting | 2022-10-05 | 2022 | 2022-10 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – The Office of U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine) today released a copy of Senator King’s remarks that will be delivered by a staff member at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) 6:00 PM, Wednesday, October 5th, Portland scoping meeting where the agency will receive feedback on their Atlantic Large Whale Take Reduction Plan and the impacts it would have on Maine lobstermen. In his remarks, Senator King directly addresses NOAA Atlantic Large Whale Take Reduction Coordinator Marisa Trego and urges her to better engage with lobstermen to prevent significant harm from the proposed regulations. Senator King’s remarks begin by laying out the importance of the scoping meeting, the potential harm of the 90% risk reduction proposed by NOAA, and the need for better engagement with the Maine lobstering community. “I appreciate NOAA hosting this in-person meeting tonight to discuss modifications to the Atlantic Large Whale Take Reduction Plan. The 90% risk reduction that NOAA has proposed will have a devastating impact on our fishing industry, working waterfronts, and coastal communities—it is critical that NOAA receive input from all of the impacted communities,” begins Senator King. “One additional in-person meeting, however, is simply not enough. Tonight’s meeting in Portland is hours away from our coastal communities like Stonington where the majority of lobster is landed.” The Senator’s remarks continue by highlighting the longstanding commitment to sustainability shared by Maine lobstermen. “For decades, [Maine] lobstermen have committed themselves to the sustainability and long-term health of our waters—because they know that one day, just like those who came before them, it will be the turn of future generations to take to these tides. NOAA’s proposed 90% risk reduction clouds that future though,” Senator King’s remarks continue. “As part of ongoing collaboration with NOAA, lobstermen have already spearheaded a number of efforts—at cost to their bottom-line—to reduce the r… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:20:33Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/continuing-their-advocacy-for-maines-small-dairy-farmers-collins-king-call-for-review-of-federal-milk-pricing-system | Continuing Their Advocacy for Maine’s Small Dairy Farmers, Collins, King Call for Review of Federal Milk Pricing System | 2022-10-03 | 2022 | 2022-10 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King called on the U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO) to evaluate the federal milk pricing system’s effectiveness, as it currently leaves many of Maine’s small and mid-sized dairy farmers at risk of inadequate pay. The requested GAO report would provide important information to help modernize the Federal Milk Marketing Order system (FMMO) and ensure that it is working in the best interests of all farms, regardless of the size of its operations. “We would like to ensure that the FMMO Program is being administered in a manner that accounts for the interests of smaller-scale operations, particularly in the regions of the country that are dependent on smaller-scale farms to provide stable and adequate supplies of milk,” the Senators wrote. “We would also like to ensure that the FMMO Program is being administered in a manner that does not cause undue burden and cost for state dairy regulatory and support programs that maintain the viability of small-scale farms.” Senators Collins and King are longstanding advocates for dairy farmers and have consistently worked to reform the FMMO system, which is one of the most complicated economic systems in the country and, in its current form, forces farmers to contend with potentially volatile milk prices and the risk of inadequate pay. These challenges, in addition to rising costs and intensifying competition, have forced many small dairy farmers to leave the industry. The U.S. has lost nearly 60% of its licensed dairy operations since 2003. The letter is a follow-up to a bill Senator Collins introduced and Senator King co-sponsored, the Dairy Pricing Opportunity Act, which would pave the way for reforming and modernizing federal milk pricing. The bill would require the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to initiate the process of holding FMMO hearings within six months, allowing producers and industry to consider and review proposals that could change Class I skim milk pricing and other topics deemed necess… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:20:33Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-calls-for-strong-implementation-of-corporate-minimum-tax-in-inflation-reduction-act | King Calls For Strong Implementation of Corporate Minimum Tax in Inflation Reduction Act | 2022-10-03 | 2022 | 2022-10 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | WASHINGTON D.C. – The Office of U.S. Senator Angus King today announced that Senator King is urging the United States Department of the Treasury to strongly implement the 15 percent corporate minimum tax on billion-dollar corporations included in the Inflation Reduction Act. In a letter to U.S Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen with Senators Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass), Michael Bennet (D-Colo.), and Representative Donald Beyer (D-Virginia), King lays out the deficit-cutting need for strong corporate minimum tax enforcement, and highlights how the important new tax-fairness provision prevents companies like Amazon from paying less in federal taxes than a welder at BIW. The provision was based on King’s Real Corporate Profits Minimum Tax Act that he introduced in October 2021. “We write to urge you to pursue strong implementation of the 15 percent corporate minimum tax on billion-dollar corporations in the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022,” the lawmakers write. “After nearly three decades of corporate tax cuts, this historic legislation will prevent the largest, most profitable corporations from paying less in taxes than small businesses and middle-class families, while helping to pay down the deficit, lower energy and healthcare costs, and fight inflation.” “For years, many of America’s largest and most profitable corporations have paid far less than the statutory federal tax rate, or even nothing at all,” the lawmakers continue. “The Inflation Reduction Act will put a floor on this tax avoidance and limit the ability of these corporations that report at least $1 billion in profits to their shareholders to pay less than a minimum 15 percent federal tax rate, still well below the statutory rate of 21 percent. The Congressional Joint Committee on Taxation projected that the tax would raise more than $222 billion over the next ten years and impact only approximately 150 taxpayers annually.” “This corporate minimum tax on billion-dollar corporations has the strong support of hardworking Americans and businesses that do p… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:20:33Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/with-cyberthreats-on-the-rise-king-joins-bipartisan-bill-to-improve-healthcare-cybersecurity | With Cyberthreats on the Rise, King Joins Bipartisan Bill to Improve Healthcare Cybersecurity | 2022-10-03 | 2022 | 2022-10 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – The Office of U.S. Senator Angus King today announced that Senator King, Co-Chair of the Cyberspace Solarium Commission, has joined bipartisan legislation to strengthen cybersecurity in the healthcare and public health sectors. As cyberthreats from Russia, China, and other bad actors increase, the Healthcare Cybersecurity Act would direct the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) to collaborate with the Department of Health and Human Services on improving cybersecurity and combatting risks across public health infrastructure. Cyberattacks on healthcare systems – like the attacks on MaineHealth and Central Maine Medical Center – have become increasingly frequent; they pose serious risks to Americans’ health and sensitive personal medical information. “In just the last years alone, two of Maine’s major healthcare providers have been the victims of cyberattacks. This new threat to America’s critical infrastructure is real, and could literally mean the difference between life and death – we must take proactive steps to enhance the cybersecurity of our healthcare and public health sectors,” said Senator King. “The bipartisan Healthcare Cybersecurity Act would create a coordinated federal program to help healthcare systems across the country better understand and respond to the cyberthreats they face. This would mean less breaches, a better organized government response, and a greater peace of mind for Maine people seeking healthcare. As cyberthreats from our adversaries grow, this is a commonsense effort to keep our critical health infrastructure safe and I hope it can continue to get broad, bipartisan support.” “The protection of patient health information is essential to meeting MaineHealth's vision of supporting healthy communities,” said Daniel Nigrin, Chief Information Officer for MaineHealth. “We are grateful to Senator King and his co-sponsors for taking action through this bill to leverage existing federal resources in training and planning to protect our critical health … | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:20:33Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-cornyn-kaine-introduce-legislation-to-create-a-china-grand-strategy-commission-to-navigate-growing-competition | King, Cornyn, Kaine Introduce Legislation to Create a China Grand Strategy Commission to Navigate Growing Competition | 2022-09-30 | 2022 | 2022-09 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Angus King (I-Maine), John Cornyn (R-Texas), and Tim Kaine (D-Virginia) are introducing bipartisan legislation to establish a China Grand Strategy Commission tasked with developing a comprehensive whole-of-government approach for how the United States should address the economic, security, and diplomatic challenges posed by China. The proposed 2-year commission is modeled after the recent, successful Cyberspace Solarium Commission and President Eisenhower’s Solarium Commission that addressed the significant shift in global affairs at the end of World War II. The idea has already been praised by top military leaders. The bill is also cosponsored by Senators Kevin Cramer (R-N.D.), Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), Mike Rounds (R-S.D.), Jackie Rosen (D-Nevada), Tom Carper (D-Del.), Joe Manchin (D-W.V.), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Thom Tillis (R-N.C.), Tom Young (R-Indiana), Susan Collins (R-Maine), Ben Sasse (R-Nebr.), and Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.). The bipartisan group intends to add the bill as an amendment to the 2023 National Defense Authorization Act. “The world is undergoing a period of significant change: economies are shifting, alliances are changing, and national security threats are rapidly evolving. At almost every turn, the United States is facing new challenges from an increasingly aggressive China. If we want to maintain our global status we must be able to answer the question I’ve been asking witnesses in the Armed Services Committee for years: ‘What Does China Want?” said Senator King, Co-Chair of the Cyberspace Solarium Commission. “Much like the successful Cyberspace Solarium Commission, it would harness the smartest public and private sector minds to study, and evaluate on how our nations interact – striking the balance between avoiding conflict and fully pursuing our national interest. Most vitally, this commission isn’t putting a report on a shelf to collect dust; it will make actionable recommendations to develop a grand strategy across the entire government; this com… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:08:33Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-introduces-bill-to-promote-electric-school-buses-improve-grid-stability | King Introduces Bill to Promote Electric School Buses, Improve Grid Stability | 2022-09-30 | 2022 | 2022-09 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | BRUNSWICK, ME – U.S. Senator Angus King, a member of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, has introduced legislation to promote electric school buses and improve electrical grid stability and reliability for Maine towns. The BIDIRECTIONAL Act would create a Department of Energy program dedicated to deploying electric school buses with “bidirectional vehicle-to-grid (V2G) flow capability,” or the ability to use the bus batteries to power the electrical grid when they’re not in use. Electric school buses work well for vehicle-to-grid because they have large batteries, sit idle for long, predictable periods, and operate in fleets. If properly deployed, the technologies have the possibility to discount the upfront cost of an electric school bus by returning energy to a school district or town. “Vehicle-to-grid school buses are another common sense tool that can help to create a reliable grid, promote clean energy, and cut costs for local towns and school districts,” said Senator King. “The BIDIRECTIONAL Act will assist school districts across Maine and America transition to electric buses and make sure these vehicles provide greater stability to their communities. Combined with electric bus investments in the Inflation Reduction Act, this will be an important step towards unlocking America’s clean energy future. It’s a simple, win-win bill and I hope it can get bipartisan support across Congress.” The BIDIRECTIONAL Act is supported by Advanced Energy Economy, Blue Bird, bp Pulse Fleet (formerly Amply), Community Organization for Resource Efficiency (CORE), EDF, Electrification Coalition, Environment America, Highland Electric, Lion Electric, La Plata Electric Association, NRECA, Nuvve, PIRG, Proterra, and Xcel Energy. For quotes from supporting organizations, CLICK HERE. The BIDIRECTIONAL Act would: Create a Department of Energy program dedicated to deploying electric school buses with bidirectional energy flow capability with priority given to applications that demonstrate economic viability and se… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:08:33Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-submits-first-maines-veteran-voices-interviews-to-library-of-congress | King Submits First “Maine’s Veteran Voices” Interviews to Library of Congress | 2022-09-29 | 2022 | 2022-09 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | Watch Senator King present the interviews HERE WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Angus King today submitted his first nine interviews with Maine veterans to the Library of Congress where they will be preserved as part of their Veterans History Project (VHP) for future generations. During the presentation ceremony, Senator King and VHP Director Monica Mohindra highlighted the importance of preserving the firsthand stories of America’s veterans; stressing that this history is essential to honoring and understanding the sacrifices of America’s brave servicemembers. The Senator also discussed how his interviews with Maine veterans have helped him shape legislation and better understand the issues facing those who served. King recently included a servicemember suicide report recommended to him during a veteran interview in the 2023 National Defense Authorization Act. “We are literally recording history that can inform our future. One of my favorite sayings from Mark Twain, everybody has one, is history doesn't always repeat itself, but it usually rhymes. That means we all have something to learn from history,” said Senator King. “For example, the first interview I did was with a fellow named Carmine Pecorelli. Carmine served in World War II, Korea, and Vietnam – he served in the Navy, the Air Force, and the Army all in one career. But sadly, a few months ago, we lost him. Without the [Veterans History Project] his history and stories would have been lost.” “The other thing that I think is important about these interviews is that they can inform policy,” continued Senator King. “A veteran made a point to me in our interview that he thought it would be worthwhile to ask the military to look at veteran suicide by job classification. That is [now] an amendment in the National Defense Act that will be on the floor of the US Senate in a few weeks, and it came out of that interview. We’re asking the Defense Department to study the issue of veteran suicide by job classification to see if there are places with additional dang… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:08:33Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/liheap-disaster-relief-ukraine-support-government-spending-bill-passes-senate | LIHEAP, Disaster Relief, Ukraine Support, Government Spending Bill Passes Senate | 2022-09-29 | 2022 | 2022-09 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Angus King today applauded the Senate’s bipartisan 72-25 passage of HR 6833, a federal government funding package that included significant support for the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), nationwide disaster relief, and Ukraine’s fight against Russian aggression. LIHEAP is receiving an additional $1 billion dollars in the package – millions of which will go to Maine to help the thousands of families across the state who rely on the program. The package is expected to receive final approval by the House of Representatives this week. “The Senate has taken a significant step today to provide aid to those across our country and the world and who need it the most,” said Senator King. “With heating costs on the rise, this critical LIHEAP funding will help thousands of Maine families keep warm this winter and avoid tough choices between paying for heating, or putting food on their table. The package also supports millions of Americans who have experienced the devastation of extreme weather events like floods, wildfires, and tornadoes. Beyond our shores, the bill includes more essential assistance for the brave Ukrainian men and women fighting to protect their country from Putin’s unprovoked invasion – it’s a relatively small investment with huge dividends for global democracy and the security of Europe. All told, this funding will save and improve countless lives and I hope the House can pass it quickly.” The package funds the federal government through December 16th, 2022 and includes: $1 billion for LIHEAP, which helps families afford their heating and utility bills during the coldest winter months; $12 billion in critical emergency aid for Ukraine as the country continues to defend itself from Putin’s vicious attacks, and $35 million to promote nuclear nonproliferation efforts in the region; Billions in disaster aid to Kentucky, Louisiana, Alabama, Texas, Alaska, Puerto Rico, and New Mexico to recover from floods, wildfires, and other disasters; Reimbursement … | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:08:33Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/collins-king-join-bill-to-give-maine-same-sex-couples-tax-refunds-they-should-have-received | Collins, King Join Bill to Give Maine Same-Sex Couples Tax Refunds They Should Have Received | 2022-09-27 | 2022 | 2022-09 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King are co-sponsoring legislation allowing same-sex couples to claim tax refunds that were denied to them before nationwide recognition of their marriages occurred. The Refund Equality Act would give same-sex couples in states like Maine who were able to marry before the Supreme Court’s Windsor decision the larger federal tax refunds received by similarly situated, heterosexual married couples during those years. During the years between the first state legalization of same-sex marriage in 2004 and federal recognition for tax benefits in 2013, straight couples who filed jointly could claim multiple standard deductions that same-sex couples were not eligible for. “Maine voters legalized same-sex marriages in our state nearly a decade ago, and since Obergefell, all Americans have had the right to marry the person whom they love,” said Senator Collins. “We should not have a situation where married couples are treated differently from other married couples. This bill is another important step to promote equality and prevent discrimination.” “Marriage is one of life’s great gifts; it brings companionship, love, and support. Along with the obvious personal and emotional benefits of partnership, marriage is also supposed to present financial benefits and the ability to claim joint deductions that can result in significant tax savings,” said Senator King. “All married couples who qualify for these tax refunds deserve them, but for too many years, legally wedded same-sex couples in Maine and across the nation were not eligible. The Refund Equality Act would right this wrong and allow same-sex couples to receive the tax refunds that were withheld before they received federal recognition of their marriages. This bill is purely about fairness, giving people what they are owed, and recognizing the many promises of marriage.” | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:08:33Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-votes-to-advance-electoral-count-act-reforms-in-key-committee | King Votes to Advance Electoral Count Act Reforms in Key Committee | 2022-09-27 | 2022 | 2022-09 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine) today joined with a bipartisan group of Senators in the Senate Rules and Administration Committee to advance a package of comprehensive Electoral Count Act (ECA) reforms by an overwhelming vote of 14-1. The Electoral Count Reform and Presidential Transition Improvement Act – which contains several policy recommendations from Senator King’s ECA discussion draft released in February – seeks to update procedures for the counting and certification of electoral votes for the presidency. Before the committee vote, Senator King identified two amendments he declined to offer during today’s proceedings: one that would randomize judges to review challenges, in order to avoid “forum shopping”; the other, a clarifying amendment that would state that votes can only be rejected due to legitimate procedural issues, not due to a member disliking the outcome of the election. The bill now heads to the Senate floor for consideration by the full body. “Today, the Senate Rules and Administration Committee took a critical step to better protect American democracy and remove dangerous ambiguities from our presidential elections,” said Senator King. “The need for these reforms could not be more clear. In 2021, factions attempted to exploit the outdated Electoral Count Act to overturn the results of a free and fair election and stoke violence at our capitol. Now, as some continue to raise doubts about our electoral system, we must ensure that the ECA cannot used as a weapon against our democracy by disappointed candidates of either party. The Electoral Count Reform Act prevents abuse of the 1887 law by clarifying the Vice President’s role in counting electoral votes, raising the threshold needed for Congressional objection to the elections, and ensuring that there are not multiple slates of electors submitted by a state. All told, this makes the process for certifying a presidential election clearer and more resistant to attack. “Make no mistake, this bill is no substitute for the c… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:08:33Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/with-threats-on-rise-king-backs-legislation-to-protect-election-workers | With Threats on Rise, King Backs Legislation to Protect Election Workers | 2022-09-26 | 2022 | 2022-09 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Angus King, a member of the Senate Committee on Rules and Administration with oversight over federal elections, is cosponsoring comprehensive legislation to address the rise in threats targeting election workers. The Election Worker Protection Act would provide states with the resources to recruit and train election workers and ensure these workers’ safety, while also instituting federal safeguards to shield election workers from intimidation and threats. The bill includes provisions that were developed with input from election officials across the nation – including Maine’s Secretary of State Shenna Bellows. “Democracy doesn’t run itself – it takes thousands of hardworking people working across the country to ensure Americans’ voices are heard,” said Senator King. “As threats against election officials rise, we have a responsibility to protect these patriotic Americans as they work to maintain the foundation of our historically rare democracy. Along with funding for additional training and recruitment, the Election Worker Protection Act will give election workers the support they need to do their jobs and stay safe from those seeking to undermine our very system of government. It is sad and deeply frustrating that this bill even needs to be discussed, but with the continuing prevalence of anti-democracy conspiracy theories pushed by extreme political factions, I fear it has become a necessity.” A group of 15 Secretaries of State, including Maine’s Secretary of State Shenna Bellows, joined a letter supporting the Election Worker Protection Act and calling on Congress to take action to protect election workers. “Additional action is needed at the federal level to ensure that all election workers have the necessary support and protection to do their jobs. The Election Worker Protection Act makes clear that these attacks on election workers will not be tolerated,” wrote the Secretaries. “We know what tools are needed to protect election workers, and we look forward to working with … | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:08:33Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senators-collins-and-king-celebrate-national-lobster-day | Senators Collins and King Celebrate National Lobster Day | 2022-09-25 | 2022 | 2022-09 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King are today celebrating “National Lobster Day” and the contributions of Maine’s iconic, sustainable lobster industry. The Senate unanimously passed the Senators’ bipartisan resolution earlier this year designating the day and recognizing the economic and cultural importance of this crustacean species, which is a major economic driver for Maine. Senators Collins and King have sponsored similar legislation every year since 2015. “Lobster is an inseparable part of Maine’s history, heritage, and identity. This signature industry is a cornerstone of our economy, plays a central role in our coastal communities, represents us around the globe – and is woven into the fabric of our state,” said Senators Collins and King. “National Lobster Day is a chance to recognize the thousands of Maine people who power the state’s iconic industry – from the men and women who work on the docks, to those who catch, process, and cook the exceptional crustacean. These hardworking folks are all authors of Maine’s success story and have been responsible stewards of our waters for generations. As lobster and the proud people who rely on it face absurd, unfounded attacks, we hope everyone can join us today and enjoy a delicious, healthy, sustainable Maine lobster.” “Lobster is an icon of the state of Maine and an integral part of our state’s culture, traditions, and economy. For the men and women who make their living hauling traps, lobstering is not a job, it’s a way of life. The future of our coastal communities depends on the continued success of the Maine lobster fishery, and MLA applauds Senators Collins and King for introducing this resolution that recognizes the vital importance of preserving Maine’s lobstering heritage,” said Patrice McCarron, executive director of the Maine Lobstermen’s Association. “This National Lobster Day, we want people to know they can feel good about eating Maine Lobster and supporting the small business owners who make up the fishery,” said Marian… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:08:33Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senator-kings-september-podcast-highlights-inflation-reduction-act-benefits-to-maine | Senator King’s September Podcast Highlights Inflation Reduction Act Benefits to Maine | 2022-09-24 | 2022 | 2022-09 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – The Office of U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine) today released the September episode of Senator King’s “Inside Maine” podcast, in which Senator King and his guests discussed the significant benefits coming to Maine communities from the recently passed Inflation Reduction Act – a historic package to address rising energy and healthcare costs, fight climate change, create jobs and cut the deficit. Senator King was joined by four expert guests who helped to explain key commonsense provisions in the bill: Senator Tim Kaine (D-Virginia), AARP Maine State Director Noel Bonam, Executive Director of the Maine Renewable Energy Association Jeremy Payne, and Maine Society of CPAs Treasurer Mike Santo. During the conversation, Senator King and his guests discussed how the fully-paid-for bill will reduce drug costs for seniors, support America’s affordable energy future, and make the IRS work better for Maine taxpayers. “The Inflation Reduction Act is a historic effort to lower healthcare and energy costs, fight climate change, and reduce the deficit,” said Senator King. “Included in the package are commonsense provisions that will save Maine people thousands of dollars a year on their energy bills, and reduce drug costs for seniors by capping Medicare recipients’ out-of-pocket drug costs and allowing Medicare to finally negotiate the price it pays for pharmaceuticals. The law also includes my provisions to reduce the deficit by trillions by fully funding the IRS and making sure massive corporations are paying their fair share. It was great to be joined by four experts on Inside Maine this month who helped preview the tangible benefits this bill will have for Maine people. I look forward to keeping in touch with them to hear their continued work on the issues facing Maine.” Senator King was first joined by Senator Tim Kaine (D-Virginia) who worked with Senator King on many of the bill’s key provision – including to go after wealthy tax cheats and invest in clean energy. Senator Kaine gave an overview of t… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:08:33Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/collins-king-join-legislation-to-ensure-recognition-of-ukraines-sovereign-borders | Collins, King Join Legislation to Ensure Recognition of Ukraine’s Sovereign Borders | 2022-09-23 | 2022 | 2022-09 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – After Russian President Vladimir Putin announced plans to annex parts of Ukraine into the Russian Federation, U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King joined bipartisan legislation to ensure the United States does not recognize any Russian claim over Ukraine’s sovereign territory. The Non-Recognition of Russian Annexation of Ukrainian Territory Act stands with the brave men and women fighting for their freedom in Ukraine by prohibiting any U.S. government department or agency from taking action that would validate Russia’s claims to Ukrainian lands. It also serves to counter Putin’s land ownership lies that he could use to justify potential military escalations. “Vladimir Putin’s push to annex parts of Ukraine is a blatant attempt to give his brutal and unjustified invasion a veneer of legitimacy,” said Senator Collins. “The Ukrainians have inspired the world with their determination to defend their democracy, and their recent advances in the eastern part of the country demonstrate their ability to succeed when they have the support of the United States and our allies. By refusing to acknowledge Russian claims on Ukraine’s territory, this legislation would reaffirm our solidary with Ukraine and help the Ukrainians to preserve their sovereignty. I will continue to support doing everything in the United States’ power to give the courageous Ukrainians the tools they need to fight for their freedom and pressure Russia to bring an end to its terrible war.” “No matter what Vladimir Putin says, every single inch of Ukraine belongs to Ukrainians. No sham election, fake proclamation, or attempted annexation will change Ukraine’s internationally-recognized borders,” said Senator King. “This bill is an important effort to reaffirm Ukraine’s sovereignty and sends a strong, bipartisan message to the brave men and women in Ukraine that the United States Senate stands with them in their fight for freedom. Make no mistake, Ukraine will continue to push back Putin’s delusions of a new Russian Empire and fig… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:08:33Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-pushing-pentagon-for-increased-action-to-address-pfas | King Pushing Pentagon for Increased Action to Address PFAS | 2022-09-23 | 2022 | 2022-09 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | WASHINGTON, DC — U.S. Senator Angus King, a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, is pushing the Department of Defense (DoD) to expand efforts to combat per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances?(PFAS) at current and former military instillations. In a bipartisan letter with almost forty of his Senate colleagues, Senator King calls on Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin to improve PFAS-related planning and to better implement the budget Congress has appropriated to address the growing issue. The efforts would help the military identify and remediate PFAS contamination at Maine’s former Brunswick Naval Air Station – what is now the Brunswick Executive Airport. “As you know, PFAS chemicals have emerged as widespread contaminants to the drinking water sources of military bases across the country largely due to their presence in aqueous film-forming foam (AFFF),” wrote the Senators. “Members of the military, veterans and civilians who have served at military installations and/or live in the surrounding communities found to have been contaminated with PFAS face health risks related to exposure to PFAS chemicals, as these materials are found in AFFF, in personal protective equipment used by firefighters and in standard consumer products.” “Over the past six years, Congress has increased funding by $1 billion for the Department to accelerate PFAS testing and remediation, more than doubling the amount requested in the annual budget request during that time frame,” continued the Senators. “We are, however, concerned that DoD has failed to adequately prepare for additional funding being made available. It is our understanding that one of the major obstacles in the way of Congress putting more resources toward this problem is a lack of planning by the Department on how to execute a higher funding level.” “DoD has a responsibility to place greater emphasis on addressing these pollutants impacting service members, military families and defense communities. Therefore, we strongly urge the Department to match Congress’ urge… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:08:33Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/collins-king-announce-nearly-1-million-to-support-mainers-with-alzheimers-in-aroostook-county | Collins, King Announce Nearly $1 Million to Support Mainers with Alzheimer’s in Aroostook County | 2022-09-22 | 2022 | 2022-09 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | Washington D.C. – U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King announced that the Aroostook Agency on Aging has received a total of $977,135 to create a Memory Care Center that will offer improved resources and care for Alzheimer’s patients and their families. This competitive funding was awarded through the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ (HHS) Administration For Community Living. “Nearly 40,000 Mainers are living with Alzheimer’s disease, and that number is soaring as our overall population grows older,” said Senators Collins and King. “When they receive this devastating diagnosis, many patients and their families are understandably worried that they will not be able to find the support and resources they need close to home. This funding for the Aroostook Memory Care Center will be invaluable to families in Northern Maine dealing with this harsh illness and provide exceptional, quality services to patients.” “As we age, we may need a variety of supports to enable us to live and engage in our community,” said Joy Barresi Saucier, executive director of the Aroostook Agency on Aging. “The Aroostook Agency on Aging is thrilled by the announcement of this important grant funded project that addresses a growing need in our region related to memory loss, Alzheimer’s disease, and related dementias.” The Aroostook Agency on Aging will use the funding to create the Aroostook Memory Care Center, which will bring services and partners together to create a county-wide resource hub to help individuals impacted by memory loss and those who support them. The center will provide comprehensive services through in-person and virtual options, including brain health education, dementia friendly community support, early diagnosis/treatment, service coordination, adult day respite, and family/caregiver support. Senator Collins is the founder and co-chair of the Congressional Task Force on Alzheimer’s Disease. | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:08:33Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-highlights-how-ukraine-conflict-shows-need-for-clean-energy-independence | King Highlights How Ukraine Conflict Shows Need for Clean Energy Independence | 2022-09-22 | 2022 | 2022-09 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | Watch or download Senator King’s remarks HERE WASHINGTON, D.C – U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine) today spelled out how the conflict in Ukraine and Europe’s resulting energy crisis demonstrates the urgent need for America to have a clean energy future that does not rely on foreign adversaries. In a hearing of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, King questioned Spencer Nelson, Managing Director of Research and New Initiatives at ClearPath Clean Energy Foundation, on the importance of expediting the construction of domestic energy and mining infrastructure that will allow the country to independently achieve its energy goals. The Senator pointed to comprehensive permitting reform as an important, necessary step to reach these goals. Last week, King spoke from the Senate floor on the importance of permitting reform and America’s clean energy future. “We've got to understand that in order to get to a clean energy future, we have to rationalize and correct the deficiencies in the permitting or we'll never get there, because we're going to need to permit transmission, we're going to need to permit pump storage projects, we're going to need to permit mining operations. And so you can't be for electronic vehicles and be against lithium mining in the US. We’ve just got to resolve that,” said Senator King. “Seven to ten years [to permit a mine]. What I say to people when they tell me something is going to take years is that Eisenhower retook Europe in eleven months. Don't tell me it's going to take ten years – that's ridiculous. I hope we're going to really make some serious inroads into those deadlines. Meaningful deadlines and coordination of agency consideration and conclusions within a reasonable period of time; otherwise we'll never get there. We will simply not get to the clean energy future that we desire.” “I think deadlines are important, and the other piece is domestic supply chain. I met yesterday with two heads of state from European countries. We have in front of us the all-time example of ho… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:08:33Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-votes-for-cleaner-elections-and-clearer-campaign-ads-to-improve-democratic-process | King Votes for Cleaner Elections and Clearer Campaign Ads to Improve Democratic Process | 2022-09-22 | 2022 | 2022-09 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine), today voted for the DISCLOSE Act, comprehensive legislation to strengthen the democratic process by creating more transparency in political spending and elections. The legislation, which failed to gain any Republican votes and reach the necessary sixty-vote threshold, would require organizations spending money in federal elections to disclose their donors, help get foreign money out of elections, and require all election ads to state by whom they are funded. The effort was cosponsored by Senator King, and builds on his continued efforts to create a more transparent, fair democratic process. “The foundation of American democracy is that everyday people can make their voices heard and hold their leaders accountable. Dark money is a real and present threat to these democratic values – it removes accountability from our political process, and drowns out the voices of voters with those of anonymous special interests,” said Senator King. “Not only are incessant ads paid for by ‘Americans for Green Grass’ frustrating, they’re a real threat our democratic principles. If a nurse in Stonington donates $75 dollars to their political candidate it’s disclosed, but if a billionaire wants to pour millions into an election they can do it anonymously – it simply makes no sense, and it’s not fair. “The DISCLOSE Act would have ended this disparity and brought long overdue transparency to our political process by requiring dark money groups to finally disclose who is backing them. It also would have taken a much-needed step to keep foreign money out of American elections,” Senator King continued. “Sunlight is the best disinfectant, especially for dark money’s corrosive effects on our democratic process. I’m disappointed that my Republican colleagues didn’t support this commonsense effort; I honestly don’t understand why it could be even slightly controversial.” Citizens United and subsequent Supreme Court rulings currently permit super PACs and certain types of tax-exempt grou… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:08:33Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/parks-chairman-king-hears-testimony-on-katahdin-woods-and-waters-access-bill | Parks Chairman King Hears Testimony on Katahdin Woods and Waters Access Bill | 2022-09-21 | 2022 | 2022-09 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | Watch or download Senator King’s opening remarks HERE, and testimony from Steve Richardson HERE WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S Senator Angus King (I-Maine), Chair of the Senate National Parks Subcommittee, today held a hearing on his bill to expand access to the Katahdin Woods and Waters (KWW) National Monument and bring more economic activity to the region. The Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument Access Act, cosponsored by Senator Susan Collins (R-Maine), would authorize the expansion of KWW by giving the National Park Service (NPS) permission to acquire land from willing donors or sellers that better connect the Monument to the Millinocket region and major roadways. View a map of the proposed parcels HERE. During the hearing, Chairman King received testimony from Steve Richardson of Shin Pond – a prominent leader in the Katahdin region business community – on the benefits of the effort, its impact on Millinocket and the surrounding communities, and potential changes that could improve the bill. Beginning the hearing, Chairman King gave an opening statement laying out the significant benefits his bill would bring to the Katahdin community. “This bill will allow specific parcels to be added to the Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument from willing donors or sellers, improving access to the Monument from the south, and the Millinocket region. This new access will make it easier for visitors to enter the monument and will help towns like Millinocket and East Millinocket capture some of the economic opportunities from these visitors,” began National Parks Chairman King. “Visitors will benefit because many services they are looking for—restaurants, hotels, retail shops, and more—already exist to the south and are not as readily available to the north, where you currently enter the Monument. “Land will only be added to the monument if willing landowners sell or donate their land. Additionally, we have included language to explicitly protect the continued access to many important uses, including snowmobiling… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:08:33Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/collins-king-golden-statement-on-closure-of-androscoggin-mill | Collins, King, Golden Statement on Closure of Androscoggin Mill | 2022-09-20 | 2022 | 2022-09 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King and Congressman Golden released the following statement today in response to the announcement that Pixelle Specialty Solutions plans to close the Androscoggin Mill early next year: “The announcement of the Androscoggin Mill’s closure is devastating news for the dedicated employees and their families as well as for the Town of Jay and the surrounding communities. “Following the catastrophic explosion at the mill in 2020, the employees and management team accomplished the incredible feat of reopening two paper machines within just eight days. They have worked so hard for so long to keep the mill running despite enormous obstacles and strong headwinds, making the news of the closure even more disheartening. “Our offices stand ready to connect affected workers with resources that can help provide employment training and job search assistance.” | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:08:33Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-casey-highlight-dangers-of-senior-fall-incidents-call-for-stronger-prevention-efforts | King, Casey Highlight Dangers of Senior Fall Incidents, Call for Stronger Prevention Efforts | 2022-09-20 | 2022 | 2022-09 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – As part of Fall Prevention Awareness Week, U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine) and Bob Casey (D-Penn.), Chairman of the Senate Special Committee on Aging, today urged the Biden administration to improve senior fall-prevention efforts. In a letter to Center for Disease Control Director (CDC) Dr. Rochelle Walensky and Acting Administrator of the Administration for Community Living (ACL) Alison Barkoff, the Senators call for better data on the risk and prevalence of falls, collaboration with this data to shape fall-prevention, and a more proactive effort to share fall risks with seniors and people with disabilities. In 2019 alone, falls were responsible for more than 3 million emergency room visits for adults aged 65 and older, and more than 34,000 deaths. “We know that you are aware of the often avoidable tragedy of falls injuries that occur hundreds of times every single day across America, and that a significant portion of these falls are preventable,” said Senators King and Casey. “Your agencies have developed research and information that can reduce the numbers of these preventable falls and therefore, better protect the health and well-being of older adults and people with disabilities. In 2019, as part of the Supporting Older Americans Act, the most recent reauthorization of the Older Americans Act, Congress required the Comptroller General to conduct an inventory of federal programs ‘an inventory of federal programs… that support evidence-based fall prevention,’ … as well as to require the Government Accountability Office (GAO) to issue a set of recommendations.” “In light of this information, we believe the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Administration for Community Living (ACL) can each enhance efforts to protect seniors and people with disabilities from avoidable falls,” the Senators continued. “We write to you to draw attention to the findings of the GAO report and to request details of your plans to incorporate the recommendations of the report into the preve… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:08:33Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-outlines-evolving-nuclear-threat-landscape-assesses-americas-defenses | King Outlines Evolving Nuclear Threat Landscape, Assesses America’s Defenses | 2022-09-20 | 2022 | 2022-09 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine), chair of the Senate Strategic Forces Subcommittee with jurisdiction over the nation’s nuclear arsenal, today highlighted the wide range of evolving nuclear challenges threating America’s national security. In a hearing of the Senate Armed Services Committee, Senator King pressed Franklin Miller, Principal of the Scowcroft Group, and Eric Edelman, Director of the United States Institute of Peace, on how to wisely address new 21st century threats including nuclear terrorism, hypersonics, and Russia’s possible use of tactical nuclear weapons. Senator King began his questioning by calling attention to the serious threat of nuclear weapons in the hands of non-state actors and terrorists and discussing possible ways to prevent the nightmare scenarios. “Here's my concern: terrorists with nuclear weapons. Deterrence depends upon the other side having a fear of death and a fear of destruction and a fear of the loss of their country and their infrastructure and their capital city. What about people who, A, don't care about dying and B, have no capital city?” asked Senator King. “We need another theory or an adjunct to the theory of deterrence to deal with the threat of terrorists with nuclear weapons. We've got countries, Iran and North Korea, probably the most likely with building with fissile material. Iran's a week or two away from enough fiscal material. How do we deal with this threat? Mr. Miller, your thoughts? It seems to me this is a whole new category that, frankly, I don't think we're addressing.” “I think [terrorists] are outside the realm of nuclear deterrence. That's the realm of special operations forces, it's the realm of intelligence, it's the realm of conventional forces. It’s also the realm of prevention, it's the [Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons], it's working with allies and likeminded states to prevent those people from getting the fissile material and from getting the weapons knowledge,” replied Mr. Miller. “As you pointed out… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:08:33Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/delegation-governor-mills-pen-open-letter-urging-retailers-restaurants-to-continue-selling-maine-lobster | Delegation, Governor Mills Pen Open Letter Urging Retailers, Restaurants to Continue Selling Maine Lobster | 2022-09-19 | 2022 | 2022-09 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | Washington, D.C.—Following the unsubstantiated decision by Monterey Bay Aquarium's Seafood Watch to include Maine lobster on its seafood “Red List,” Senator Susan Collins, Congressman Jared Golden, Senator Angus King, Congresswoman Chellie Pingree, and Governor Janet Mills published an open letter to retailers setting the facts straight. On behalf of the 4,500 Maine lobstermen and women who will be adversely affected by this unfair and unfounded designation, the Maine Delegation and Governor Mills encouraged retailers and restaurants to consider for themselves the overwhelming proof that Maine’s lobster industry is not responsible for the decline of North Atlantic right whales and does not pose an existing threat to the fragile population. The Maine leaders also highlighted the lobster industry’s long history of sustainability and commitment to protecting the endangered right whale. “Monterey Bay’s Seafood Watch Program has produced recommendations based on claims and false assumptions that ignore scientific principles that should underpin any legitimate ratings,” the Maine leaders wrote. “To impose a ‘red’ designation grounded in inaccurate and incomplete information severely undermines the credibility of the report’s recommendation.” The letter points out that Seafood Watch ignored basic evidence, such as: Maine’s lobstering community has used weak links since 1997 and gear marking since 2002; implemented sinking ground lines in 2009; and reduced vertical lines since 2015, with further reductions in 2021; Over the past decade, the industry has removed an estimated 30,000 miles of line from the ocean; NOAA Fisheries’ own data show that out of the ten right whale entanglements in U.S. lobster gear occurring from 1997 through 2017, eight occurred before 2009 and the other two involved gear from Massachusetts that was successfully removed; There has not been a known right whale entanglement with Maine lobster gear since 2004; Right whale deaths or serious injuries have never been attributed to Maine lobster… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:08:33Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/delegation-announces-385-million-to-support-maine-farmers-loggers-and-mitigate-climate-change | Delegation Announces $385 Million to Support Maine Farmers, Loggers and Mitigate Climate Change | 2022-09-15 | 2022 | 2022-09 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | Washington, D.C.—U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King and Representatives Chellie Pingree and Jared Golden announced today that the U.S. Department of Agriculture is investing up to $385 million in nine projects that will benefit Maine’s forest products and agriculture industries while helping to combat climate change. The grants, which were awarded under the Partnerships for Climate-Smart Commodities funding opportunity, will be used to support pilot programs that will create market opportunities for American commodities produced using climate-smart production practices. These initial projects will expand markets for climate-smart commodities; leverage the greenhouse gas benefits of climate-smart commodity production; and provide direct, meaningful benefits to production agriculture, including for small and underserved producers. “By supporting innovative and environmentally friendly logging and farming practices as well as expanding market opportunities, this funding is a win-win for producers as well as our climate,” said Senators Collins and King and Representatives Pingree and Golden in a joint statement. “We are particularly pleased that USDA is investing in two projects that are being spearheaded in Maine. This funding will allow Wolfe’s Neck Farm to launch an initiative to help farmers implement climate-smart techniques and access the marketplace for climate-smart commodities. Moreover, this funding will benefit our forest products industry by supporting the New England Forestry Foundation’s effort to help landowners and loggers improve forest health and market locally-grown, healthy, low-carbon building materials. In addition to mitigating the impact of climate change, these projects will provide substantial economic benefits to our rural communities.” Two of the projects with a direct impact on Maine include: $35,000,000 for Wolfe's Neck Farm’s initiative to promote climate-smart agriculture (CSA), particularly for beef, dairy, wheat, rice, and specialty crops. This project will develop the to… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:08:33Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/from-cyberthreats-to-hypersonics-senator-king-urges-top-dod-nuclear-nominee-to-address-evolving-threats | From Cyberthreats to Hypersonics, Senator King Urges Top DOD Nuclear Nominee to Address Evolving Threats | 2022-09-15 | 2022 | 2022-09 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | Watch Senator King’s questioning HERE, and download broadcast quality HERE WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine), Chair of the Senate Subcommittee on Strategic Forces, today urged the Pentagon’s top nuclear nominee to ensure the United States’ nuclear arsenal and deterrents are adapting to confront evolving threats. In a hearing of the Senate Armed Services Committee, King questioned U.S. Air Force General Anthony Cotton, nominee to be Commander of United States Strategic Command (STRATCOM), on the growing challenge posed by hypersonic missiles and cyberattacks – stressing the importance of STRATCOM staying ahead of the 21st century weapons. Senator King, Chair of the Cyberspace Solarium Commission, specifically asks General Cotton to routinely test their systems for cyber weakness, a process known as “red teaming.” “Another area of strategic change has happened in the last four or five years, and that is hypersonics,” said Senator King. “We've thought of strategic forces as nuclear weapons and nuclear deterrence. Hypersonics are a new threat that is a strategic threat, particularly, for example, the Chinese putting a hypersonic glide vehicle in orbit, which radically changes things like how much time we might have to react to an attack. Do you view hypersonics as a serious strategic challenge?” “Senator I do, and I see it as a warning challenge,” replied General Cotton. “I think as far as when we have a conversation, if confirmed, I think my fellow combatant commanders will have to have a discussion and understand how to kind of relook missile defense, relook missile warning, understand what a sensor layer looks like that can achieve those effects to give time, because I need to give decision space to the decision maker.” “Well, I think it's safe to say that the bullet on bullet theory of missile defense is out the window when you're talking about hypersonics,” Senator King continued. “Another area is cyber. You've talked about it. You've indicated how important it is, particularly with [nucle… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:08:33Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-celebrates-historic-confirmation-of-maine-resident-as-nations-first-cyber-ambassador | King Celebrates “Historic” Confirmation of Maine Resident as Nation’s First Cyber Ambassador | 2022-09-15 | 2022 | 2022-09 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | BRUNSWICK, ME – U.S. Senator Angus King, Chair of the Cyberspace Solarium Commission (CSC), today applauded the Senate’s unanimous confirmation of Cape Elizabeth resident Nathaniel Fick to be the State’s Department’s first -ever Ambassador at Large for Cyberspace and Digital Policy. In the role, which was recommended by the CSC, Fick will coordinate America’s international response to cyberthreats and shifting cyber dynamics. Senator King previously introduced Ambassador Fick to the Senate Foreign Relations Committee and urged his urgent confirmation. “Today, with the confirmation of Cape Elizabeth’s Nate Fick, the United States has taken a historic, long overdue step to address our rapidly-changing cyber environment. With Ambassador Fick coordinating our global cyberdiplomacy, America will be better positioned to respond to growing threats, inform the development of global rules of engagement, and create desperately needed international norms for cyber,” said Senator King. “Our country has lagged behind in shaping policies beyond our shores to defend us in this war without borders. I hope that ends today. This unanimous confirmation is a testament to the importance of the role and to Nate’s impressive qualifications. I look forward to seeing the Ambassador’s work, and to our continued partnership on the cyber issues facing our country.” Nathaniel Fick is a Cape Elizabeth, Maine resident and was previously the general manager of Elastic Security, where he led Elastic’s information security business. He also served as CEO of Endgame, a cybersecurity software company, from 2012 through its acquisition by Elastic in 2019. Fast Company magazine named him one of the One Hundred Most Creative People in Business, and under his leadership, Forbes selected Endgame as one of the one hundred best cloud companies in the world. Fick started his career as a U.S. Marine Corps infantry and reconnaissance officer, including combat tours in Afghanistan and Iraq. Fick holds a BA in classics from Dartmouth College, an MPA from Har… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:08:33Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-cornyn-introduce-bipartisan-bill-to-keep-national-defenses-on-cutting-edge-of-technology | King, Cornyn, Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Keep National Defenses on “Cutting Edge” of Technology | 2022-09-15 | 2022 | 2022-09 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine), a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, and Senator John Cornyn (R-Texas) have introduced bipartisan legislation to help keep America’s national defenses keep up with rapidly changing technologies. The American Defense Programs, Logistics, and Acquisitions for our Nation’s Security (American Defense PLANS) Act would study the Department of Defense’s (DOD) acquisition and modernization efforts and create recommendations for how DOD programs can continue to modernize with evolving defense challenges. “Technology wins wars. From the long bow at the Battle of Agincourt to nuclear weapons in World War Two, technological advancements frequently turn the tides of battle and define conflicts,” said Senator King. “As America faces growing threats from global adversaries like Russia and China, our defense technology must keep up with the times, and prevent our enemies from gaining a competitive advantage. This bipartisan bill will help the Department of Defense stay on the cutting edge of rapidly-evolving capabilities, keep our warfighters well equipped, and make sure our nation is ready to address any potential threat. It’s a critical step in keeping America safe – and without it, I fear we could someday pay the price.” “Ensuring America has the most technologically advanced military in the world is a matter of survival, plain and simple,” said Sen. Cornyn. “By seeking out recommendations for modernizing our military, we work towards making sure our national defense is well-positioned for success in this rapidly-changing threat environment.” In order for the United States to match threats posed by China and Russia, Department of Defense (DOD) programs and acquisitions need to keep pace with rapidly-changing critical defense technologies and evolving adversary capabilities. The American Defense PLANS Act legislation directs the Office of the Secretary of Defense to conduct an outside study of DOD programs to make recommendations for how these programs and ac… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:08:33Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/collins-king-announce-nearly-25-million-to-strengthen-maines-forest-economy | Collins, King Announce Nearly $2.5 Million to Strengthen Maine’s Forest Economy | 2022-09-14 | 2022 | 2022-09 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King today announced $2,498,588 in federal funding to strengthen Maine’s forest products sector and expand markets for the industry. The investment from the U.S. Forest Service’s Wood Innovations Grant and Community Wood Grant programs will help four businesses across the state invest in high-demand 21st century forest products like cross-laminated timber, new pine resources, and wood biomass fuels. The funding was requested by Senators Collins and King earlier this year and builds on the work of the state’s Forest Opportunity Roadmap (FOR/Maine) Initiative, which has worked to expand economic opportunities for the forest products industry. “The future of Maine’s forest products industry is bright. With new technologies like cross-laminated timber and biomass energy, the historic sector has a chance to overcome the obstacles of the last few decades and restore jobs in our state’s logging communities,” said Senators Collins and King. “This new funding from the Forest Service will build on the momentum of the Maine forest industry’s comeback and provide critical support to four innovative companies that are finding new customers for our high-quality wood products. It’ll mean more jobs, more economic growth, and more Maine products around the globe. We’re proud to have supported this investment and look forward to seeing its impact in partnership with the FOR/Maine Initiative.” “We are very excited to receive this grant and are grateful for the Senators’ continued support of Robbins Lumber and Maine’s forest products industry in general,” said Alden Robbins, Vice President of Robbins Lumber and Chairman of the North Eastern Lumber Manufacturers Association. “This grant will be instrumental in getting the maximum value out of the White Pine resource, keeping Maine manufactured lumber competitive in the global market, and retaining good paying, foundational jobs in our area.” Wood Innovations Grants are being awarded as follows: $250,000 for Dirigo Center De… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:08:33Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/kings-office-presents-south-bristol-veteran-unreceived-medals-for-honorable-service | King’s Office Presents South Bristol Veteran Unreceived Medals for Honorable Service | 2022-09-14 | 2022 | 2022-09 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | AUGUSTA, ME – Today, a Constituent Service Representative for U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine) presented South Bristol resident and U.S. Army veteran Michael Cunningham unreceived medals from his service in Vietnam. Mr. Cunningham served in the Army from 1969-1971 including in combat in Vietnam and Cambodia where he earned high honors for his valor and exemplary service. Senator King’s Constituent Service Representative provides Michael Cunningham his service medals “Michael Cunningham served his nation with bravery, valor, and distinction. The medals he earned are a testament to this extraordinary service, and an important physical representation of the debt of gratitude he is owed by all Americans,” said Senator King. “I’m deeply grateful for Michael’s service, and glad we could award him the medals he earned.” Michael Cunningham received the following medals for his service: Bronze Star Medal with one Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster Air Medal Army Commendation Medal National Defense Service Medal Vietnam Service Medal with three Bronze Service Stars Republic of Vietnam Campaign Ribbon Mr. Cunningham earned the medals in the Vietnam War, but did not receive them until today due a shortage of medals available in Vietnam. | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:08:33Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-on-senate-floor-permitting-reform-needed-to-reach-clean-energy-future | King on Senate Floor: Permitting Reform Needed to Reach Clean Energy Future | 2022-09-13 | 2022 | 2022-09 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine), a member of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, today delivered a forceful speech on the Senate Floor explaining the need for pragmatic, realistic, and rapid permitting reform to reach America’s clean energy goals – calling on energy and environmental organizations to break free of entrenched stances. In his comprehensive address, where he detailed his decades of experience in renewable energy and conservation, he cited the words of Abraham Lincoln in seeking to reset the tone in DC, “we must disenthrall ourselves … and we will save the planet.” King began his speech by highlighting four key lessons he learned from his decades of experience in the renewable energy industry: “I learned some lessons when I was working in the field of developing alternative or renewable energy. The most important lesson is there’s no free lunch when it comes to energy. There are always costs and benefits. There are always impacts that some people think are terrific, other people think are not so good. There are always trade-offs,” Senator King began. “The second lesson I learned is that you may have global goals, renewable energy, but local impacts, and you often have a controversy about a particular project. The third thing I learned is that change is hard. Everybody’s for progress, nobody’s for change. Change is difficult, whether it’s for a local community, a state, or a nation. “The fourth thing, permitting is hard,” added Senator King. “People have to understand that this is a major, a major change that’s going to require trade-offs, that’s going to require us to make decisions and to understand, again, to go back to my basic premise, there’s no free lunch.” He continued by laying out the serious threats of climate change, and the challenge that presents the country: “We are now undertaking the largest and most far-reaching energy transition in human history,” Senator King continued. “The transition to fossil fuels took about 150 years, going back to around… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:08:33Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/maine-delegation-presses-fisheries-agency-for-fair-treatment-of-maine-lobster-fishery | Maine Delegation Presses Fisheries Agency for Fair Treatment of Maine Lobster Fishery | 2022-09-13 | 2022 | 2022-09 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | WASHINGTON — After the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) gave lobster industry participants just two business days to submit proposals for a new risk reduction plan to protect right whales and denied lobstermen and their allies access to a key data tool, Maine’s congressional delegation pushed back today against these decisions by the agency. In their letter to NMFS, Congressman Jared Golden (ME-02), Senators Susan Collins (R-ME) and Angus King (I-ME), and Congresswoman Chellie Pingree (ME-01) called out the agency for drastically accelerating the timeline for proposals in the aftermath of a recent decision by the U.S. District Court invalidating a biological opinion for the North Atlantic Right Whale. “NMFS should not prioritize expediency when doing so compromises the very survival of Maine’s lobster fishery. This approach will also undermine stakeholder faith in the process and may ultimately yield a new regulatory framework that does not provide additional protections for right whales while potentially shutting down the entire lobster industry,” wrote the members of Congress. The Maine delegation also urged NMFS to provide immediate access to the Decision Support Tool (DST), a data model used by the agency to determine how much risk is associated with a specific state or fishery, to state fisheries regulators and industry members. “Given the DST will be used to determine future regulatory actions by your agency on the lobster fishery,” continued the Members of Congress. “We strongly urge you to make it available to stakeholders immediately or change the timeline of the scoping period to ensure that state fisheries regulators and industry have had time to contemplate measures using the DST to identify proposals that protect right whales and preserve the lobster fishery.” | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:08:33Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-cosponsors-bipartisan-bill-to-replenish-americas-defense-weaponry-replace-arms-sent-to-ukraine | King Cosponsors Bipartisan Bill to Replenish America’s Defense Weaponry, Replace Arms Sent to Ukraine | 2022-09-12 | 2022 | 2022-09 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Angus King, a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, is cosponsoring bipartisan legislation to rapidly replenish stockpiles of weapons and defense technologies provided to Ukraine. The Securing American Acquisitions, Readiness, and Military Stockpiles Act (Securing American ARMS Act), would give the Department of Defense (DOD) enhanced procurement authorities to refill America’s stocks of artillery, anti-tank weapons, and other systems that are being used to support Ukraine in their fight against Russia’s unprovoked invasion. The bill is an important effort to ensure the United States can defend itself against all threats, while also aiding Ukraine’s defense against Vladimir Putin’s barbaric war. “With an Arsenal of Democracy from the free world, Ukraine’s brave armed forces are repelling Russia’s unprovoked invasion and thwarting Putin’s delusions of a new Soviet Union. It’s imperative the United States has the necessary weapons stockpiles to continue supporting Ukraine, while also ensuring our country is fully equipped to address the global threat landscape we face,” said Senator King. “The bipartisan Securing American ARMS Act would give the Department of Defense the rapid procurement tools they need to both maintain our own defenses and aid allies like Ukraine. It’s a commonsense step to improve our national security, support the industrial base, and further stymie Putin’s empire-building ambitions. I’m glad the bill has already received broad, bipartisan support, and hope we can get it passed quickly.” The Securing American ARMS Act would amend the DOD’s emergency acquisition authorities to allow them to use non-competitive procedures to quickly award a contract in order to replenish defense article stocks sent to an ally or partner after an attack by a foreign adversary of the U.S. While the DOD can use expedited procedures to speed up defense procurement in certain situations, backfilling depleted stockpiles is not one of them. This legislation lays out an exemptio… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:08:33Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-statement-on-anniversary-of-september-11th-attacks | King Statement On Anniversary of September 11th Attacks | 2022-09-11 | 2022 | 2022-09 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | BRUNSWICK, ME. – Today, U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine) released the following statement on the 21st anniversary of the September 11th, 2001 terrorist attacks: “Twenty-one years ago, on September 11th, 2001, a heinous act of political violence took the lives of nearly 3,000 Americans, and the nightmare of terrorism struck our nation,” said Senator King. “Across the country, we watched together in horror as everyday Americans simply going about their daily business were targeted. It was one of the darkest days our nation has ever faced, but also one that showed the strength, values, and resilience of our people. As these vicious zealots sought to tear apart our nation and intimidate our people, the essence of America shone through – with countless undertaking heroic efforts to help their countrymen in need. “Today, we must remember all those who were lost on that terrible morning: from everyday New Yorkers and Pentagon workers, to the brave first responders and passengers of Flight 93 who sacrificed their lives to save thousands when it mattered most. In recent months, America continued to demonstrate the endurance of our response, and brought justice to one of the last living conspirators of the attack. “I also hope we can use this day to reflect on the shared values that make us Americans, and the national unity that shone so brightly in the aftermath of these attacks. Twenty-one years ago, we banded together to as a nation to reject hate, division, and fear – with the deep divisions we face at this moment in time, I believe we can do it once again.” | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:08:33Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/seafood-watch-reverse | Maine Congressional Delegation and Governor Mills Call on Seafood Watch to Immediately Reverse Lobster Red List Designation or Provide Evidence to Back Claims | 2022-09-09 | 2022 | 2022-09 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | PORTLAND, ME – Senator Angus King, Governor Janet Mills, Senator Susan Collins, and Representatives Chellie Pingree and Jared Golden are calling on the Monterey Bay Aquarium's Seafood Watch to immediately reverse the controversial listing of Maine lobster on their seafood “Red List” and to remedy the significant harm they have already caused the iconic industry. In a letter to the Aquarium’s board led by Senator King, the Maine leaders highlight the significant factual omissions of Seafood Watch’s lobster report, criticize the organization for holding the Maine lobster industry to an impossible “guilty until proven innocent” standard, and call for answers on several key questions. “The recent decision by Monterey Bay Aquarium's Seafood Watch to “Red List” Maine lobster with scant evidence of impacts on right whales is a reckless piece of activism that will inflict substantial negative real-world consequences on an important and iconic industry in Maine,” write the Maine Congressional Delegation and Governor Mills. “In a courtroom, we require evidence before convicting someone of a crime; but you are seeking to sentence Maine’s lobstermen with conjecture, assumptions, and guesswork instead of hard facts. If anything, the publicly available facts rebut this aggressive action that will impact the livelihoods of thousands of people in Maine, and make it clear that you should immediately reverse the irresponsible designation.” The Maine leaders then lay out three key facts left out of Seafood Watch’s “Red List” assessment: There has not been a right whale entanglement with Maine lobster gear since 2004, and right whale deaths or serious injury have never been attributed to Maine lobster gear. The majority of right whale deaths since 2017 have been due to vessel strikes in Canada. In fact, 23 of the 30 whales that died between 2017-2019 were found in Canadian waters or were a result of entanglement in Canadian fishing gear. The Maine lobstering community has taken many measures, including eliminating all floating … | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:08:33Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/collins-king-co-sponsor-bill-to-address-hazing-on-college-campuses | Collins, King Co-Sponsor Bill to Address Hazing on College Campuses | 2022-09-06 | 2022 | 2022-09 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | Washington D.C.—As college students across the country return to campus for the new academic year, U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King are co-sponsoring legislation to prevent and respond to hazing. The Report and Educate About Campus Hazing (REACH) Act would require these incidents to be reported as part of a college’s annual crime report and establish a definition of hazing to clarify what constitutes a reportable offense. The legislation would also require institutions to establish a campus-wide, research-based program to educate students about the dangers of hazing. “Hazing is a harmful, far too common practice that damages students’ mental health and wellbeing, and in some tragic cases it has even led to serious injuries or death,” said Senators Collins and King in a joint statement. “Students have a right to feel safe and accepted so that they can focus on their studies and fully participate in the college community. This bill would increase accountability and transparency as well as require colleges to take steps to help reduce these dangerous incidents.” "With college students across the country experiencing mental health challenges at record rates, it has never been more important to promote the safety and well-being of our campus communities,” said University of Maine Vice President for Student Life and Inclusive Excellence and Dean of Students Robert Dana. “We applaud Senators Collins and King for their bipartisan support of the REACH Act. This legislation will leverage the nationally recognized, evidence-based hazing prevention education we offer at the University of Maine and our transparent reporting about any hazing incidents that unfortunately occur at postsecondary institutions.” "Findings from our national studies about student hazing reveal an urgent need for more attention to hazing as a campus safety issue," said Dr. Elizabeth Allan, Professor of Higher Education at the University of Maine. "Although we know hazing is a campus-wide issue and impacts thousands of students involved in… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:08:33Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/statement-from-senator-king-on-absurd-seafood-watch-designation | Statement from Senator King on “Absurd” Seafood Watch Designation | 2022-09-06 | 2022 | 2022-09 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Angus King, a member of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, today released the following statement after Seafood Watch added Maine lobster to their ‘Red List’. Today's decision by Seafood Watch to 'Red List' Maine lobster is simply absurd and flies in the face of common sense. The Maine lobster industry – one of our state's most important economic drivers and a source of pride – has long been committed to environmentally conscious, sustainable fishing. There hasn’t been a whale entanglement attributed to Maine lobster gear since 2004 and no documented right whale death has ever been attributed to Maine lobster gear. By ignoring these facts, Seafood Watch isn’t encouraging safe fishing; all they’re doing is damaging what’s left of their reputation and hurting Maine people unnecessarily in the process. Make no mistake, this decision will have a real world impact – with the industry already facing challenges, the accusations of the designation will hurt thousands of families and businesses across our state. I hope the millions around the world who enjoy the delicious crustacean will see through this farce, continue to support the iconic industry, and join me in pushing for Seafood Watch to reverse this irresponsible decision and take lobster off the so-called 'Red List'. | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:08:33Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-visits-gulf-of-maine-research-institute-for-first-hand-look-at-congressional-support-for-maines-marine-economy-and-climate-change-efforts | King Visits Gulf of Maine Research Institute for First-Hand Look at Congressional Support for Maine’s Marine Economy and Climate Change Efforts | 2022-08-31 | 2022 | 2022-08 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | PORTLAND, ME – U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine), a member of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, today visited the Gulf of Maine Research Institute (GMRI) to see how the organization plans to use $1,382,000 in Congressionally-Directed Spending (CDS) to support the long-term health of Maine’s waters and ocean economy. During the visit, Senator King met with GMRI leaders to discuss how their Climate Center Project and Blue Economy Initiative will help the state’s coastal communities overcome 21st century challenges like climate change, a rapidly shifting economy, and more competition from around the globe. He also joined GMRI President and CEO Don Perkins for a tour of the site where CDS investments are expanding their efforts. Senator King secured this federal funding in the recently-passed 2022 Omnibus Appropriations Package. “Maine’s coastal communities are changing. From a warming climate to an evolving economy, the Gulf of Maine faces both historic opportunities and challenges that will define our state’s success for generations. In partnership with the federal government and non-profits like the Gulf of Maine Research Institute, we can adapt in order to grow our economy, strengthen our communities, and address the threats of climate change,” said Senator King. “These two new Congressionally-Directed Spending investments will provide GMRI the tools it needs to expand their important climate efforts and help the seafood industry adapt to these rapidly shifting dynamics. This will mean a brighter future for Maine’s coast and all the people who rely on it. Today’s visit was a powerful reminder of how Congressionally-Directed Spending is being responsive to our state’s needs and the hard work that is being done to secure a better Maine. I’m incredibly proud that we were able to help GMRI receive this funding.” “Without a doubt, climate change is the foremost ocean challenge of our time,” said GMRI President/CEO Don Perkins. “With support for our Climate Center and Gulf of Maine Ventures work, we’… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T02:59:24Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senator-king-interviews-trailblazing-air-force-linguist-about-her-time-in-the-air-force-during-the-cold-war | Senator King Interviews Trailblazing Air Force Linguist About Her Time in the Air Force During the Cold War | 2022-08-29 | 2022 | 2022-08 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | Watch the interview HERE. BRUNSWICK, ME – U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine), a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, today released his latest episode of “Answering the Call: Maine’s Veteran Voices,” Senator King’s interview series in which he shares the stories of the lives, service, and sacrifices of Maine’s veteran community. In the ninth interview of the series, conducted in partnership with the Library of Congress’ Veterans History Project, Senator King spoke with Gardiner resident Auta Main, who served in the Air Force as a Russian Linguist during the height of the Cold War. During the interview, Auta shared with the Senator her story of joining the military to support her family, the high-stakes work of linguistics and communications during the Cold War, and what it was like serving as a closeted gay woman during the 70s. “It was an honor to speak with Auta Main and hear the story of her courageous service in this episode of ‘Answering the Call: Maine’s Veteran Voices.’ From joining the Air Force to support her family, to her current work with veterans, Auta has continuously shown what it means to selflessly defend our nation and the principles of our founders,” said Senator King. “Along with her critical work as a Russian linguist during the Cold War, Auta has helped the country live up to our promises of equality and opportunity. As a gay woman serving in the 70s, she paved the way for the current generation of LGBTQ+ servicemembers to live openly without fear. Her lifetime of dedication is a true inspiration, and I am grateful she could join me to share her story.” Auta Main grew up in Dresden, Maine with her seven siblings in a three bedroom house with just one bathroom. They were a rural, working class family, with her father working as a pipe fitter at BIW. Auta had two uncles who had served in Korea, but she never considered military service until she realized her college scholarships weren’t going to be enough and that her older sister was struggling to pay her college bills. So when an… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T02:59:24Z |
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