Press releases
Data license: MIT · Data source: dwillis/congress-press
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235 rows where party = "Independent" and year = 2024 sorted by date descending
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| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senator-king-statement-on-the-passing-of-former-president-jimmy-carter | Senator King Statement on the Passing of Former President Jimmy Carter | 2024-12-29 | 2024 | 2024-12 | 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 released the following statement after the passing of former U.S. President Jimmy Carter: “President Carter led a life of incredible service, putting country over party and politics,” said Senator King. “From his early days as a sailor with the United States Navy to the White House, President Carter personified our true American values. He was compassionate, unapologetic in his convictions, and forward-thinking — calling out racial discrimination as Governor of Georgia, negotiating the Camp David Accords, and dedicating his post-presidential career to community service. Jimmy Carter’s extraordinary life story epitomized the American Dream and proved that any one of us can go from humble beginnings to President of the United States and human rights champion for the world. Now that’s a legacy to be proud of. May the Carter family, and his beloved Georgia community, find peace and comfort during these difficult times.” ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/congress-passes-bipartisan-bicameral-legislation-to-improve-veterans-access-to-healthcare-and-benefits | Congress Passes Bipartisan, Bicameral Legislation to Improve Veterans’ Access to Healthcare and Benefits | 2024-12-23 | 2024 | 2024-12 | 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 Kevin Cramer (R-N.D.), members of the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee, are applauding the Congressional passage of bipartisan, bicameral legislation to improve veterans’ access to healthcare and benefits. The Senator Elizabeth Dole 21st Century Veterans Healthcare and Benefits Improvement Act includes the King, Cramer bipartisan legislation reauthorizing the Veteran Employment Through Technology Education Courses (VET-TEC) program that helps veterans access high-technology jobs. The VET-TEC program provides tuition at eligible training institutions, housing stipends, and connections with potential employers. Since its start in 2017, VET-TEC has helped thousands of veterans get jobs in the technology sector with an average starting salary of over $65,000 – but current authorization for the program expired earlier this year. “The VET-TEC program has been an exceptional resource for thousands of veterans looking for good-paying jobs in the tech sector,” said Senator King. “The reauthorization of the VET-TEC Authorization Act expands eligibility for both veterans and training institutions and is a commonsense step to give even more veterans access to opportunities in tech. While there is always areas where we disagree, I am glad both chambers and both parties came together to support our men and women who answered the call.” “The VET-TEC program has created effective pathways for veterans to launch their careers in tech,” said Senator Cramer. “Building on its successes, this reauthorization expands eligibility to allow more veterans to participate in the program. Supporting our veterans includes enhancing the employment resources and opportunities available to them. I appreciate Congress’ support of this bill and I look forward to the President signing it into law.” Created in 2017’s Forever G.I. Bill, the VET-TEC pilot program has 31 approved education providers that have trained over 8,000 veterans, and helped thousands start high-tech jobs with an ave… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-cosponsored-bill-restoring-social-security-benefits-for-police-officers-firefighters-and-teachers-to-become-law | King-Cosponsored Bill Restoring Social Security Benefits for Police Officers, Firefighters, and Teachers to Become Law | 2024-12-21 | 2024 | 2024-12 | 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 is applauding the long-sought Senate passage of a bipartisan, bicameral bill that will repair social security benefits for more than 2 million Americans who have devoted their careers to public service. The Social Security Fairness Act will eliminate the Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP) and the Government Pension Offset (GPO), added to the Social Security Act in 1983, which unfairly reduce or eliminate earned Social Security benefits for more than 2.5 million Americans including police officers, firefighters, teachers, and federal, state, and local government employees. The bill, cosponsored by Senator King, passed the Senate in a 76-20 vote and previously passed the House last month in a 327-75 vote. Currently, the WEP cuts into the earned Social Security benefits of an individual who also receives a public pension. For example, public school educators who do not earn Social Security, but who work part-time, or during the summer, in jobs covered by Social Security have reduced benefits, effectively penalizing them for their public sector work. Likewise, the GPO affects the spousal benefits of people who work as federal, state, or local government employees — including police officers, firefighters, and teachers — if the job is not covered by Social Security. The GPO reduces by two-thirds the benefit received by surviving spouses who also collect a government pension — often offsetting benefits entirely. “Across Maine, firefighters, police officers, teachers and other public servants put the well-being of our communities first; it’s past time they receive the benefits they so rightly have earned,” said Senator King. “Today was an important step towards correcting this injustice– demonstrating how lawmakers can put people over politics to achieve real results. Thanks to my colleagues on both sides of the aisle for supporting our public servants and voting for the Social Security Fairness Act. I look forward to keeping the momentum going so we can finally sav… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-colleagues-introduce-bipartisan-preserving-american-dominance-in-ai-act | King, Colleagues Introduce Bipartisan “Preserving American Dominance in AI Act” | 2024-12-20 | 2024 | 2024-12 | 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-ME), a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee and Co-Chair of the Cyberspace Solarium Commission, along with Senators Mitt Romney (R-UT), Jack Reed (D-RI), Jerry Moran (R-KS), and Maggie Hassan (D-NH) have introduced first-of-its-kind legislation that establishes federal oversight of artificial intelligence to safeguard U.S. national security interests against chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear, and cyber threats posed by future developments in advanced AI models. The bipartisan Preserving American Dominance in AI Act, crafted, based on the group’s previously-released framework, would establish the Artificial Intelligence Safety Review Office within the Department of Commerce. The Office would work with industry to defend frontier models against misuse by foreign adversaries looking to exploit the technology for nefarious purposes. The Office’s mission would be to prioritize the national security implications of AI while ensuring the U.S. domestic AI industry remains dominant over our foreign adversaries. This legislation is limited to frontier models — the most advanced AI models that are still yet to be developed. “In the ever-evolving global threat landscape, the United States has to stay one step ahead of new technologies to protect both our national security and interests at home and abroad — and that means moving carefully, warily, and thoughtfully into an Artificial Intelligence future,” said Senator King. “This bipartisan Preserving American Dominance in AI Act provides critical guidelines for federal oversight of AI technology so that it cannot be misused by bad actors looking to cause harm. We must ask important questions now to wisely navigate our next steps and decisions. Thanks to my colleagues for working together on a solution that promotes American development while safeguarding the public against biological, chemical, cyber, and nuclear threats.” Artificial intelligence (AI) has the potential to dramatically improve and transform so… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/maine-delegation-secures-congressional-approval-for-cherryfield-fishway | Maine Delegation Secures Congressional Approval for Cherryfield Fishway | 2024-12-19 | 2024 | 2024-12 | 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. — This week, U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King, and U.S. Representative Jared Golden, secured final congressional approval for the replacement and restoration of the Cherryfield Fishway. Passed as a provision of the Thomas R. Carper Water Resources Development Act, the fishway will allow anadromous fish such as herring, alewives, and the endangered Atlantic salmon to migrate upstream. Previously, the Cherryfield dam which was built in 1961 to address flooding caused by ice jams in the Narraguagus River, blocked passage of the fishway. The removal of the dam will support the Town of Cherryfield in its efforts to conserve local habitats and recreation. The bill passed the House 399-18 last week and the Senate 97-1 last night. It now awaits President Biden’s signature to become law. “Responsible stewardship of Maine’s woods and waters has protected generations of business and recreation,” Collins, King and Golden said. “Opening the Narraguagus back up to fish migration is a recommitment to that responsibility and will benefit both Maine’s ecosystems and the communities that rely on them.” Following a five-year study by the Army Corps of Engineers that concluded a natural fishway should replace the dam, Cherryfield voters approved the move in 2023. The Downeast Salmon Federation received a $9.1 million grant from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) Fish Passage Grant Program to spearhead the project, and construction is estimated to begin in 2026. “The bipartisan effort to advance the Water Resources Development Act of 2024 is incredible news for the Narraguagus River and the communities connected to it,” Hadley Couraud, Aquatic Restoration Manager for The Nature Conservancy in Maine said. “This bill will support the Town of Cherryfield in its effort to remove this structure and significantly improve access to an astonishing 320 miles of river, creating tremendous opportunities for habitat conservation, restoration and fish passage, while retaining the ice contro… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senate-passes-king-bill-to-expand-access-to-katahdin-woods-and-waters-national-monument | Senate Passes King Bill to Expand Access to Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument | 2024-12-19 | 2024 | 2024-12 | 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-ME), Chairman of the Senate Subcommittee on National Parks, is applauding his Senate colleagues unanimously passing his legislation to authorize additional access to the Katahdin Woods and Waters (KWW) National Monument. Following meetings with local stakeholders, the refined text of the Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument Access Act authorizes additional access to KWW by giving the National Park Service (NPS) permission to acquire land from willing donors or sellers, either in fee or as an easement. Should NPS exercise its new acquisition authority, it can then use that land to better connect the Monument to the Millinocket region and major roadways. The additional access would only occur with willing landowners and the bill expressly forbids the use of eminent domain. This authorized acquisition is significantly reduced from the 42,000 acres proposed in earlier Congressional sessions, a change made at the request of stakeholders like the Trust for Public Land (TPL), which owns the majority of the potential addition. TPL is separately working to transfer the balance of the adjacent land to the Penobscot Nation, as a working forest. Additionally, since the last introduction the State of Maine has acquired the easement necessary for the ATV trail from Millinocket to Medway ensuring there will be no impact on that important east-west connection for ATVs and snowmobiles. View a map of the proposed parcels HERE. The bill also includes provisions to allow the NPS to acquire buildings for Monument administration and visitor services outside of park boundaries. The legislation also contains provisions that: Protect traditional hunting, fishing, collection of fiddleheads and other outdoor recreation activity on the acquired property. Protect existing access rights and right of ways for the forestry sector. Establish a public safety framework ensuring safe interactions between visitors and timber operations in the region. “Since its establishment, Katahdin Woods… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T22:13:55Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/annual-defense-bill-with-king-backed-provisions-to-strengthen-national-security-protect-service-members-from-brain-injuries-passes-congress | Annual Defense Bill with King-Backed Provisions to Strengthen National Security, Protect Service Members from Brain Injuries Passes Congress | 2024-12-18 | 2024 | 2024-12 | 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-ME), a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee (SASC), lauded the bipartisan Congressional passage of the Fiscal Year 2025 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). This legislation will strengthen America’s national security, help protect service members from brain injuries and boost the economies of Maine communities through shipbuilding and manufacturing with the hundreds of businesses that serve the military’s technological and manufacturing needs. More specifically, the bill includes several provisions that Senator King backed, including support for service members’ health and transition to civilian status, an Arleigh Burke-class destroyer for Bath Iron Works (BIW), an aggressive new military-wide approach to monitoring brain injuries, and stronger measures to prevent illegal drugs from entering the country. The bill passed out of the Senate in a 85-14 vote and now heads to the President’s desk for signature. “For over six decades, Congress has taken a bipartisan approach to ensure that America’s military and defense forces have the training, equipment, and resources to carry out their missions. I’m proud that we could continue the tradition this year to pass an annual defense bill that will make our nation safer and stronger,” said Senator King. “As our global community faces some of its greatest challenges, the bill makes important investments in our military’s greatest asset – its people. The legislation supports good-paying jobs and manufacturing in Maine, particularly through its funding for shipbuilding at Bath Iron Works and Portsmouth Naval Shipyard. These funds will help the shipyards plan their futures, continue to build the highest-quality ships, and maintain the submarine fleet that our Navy needs to accomplish missions across the globe. “There are many more important provisions in this legislation – including a long-overdue brain injury monitoring program, fighting the opioid epidemic, and deterring Chinese and Russian aggression,” continue… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/maine-delegation-demands-answers-on-closure-of-bangor-tax-assistance-center | Maine Delegation Demands Answers on Closure of Bangor Tax Assistance Center | 2024-12-17 | 2024 | 2024-12 | 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 and U.S. Representative Jared Golden today urged the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) to reverse its closure of the Bangor Taxpayer Assistance Center (TAC). In a letter to IRS Commissioner Daniel Werfel, the Delegation shared the reality that the misguided decision — which went into effect yesterday — would leave Mainers with just two options to meet with the IRS in-person: Augusta or South Portland. “Some of Maine’s most disadvantaged counties rely on the Bangor TAC as their primary service center, and eliminating this staffed office would create significant hardship for hard-working rural Mainers,” Collins, King, and Golden wrote. “Many of these communities have limited Internet and broadband access, making in-person TAC services essential.” TACs provide in-person, personalized tax assistance, can accept tax payments, and even help taxpayers access specific forms and transcripts from previous years. In fiscal year 2023, TACs conducted 782,000 appointments across the country — a 22 percent increase from FY2022. With the former Presque Isle TAC already having been shuttered, taxpayers in northern and eastern Maine have had to travel to Bangor to receive in-person help with preparing taxes — a roundtrip of more than 400 miles for many. Bangor’s closure for the foreseeable future would see some Mainers’ trips increase nearly 150 miles for a nearly ten-hour drive to and from Augusta. Collins, King and Golden’s letter included several questions for Secretary Werfel, including how the IRS plans to provide sufficient services to Mainers with limited internet access, whether affected households will be eligible for an extension on filing their taxes this April, and the agency’s reopening plans for closed Maine centers. The lawmakers’ letter can be found here, and is included below in full: +++ Dear Commissioner Werfel: We write to express our concerns regarding the Internal Revenue Service’s (IRS) recent announcement that it will be closing the Taxpayer… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senators-collins-king-celebrate-frances-perkins-national-monument-designation | Senators Collins, King Celebrate Frances Perkins National Monument Designation | 2024-12-16 | 2024 | 2024-12 | 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, the Chairman of the Senate National Parks subcommittee, are applauding the official designation of the Frances Perkins Homestead in Newcastle as a National Monument. The announcement was made today by President Biden, who signed a proclamation honoring the historic contributions of Frances Perkins, the first woman to serve in a Presidential Cabinet and the country’s longest-serving Secretary of Labor. Perkins served for 12 years under President Franklin D. Roosevelt and briefly under President Harry Truman. Her confirmation to the Presidential Cabinet also made her the first woman to enter the presidential line of succession. She was instrumental in the development and passage of the Social Security Act, minimum wage laws, and working condition improvements. “The Frances Perkins Homestead National Monument ensures that the legacy of a truly remarkable Maine leader is preserved for generations to come,” Collins and King said. “A trailblazer in public service, Frances Perkins’ intelligence and abiding commitment to her work transformed the lives of millions of Americans. From shaping Social Security to championing labor protections, her work continues to govern workplaces today and has bettered American lives for decades. Surrounded by the natural beauty of 57 acres in Newcastle, her ancestral homestead will now serve as a monument to her impressive legacy of service to our country.” According to the Frances Perkins Center, the homestead, built in 1837, is a saltwater farm consisting of 57 acres of woods and fields along the Damariscotta River. The homestead served as a family summer home for Perkins in childhood, and she considered the property her true home. Perkins died in 1965 and is buried in Newcastle, near the site of her homestead. The core area of the homestead has been donated to the National Park Service ensuring its preservation and accessibility as a historic site. In August, Senator Collins sent a letter to the President expressing her… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T22:13:55Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senators-collins-king-celebrate-passage-of-wreaths-across-america-day-resolution | Senators Collins, King Celebrate Passage of Wreaths Across America Day Resolution | 2024-12-13 | 2024 | 2024-12 | 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. – This week, the Senate unanimously passed a resolution introduced by U.S. Senators Collins and Angus King designating Saturday, December 14, 2024 as “Wreaths Across America Day.” The annual event honors our nation’s fallen heroes with commemorative Maine-made balsam wreaths laid by millions of volunteers across the globe, including by a convoy that travels from Maine to Arlington National Cemetery in Virginia. “This annual Maine-led tradition unites volunteers to honor our heroes by laying wreaths at locations across the country,” said Senators Collins and King. “We are proud to recognize this important day and the dedication of those who help ensure the legacies of our servicemembers live on for generations to come.” Wreaths Across America coordinates wreath-laying ceremonies at more than 4,200 locations across the United States and abroad. In 2023, approximately 3 million wreaths were laid by more than 3 million volunteers. Each wreath is crafted in Maine. The general public can register to participate in Wreaths Across America at Arlington National Cemetery at 12:00 p.m. on December 14th here. The full text of the resolution can be read here. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T22:13:55Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-introduces-bipartisan-legislation-to-study-impacts-of-lower-intensity-weapon-blasts-on-veteran-mental-health | King Introduces Bipartisan Legislation to Study Impacts of Lower-Intensity Weapon Blasts on Veteran Mental Health | 2024-12-10 | 2024 | 2024-12 | 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-ME) and Jerry Moran (R-KS), members of the Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee, have introduced legislation to help the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) better understand the effect of repetitive low-level weapon blast injuries on veterans’ mental health. The bipartisan Precision Brain Health Research Act of 2024 would direct the VA and other research partners to comprehensively study the impact of these blasts and translate the findings into care and treatment plans. This legislation is designed to be a complement to Senator King’s Blast Overpressure Safety Act that would direct the Department of Defense (DoD) to enact a range of measures to help mitigate and protect servicemembers from high-intensity blast overpressure. The legislation builds off the Precision Brain Health Initiative in the Commander John Scott Hannon Mental Health Care Improvement Act of 2019. Today’s bill would require the VA to create a ten-year research plan to establish the effects of repetitive low-level blast injuries, where benchmarks must be reported to Congress, in order to develop further legislation for veterans who suffer with the effects of these repetitive blast exposures. “Brain injuries are a common, yet misunderstood and often undetectable, injury — and they can be traced to large blasts in small amounts or smaller blasts that add up over time, so we need to address them in all their forms,” said Senator King. “We have a duty to expand our understanding of the impact these blasts have on mental health, and to protect the long-term health and well-being of our military community. Here in Maine we know all too well the horrible tragedies that can occur when brain injuries are left untreated. This commonsense bill builds off of previous efforts to ensure we deliver on our promise to provide our servicemembers, veterans and their families the very best care and support.” “Recent studies have tied low-level blasts, which servicemembers are exposed to during training and in combat,… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T22:13:55Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-commemorates-pearl-harbor-remembrance-day-on-world-war-ii-veterans-101st-birthday | King Commemorates Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day On World War II Veteran’s 101st Birthday | 2024-12-07 | 2024 | 2024-12 | 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. — On Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day, U.S. Senator Angus King, a member of the Senate Veterans Affairs (SVAC) and Armed Services Committees (SASC), released his latest episode of “Answering the Call: Maine’s Veteran Voices.” In the 16th interview of the series, produced in partnership with the Library of Congress’ Veterans History Project, Senator King spoke with U.S. Navy veteran Bob Miller of Millinocket, who turned 101 on December 7th. Miller served in the Navy during World War II as a naval aviation mechanic and shipman, operating in both the Atlantic and Pacific theaters. During the interview, King asked about Miller’s experiences onboard naval ships during the war, as well as his efforts to preserve and share his story as a veteran in Maine. “Bob Miller’s life and service embody the sacrifice and resilience that define the Greatest Generation,” said Senator King. “Bob’s journey through the ranks — from young seaman to seasoned mechanic to flight deck director — tells the story of an individual who not only answered the call to serve, but did so with extraordinary courage and skill. His story embodies the countless sacrifices made during World War II, and it was a privilege to hear him recount his experiences — and reliving the historical significance of Pearl Harbor on December 7th, which is also his birthday. Happy 101st, Bob, and thank you for your incredible service to our nation.” Bob Miller was born in Long Island, New York, to Russian immigrant parents. At 13, he joined the Jr. Naval Reserve, and at 17, with his father’s approval, he enlisted in the Navy. Following boot camp in Rhode Island, Miller served onboard the USS Constellation and later attended machinist school in Illinois. Over the course of his career, Miller went on to serve aboard several ships, including the USS Wyoming and the USS Raven, where he encountered German U-boats for the first time. On his 18th birthday, the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor marked the United States’ entry into World War II. Miller was reassign… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T22:13:55Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-announces-maine-students-eligibility-for-cyber-service-academy-scholarships | King Announces Maine Students’ Eligibility for Cyber Service Academy Scholarships | 2024-12-04 | 2024 | 2024-12 | 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-ME), co-chair of the Cyberspace Solarium Commission (CSC), today announced students at Southern Maine Community College, the University of Maine at Augusta and the University of Southern Maine are eligible to apply to the Department of Defense (DoD) Cyber Service Academy (CSA). The CSA provides scholarships for students pursuing degrees in cybersecurity and related fields in exchange for service with the DoD or Intelligence Community cybersecurity roles upon graduation. More specifically, scholarship recipients will receive full tuition; stipends for books, a computer and housing; Department of Defense (DoD) internship opportunities, and guaranteed post-graduation employment. To be eligible, students must be enrolled at a university or college designated as a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cybersecurity (NCAE-C). Southern Maine Community College, the University of Maine at Augusta and the University of Southern Maine all meet this qualification. “With cyber threats growing more sophisticated every day, we must strengthen our defenses and build out America’s cybersecurity workforce,” said Senator King. “The Cyber Service Academy offers Maine students an incredible opportunity to advance their education while simultaneously preparing them for careers where they would help protect our nation and infrastructure against cyberattacks and breaches. I am confident that Maine students have the talent and determination to be leaders in this space — keeping both our state and nation safe.” The Cyber Service Academy (CSA) is both a scholarship program for the Department of Defense (DoD) and a capacity-building tool for the nation. The program is a result of commitment from the DoD and Congress to support higher education as a means to prepare the DoD workforce to deal with threats against the Department’s critical information system and networks. To be eligible applicants must: Be 18 years of age or older; Be a citizen of the United States; Be enrolled in or app… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T22:13:55Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-statement-honoring-veterans-across-maine-and-the-nation | King Statement Honoring Veterans Across Maine and the Nation | 2024-11-11 | 2024 | 2024-11 | 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. Senator Angus King, a member of the Senate Veterans’ Affairs and Armed Services Committees, released the following statement in observance of Veterans Day: “In 1919, one year after the conclusion of World War I, President Wilson proclaimed the first observance of Armistice Day on November 11, a day for our nation to remember and honor the over 9 million — including 116,000 American — lives lost during that bloody four-year conflict. Nearly a decade after the end of World War II, in 1954, President Eisenhower expanded that celebration to honor all who have served; that day is now known as Veterans Day. To those who returned home safely, those who are still missing in combat and those who made the ultimate sacrifice to defend our nation — you represent the very best of America and your service is an inspiration and roadmap for generations of Americans to come. “Veterans Day resonates throughout communities across Maine where so many have answered the call to serve our country. With one of the highest rates of veterans per capita across the 50 states, Maine truly lives up to its motto Dirigo, or ‘I lead.” Out of uniform these men and women are business owners, public servants and volunteers, and are part of the tightly knit fabric that helps to form every town and city in our state. To be home to so many selfless men and women instills great pride, but with that comes a great responsibility. While we pause to recognize our veterans today, the work to ensure their service is honored should never stop. “I recognize too many veterans continue to face obstacles and hardships in homelessness, unemployment, poverty, and lack of medical and mental health care. The Department of Veterans Affairs' mission to fulfill President Lincoln’s promise to care for those who have served in our nation’s military and for their families, caregivers, and survivors is one that I take as my duty to fulfill as well — and I have been able to better keep this promise as a member of the Senate Veterans’ Affairs… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T22:07:06Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/maine-delegation-statement-on-the-one-year-anniversary-of-lewiston-shooting | Maine Delegation Statement on the One Year Anniversary of Lewiston Shooting | 2024-10-25 | 2024 | 2024-10 | 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, and Representatives Chellie Pingree and Jared Golden today released the following statement on the first anniversary of the Lewiston shooting that took place on October 25th, taking the lives of 18 innocent people: “One year ago, the unthinkable happened in Lewiston when a gunman opened fire at a bowling alley and restaurant — shaking the community and Maine to its core,” said the Delegation. “For days, families sheltered in their homes as law enforcement worked to track down the shooter. We are thankful for the diligence and bravery that put an end to this nightmare and allowed our state to begin working through the agony and devastation. But the seats at the kitchen table remain empty, with 18 Mainers absent from the lives of their friends and families. Others injured on that horrific day are still recovering from their wounds. As we continue to process the pain, we renew our commitment to helping one another, to remembering the victims and the lives forever changed that day, and to healing.” ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T21:57:20Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-rounds-seeking-maximum-h-2b-work-visas-to-support-small-businesses-in-2025 | King, Rounds Seeking Maximum H-2B Work Visas to Support Small Businesses in 2025 | 2024-10-24 | 2024 | 2024-10 | 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 Angus King (I-Maine) and Mike Rounds (R-S.D.), alongside a bipartisan group of their colleagues, have written to the Department of Labor (DOL) and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to release the maximum allowable number of additional H-2B visas for Fiscal Year (FY) 2025. H-2B visas fill needs for American small businesses when there are not enough able and willing American workers to fill the temporary, seasonal positions. As required by law, employers must first make a concerted effort to hire American workers to fill open positions; when the local workforce is insufficient, H-2Bs are seen as a necessary tool to support local economies. With Maine continuing to see a shortage of seasonal and temporary employees, these special visas provide a lifeline for the economy and ensure small businesses can meet the demand for their products and services. “Many employers turn to the H-2B program to meet their workforce needs to not only sustain their businesses, but also support their American workers. The H-2B program places requirements on employers to recruit U.S. workers, who are intentionally prioritized by the program and also receive demonstrated, positive impacts from their seasonal colleagues. In fact, a 2020 Government Accountability Office report concluded that ‘counties with H-2B employers generally had lower unemployment rates and higher average weekly wages than counties that do not have any H-2B employers,’” wrote the senators. “The most current employment data illustrates the workforce struggles of seasonal businesses nationwide. The Department of Labor’s Job Openings and Labor Turnover Surveys (JOLTS) show the rate of job openings have increased year over year for the industries that represent the top five H-2B occupations. As you know, the FY 2025 H-2B first half fiscal year cap was met on September 18, 2024—roughly three weeks earlier than the cap was met in FY 2024. The result is that seasonal employers whose peak seasons are in late fall and winter are capp… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T21:57:20Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/collins-king-bill-designates-october-20th-as-early-childhood-literacy-awareness-day | Collins, King Bill Designates October 20th as Early Childhood Literacy Awareness Day | 2024-10-20 | 2024 | 2024-10 | 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-Maine) and Angus King (I-Maine) today are recognizing the lifelong impact childhood literacy programs have on the success of Maine children and their communities. In a bipartisan resolution unanimously agreed to by the Senate, October 20th, 2024, has been designated as National Early Childhood Literacy Day. Senators Joe Manchin (I-W.V.) and Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.V.) are also co-sponsors of the resolution. “Fostering literacy in early childhood is crucial for preparing students in Maine and across the country for a lifetime of reading and learning,” said Senator Collins. “Our bipartisan resolution seeks to ensure that students from all social and economic backgrounds have access to programs that promote childhood literacy and language development.” “Fostering a love for reading at a young age helps open young minds to new worlds and ideas, and is also important for early childhood development,” said Senator King. “When we invest in literacy programs and reading skills at a young age, we are setting our children up for continued success both in and out of the classroom. Good readers are good thinkers, and I am committed to advocating for literacy awareness along with the resources that strengthen Maine communities. I am proud to once again co-lead on this resolution recognizing the importance, enjoyment and direct impact of childhood literacy.” “I am so grateful for the efforts of Senators Collins, King, Capito and Manchin for their resolution designating October 20, 2024, as National Early Childhood Literacy Awareness Day. Highlighting the importance of literacy from the very start of a child's life has great benefit, in particular for our most vulnerable populations,” said Cristina Salois, M.S.Ed., Chair of the Maine Head Start Directors Association. “The resolution applauds the daily work that communities, educators and families do each day to ensure that all children have opportunities to participate in literacy activities and to enjoy books. These effort… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T21:57:20Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-calls-for-study-on-hidden-costs-of-ageism-on-health-care | King Calls for Study on Hidden Costs of Ageism on Health Care | 2024-10-10 | 2024 | 2024-10 | 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. Senator Angus King (I-Maine), along with a number of Senate colleagues, is requesting the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ) examine the impact of ageism on quality and equity of care, patient safety and health outcomes. Ageism in health care is associated with a decreased likelihood that older adults will receive care that meets medical guidelines, as well as an increased likelihood that they are not properly reimbursed for care, and exclusion from clinical trials and other research that is available to the public generally. On a percentage basis, Maine leads the nation with the largest 65 and older population. “While ageism is often subtle, it is woven into our workforce, our health care system, and our everyday interactions. Ageism undermines older adults and their contributions to our communities. Research shows that 81 percent of adults aged 50-80 report experiencing internal ageism, 65 percent are exposed to ageist messages, and 45 percent face ageism in interpersonal interactions. These staggering statistics demonstrate how ingrained ageism is in our society,” wrote the senators. “Ageism within health care leads to poorer health outcomes, avoidable morbidity, and costly preventable adverse events. Ageism costs the health care system $63 billion annually. In health care, ageism is expressed in our policies, the practices of health care providers, and negative assumptions held by older adults themselves. At the macro level, ageism is complex and reflected in health care access issues which result in older adults being less likely to receive care consistent with medical guidelines, payment policies that do not adequately reimburse for complex care needed for older adults, and exclusion or underrepresentation of older adults in clinical trials and other research,” continued the senators. “With AHRQ’s mission to improve the quality, safety, and equity of health care, we believe your organization is well suited to support Congress’ effort to address ageism in health care… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T21:57:20Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/collins-king-announce-over-11-million-to-protect-children-from-lead-poisoning | Collins, King Announce Over $11 Million to Protect Children From Lead Poisoning | 2024-10-09 | 2024 | 2024-10 | 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-Maine), Vice Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, and Angus King (I-Maine) announced today that the cities of Portland and Lewiston have been awarded grant funding to help protect children from lead poisoning. The Lead-Based Paint Hazard Reduction (LHR) grant program awards, totaling $11,117,960, will help improve the health of Maine communities by fixing older housing and preserving affordable housing units that pose a lead hazard — such as the use of lead paint, more common in homes built before 1960. Additionally, this grant targets housing where children less than six years of age live. “The majority of Maine’s housing stock was built prior to 1978, the year that lead-based paint was banned, which has resulted in our state having one of the highest levels of lead paint contamination in the country,” said Senator Collins. “This federal investment in lead hazard abatement will increase the safety of housing for families in Portland and Lewiston, helping to further alleviate this public health threat.” “Lead exposure and poisoning can pose extreme health risks, especially for young children who are still growing and developing,” said Senator King. “Even small amounts of lead from paint chips and flakes can build up in the body and cause serious health problems. Families should be focused on helping their children grow and thrive, not worried about whether or not their house is hazardous. This robust funding will help more Maine families and children have a healthy and safe place to call home.” The Lead-Based Paint Hazard Reduction program is funded through the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). In addition to the LHR program, HUD also offers the Healthy Homes Supplemental funding that is available to further bolster lead-based paint hazard prevention and control. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T21:57:20Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-urges-thorough-review-of-department-of-defense-reserve-suicide-prevention-efforts | King Urges Thorough Review of Department of Defense Reserve Suicide Prevention Efforts | 2024-10-08 | 2024 | 2024-10 | 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. Senator Angus King (I-Maine), a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee (SASC), has written a letter to Comptroller General Gene Dodaro urging the U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO) to begin work on a report that reviews suicide prevention matters of the reserve component of the Department of Defense (DOD). The Fiscal Year 2025 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) requires the GAO to conduct a review of suicide prevention and response policies for reserve personnel, and the extent to which the DOD and military services have coordinated these policies at the federal, state and local levels. Senator King’s letter comes just weeks ahead of the first anniversary of the Lewiston shooting that was carried out by an Army reservist, who failed to receive adequate mental health care. Over one-third of U.S. military service members serve in the reserve component, which provides trained units and qualified personnel in times of war or national emergency, or to fill the needs of the Armed Forces whenever more units and personnel are needed. In 2023, the DOD reported that the suicide rate among reserve component personnel was generally similar to that of the U.S. population. However, reserve component personnel offices often have limited access to military suicide prevention resources. “It has been nearly a year since Sergeant First Class (SFC) Robert Card II committed the deadliest mass shooting in Maine’s history, killing 18 and wounding 13 on October 25, 2023, in Lewiston, Maine. Since the tragedy, multiple press reports, investigations by the Army, and the Governor of Maine’s special commission have revealed troubling matters. I urge you to consider these investigations and to meet with all stakeholders as you conduct your review,” wrote Senator King. “Service members in reserve status are critical to our Armed Forces and represent nearly one-third of the total force. I am concerned that they experience limited access to military-supported suicide prevention resources. Author… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T21:57:20Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/after-northern-light/humana-break-maine-delegation-presses-cms-for-special-enrollment-for-medicare | After Northern Light/Humana Break, Maine Delegation Presses CMS for Special Enrollment for Medicare | 2024-10-04 | 2024 | 2024-10 | 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 and U.S. Representatives Chellie Pingree and Jared Golden, in response to Northern Light Health terminating its contract with Humana, have written a letter urging the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) to create a special enrollment period for Humana Medicare Advantage beneficiaries impacted by this decision. On September 30, 2024 Northern Light Health terminated its contract with Humana, citing administrative issues. It has been estimated somewhere between 2,000 and 4,000 patients will be impacted by this decision. Given the rural nature of the region served by Northern Light Health, the inability to receive treatment at the facility could result in Maine people having to travel long distances to receive care, or forgo care completely. Special enrollment periods (SEPs) are provided by CMS for certain life changing scenarios like moving or emergencies. In the letter, the Delegation writes that given the significant strain this decision puts on a large number of constituents who seek care at Northern Light Heath, a special enrollment period is necessary. If CMS grants the special enrollment period, new plans to bridge care access issues could become effective as early as November 1, 2024 — limiting further disruptions in care by providing an additional 60 days of coverage before any new coverage might begin January 1, 2025 as a result of beneficiaries selecting new plans during open enrollment that begins on October 15, 2024. “We write today to share our concerns about the significant changes to the Medicare Advantage (MA) network for thousands of our constituents currently covered through Humana. Effective September 30, 2024, Northern Light Health (NLH) terminated its MA contract with Humana. As a result, many of our constituents now have inadequate or reduced network coverage through the end of this year. To bridge that coverage gap for current Humana customers, we request that CMS create a qualifying Special Enrollment Period (SEP) f… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T21:57:20Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-casey-introduce-homecare-workforce-legislative-package | King, Casey Introduce Homecare Workforce Legislative Package | 2024-09-30 | 2024 | 2024-09 | 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) and Bob Casey (D-Penn), Chair of the Senate Committee on Aging, have introduced three bills to better support Direct Support Professionals (DSPs), the workforce responsible for providing homecare and assistance to seniors and people with disabilities who frequently rely on long-term service and support. The three bills would strengthen and support this workforce by creating new programs and modifying current federal funding to support home and community-based services (HCBS). “Over the years, Maine has seen an increased shortage of long-term home health care professionals,” said Senator King. “This has had serious impacts on older Maine people aging gracefully at home and those with disabilities who rely on this critical support. Unfortunately, low wages and difficult working conditions have led to high turnover. This DSP legislative package with Senator Casey would make significant investments into the long-term home care industry to bolster wages and provide more opportunities for workers to pursue additional education and trainings to help them advance in their careers. This is commonsense legislation that will make a tangible difference for both those relying on care and those providing it.” “Our Nation is in the midst of a caregiving crisis, and it’s a crisis that stems from a lack of investment in the caregiving workforce,” said Senator Casey. “I’m proud to introduce these bills with Senator King that would respond to this crisis by improving our national capacity to recruit, train, and retain the care workers that provide essential care to older adults and people with disabilities.” Caregiving is in a crisis across the United States. Caregivers that include DSPs are widely underpaid, earning a median wage of $15.43 an hour and often living in poverty. The result is caregivers are in short supply — a recent survey revealed 92% of nursing home respondents and nearly 70% of assisted living facilities reported significant or severe workforce shortages. A… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T21:43:57Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-cornyn-introduce-legislation-to-cut-costs-for-volunteers-delivering-meals-to-seniors | King, Cornyn Introduce Legislation to Cut Costs for Volunteers Delivering Meals to Seniors | 2024-09-27 | 2024 | 2024-09 | 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) and John Cornyn (R-Texas) have introduced legislation that helps cut costs for volunteers driving meals to older Maine people and Americans across the country. The Delivering Elderly Lunches and Increasing Volunteer Engagement and Reimbursement (DELIVER) Act would increase the charitable mileage tax deduction rate of 14 cents per mile to match the standard business rate of 67 cents per mile. By doing so, the legislation would bring equity and fairness to the millions of Americans who volunteer their time and resources to deliver meals and would help ensure that meal delivery programs —such as Meals on Wheels — remain strong and can continue to assist those in need. According to 2022 data from Meals on Wheels America, 102,021 seniors in Maine are living alone while 54,030 are threatened by hunger and 31,756 live in or near poverty. Meal delivery programs can be crucial in allowing seniors to maintain the choice to continue living independently in the comfort and safety of their own home. In addition to promoting a higher quality of life, helping vulnerable individuals remain at home has beneficial financial implications too. According to Meals on Wheels America, it costs less to provide a senior Meals on Wheels for an entire year than it costs to spend one day in the hospital or ten days in a nursing home. Additionally, providing homebound individuals with meal delivery may help reduce mandatory Medicaid and Medicare expenses each year. “Home-delivered meals can a be a lifeline for Maine seniors, allowing them to live independently and comfortably in their homes and communities,” said Senator King. “Meal delivery services not only provide a fresh, healthy meal, but they also provide connection and peace of mind for loved ones. These services are vital for so many Maine people. The bipartisan DELIVER Act would make a small adjustment to our tax code to help ensure delivery programs remain strong and decrease the financial burden felt by those who generously v… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T21:43:57Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-introduces-bipartisan-resolution-to-designate-september-as-national-recovery-month | King Introduces Bipartisan Resolution to Designate September as National Recovery Month | 2024-09-26 | 2024 | 2024-09 | 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-ME) and Shelly Moore-Capito (R-WV) have introduced a bipartisan resolution recognizing substance use disorder and the recovery efforts needed to overcome this disease. The challenges posed by substance use disorder have continued to wreak havoc across Maine and the nation. This has been exacerbated in recent years due to limited access to treatment programs and increased isolation. However, there have been positive trends with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reporting that drug overdose deaths nationwide decreased by three percent in 2023 — the first annual decrease since 2018. During that same time period, Maine, saw overdose deaths decrease by nearly 16 percent. This resolution shows a continued commitment to build upon these efforts and further bring down the rates of overdose deaths and substance use disorder. “Maine is one big, spread-out community and we have an obligation to one another to ensure we not only survive, but thrive,” said Senator King. “Tragically, we are losing too many of our loved ones to substance use disorder, leaving families scarred by their absence. The good news is we have started to see declines in overdose deaths, but we cannot let up on our efforts to provide quality care and support. This resolution recognizes our commitment to those struggling with substance use disorder and is another step forward in working together to save lives in Maine and across the country.” “I am proud to join my colleagues again in designating September as National Recovery Month,” said Senator Capito. “While the number of fatal overdoses thankfully has begun to decline in West Virginia and across the nation, far too many individuals are still being impacted by substance abuse. My hope is that by recognizing those who are in recovery — or on the road to recovery — from drug and alcohol addiction, we are providing a path forward those still living with addiction. In addition, the resolution rightfully highlights the vital role family m… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T21:43:57Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senators-collins-king-celebrate-national-lobster-day | Senators Collins, King Celebrate National Lobster Day | 2024-09-25 | 2024 | 2024-09 | 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 are celebrating Maine’s world renowned lobster industry after the Senate unanimously passed their bipartisan resolution recognizing September 25, 2024 as “National Lobster Day.” The resolution recognizes the cultural, economic and environmental impacts and importance of the iconic crustacean. Since 2015, the senators have introduced and sponsored legislation in recognition of National Lobster Day. “There are hundreds of small businesses along our Maine’s coastline that comprise our lobster industry, and their iconic catch is synonymous with Maine’s identity, history and culture,” said Senators Collins and King. “For centuries, the men and women who power the fishery wake up early every day proud to carry on this Maine tradition and ensure the long-term sustainability, resiliency and health of our Atlantic waters. Today, we recognize those lobstermen and women, and communities across Maine, who contribute hundreds of millions to our state and incalculable pride to our people.” "Lobster is an integral part of Maine's identity, playing a crucial role in the livelihood of our coastal and island communities," said Marianne LaCroix, Executive Director of the Maine Lobster Marketing Collaborative. "National Lobster Day not only allows us to share our, sustainably sourced product with the nation but also to highlight its significant impact on Maine's economy. We greatly appreciate Senator Collins’ and King's continued support in recognizing this important holiday." Lobster is a top economic driver for the state of Maine and, in 2023, the industry brought in $611,000,000. Senators Collins and King have been vocal champions for the lobster industry in the U.S. Senate by pushing back against policies that could hinder future growth and successes. In 2022, Senators Collins and King secured a provision in the annual appropriations spending bill which included a regulatory reprieve to protect Maine’s sustainable lobster industry from misguided regulations t… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T21:43:57Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/in-historic-vote-arctic-caucus-co-chair-senator-king-welcomes-first-ambassador-to-the-arctic | In Historic Vote, Arctic Caucus Co-Chair Senator King Welcomes First Ambassador to the Arctic | 2024-09-24 | 2024 | 2024-09 | 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-ME), co-chair of the Senate Arctic Caucus, today cast his vote for Michael Sfraga — currently serving as U.S. Arctic Research Commission Chair — to become the country’s first Ambassador at Large for Arctic Affairs, in a Senate vote of 55-36. Until Sfraga’s confirmation, the U.S. has been the only Arctic Nation that did not have a high-level official to represent the county in Arctic negotiations. With America now having formal diplomatic representation, it sends a clear signal to Arctic partners and foes that the country is fully invested in the High North as a strategic hotspot. The region is especially critical with regard to national security and deterrence efforts against known adversaries like China and Russia. “The Arctic is emerging as a region of enormous potential, and for far too long America has been on the sidelines — not demonstrating the level of commitment and attention shown by the other Arctic nations. That ends today,” said Senator King. “Not only is the High North drawing additional attention and investment by nations like Norway, Canada, and Russia, but China and India are also making moves in the region — investing millions in icebreakers and critical mineral research, laughably passing themselves off as ‘near Arctic nations.' While the Arctic has long been considered a ‘zone of peace,' America has not been represented by a Senate confirmed official bearing the title of ‘Ambassador.’ From now on, when there are conversations had about Arctic affairs, America finally will participate among equals. I thank my Arctic Caucus Co-Chair Lisa Murkowski (R-AK) for her tireless work on this nomination, and now it’s time to truly get to work to advance and defend our Arctic interests.” Sfraga brings over 30 years of experience in Arctic issues, and was the founding director of the Polar Institute and served as the Director of the Global Risk and Resilience program at the Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars. As an Alaskan and trained geographer… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T21:43:57Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-cosponsors-bipartisan-legislation-to-help-ease-the-burden-of-student-loans | King Cosponsors Bipartisan Legislation to Help Ease the Burden of Student Loans | 2024-09-24 | 2024 | 2024-09 | 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-ME) is cosponsoring bipartisan legislation to help college graduates reduce the burden of student loans through a tax-free employer contribution. The Employer Participation in Repayment Act would permanently extend a provision of the Internal Revenue Code allowing employees to exempt up to $5,250 from tax annually in student loan repayments that employers contribute on their behalf. The original provision was included in the bipartisan CARES Act and later extended through January 2026. Before the expansion of the provision, employers were only allowed to contribute toward continuing educating — not student loan repayments — in a way that is tax-free to the employee. The bill’s original sponsors are Senators Mark Warner (D-VA) and John Thune (R-SD). “Student loans are an essential financial tool to help people in Maine and across the nation access and afford higher education,” said Senator King. “However, as we seek to tackle the cost of living in America, if we can cut costs for college graduates, those extra dollars can help them afford apartments, cars or even set aside savings. The bipartisan Employer Participation in Repayment Act is a commonsense step forward to ease the burden of student loan debt, while also creating a valuable recruiting and retention tool for employers. It’s not just smart policy, it’s a win-win for Maine workers and businesses.” According to a report from Federal Student Aid, an office of the Department of Education, it is estimated that Americans owe a combined $1.74 trillion dollars in student loan debt. This debt is a significant financial burden that not only influences the way the American workforce saves and spends, but also has a stifling effect on the economy. The Employer Participation in Repayment Act would update an existing federal program so that it works better for employees living with the reality of burdensome student loan debt. From day one in the Senate, Senator King has advocated for student loan borrowers, working to e… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T21:43:57Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-rubio-urge-fda-for-guidance-on-stronger-cheaper-drug-manufacturing-process | King, Rubio Urge FDA for Guidance on Stronger, Cheaper Drug Manufacturing Process | 2024-09-23 | 2024 | 2024-09 | 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-ME) and Marco Rubio (R-FL) are urging the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to clarify its approval process for pharmaceutical companies considering advanced manufacturing technologies (AMTs) — such as continuous manufacturing, a means of production that involves a more uninterrupted process. In a letter to FDA Commissioner Dr. Robert Califf, the senators encouraged the FDA to incentivize the pharmaceutical industry to invest in AMTs to help address drug shortages and quality control issues, which contribute to more than 60% of the drug shortage problem. AMTs have great potential to lower the cost of drug production and can increase the possibility of domestic manufacturing. Compared to other industries, the pharmaceutical industry tends to operate in more outdated processes. Currently, much of the industry still employs what is called “batch” process, an active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) production method that takes place at multiple sites and can lead to sterilization issues. By implementing continuous manufacturing, companies can ensure a more sterile process at one single production site and reduce the risk of drug shortages. “For several years, the United States has grappled with a concerning uptick in shortages of key APIs and medications. Quality issues resulting from weak manufacturing standards abroad are the most common cause for shortages. Unsurprisingly, most of these quality issues occur in traditional manufacturing facilities overseas. The COVID-19 pandemic exposed the U.S.’ heavy reliance on foreign entities, particularly China, for our drugs and medical supplies. The lack of domestic medical manufacturing has created dangerous vulnerabilities for American public health and national security,” wrote the senators. “We are concerned that the FDA has not yet created a feasible pathway for stakeholders to invest confidently in domestic AMTs. As the FDA continues to evaluate its AMT regulations, we urge you to prioritize domestic manufacturing fac… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T21:43:57Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-barrasso-daines-team-up-to-combat-workforce-housing-shortage-at-national-parks | King, Barrasso, Daines Team Up to Combat Workforce Housing Shortage at National Parks | 2024-09-20 | 2024 | 2024-09 | 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-ME) and Steve Daines (R-MT), chairman and ranking member of the Subcommittee on National Parks respectively, and John Barrasso (R-WY), ranking member of the Energy and Natural Resources (ENR) Committee, have introduced bipartisan legislation to help combat the housing shortage that the National Park Service (NPS), U.S. Forest Service and other land management agency employees are facing across the country. The Land Manager Housing and Workforce Improvement Act would authorize the NPS, U.S. Forest Service and the Department of the Interior (DOI) to expand their authority to secure and build more workforce housing on or close to the federal lands. The legislation is especially needed in Maine; just months ago, a fundraiser was held in Bar Harbor to create additional housing for up to 300 seasonal workers at Acadia National Park. “Every corner of Maine and the country is being impacted by the housing crisis — and our National Parks are no exception,” said Senator King, Chairman of the National Parks Subcommittee. “The lack of safe, quality housing that doesn’t break the bank has made it difficult for park employees, and those who are called to preserve our public lands, to live in the communities they serve. The bipartisan Land Manager Housing and Workforce Improvement Act is a commonsense step, that allows the National Park Service and Forest Service use new approaches and public-private partnerships to combat the housing shortage. While this bill won’t solve the shortage on its own, it is a key part of a wider strategy to support our Parks and Forest Service employees. Safe, quality, and affordable housing is critical to ensuring that our parks stay staffed and open, and that visitors fully appreciate ‘America’s Best Idea.’” “Wyoming is home to the most beautiful national parks in the country. We are blessed to host millions of visitors from across the country and around the world each year,” said Senator Barrasso, ranking member of the Energy and Natural Resources … | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T21:43:57Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-cramer-introduce-bill-to-revise-cdc-dog-importation-rule | King, Cramer Introduce Bill to Revise CDC Dog Importation Rule | 2024-09-20 | 2024 | 2024-09 | 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-ME) and Kevin Cramer (R-ND), co-chairs of the American-Canadian Economy and Security (ACES) Caucus, are introducing legislation to address a dog importation rule from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) that has made traveling worldwide more difficult for military and diplomatic families, and those with service animals, living abroad to bring their dog back to the United States. While the rule is intended to lessen the risk of the spread of canine rabies, it has created a cumbersome process when crossing the border — including implanting a microchip in the dog that contains its medical history. The Homeward Bound Act seeks to remove these unnecessary barriers that certain owners and their dogs face when they return from low-risk rabies countries such as Canada. Under the Homeward Bound Act, military, diplomatic families and service dogs would be provided an 18-month waiver from the CDC’s dog importation rule and the restriction required dogs to be at least six months old when imported from low-risk rabies countries would be eliminated. Additionally, it would also remove the microchip requirement for dogs born prior to the bill’s enactment and would only apply to dogs coming from low-risk countries. The bill also grandfathers in dogs born before the introduction of this rule from the microchip requirement. “Many American families enjoy the love and companionship of pet dogs — including those serving our country abroad,” said Senator Angus King. “However, recent rules put in place by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have created additional hurdles that make bringing your dog back to the U.S. a needlessly complicated process — creating a burden on military families, diplomats and those who rely on a service dog. The bipartisan Homeward Bound Act would provide more flexibility for these Americans traveling back home from low-risk countries, and help prevent unnecessary separation between owners and their four-legged friends.” “The CDC’s … | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T21:43:57Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/to-fight-rural-housing-shortage-king-bill-motivates-homeowners-to-expand-construct-properties | To Fight Rural Housing Shortage, King Bill Motivates Homeowners to Expand, Construct Properties | 2024-09-18 | 2024 | 2024-09 | 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-ME) and Jerry Moran (R-KS) are introducing legislation to address the housing shortage and make it easier for rural workers to live in the communities they serve. The Farmhouse-to-Workforce Housing Act would expand the existing Housing Preservation Grants (HPG) program so rural home owners can create more housing on their property — such as an attached apartment unit or a small home nearby — to be available for rent. Currently, HPGs are underused and receive limited funding that can only cover small costs and repairs. This legislation would optimize the program for rural housing creation, increasing its funding and expanding eligibility for homeowners who want to participate. The housing crisis has risen dramatically in recent years. A recent study found that Maine is now short more than 80,000 homes, in both urban and rural communities. The study also found Maine faces serious challenges including historic underproduction, aging housing stock, future need, lack of affordability, workforce decrease and a high demand for seasonal homes. The Farmhouse-to-Workforce Housing Act would make it easier for Maine people in rural areas to access housing in the communities where they work. “Both urban and rural communities across Maine and the nation are facing a serious housing shortage,” said Senator Angus King. “Unfortunately, one law that Congress cannot repeal is the law of supply and demand; limited supply will inevitably increase prices. However, through creative solutions, we can increase the housing supply to help meet demand. I thank Senator Moran for working with me on the Farmhouse-to-Workforce Housing Act — it’s a commonsense, bipartisan step that will help us combat the housing shortage and ensure Maine people and residents across the country can live in the communities where they work. Maine is one big small town connected by long roads, and when I drive those long roads I see potentially available properties in the same communities that are facing crisis level… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T21:43:57Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-urges-va-to-take-additional-steps-to-reduce-veteran-suicide | King Urges VA to Take Additional Steps to Reduce Veteran Suicide | 2024-09-17 | 2024 | 2024-09 | 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 Veterans’ Affairs Committee, is urging the Department of Veterans’ Affairs (VA) to take additional steps to help reduce veteran suicide. In a letter to VA Secretary Denis McDonough, King highlights the devasting veteran suicide rate by firearm and outlines his Lethal Means Safe Storage for Veteran Suicide Prevention Act, a bill that would provide free firearm lockboxes at the request of any veteran and require VA providers to complete annual training so they are prepared to have basic conversations with veterans about their mental health and safety. Currently, the VA only requires providers complete this training when they start working at the VA, but recently began the process to update their policies to require the training be completed annually, as required by Senator King’s bill. The letter comes in the midst of National Suicide Prevention Month and as VA reports continue to show an increase in veteran suicide nationwide. “September is National Suicide Prevention Month and I write to thank you for the work the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) has done to address veteran suicides. While the steps you have taken are important, I believe that there is still more to do. Nearly three-quarters of all veteran suicide deaths involve a firearm and veterans are three times more likely to die by gun suicide than non-veterans. While many factors contribute to suicide, having easy access to lethal means such as a firearm during a moment of crisis can mean the difference between life and death, and with nearly half of all veterans reporting that they own guns (compared to 20% of non-veterans), the high rate of firearm suicide deaths among veterans is impossible to ignore,” wrote King. “This is why I recently introduced the Lethal Means Safe Storage for Veteran Suicide Prevention Act. This bill would provide funding to make sure that veterans have voluntary access to free gun safes or lock boxes so that they can safely store their weapons—putting valuab… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T21:43:57Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-its-inexcusable-that-military-halts-only-25-percent-of-known-drug-shipments | King: It’s “Inexcusable” That Only 25 Percent of Known Drug Shipments Intercepted | 2024-09-12 | 2024 | 2024-09 | 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, questioned U.S. Navy Vice Admiral Alvin Holsey, nominee to be Admiral and Commander of U.S. Southern Command, about the illicit drug trade and the deadly toll it is taking on Maine people and Americans across the country. In the exchange during a hearing of the Senate Armed Services Committee (SASC), King called the failure to apprehend the illegal drug shipments “inexcusable,” and called on Admiral Holsey to identify what resources are needed for the military to improve their efforts to combat these shipments. According to the Maine Monthly Overdose Report, between January and December 2023 Maine saw 607 confirmed and suspected fatal drug overdoses. During his line of questioning, King pressed Admiral Holsey on why the U.S. military and intelligence agencies have only been able to interdict roughly a quarter of all drug shipments coming into the United States. “Admiral Holsey, you're serving in a war zone. Since we've been sitting here this morning, 10 Americans have died as a result of the work in that war zone. I'm talking about overdose deaths over 100,000 in the country, almost one a day in my state of Maine. Americans are dying,” began Senator King. “And here's what's the problem, or a part of the problem: we are only interdicting 25% of the drug shipments by sea that are coming to this country that we know of, that intelligence tells us are coming and where they are, and yet, 75% of them get through, that's inexcusable. There's something crazy about the fact that we're talking about prospective issues with other countries in the region. This is a real live war zone where people are being killed.” “I just don't understand it. This is, this has been going on for years. I've been asking this question, so I want to understand why we're able to only interdict 25% of the drug shipments that we know about. If it's a lack of ships, let's find them, the Navy, the Coast Guard, and neighboring countries,” continued Senator King. “We’ve got to think creatively about this.… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T21:43:57Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-rounds-introduce-bipartisan-legislation-to-create-a-national-falls-prevention-plan | King, Rounds Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Create a National Falls Prevention Plan | 2024-09-12 | 2024 | 2024-09 | 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-ME) and Mike Rounds (R-SD) are introducing bipartisan legislation to help prevent painful — and costly — household accidents. The Stand Strong Falls Prevention Act would create an Advisory Committee on Falls Prevention within the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), which would develop a National Falls Prevention Plan to evaluate falls prevention efforts under the federal government and make recommendations for improving federal policies. Under the National Plan, the advisory committee would develop recommendations for how Medicare could develop a falls prevention pilot or demonstration program that would provide coverage of home modifications such as grab bars or staircase handrails as part of a falls prevention Medicare program. Currently, traditional Medicare does not cover or offer reimbursements for such modifications. On a percentage basis, Maine leads the nation with the largest 65 and older population. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), falls are the leading cause of injury for adults ages 65 years and older. In 2021, there were 325 deaths in Maine attributed to older adult falls and Maine ranked 8th highest in the nation per capita on the rate of deaths due to falls. According to the CDC, there are roughly 1 million fall-related hospitalizes and 3 million emergency department visits annually across the country due to falls. For example, a fall in a shower or bathtub can result in a hospital stay and medical bills in the thousands of dollars, while an investment in a grab bar would be a few hundred dollars. The senators’ legislation would study the highest frequency household accidents and study the most cost-effective ways to avoid injuries. “We all know the saying ‘an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure,’ and preventative care is a win-win for Maine patients, families and the taxpayers,” said Senator King. “The bipartisan Stand Strong Falls Prevention Act is a critical step forward in supporting older Maine people and … | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T21:43:57Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-statement-on-the-23rd-anniversary-of-the-september-11th-terrorist-attacks | King Statement On the 23rd Anniversary of the September 11th Terrorist Attacks | 2024-09-11 | 2024 | 2024-09 | 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-ME) today released the following statement on the 23rd anniversary of the September 11th, 2001 terrorist attacks: “Today, we remember those who perished on September 11th, 2001, and all Americans who have since been killed from those wishing to inflict terror across the globe. It is also an occasion to recall the incredible unity that Americans demonstrated in the aftermath of that horror — so I urge everyone to focus on what unites us, not divides us. It is clear our nation is stronger when we stand together. “And as we look toward the future, we must strive to uphold the American values for which so many made the ultimate sacrifice. We, as a nation, are forever indebted, and they deserve nothing less than our full support. These men and women — from everyday New Yorkers and Pentagon workers, to the passengers on Flight 93 and all those who put on a service uniform — are the embodiment of American patriotism and represent the very best of our nation. “Time and again, Americans have proven that no enemy, foreign or domestic, is able to destroy America’s defining principles of democracy and liberty. May we remember those who passed and honor those who continue to put country first.” ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T21:43:57Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-named-2024-legislator-of-the-year-by-wounded-warrior-project | King Named “2024 Legislator of the Year” by Wounded Warrior Project | 2024-09-10 | 2024 | 2024-09 | 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-ME), a member of the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee and the Senate Armed Services Committee, has been recognized as the 2024 “Legislator of the Year” by Wounded Warrior Project (WWP). The prestigious annual award recognizes outstanding legislative efforts and achievements by a member of Congress in improving the lives of post-9/11 wounded, ill and injured veterans. Senator King was selected for this award due to his advocacy for bills to promote smoother military transitions, enhance career training opportunities, and strengthen practices and standards concerning blast injury prevention and care. “Our veterans have made countless sacrifices to defend and serve our nation,” said Senator King. “We have a solemn duty to return that service to them long after they hang up their uniform. From helping our veterans navigate the transition to civilian life to ensuring they have accessible, affordable care, we have made tremendous strides together. But there is still much work to be done to step up for those who wore the uniform. I want to thank the Wounded Warrior Project for this award and will work with anyone in Congress on behalf of our veterans in Maine and across the nation.” “Senator King has been a dedicated advocate for wounded warriors and the entire veteran community, and his leadership is a model for other members of Congress,” said Wounded Warrior Project CEO, Lt. Gen. (Ret.) Walter Piatt. “His work supports the Armed Forces and veterans every single day, and WWP is honored to be able to work with him in Congress and recognize his outstanding efforts on behalf of everyone who is wearing or has worn the uniform.” Representing one of the states with the highest rates of veterans per capita, Senator King is a staunch advocate for America’s servicemembers and veterans. He has been among the Senate’s most prominent voices on the need to address veterans suicide, and has repeatedly pressed for action from top Department of Defense officials on this issue. An advo… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T21:43:57Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/maine-delegation-announces-338-million-to-upgrade-hydropower-infrastructure | Maine Delegation Announces $33.8 Million to Upgrade Hydropower Infrastructure | 2024-09-06 | 2024 | 2024-09 | 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 U.S. Representatives Chellie Pingree and Jared Golden today announced more than $33.8 million from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law for hydroelectric projects in Maine. The Department of Energy announced $430 million for hydropower infrastructure upgrades across 33 states, including a total of $33,801,291 for 21 projects in Maine. Administered by the Grid Deployment Office (GDO) and funded by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, the Maintaining and Enhancing Hydroelectricity Incentives program is designed to enhance existing hydropower and pumped storage facilities for capital improvements directly related to grid resilience, dam safety, and environmental improvements. Potential eligible capital improvements include improvements that enable the integration of variable resources, such as wind and solar; improvements for dam safety, such as spillway upgrades and erosion repair; and improvements in environmental conditions, such as fish passage, water quality and recreation. “Hydropower plays a critical role in unlocking Maine’s clean energy future, and is key to increasing energy efficiency and reliability. This $33.8 million investment will not only improve grid resilience and dam safety, but will also make environmental improvements such as enhancing fish passages,” the Delegation said. “These upgrades will help preserve Maine’s natural resources while supporting thousands of jobs across our state. Thanks to the historic investments in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, we’re ensuring that hydropower remains both a reliable energy source and providing greater flexibility for achieving environmental solutions going forward.” “As our earliest form of renewable energy generation, hydropower has reliably kept America running for almost 150 years — and the Biden-Harris Administration is ensuring these long-standing facilities can continue the steady flow of clean power,” U.S. Secretary of Energy Jennifer M. Granholm. “Today’s funding will expand and m… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T21:43:57Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senators-collins-and-king-announce-7-million-for-bigelow-laboratory | Senators Collins and King Announce $7 Million for Bigelow Laboratory | 2024-08-21 | 2024 | 2024-08 | 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 Bigelow Laboratory for Ocean Sciences has received $7 million to build the Maine Algal Research Infrastructure and Accelerator. The award will assist with building state-of-the-art research infrastructure which will streamline algae innovation in the agricultural, aquaculture and pharmaceutical industries. Collaborating with Bigelow Laboratory on this effort are Mount Desert Island Biological Laboratory, University of New England, Colby College, Southern Maine Community College, Maine Center for Entrepreneurs, Gulf of Maine Ventures, and the Maine Technology Institute. This funding was awarded through the National Science Foundation and will be distributed over four years. “Maine is uniquely positioned to be a leader in the aquaculture and biochemistry industry and the addition of Bigelow Laboratory’s algal accelerator is another example of our cutting-edge innovation,” said Senators Collins and King. “This $7 million investment will help scientists and Bigelow Laboratory harness the power of algae — unlocking new potential for Maine’s agriculture, aquaculture and pharmaceutical industries. Not only will this research help drive new approaches to commercial algae use, but it will also open the door to workforce opportunities between local farmers, algal companies and our premier research institutions.” Bigelow Laboratory for Ocean Sciences is an independent, nonprofit research institute located in East Boothbay. From the Arctic to the Antarctic, Bigelow Laboratory scientists use innovative approaches to study the foundation of global ocean health and unlock its potential to improve the future for all life on our planet. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T21:36:13Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-welcomes-first-results-of-drug-price-negotiations | King Welcomes First Results of Drug Price Negotiations | 2024-08-15 | 2024 | 2024-08 | 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-ME) today celebrated the White House completing the first round of Medicare negotiations to lower the price of 10 prescription drugs, which will lower out of pocket costs for Medicare beneficiaries on eligible drugs and save Medicare — and American taxpayers — billions. The announcement comes nearly two years after the Inflation Reduction Act, which King supported, was signed into law. In addition to the negotiation provisions, the bill also included a cap on the coats in insulin and a $2,000 cap on out-of-pocket drug costs for adults on Medicare. Tens of thousands of Maine Medicare enrollees currently take the 10 drugs included in the negotiations, paying annual out-of-pocket costs up to nearly $5,000 in 2022. “Today’s announcement from the White House is welcome news which has been a long time coming. One of the first bills I ever cosponsored in the Senate was the Medicare Prescription Drug Price Negotiation Act and thanks to the Inflation Reduction Act, this vision has finally become a reality,” said Senator King. “For many older Maine people on a fixed income, affording lifesaving drugs can be a tremendous financial strain — sometimes forcing folks to choose between their health or putting good on the table. With 30% of Maine people enrolled in Medicare, this is a game-changing step forward toward ensuring our seniors have better access to prescription medications while also reducing the heavy financial burden of high out-of-pocket costs. The savings from these new lower prices will also be a huge boost to the financial strength of Medicare itself, helping to insure its long-term viability. This is a real victory for people across Maine and the nation, and I look forward to working with my Congressional colleagues to advance additional common sense ways to deliver better healthcare at lower costs. Senator King has consistently worked to reduce healthcare costs for Maine people. The Inflation Reduction Act has laid the groundwork for — and in some cases already i… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T21:36:13Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-encouraged-by-pentagons-new-policy-to-address-brain-injuries-protect-servicemembers | King “Encouraged” by Pentagon’s New Policy to Address Brain Injuries, Protect Servicemembers | 2024-08-12 | 2024 | 2024-08 | 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-ME), a member of the Senate Armed Services and Veterans Affairs Committees, released the following statement after the Department of Defense (DoD) unveiled a new policy to better monitor servicemembers’ exposure to blast overpressure and subsequent risk of traumatic brain injuries (TBIs). The policy comes after Senator King wrote a letter to Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin in July suggesting that the DoD take immediate actions to conduct baseline screenings of servicemembers for brain injuries. “I am encouraged by the new policies being put in place by the Department of Defense to address brain injuries caused by blast overpressure. The more we focus efforts on the effects of blasts, the more we learn about the direct link to brain injury and how we can prevent these injuries in the future,” said Senator King. “By beginning a cognitive test program this year to screen every servicemember upon entry to the military, as well as screen current at risk servicemembers, we can learn how to manage these exposures with the aim of protecting their wellbeing and saving lives. “It is clear this is an urgent issue and I commend the Pentagon for fast-tracking these needed changes. This urgency especially hits home for us here in Maine after reports showed the gunman responsible for the Lewiston shooting was repeatedly exposed to blasts during Army training events, likely causing a brain injury. This new policy marks another positive step toward helping our community heal, while also working to prevent unnecessary harm moving forward to our servicemembers and veterans. We have a solemn duty to protect the well-being of those who served to protect our nation and freedoms.” Following the Lewiston shooting, Senator King has been working with his colleagues to increase mental health funding and address brain injuries. Prior to his letter to the Secretary, he sent a letter to the leaders of the Appropriations Committee urging leadership to support the strongest possible funding… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T21:36:13Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/collins-king-announce-more-than-500000-to-improve-rural-healthcare | Collins, King Announce More Than $500,000 to Improve Rural Healthcare | 2024-08-06 | 2024 | 2024-08 | 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 Maine Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) is being awarded grant funding to help improve rural healthcare. The Medicare Rural Hospital Flexibility Program award, totaling $504,176, will support Critical Access Hospitals (CAHs) in quality improvement and establish or expand rural health emergency medical services. The program is funded through the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA). Critical Access Hospitals are designations given to eligible rural hospitals by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS). The CAH designation was created in 1997 in response to over 400 rural hospital closures during the 1980s and early 1990s. Maine has 16 CAHs located across the state. “As one of the most rural states in the nation, Maine people already face many challenges when accessing affordable, quality healthcare,” said Senators Collins and King. “This grant will help our rural healthcare systems provide better care, and work to ensure we do not lose these critical facilities and services to preventable closures. We welcome this funding and are grateful for the continued federal support to help keep Maine people safe and healthy. By investing in the health and well-being of our rural communities, we are making an investment in the future of Maine.” Senators Collins and King have been staunch supporters of bolstering rural healthcare across Maine. Last summer, they joined bipartisan legislation to expand telehealth access through Medicare, making it easier for patients to connect with their providers. They also have advocated on behalf of rural seniors’ access to care and introduced the Protecting Rural Seniors’ Access to Care Act. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T21:36:13Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-introduces-legislation-to-provide-safe-firearm-storage-for-veterans | King Introduces Legislation to Provide Safe Firearm Storage for Veterans | 2024-08-05 | 2024 | 2024-08 | 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 introducing legislation to provide firearm storage to American veterans in an effort to reduce suicides among the veteran population. The Lethal Means Safe Storage for Veteran Suicide Prevention Act would create a grant program to provide free firearm lock boxes or gun safes on request to any veteran. The legislation would also require providers from the Veterans Health Administration (VHA) and the Veterans’ Affairs (VA) Community Care Network to complete mental health training on how to have basic conversations with veterans about their safety and access to lethal means, including firearms and medications. Suicide is the second leading cause of death in veterans under age 45 and, according to the most recent National Veteran Suicide Prevention Annual Report, the vast majority of veteran suicide deaths — 72% in 2021 — involved a firearm. Increasing access to safety training programs and keeping firearms safely stored could be critical in efforts to reduce death by suicide, especially among veterans. “I often say Maine is one big small town connected by long roads and our amazing people are the heartbeat and pulse of this incredible Maine family,” said Senator King. “The Lethal Means Safe Storage for Veteran Suicide Prevention Act would create a grant program making money available to provide safe storage options for firearms. With service-based trauma on the rise, we must provide our veterans with as many resources as possible to keep them safe during their most challenging times. As our veteran community faces some of its greatest hurdles, this bill makes important investments in protecting our country’s best asset — its people.” More specifically, this legislation would: Require VHA providers, including Vet Center counselors, to do annual lethal means safety training. Require providers within the VA’s Community Care Network to do annual lethal means safety training. Require the VA to work with VSOs to provide information to veterans related to lethal means saf… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T21:36:13Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-introduces-legislation-to-make-primary-care-more-affordable | King Introduces Legislation to Make Primary Care More Affordable | 2024-08-02 | 2024 | 2024-08 | 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 introducing legislation to ensure Maine people have access to affordable and preventative mental health and behavioral healthcare services. The Primary and Behavioral Healthcare Access Act would require private insurance plans to cover three annual primary care visits and three annual outpatient mental health or outpatient substance use disorder treatment visits, without charging a copayment, coinsurance, or deductible-related fee. This common sense legislation would cover private insurance under Affordable Care Act (ACA) and employer-sponsored plans. Currently, the Federal Reserve estimates one-in-four Americans skip medical care due to cost — though more regular check-ups can often catch health issues early before they become costly problems. On average, primary care visits cost an average of $170 out of pocket and the cost of a single day of outpatient substance use treatment is estimated between $250 and $350. Under existing law, private group health plans, regulated by the Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA), are not obligated to provide no-cost coverage for primary care, or mental and behavior health services. More than 180 million Americans receive health insurance coverage through employer-sponsored plans regulated by ERISA, who otherwise are not entitled to no or low-cost primary care. Over 46% of Maine people are covered through employer-sponsored plans. “Affordable and accessible healthcare is essential to keeping Maine people healthy,” said Senator King. “However, high or unexpected costs can often deter people from seeking care, such as annual preventative checkups that can identify health issues at an early stage. The Primary and Behavioral Healthcare Access Act would require private insurance plans to cover three annual primary care visits and three mental health visits — ensuring folks feel confident they can get the care they need without breaking the bank.” Congresswoman Lauren Underwood (D-IL) has introduced a companion bill in the Ho… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T21:36:13Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-cassidy-introduce-bipartisan-bill-offering-tax-credits-to-working-waterfronts-affected-by-natural-disasters | King, Cassidy Introduce Bipartisan Bill Offering Tax Credits to Working Waterfronts Affected by Natural Disasters | 2024-08-01 | 2024 | 2024-08 | 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-ME) and Bill Cassidy (R-LA) are introducing bipartisan legislation to offer a disaster mitigation tax credit to working waterfronts located on the coasts and on navigable waterways. The Working Waterfronts Disaster Mitigation Tax Credit Act would provide working waterfronts with a 30 percent tax credit on up to $1 million in mitigation expenses, adjusted for inflation annually. Senator King has been at the forefront of supporting working waterfronts as they face the effects of sea level rise and storm damage. Last winter, he joined the entire Maine Delegation in writing to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) in support of Governor Janet Mills’ requests that they treat the multiple devastating winter storms as a disaster event for purposes of damage assessment and federal reimbursement for cleanup. This new legislation would ensure that working waterfront have the financial resources to shore up their infrastructure and prevent the oftentimes devastating consequences of natural disasters. “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,” said Senator King. “The Working Waterfronts Disaster Mitigation Tax Credit Act would provide working waterfronts up and down the coast of Maine with the necessary financial resources to adapt to the rapidly shifting dynamics of natural disasters affecting economic and tourism operations. Thanks to Senator Cassidy for working with me to ensure our waterfront businesses have the necessary tools and resources to thrive for years to come.” “Let’s empower coastal businesses to invest in flood and disaster prevention before a storm hits,” said Dr. Cassidy. “Doing so protects our way of life, fishing and coastal industries, and the livelihoods of Louisiana families.” Working waterfronts are comprised of physical property (including support structures over water and ot… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T21:36:13Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-statement-on-release-of-wrongfully-detained-americans-from-russian-prisons | King Statement on Release of Wrongfully Detained Americans from Russian Prisons | 2024-08-01 | 2024 | 2024-08 | 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 released the following statement after Bowdoin College graduate, Evan Gershkovich, and former United States Marine, Paul Whelan, were released from Russian custody in a historic prisoner swap involving seven countries: “I am ecstatic to hear the news that Americans, among them Evan Gershkovich and Paul Whelan, have been released from Russia and are on their way home. For far too long, they have both been imprisoned arbitrarily as part of Putin’s global war on democracy and freedom of speech. “Journalism is not a crime — a free press is critical to the foundation of a democratic society and common human rights around the world. Since his graduation from Bowdoin College, Evan Gershkovich has committed himself to responsible, ethical journalism in all corners of the globe. Similarly, Paul Whelan’s attendance at a friend’s wedding in Moscow did not constitute criminality in any sense of the word. “Today, we are celebrating that Americans are coming home, but we must also recommit ourselves to securing the release of all Americans wrongfully detained or imprisoned abroad. As we face some of the greatest challenges on the geopolitical stage, let us remember that diplomacy is oftentimes a quiet, incremental process conducted carefully behind the scenes. It is a joyous day for the family members of the released prisoners and a milestone victory for the international diplomatic corps. On behalf of a grateful state, thank you to the President for bringing Evan and Paul home.” ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T21:36:13Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/on-kings-insistence-dod-releases-report-on-suicide-rates-by-job-function-in-the-armed-forces | On King’s Insistence, DoD Releases Report on Suicide Rates by Job Function in the Armed Forces | 2024-07-31 | 2024 | 2024-07 | 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 senior member of the Senate Armed Services Committee (SASC), is welcoming the results of a newly released report that examines suicide rates by job function in the Armed Forces. The report, requested by Senator King after working with a Maine constituent, identifies key trends to help the Department of Defense (DoD) address suicide risk amongst higher risk job specialties and identify underlying cultural issues affecting the mental health of America’s service members. According to the report, the most at-risk jobs in the Armed Services are infantry, ordnance disposal and diving, combat engineers, medical care specialists, and non-identified technical specialists. The DoD report, mandated by the FY2023 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), studies rates of suicides in the Armed Forces by military occupational specialty during the time period beginning after September 11, 2001, and continuing to the present day, broken down by military occupational specialty, service, and grade. This legislative provision, and subsequent reports are based on input from a Maine constituent and will now be mandated in all future DoD Suicide Prevention Reports. “Maine has one of the highest concentrations of veterans in the United States, and when I meet with constituents across Maine, I always ask them what I can do better to help our servicemembers and veterans,” said Senator King. “This newly released Department of Defense report, requested at the suggestion of a smart and savvy Maine veteran, will ensure that the DoD has the most accurate information to help address the risk of suicide amongst the highest risk groups of the Armed Forces while addressing underlying cultural challenges. These key findings show trends that will guide the DoD in its efforts to curb suicide rates and hopefully save lives.” The report finds that enlisted service members with the occupation code 101 (Infantry) had higher suicide mortality rates than those from 21 other occupation codes. The Infantry co… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T21:24:45Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/kids-online-safety-act-cosponsored-by-collins-king-passes-the-senate | Kids Online Safety Act Cosponsored by Collins, King Passes the Senate | 2024-07-30 | 2024 | 2024-07 | 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 welcomed the Senate passage of bipartisan legislation they cosponsored to better protect kids online. The Kids Online Safety Act will provide kids and parents with new tools to protect minors online, hold Big Tech accountable for harm to kids, and provide transparency into these companies’ proprietary algorithms. The bill passed in a vote of 91-3. “Far too many children across the nation are at risk online. We must ensure that our laws keep up with constantly evolving technology and provide parents with the tools necessary to protect their children,” said Senators Collins and King. “We thank the Senate for moving quickly to vote on legislation that will spur tech companies to step up their efforts to protect children, and hope the House passes this bill swiftly. As the technology continues to evolve, this bill will also provide insight into online platform algorithms, aligning with the growing consumer demand for transparency.” The Kids Online Safety Act is strongly supported by a broad coalition of parents who have tragically lost their children or whose kids have been severely harmed by Big Tech, young people who want to regain control over their online lives, and hundreds of advocacy groups and experts who study and see the negative effects of social media firsthand in their communities. The growing group of bill supporters includes the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP), Nintendo of America, Christian Camp and Conference Association, Microsoft, The Foundation United, Parents for Safe Online Spaces (ParentsSOS), Snap, Street Grace, and X. Senators Collins and King have been a longstanding advocate of protecting children online. Senator Collins was an original cosponsor for the Stop Enabling sex Traffickers Act that was signed into law in 2018. This law helps federal law enforcement combat criminal activities by shutting down websites that host ads for the heinous crime of sex trafficking, including child sex… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T21:24:45Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-named-a-2024-hero-of-main-street-for-support-of-maines-small-businesses | King Named a 2024 ‘Hero of Main Street’ for Support of Maine’s Small Businesses | 2024-07-30 | 2024 | 2024-07 | 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-ME) has been recognized as a 2024 “Hero of Main Street” by the National Retail Federation (NRF) for his support of small businesses across Maine. The “Hero of Main Street” award was created by NRF in 2013 to recognize a bipartisan group of lawmakers for their support of the retail industry’s public policy priorities. In Maine, the retail industry supports more than 245,000 local jobs and contributes more than $21 billion in economic activity. “Small businesses are the backbone of Maine’s economy — when Main Street succeeds, Maine succeeds,” said Senator King. “When we patronize small businesses and retail entrepreneurs, we are making a concerted effort to energize and strengthen our local and state economies. I truly appreciate this ‘Hero of Main Street’ award and will use this opportunity to continue highlighting the incredible businesses across Maine.” “The retail industry directly impacts every congressional district in the United States, providing goods, services and American jobs,” said David French, NRF Executive Vice President of Government Relations. “NRF is honored to recognize Senator King as a ‘Hero of Main Street’ for his continued support of the retail industry through legislative action and leadership.” NRF Hero of Main Street award eligibility is based on key votes, bill sponsorship and advocacy to advance the industry’s priorities. Senator King has been a champion for Maine’s small businesses and entrepreneurs. In 2020, his bipartisan bill to reform the Paycheck Protection Program to make it usable passed the Senate and was signed into law. He also introduced the bipartisan Providing Resources for Emergency Preparedness and Resilient Enterprises (PREPARE) Act to help small businesses better prepare for natural disasters. Previously, he joined a bipartisan agreement that would improve the U.S. financial regulatory framework, promote economic growth, provide new protections to consumers, and strengthen small financial institutions in Maine. He also … | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T21:24:45Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/new-technologies-win-wars-emphasizes-king-in-armed-services-hearing | “New Technologies Win Wars” Emphasizes King in Armed Services Hearing | 2024-07-30 | 2024 | 2024-07 | 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 a hearing of the Senate Armed Services Committee (SASC), U.S. Senator Angus King called on the Department of Defense (DoD) to fast-track its adoption of new technologies in order to allow America’s armed services to compete on the global stage more effectively. In an exchange with Jane Harman, Chair of the Commission on the National Defense Strategy, King questioned why the DoD’s budget for directed energy has significantly fallen in recent years as the low-cost technology has increasingly been utilized by foes, after highlighting the historical correlation between countries that adapt early to new technologies and their ability to succeed in global conflicts. During his line of questioning, Senator King received strong agreement from Chair Harman about the DoD’s need to move faster than the “speed of bureaucracy.” “The first country to adapt new technologies generally wins wars; Genghis Khan and the stirrup, the long bow at the battle of Agincourt, the tank in World War I, radar in World War II. We are systematically missing technologies — it is one of the great failures of the last 10 or 15 years in our defense structure. Directed energy, hypersonics, AI, cyber, information warfare, we're woefully behind in every one of those,” said Senator King. “We are shooting down $20,000 Houthi missiles with $4.3 million missiles of our own — that’s ridiculous The budget for directed energy in the defense department has fallen by half in the last three years. Representative Harman, is it systematic legacy thinking? What is the problem? Why did we miss these obvious technologies” “Well, you have heard us say that the Pentagon is moving at the speed of bureaucracy,” replied Chair Harman. “I think it is legacy systems, old think, and I think congress is somewhat — ” “I think it’s legacy thinking,” responded Senator King. “Legacy thinking, fine, but I think congress is somewhat complicit in the way the budget process doesn't work and this insistence on requirements and oversight rather than what is t… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T21:24:45Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-bill-fighting-online-deep-fakes-passes-senate-unanimously | King Bill Fighting Online “Deep Fakes” Passes Senate Unanimously | 2024-07-29 | 2024 | 2024-07 | 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-ME) welcomed news that his legislation fighting online “deep fakes” has passed the Senate unanimously. The bipartisan Disrupt Explicit Forged Images and Non-Consensual Edits Act of 2024 (DEFIANCE Act) will protect Americans from sexually-explicit “deepfake” forgeries of their image or likeness, and permit victims to sue perpetrators for up to $150,000. This focuses on fake visual depictions created through the use of software, machine learning, artificial intelligence (AI), or any other computer-generated or technological means to falsely appear to be authentic. The volume of “deepfake” content available online is increasing exponentially as the technology used to create it has become more accessible to the public and produced without the consent of the person depicted. A 2019 study found that 96 percent of deepfake videos were nonconsensual pornography. “Artificial intelligence has the potential to dramatically improve and transform our way of life, but also introduces next generation threats that could be harmful to the American public, some of which could have catastrophic effects,“ said Senator King. “The DEFIANCE Act will ensure that any American subject to AI-generated, sexually explicit content online can defend themselves and hold the perpetrators accountable. In the ever-evolving world of technology and artificial intelligence, we must be able to protect ourselves from people with bad intentions. I urge my colleagues in the House of Representatives to see the broad support this bill has and pass it swiftly, so we can better protect innocent Americans from having their lives and reputations thrown into chaos.” Extremely powerful frontier AI could be misused by foreign adversaries, terrorists, and less sophisticated bad actors to cause widespread harm to the American public and threaten U.S. national security. While Congress considers how to approach new technology developments, Congress must prioritize AI’s potential implications. New laws or regulations sh… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T21:24:45Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/in-july-podcast-king-discusses-importance-of-rural-access-to-broadband | In July Podcast, King Discusses Importance of Rural Access to Broadband | 2024-07-27 | 2024 | 2024-07 | 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-ME), Co-Chair of the Senate Broadband Caucus, today released the July episode of his “Inside Maine” podcast, in which he highlighted the importance of expanding affordable high-speed internet access in rural communities as well as the work being done at the state and federal levels to bolster connectivity. During the podcast, Andrew Butcher, President of the Maine Connectivity Authority (MCA), joined Senator King to share his perspective on the importance of broadband accessibility and to provide an update on the various federal programs that are supporting broadband expansion across the state. Later in the podcast, Senator King spoke with Senator Joe Manchin (I-WV) about federal broadband expansion efforts in his state and the impacts on rural communities in both Maine and West Virginia. “Access to broadband is critically important for Maine people to go to work, attend school and receive medical care,” said Senator King. “In a digital world, high-speed internet is more important than ever — but getting online is not always easy to do, especially for those who live in rural communities. I am proud to work alongside my colleague Senator Manchin to ensure folks in every corner of the country have access to affordable, reliable internet, and want to thank Andrew Butcher for his work to create a more connected Maine.” A graduate of both American University and Carnegie Mellon University, Andrew Butcher moved to Maine in 2017. Since then, he served as the Director of the Maine Broadband Coalition, co-leading the successful effort to pass Governor Mills’ 2020 bond proposal providing $15 million to expand broadband. He also partnered with the Maine Technology Institute, the Connect Maine Authority, and the Maine Community Foundation to oversee data collection to support broadband deployment. In January 2022, after the Maine legislature confirmed his appointment, Butcher was sworn in by Governor Janet Mills as the first President of the Maine Connectivity Au… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T21:24:45Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-introduces-bicameral-legislation-to-prohibit-pharmaceutical-drug-advertising | King Introduces Bicameral Legislation to Prohibit Pharmaceutical Drug Advertising | 2024-07-26 | 2024 | 2024-07 | 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-ME) is introducing legislation with Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro (D-CT) to prohibit direct-to-consumer advertising of pharmaceutical drugs. The Responsibility in Drug Advertising Act would prohibit direct-to-consumer (DTC) advertising of a new drug in the first three years after the drug receives Federal Drug Administration (FDA) approval. The FDA could waive the third year of this prohibition if an affirmative value to public health is determined, or extend the prohibition if the drug has significant adverse health effects. The legislation comes as the world comes together to watch the 2024 Olympics which begins today. Drug advertisers use these tentpole moments, with millions of eyes on TV screens, to persuade and mislead consumers about specific drugs which can be costlier to patients, and hazardous to their health. In fact, NBCUniversal is on track to air more than $1 billion of advertisements in the United States throughout the 2024 Olympic Games. The United States is one of only two developed nations to allow DTC advertising for prescription drugs. “The widespread use of direct-to-consumer advertising by pharmaceutical companies drives up costs and doesn’t necessarily make patients healthier. It is misleading and frankly not safe for Maine people and all Americans looking for specific treatments to their conditions,” said Senator King. “The Responsibility in Drug Advertising Act would prohibit direct-to-consumer advertising of recently approved pharmaceutical drugs to protect people over profits — because all those advertising expenses end up being passed down to consumers. This bill is a great step to ensure that patients are getting the best information possible: we can start by making sure newly-approved drugs aren’t allowed to immediately flood the market with ads before we fully understand their impact on the general public.” “Americans are facing rising costs, and direct-to-consumer advertising exacerbates this,” said Congresswoman DeLauro. “In fact, we k… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T21:24:45Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-colleagues-demand-answers-from-openai-following-reports-of-safety-and-secrecy-concerns | King, Colleagues Demand Answers From OpenAI Following Reports of Safety and Secrecy Concerns | 2024-07-25 | 2024 | 2024-07 | 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 reports from whistleblowers and former employees at OpenAI voicing safety and security concerns, U.S. Senator Angus King (I-ME) joined four of his colleagues in calling on artificial intelligence (AI) research company OpenAI to honor its “public promises and mission” regarding essential safety standards. Since its founding in 2015, OpenAI has branded itself as a safety-conscious and responsible research organization. In the letter to OpenAI CEO Sam Altman, the senators highlight recent reporting that OpenAI whistleblowers and former employees have sounded alarms about OpenAI’s focus on ‘shiny products’ over safety and societal impacts, allowing AI systems to be deployed without adequate safety review and insufficient cybersecurity — as well as possible retribution against former employees who publicly air concerns. The senators also ask whether OpenAI’s commitments on AI safety remain in effect and request that the company reform its non-disparagement agreement practices that could deter whistleblowers from coming forward. “We write to you regarding recent reports about OpenAI’s safety and employment practices. OpenAI has announced a guiding commitment to the safe, secure, and responsible development of artificial intelligence (AI) in the public interest. These reports raise questions about how OpenAI is addressing emerging safety concerns,” the Senators wrote. The Senators continued, “Given OpenAI’s position as a leading AI company, it is important that the public can trust in the safety and security of its systems. This includes the integrity of the company’s governance structure and safety testing, its employment practices, its fidelity to its public promises and mission, and its cybersecurity policies.” According to reports, the company has failed to honor its public commitment to allocate 20-percent of computing resources to AI safety, reassigned long-term AI safety team members, and required departing employees to sign life-long non-disparagement agreements under threats of … | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T21:24:45Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-releases-statement-on-decision-to-not-attend-netanyahu-speech-to-joint-session-of-congress | King Releases Statement on Decision to Not Attend Netanyahu Speech to Joint Session of Congress | 2024-07-24 | 2024 | 2024-07 | 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, a senior member of the Senate Armed Services and Intelligence Committees, released the following statement ahead of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s speech to a joint session of Congress: “While I am and always have been an unwavering supporter of Israel — and Israel’s right to defend itself and defeat Hamas after October 7 — I strongly disagree with the Netanyahu government’s initial conduct of the war and, especially, its current lack of postwar planning for Gaza and the risks that poses to long-term regional stability. For this reason I have made the decision to not attend today’s Joint Session of Congress. “I did not make this decision lightly. For nearly 10 months, the Israeli people have been fighting a war they did not start and a war that they did not want. And for those same 10 months, Hamas has been using fellow Palestinians as human shields and holding innocent civilians hostage, including several Americans and those of other nationalities. I understand Prime Minister Netanyahu’s frustration and love for country, but I do not agree with his apparent unwillingness to plan for post-war Gaza, and, in fact, believe that his failure to do so has done serious harm to Israel as well as prospects for long-term peace in the region. “It's not an overstatement to say that this is one of the most deep-seated and complex conflicts in the modern world. But its complexity does not eliminate a simple human truth: civilian casualties are always to be avoided to the maximum extent possible, and civilian pain and suffering addressed. “I recognize that the Israeli Defense Forces significantly changed their military approach earlier this year shortly after I met with the Prime Minister and Defense Minister in Tel Aviv and indeed operations in Gaza have been more targeted and less destructive in the last six months of the war compared to the first three months, but the government’s failure to full cooperate in addressing the dire humanitarian needs in Gaza rema… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T21:24:45Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/at-conclusion-of-army-reserve-and-army-ig-investigations-into-lewiston-shooting-maine-delegation-urges-dod-to-swiftly-implement-recommended-actions | At Conclusion of Army Reserve and Army IG Investigations into Lewiston Shooting, Maine Delegation Urges DoD to Swiftly Implement Recommended Actions | 2024-07-23 | 2024 | 2024-07 | 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 and U.S. Representatives Chellie Pingree and Jared Golden are urging the Department of Defense (DoD) to immediately implement the actions recommended as a result of the Army Reserve and Army Inspector General investigations following the Lewiston shooting. For instance, in the letter to Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin, the Delegation calls on the DoD to update its Psychological Health Program Standard Operating Procedures, its assessments of transition programs, and other similar and related programs. Additionally, the letter urges DoD to take immediate steps to determine whether or not the medical facility that treated the gunman provided adequate care. “The U.S. Army Reserve Command’s AR 15-6 investigation and the U.S. Army Inspector General’s subsequent review identified multiple recommendations that—if followed—will benefit the Department of Defense as it provides care for service members. While we continue to press for change, we feel a sense of frustration because, truthfully, recommendations are nothing without action,” the Delegation wrote. The Delegation continued, “Therefore, we are deeply interested in how your office intends to implement these recommendations, as well as the timeline for implementation. This is life and death and, as we have seen over the past few years, delays can be costly. For instance, the AR 15-6 memorandum explains that the U.S. Army Reserve ‘averaged 44 suicides over the past four calendar years, which necessitates a better response to mental health.’ Moreover, the Defense Health Agency has a responsibility to determine if Four Winds, where SFC Card had been a patient, failed to provide adequate treatment and, if so, to take appropriate action.” “Multiple recommended policy changes for the U.S. Army Reserve Command are included in the reports as well,” the Delegation wrote. “Such recommendations include updates to the Psychological Health Program Standard Operating Procedures and initiation procedures for… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T21:24:45Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-leads-introduction-of-bipartisan-bill-to-improve-cybersecurity-in-health-care | King Leads Introduction of Bipartisan Bill to Improve Cybersecurity in Health Care | 2024-07-22 | 2024 | 2024-07 | 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-ME), co-chair of the Cyberspace Solarium Commission, is leading the introduction of a bipartisan bill to improve cybersecurity in health care. The Healthcare Cybersecurity Act would direct the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) and the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to collaborate on improving cybersecurity and make resources available to non-federal entities relating to cyber threat indicators and appropriate defense measures. It would also create a special liaison to HHS within CISA who would coordinate during cybersecurity incidents. The legislation is cosponsored by Senators Jacky Rosen (D-NV) and Todd Young (R-IN). Recent reporting has indicated an exponential increase in cybersecurity attacks against healthcare systems across the country, including the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). In 2023, approximately 133 million people had their health data, such as Medicare beneficiary data, social security numbers, and medical records breached. In Maine, Northern Light Health computers were compromised via a server breach, but patient records were not affected. Northern Light Health is one of the latest Maine health care systems, including Mount Desert Island Hospital and others, to become victim to a cyber attack — underscoring the importance of strong cybersecurity efforts to protect Maine patients from bad actors. “Healthcare cyberattacks are a growing threat nationwide, and also hit home for Maine, where several major healthcare systems have been compromised in recent years due to cybercrimes,” said Senator King, co-chair of the Cyberspace Solarium Commission. “These attacks and breaches of data can literally mean the difference between life and death for patients, significantly impact hospital operations, and — with the average hack costing millions to address — increase healthcare prices across the board. The bipartisan Healthcare Cybersecurity Act will take important steps toward protecting patients’ data and… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T21:24:45Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-releases-statement-in-response-to-president-biden-ending-presidential-campaign | King Releases Statement in Response to President Biden Ending Presidential Campaign | 2024-07-21 | 2024 | 2024-07 | 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 released the following statement in response to President Biden’s announcement ending his presidential campaign: “In his farewell address, George Washington said, ‘that, in withdrawing the tender of service which silence in my situation might imply, I am influenced by no diminution of zeal for your future interest, no deficiency of grateful respect.’ Like our first president, Joe Biden recognizes that the presidency is not about one person, or one party. It’s about the American people. And today, in one of the most challenging geopolitical moments in history, the American people are in need of a new leader who can take on those abroad who are trying to destroy freedom and democracy, while also meeting our challenges here at home and ensuring our nation lives up to its highest ideals. “President Biden’s decision to step aside from his reelection run will cement his legacy among some of the greatest statesmen in our country’s history. Biden’s decision today continues his sound commitment to service and is the ultimate act of patriotism.” ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T21:24:45Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/presque-isle-native-jordyn-madore-named-regional-representative-for-aroostook-county | Presque Isle Native Jordyn Madore Named Regional Representative for Aroostook County | 2024-07-19 | 2024 | 2024-07 | 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 has announced that Presque Isle native, Jordyn Madore, has been promoted to Regional Representative for Aroostook County. Madore, who has been working with Senator King for seven years, will also continue to serve as a Constituent Services Representative in Aroostook County. “I am excited to announce the promotion of Jordyn Madore to Regional Representative for Aroostook County, a hard-earned and well-deserved reward for her tireless commitment to the people of Aroostook County,” said Senator King. “From her time working with community support organizations to her philanthropic work, Jordyn represents the very best of Maine. I know that with her deep ties to Presque Isle and passion for her community, Jordyn will provide the very best service to all Maine people in Aroostook County. I look forward to seeing all the great work she will continue to do on behalf of our state as she takes on this new role.” Jordyn Madore, a Presque Isle native and graduate of Presque Isle High School, attended the University of Maine at Farmington, where she received her Bachelor of Science in K-8 Elementary and Special Education. She returned to The County in 2012 where she put her degree to use working as a behavioral health and community support worker for children and families throughout the area. She then began her role as Program Coordinator for Aroostook Aspirations Initiative’s internship and scholar program. In 2017, she joined Senator King in his Aroostook County office as a Constituent Services Representative where she works directly with constituents to ensure they have access to their elected Member of Congress. She also assists with resolving issues pertaining to federal agencies. In her spare time, Jordyn is a passionate volunteer and is involved in several community organizations. She is a proud member of the Rotary Club of Presque Isle, where she served as 2023 – 2024 Club President and currently serves as the club's Youth and Literacy Committee Chair. Jordyn is al… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T21:24:45Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/collins-king-urge-usda-action-to-protect-americas-potato-crops | Collins, King Urge USDA Action to Protect America’s Potato Crops | 2024-07-18 | 2024 | 2024-07 | 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 joined 16 of their Senate colleagues in sending a bipartisan letter to U.S. Department of Agriculture Secretary Thomas Vilsack expressing their serious concerns about the potential of potato wart spreading from potato imports originating from Canada’s Prince Edward Island (PEI). In the letter, the Senators urged for the implementation of additional mitigation measures to prevent introduction into the United States. Potato wart is a highly destructive disease that can spread via infected potatoes and soil, reduce crop yields, and make potatoes unmarketable domestically or internationally. There is currently no treatment available to eliminate it from contaminated farmland where it can persist in the soil for decades. “If potato wart should enter the United States, our farmers and the communities they support will be economically devastated,” the Senators wrote. “Given that twenty percent of our potato crop—valued at over $2 billion—is exported, we cannot allow introduction of a disease that would shut off access to international markets, and also curtail domestic production and sales.” Despite current USDA regulations identifying soil testing as the most effective tool to detect potato wart, the USDA does not require testing of PEI fields prior to potatoes being cleared for export to the U.S. In order to protect this crucial American crop and those who depend on it for salary or sustenance, the senators urged the USDA to take swift action to mitigate the potato wart risk associated with imports from PEI by taking three actions: Restrict bulk shipments into the United States to smaller-size packages: Bulk shipments of potatoes into the United States are often broken down into smaller sizes at intermediate facilities within the United States prior to being shipped across the country. During this repacking process, a substantial amount of waste is generated, which can then transmit the potato wart disease. USDA should limit these large bulk shipments to … | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T21:24:45Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/collins-king-announce-more-than-611000-for-upgrades-to-presque-isle-international-airport | Collins, King Announce More Than $611,000 for Upgrades to Presque Isle International Airport | 2024-07-15 | 2024 | 2024-07 | 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 Presque Isle International Airport is being awarded grant funding for infrastructure upgrades. The Department of Transportation awards, totaling $611,647, will support the construction of a new 15,000 square yard terminal apron to accommodate increased use of larger scheduled passenger aircrafts. The funding will also support updates to the existing pavement management plan, which includes the pavement condition index survey. This project was funded through the Airport Improvement Grant Program, which provides vital resources for maintaining and upgrading airport infrastructure. It is expected to enhance the passenger experience, bring more business to the region, and create additional opportunities for economic development. “Maine's regional airports play an important role in our state’s transportation network, connecting people and businesses with communities throughout the state,” said Senators Collins and King. “This grant will support the expansion of Presque Isle International Airport’s capacity for scheduled commercial flights while also creating economic opportunities throughout the state. By investing in our airports, we are ensuring Maine’s communities remain connected and primed for continued economic success.” More specifically, the funding is allocated as follows: $481,117 for the design phase of the construction of a new terminal apron to accommodate larger passenger aircraft $130,530 for the Pavement Management Plan Senator Collins, Vice Chair of the Appropriations Committee and former 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. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T21:24:45Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-joins-bipartisan-legislation-to-protect-american-critical-mineral-supply-chain | King Joins Bipartisan Legislation to Protect American Critical Mineral Supply Chain | 2024-07-12 | 2024 | 2024-07 | 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 introducing bipartisan legislation to protect and secure the supply chain of critical minerals. The Global Strategy for Securing Critical Minerals Act of 2024 would ensure that the United States, its allies, and global partners can count on a diverse and secure end-to-end supply of critical minerals. Specifically, the legislation would enhance diplomatic and financial tools to support the procurement and processing of these minerals. Critical minerals, such as lithium, nickel, cobalt, and rare earth elements, are necessary inputs for technologies that play critical roles in our national security, including military equipment and defense systems, as well as emerging technologies such as electric vehicles and storage for our power grid. Unfortunately, the People’s Republic of China (PRC) currently dominates the mining, processing, and manufacturing of the majority of these minerals – raising significant economic and national security concerns. To combat the dominance of the PRC, this legislation would ensure a secure supply of these minerals. Senator King recently cosponsored bipartisan legislation to help the United States reduce its supply chain dependence on China for key minerals used in military technologies and consumer goods. “Critical minerals are essential to both America’s national security and our supply chain resiliency, since these raw materials are used in both our military equipment and personal technology,” said Senator King. “The Global Strategy for Securing Critical Minerals Act of 2024 would help us firm up financial and diplomatic efforts so we can secure United States’ access to domestic and allied critical minerals while undercutting Chinese dominance. Any continued reliance on China, and other bad actors, for these resources is downright dangerous so we must make it easier to invest in and access our own rare earth minerals supply chain.” Specifically, the legislation would: Streamline diplomatic efforts for securing minerals; Establish diplo… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T21:24:45Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/cyber-caucus-co-chair-king-highlights-workforce-challenges-attack-origins-among-top-concerns-for-americas-cyber-defense | Cyber Caucus Co-Chair King Highlights Workforce Challenges, Attack Origins Among Top Concerns for America’s Cyber Defense | 2024-07-11 | 2024 | 2024-07 | 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 a hearing of the Senate Armed Services Committee (SASC), U.S. Senator Angus King, Co-Chair of the Cyberspace Solarium Commission, pressed top Defense officials on the most pressing challenges for America’s cyber defense capabilities. In a conversation with Dr. Michael Sulmeyer, the nominee to serve as the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Cyber Policy, King asked about the U.S. government’s ability to identify the sources of cyber attack — where a hack can originate in a foreign country but then be directed through servers in a third country before impacting America’s infrastructure. Senator King also raised questions about what efforts are being made to further expand the government’s cyber workforce amid shortage concerns. Senator King began his line of questioning by asking Dr. Sulmeyer about tracing cyberattacks and whether or not a centralized cyber office would help the U.S. government become more efficient. “Mr. Sulmeyer, a couple of quick questions for you. One is attribution if we are talking about a cyberattack, it is becoming harder and to determine where it comes from. Does the U.S. government have sufficient resources in a coherent structure to do attribution of cyber attacks in a timely and reasonably certain way,” asked Senator King. “Senator, the tools and the experience necessary to attribute adversary cyber activity have to keep evolving with their behavior. I believe that historically we have been able to attribute and understand with varying levels of confidence at different times who is doing what,” replied Dr. Sulmeyer. “The difference is when the government is willing and when it makes sense to say so publicly versus when to be private about it, but I commit to working with the committee and of course my leadership on that transparency.” “My question is ‘Who is we?’ Is there a central office somewhere in the federal government of attribution or is some of it in the FBI, some of it in the CIA? I am just concerned that this is such an important question that institu… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T21:24:45Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-cosponsors-effort-to-protect-affordable-housing-market-in-maine | King Cosponsors Effort to Protect Affordable Housing Market in Maine | 2024-07-11 | 2024 | 2024-07 | 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 joined in the introduction of critical legislation to protect the affordable housing market in Maine and across the country. The Manufactured Housing Community Sustainability Act would encourage manufactured home park owners interested in selling their properties to sell the land to their residents, rather than another landlord or a developer. If passed by Congress, this would allow more Americans to stay in their homes and protect them from excessive rent increases. Currently, 22 million Americans are living in manufactured housing in over 50,000 manufactured housing communities (MHC). Without rent control, out-of-state and corporate ownership can result in higher lot fees and rents, pushing long-term residents out of their homes. Maine has over 600 MHCs, the most out of any New England state, 10 of which are resident-owned housing cooperatives. Up to one-fifth of MHCs in Maine are owned by out-of-state investors, with little connection to the residents or community profile. “Communities across America are facing a serious affordable housing crisis, so we must continue to provide creative solutions to lower housing prices across the country,” said Senator King. “The Manufactured Housing Community Sustainability Act would give residents the opportunity to form a cooperative and buy the land to keep large out-of-state investors from buying out their landlord and jacking up rent prices. This step is a simple way to ensure that Maine residents can stay in their homes at an affordable price, while also giving tenants a stake in their property.” Specifically, the Manufactured Housing Community Sustainability Act would create a 75 percent federal tax credit offsetting capital gains if the property is sold to a resident-owned cooperative or nonprofit. This economic incentive would empower communities and keep more families in their homes, while protecting the long-term viability of this important sector of our nation’s affordable housing market. Maine has already passed … | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T21:24:45Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/collins-king-applaud-ntia-approval-of-remaining-266-million-in-broadband-funding-for-the-state-of-maine | Collins, King Applaud NTIA Approval of Remaining $266 Million in Broadband Funding for the State of Maine | 2024-07-10 | 2024 | 2024-07 | 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, Vice Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, and Angus King, Co-Chair of the Senate Broadband Caucus, today applauded news that the remainder of the previously announced $271,977,723 in funding for the Maine Connectivity Authority (MCA) has been approved through the National Telecommunications and Information Administration’s (NTIA) Broadband Equity, Access and Deployment (BEAD) program. In November 2022, Senator Collins and King announced that that MCA was awarded the first $5 million of this total through the BEAD program to support the development of its Five-Year Action Plan, which identifies Maine’s priorities for broadband and digital investments. The MCA will use this now approved $266,977,723 in remaining funding to expand high-speed internet access across Maine and to help close the broadband availability gap through its approved Five-Year Action Plan. Funded by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, BEAD is a federal grant program that aims to get all Americans online by funding partnerships between states or territories, communities, and stakeholders to build infrastructure necessary for the increased adoption of high-speed internet. BEAD prioritizes unserved locations that have no internet access or limited access. “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 make historic investments to extend its high-speed network to ensure that families have a reliable connection to their loved ones, co-workers, schools, and medical services.” “In the 21st century, high-speed, affordable broadband is no longer a luxury — it’s a necess… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T21:24:45Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/to-celebrate-independence-day-king-interviews-army-national-guard-veteran | To Celebrate Independence Day, King Interviews Army National Guard Veteran | 2024-07-04 | 2024 | 2024-07 | 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. — On this Independence Day, U.S. Senator Angus King, a member of the Senate Veterans Affairs (SVAC) and Armed Services Committees (SASC), released his latest episode of “Answering the Call: Maine’s Veteran Voices.” In the 15th interview of the series, produced in partnership with the Library of Congress’ Veterans History Project, Senator King spoke with Angela Baker of Pittsfield. Baker served with the Army National Guard for 20 years, during which she deployed to Iraq to support Operation Iraqi Freedom. During the interview, King asked Baker about her active duty service with the Guard and her work today with the American Legion. “Angela’s story is moving and one that truly showcases the selfless spirit of Maine people,” said Senator King. “From being inspired to join the Maine Guard after seeing the impact that the National Guard had on her own community’s recovery from a devastating ice storm to serving alongside her battalion overseas in Iraq and now working with veterans at home in Maine, Angela has lived a life of service and integrity. As we celebrate Independence Day, let us take a moment to recognize and honor all the brave men and women — like Angela — whose dedication to our nation allows us to enjoy our freedoms today.” Angela Baker was born in Lewiston and grew up in Buckfield. Inspired by the National Guard’s assistance to Maine residents during the Ice Storm of 1998, Baker joined the Maine Guard at the age of 17, while still a junior in high school. She completed Basic Training at Fort Jackson, South Carolina, before finishing her senior year at Buckfield High School. Upon graduation, she attended Advanced Individual Training (AIT) in Gulfport, Mississippi, to become a carpenter mason specialist. From 2000 to 2003, she worked on the Maine Guard’s State Active Duty construction crew based out of Camp Keyes in Augusta. During this time, she also worked as a child behavioral specialist in Augusta and as a restaurant server. In 2003, three years after completing her AIT, Baker was … | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T21:24:45Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-urges-defense-department-to-expedite-protection-of-servicemembers-from-blasts-and-tbis | King Urges Defense Department to Expedite Protection of Servicemembers from Blasts and TBIs | 2024-07-03 | 2024 | 2024-07 | 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 senior member of the Senate Armed Services (SASC) and Veterans Affairs (SVAC) Committees, is urging the Department of Defense (DOD) to protect servicemembers from traumatic brain injuries (TBI) and the after effects on mental health. In a letter to Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin, King suggests that the DOD must take immediate actions to conduct baseline screenings of servicemembers for brain injuries. The letter comes in response to continued Maine reporting on medical tests of the Lewiston shooter – who was found to have suffered from acute TBI as well as a New York Times article exposing the DOD’s lack of plans to treat and prevent TBIs caused by time in the service. During just three months in 2023, DoD provided treatment to service members nearly 50,000 times for traumatic brain injuries (TBI), which are considered the “signature wound” of the Iraq and Afghanistan wars. For troops with mild TBI, “the most important cause of brain injury was the long-term exposure to explosive weapons.” Researchers in Afghanistan also determined that, “75 percent of the troops’ [blast] exposure was coming from their own weapons.” Despite this, service members continue to train with weapons with unsafe blast levels, and sadly, many have of these injuries have led to high levels of mental illness and suicide. “I am frustrated by continued reports of the Department’s lack of urgency and coordination in addressing brain injuries and their effects on mental health. The personal stories we are hearing of lives lost and families and communities traumatized are as infuriating as they are heartbreaking,” King wrote. “We must do better,” King continued. “Specifically, I urge you to take immediate actions to conduct baseline screening of servicemembers for brain injuries, including traumatic brain injuries, beginning with higher risk populations. Not only is this a policy issue I’ve been working to confront through work with the Pentagon and VA through my committee assignments, this is a … | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T21:24:45Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/to-celebrate-maine-dairy-month-king-discusses-future-of-dairy-industry-on-june-podcast | To Celebrate Maine Dairy Month, King Discusses Future of Dairy Industry on June Podcast | 2024-06-29 | 2024 | 2024-06 | 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-ME) today released the June episode of his “Inside Maine” podcast, in which he highlighted June as ‘Maine Dairy Month’ and discussed the importance of the industry to the state economy. During the podcast, Jenni Tilton-Flood, a dairy advocate and farmer, joined Senator King to share her experiences with dairy farming and how it supports rural communities across the state. Later in the podcast, Patricia Henderson, the Farm Superintendent at the University of Maine Franklin Witter Teaching and Research Center, joined Senator King to share her perspective on how some of the school’s current educational initiatives can bolster youth engagement in dairy farming. “Maine’s dairy industry has a lasting tradition of contributing to our shared identity and strengthening our economy,” said Senator King. “June marks a time of celebration as we recognize the hard work and resilience of our Maine dairy farms. I appreciate Jenni and Patricia joining me to discuss the future of the industry and ways Maine people can support their local dairy farms.” Jenni Tilton-Flood grew up in Clinton, ME, the daughter of a local John Deere salesman. She originally attended Clark University, studying Comparative Foreign Policy/International Relations and Sustainable Agriculture before realizing she did not want to feed the whole world but rather her corner of it. Jenni returned home to rural Maine, joining her father's farm equipment business, and met her now-husband Dana Flood. The Floods have been farming the fields of central Maine for more than 200 years, with three generations currently caring for 3400 cows. Jenni is an outspoken advocate on behalf of her rural community, agriculture, food systems, equity & justice, and sustainability. She serves as the chair of Volunteer Maine, commissioner of Maine’s Commission for Community Service, chair of Maine Dairy & Nutrition Council, and represents Maine nationally as a director of the National Dairy Promotion and Research Board (NDB)… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T21:11:47Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-pingree-announce-23-million-dot-grant-to-electrify-acadia-national-park-buses | King, Pingree Announce $23 Million DOT Grant to Electrify Acadia National Park Buses | 2024-06-28 | 2024 | 2024-06 | 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 Congresswoman Chellie Pingree today announced Downeast Transportation Inc. (DTI) is being awarded $23,529,000 to fund the acquisition of 23 electric buses and charging infrastructure — after they wrote a letter to Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg expressing their support for the project. Supported by the Department of Transportation (DOT) Rebuilding American Infrastructure with Sustainability and Equity (RAISE) grants, the award would replace 21 propane-fueled buses in the active fleet with electric buses, as well as fund two additional electric buses to expand the fleet. Acadia National Park recently started construction of the new Acadia Gateway Center on Route 3 in Trenton — funding for which Senator King helped secure — that will be the central hub for accessing Acadia. RAISE grants invest in a wide variety of transportation projects at the state and local level that work to improve safety, environmental suitability, community connectivity and economic development. The grants are funded through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which provides $1.5 billion annually for the program through fiscal year 2026. Senator King and Congresswoman Pingree both voted in favor of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law in 2021. “Public transit is an essential service for Maine communities — helping folks commute to work affordably, connecting families, and supporting visitors coming to experience ‘The Way Life Should Be.’ The electrification of the Downeast Transit Inc. bus fleet will help ensure Maine people and visitors alike can continue to rely on this critical bus service across Hancock County, and in Acadia National Park, as well as help to further Maine’s climate goals,” said Senator King and Congresswoman Pingree. “Made possible through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, we are proud to support this important and environmentally friendly project.” DTI is the authorized public transit provider for Hancock County, operating critical year-round commuter bus service … | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T21:11:47Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-urges-pentagon-to-ensure-access-to-contraception-for-service-members-and-dependents | King Urges Pentagon to Ensure Access to Contraception for Service Members and Dependents | 2024-06-27 | 2024 | 2024-06 | 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-ME), a senior member of the Senate Armed Services Committee (SASC), joined his colleagues in urging the Pentagon to implement policies ensuring access to contraception for service members and their dependents. In a letter to Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin, the Senators call on DOD to comply with the FY 2016 NDAA by revising its pre-deployment form to allow service members to indicate if they would like to receive contraception counseling on the full range of contraceptive methods. The Senators also urge the DOD to implement the provisions included in the FY 2016 and FY 2017 NDAAs to expand access to contraception for service members. “We write to urge the Department of Defense (DoD) to take additional action to ensure service members and their dependents can access their contraceptive of choice,” the Senators wrote. “In 2022, 18.3 percent of active duty service women reported that they were unable to access their preferred birth control method from the Military Health Service. As Congress continues to seek to address this issue, including by working to pass the Access to Contraception for Service Members and Dependents Act, we respectfully request an update on the DoD’s efforts to implement policies previously mandated by Congress that would expand access to contraception for service members.” The Senators continued, “Expanding access to contraception is critical to meeting the needs of service members, as well as recruiting and retaining members of our Armed Forces. We look forward to learning more about the barriers preventing the Department from implementing provisions mandated by Congress to protect and expand service members’ access to contraception and contraceptive counseling.” Joining King on the letter are U.S. Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Jack Reed (D-RI), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Jacky Rosen (D-NV), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Maize Hirono (D-HI), Mark Kelly (D-AZ), and Gary Peters (D… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T21:11:47Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-pingree-announce-25-million-dot-grant-for-east-deering-neighborhood | King, Pingree Announce $25 Million DOT Grant for East Deering Neighborhood | 2024-06-26 | 2024 | 2024-06 | 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 Congresswoman Chellie Pingree today announced the Maine Department of Transportation (MaineDOT) is being awarded $25 million to fund community infrastructure projects in the East Deering neighborhood in Portland — months after they expressed support for the project in a letter to Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg. Supported by the Department of Transportation (DOT) Rebuilding American Infrastructure with Sustainability and Equity (RAISE) grants, the funding will be used to install and restore shared-use transportation pathways, upgrade roads and intersections, and adjust an interstate off-ramp to mitigate traffic. RAISE grants invest in a wide variety of transportation projects at the state and local level that work to improve safety, environmental suitability, community connectivity and economic development. The grants are funded through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which provides $1.5 billion annually for the program through fiscal year 2026. Senator King and Congresswoman Pingree both voted in favor of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law in 2021. “East Deering is an iconic Portland neighborhood that boasts historic residences and beautiful coastline views,” said Senator King and Congresswoman Pingree. “As the neighborhood continues to grow, modern infrastructure improvements will be critical to improving community connectivity. This funding from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law will help revitalize East Deering, making it more accessible and safe for those who call it home.” The grant comes as Northeastern University begins construction of its new Roux Institute in the East Deering neighborhood. Currently, there is only one road available to access the campus, raising concerns from residents about increased traffic. The adjusted interstate off-ramp will help alleviate concerns and improve traffic flow. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T21:11:47Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-colleagues-urge-panama-to-halt-illegal-iranian-oil-ghost-fleet | King, Colleagues Urge Panama to Halt Illegal Iranian Oil “Ghost Fleet” | 2024-06-24 | 2024 | 2024-06 | 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-ME) and a bipartisan group of his colleagues are urging the President of Panama to close an essential information-sharing gap critical to preventing Iran from transporting its oil under the Panamanian flag — a clear violation of U.S. sanctions. Iranian oil sanctions imposed in 2018 and 2019 cut off a significant source of revenue the regime uses to fund terrorist organizations like Hezbollah and Hamas, cartels, nuclear proliferation and other nefarious activity in the Middle East and the Western Hemisphere. However, the Iranian regime has tried to escape the oil sanctions by registering ships carrying its oil under the flags of other nations. Earlier this year, after receiving a letter from Senator King and his colleagues, the Panama Maritime Authority (AMP) made progress by opening investigations into all ships suspected of transporting Iranian oil and has since removed at least 32 vessels from its registry. “This additional step will help put a stop to Iran’s ghost fleet, which has allowed it to export hundreds of millions of barrels of Iranian oil in recent years and which ultimately funds the regime’s continued human rights violations, proxy forces, and nuclear proliferation program. Iran consistently works in opposition to peace, stability, democracy, and shared American values and interests across the Middle East,” the Senators wrote. As a senior member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, and Chair of the Subcommittee on Strategic Forces, Senator King is an active, vocal supporter of the importance of democratic values and defeating terrorism. Earlier this year, he joined a bipartisan group of his colleagues in writing a letter urging a global crackdown on the transport of Iranian oil. After a January congressional delegation trip to the Middle East, Senator King reflected on the trip by warning that continued Houthi attacks, an Iranian-backed terrorist proxy, on international shipping lanes would warrant a response. Senator King has also been outspoken o… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T21:11:47Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/collins-king-join-resolution-congratulating-boston-celtics-on-nba-finals-win | Collins, King Join Resolution Congratulating Boston Celtics on NBA Finals Win | 2024-06-21 | 2024 | 2024-06 | 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. – This week, U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King joined the New England congressional delegation in introducing a Senate resolution congratulating the Boston Celtics for winning their record-setting 18th NBA championship against the Dallas Mavericks. “All of New England cheers whenever our Celtics return to the pinnacle of professional basketball,” said Senator Collins. “I am proud to join my New England colleagues in congratulating Coach Joe Mazzulla – a former Maine Red Claws assistant coach – and the entire Celtics organization on their record-setting 18th championship. We look forward to the pursuit?of another title next year, and may our region always bleed green.” “An 18th championship banner up in the rafters is going to be a nice look for the Celtics, and put them back ahead of the rest of the NBA – where they belong,”said Senator King. “The way the Celtics won the title this year was refreshing – it felt like someone different stepped up every game of the Finals – and a great lesson in hard work and perseverance. The parade may be in Boston, but all of New England is celebrating.” Senators Edward Markey (D-MA), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Maggie Hassan (D-NH), Peter Welch (D-VT), Jack Reed (D-RI), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), Chris Murphy (D-CT) and Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) are also cosponsors. The complete text of the resolution can be read here. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T21:11:47Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/maine-delegation-announces-nearly-13-million-to-support-stem-programs-in-rural-maine | Maine Delegation Announces Nearly $1.3 Million to Support STEM Programs in Rural Maine | 2024-06-21 | 2024 | 2024-06 | 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 that the Maine Mathematics and Science Alliance (MMSA) has been awarded $1,299,377 in funding from the National Science Foundation (NSF) to launch the Rural Energy Futures (REF) project. Through the REF program, 8th-grade students in rural communities across the state will learn math while exploring local energy issues. “This funding will help prepare the next generation of Maine students for future careers in critical STEM industries, particularly the energy sector,” the Delegation said. “Providing students with the knowledge of opportunities that will be available to them to live and work in Maine is essential for maintaining a robust local economy while ensuring that our state remains a leader in innovative energy technologies.” “Supporting students as they engage in discussions with people in their own neighborhoods about energy projects and career opportunities will build capacity and understanding from the ground up to ensure our communities move toward energy solutions that work for them. This project will serve as a model for other rural areas, demonstrating how to harness local knowledge and build community strength around novel technologies and futures,” said MMSA Executive Director Dr. Ruth Kermish-Allen. Specifically, this funding will support the creation of a middle school math curriculum focused on clean energy development, involving 48 teachers and 720 students across 12 rural schools. The curriculum will enhance STEM competencies, local knowledge, and career awareness, while actively supporting the NSF priority of developing a capable energy workforce. Leading this work at MMSA are Principal Investigator Dr. Heidi Cian, and Co-Principal Investigators Dr. Ruth Kermish-Allen, Alexandria Brasili, and Hannah Lakin. In addition to the team at MMSA, key partners include the Roux Institute at Northeastern University, the Governor's Energy Office, and rural middle school educat… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T21:11:47Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-cosponsors-bipartisan-bill-to-support-careers-of-military-spouses-and-families | King Cosponsors Bipartisan Bill to Support Careers of Military Spouses and Families | 2024-06-20 | 2024 | 2024-06 | 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-ME), a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee (SASC), is adding his support to bipartisan legislation that supports job flexibility for military spouses and their families. The Resilient Employment and Authorization Determination to Increase the National Employment of Serving Spouses (READINESS) Act, developed by current and former federally employed military spouses, aims to encourage the retainment of military spouses across the federal government and lower high employee turnover by encouraging more flexible remote working options. Currently, military spouse unemployment has remained more than 20% for three decades, and is six times the national unemployment rate. More than one-third of military families cite spouse employment challenges as a reason for leaving active duty. Military and foreign service moves are involuntary, a consideration unique to this small group of federal employees. The lack of agency flexibility often results in spouses being forced to resign under threat of termination. The dearth of available jobs around many military bases then results in career breaks or voluntary demotions, negatively impacting the military family’s financial health. “Military families make many sacrifices while defending America’s freedom and democracy, and too often, this includes spouses putting aside careers or turning down opportunities to pursue the American dream,” said Senator King. “The bipartisan READINESS Act is a commonsense bill to help military spouses maintain stable careers within the federal government. This country is forever indebted to our military families and the sacrifices they have made. I want to thank my colleagues for their support serving our military families—just as they continue to serve us.” More specifically, the READINESS Act creates a decision tree when an employee presents their supervisor with military or foreign service orders. 1) Can this employee’s position be performed remotely; 2) can they transfer to an agency position… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T21:11:47Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-commemorates-juneteenth-holiday-to-mark-end-of-slavery-in-america | King Commemorates Juneteenth Holiday to Mark End of Slavery in America | 2024-06-19 | 2024 | 2024-06 | 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 released the following statement marking Juneteenth, a day also known as “Emancipation Day,” which commemorates the end of slavery in the United States: “For more than 150 years, Juneteenth has reflected the contradiction inherent in America’s identity – it is both a celebration of the freedom that defines our national character, and a reminder that we are only a few generations removed from the inhumane institution of slavery. But the path to freedom isn’t complete. It wasn’t complete in 1865, and sadly, it’s not complete today. “Today, I’m asking Maine people that we meet the promise of America, and that we live our principles. That we provide more than rhetoric. That we work together on actions and policies to make our society more inclusive, more welcoming, and more just. It is fitting that this day be recognized as a national holiday, providing all Americans with the opportunity to reflect upon how much progress we have made, and all the unfinished work ahead of us. If we are to truly craft a more perfect union, we must mark today’s holiday as a step in the path towards that better future.” On June 19, 1865, in Galveston, Texas, Major General Gordon Granger issued General Order No. 3, which announced that, in accordance with the Emancipation Proclamation, “all slaves are free.” Juneteenth is celebrated by states and municipalities as an official holiday or day of observance, including in Maine. The Juneteenth National Independence Day Act, signed into law in 2021, was introduced by Senators Edward J. Markey (D-MA), John Cornyn (R-TX), Tina Smith (D-MN), and Cory Booker (D-NJ) and co-sponsored by 60 Senators, including Senator King. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T21:11:47Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senators-collins-king-announce-uss-forrest-sherman-to-visit-eastport-for-fourth-of-july-celebration | Senators Collins, King Announce USS Forrest Sherman to Visit Eastport for Fourth of July Celebration | 2024-06-18 | 2024 | 2024-06 | 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, a senior member of the Senate Armed Forces Committee (SASC), announced today that Eastport will receive a port visit during the city’s 2024 Fourth of July celebration. The U.S. Navy has committed to sending the guided missile destroyer USS Forrest Sherman (DDG-98), which has a crew complement of approximately 280 sailors. The Eastport Fourth of July parade and festival is the largest in the state and draws thousands of Maine people every year. “We appreciate that the U.S. Navy will honor the State of Maine with this port visit during Eastport’s popular Fourth of July Festival,” said Senators Collins and King. “This visit will provide those who serve in the U.S. Navy and the citizens they protect an opportunity to come together to celebrate our independence. We thank the Navy for making this visit possible.” In an Armed Service hearing last month, Senator King urged U.S. Navy Admiral Lisa Franchetti to bring the ship to Maine in an effort to focus recruitment efforts in areas lacking a military presence. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T21:11:47Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-co-sponsors-bipartisan-legislation-to-honor-wwii-nurses-with-congressional-gold-medal | King Co-Sponsors Bipartisan Legislation to Honor WWII Nurses with Congressional Gold Medal | 2024-06-17 | 2024 | 2024-06 | 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-ME), a member of the Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee (SVAC), has joined bipartisan legislation to honor World War II nurses with a Congressional Gold Medal. The WWII Nurses Congressional Gold Medal Act will award the more than 59,000 Army Nurses and 14,000 Navy Nurses who bravely served in World War II with a Congressional Gold Medal. Nurses like Helen Siragusa, who passed away in Winthrop last year at 100 years old, were the true embodiment of “Dirigo” as they served and led the nation in the midst of one of the deadliest wars. This award recognizes their selfless service on behalf of the nation. “It is an honor to join my colleagues in seeking to recognize the selfless service of the thousands of Army and Navy nurses who put their lives on the line to save others,” said Senator King. “The recognition of a Congressional Gold Medal acknowledges all of their sacrifices and contributions in support of our great American ideals: democracy and freedom. I am proud to join this bipartisan effort to permanently weave the historic deeds of our frontline workers into the fabric of our collective conscience.” The WWII Nurses Congressional Gold Medal Act is supported by the American Red Cross, Friends of the National World War II Memorial, the National Military Women’s War Memorial, and Naples-Monte Cassino VFW (Italy). “The Women In Military Service For America Memorial Foundation representing the 3 Million women that have defended the nation over the past 247 years is pleased to support the WWII Nurses Congressional Gold Medal Act to honor the incredible service of more than 70,000 Army and Navy nurses who volunteered to serve during World War Two,” said Phyllis J. Wilson, MPA, BSN, RN, President of the Military Women’s War Memorial (Washington, D.C.). "The American Red Cross applauds the reintroduction WWII Nurses Congressional Gold Medal Act in honor of the brave women who served as members of the U.S. Army Nurse Corps and U.S. Navy Nurse Corps. Despite historical in… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T21:11:47Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/annual-defense-bill-passes-out-of-committee-with-king-backed-provisions-to-strengthen-national-security-and-support-maine-economy | Annual Defense Bill Passes out of Committee with King-Backed Provisions to Strengthen National Security and Support Maine Economy | 2024-06-14 | 2024 | 2024-06 | 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-ME), a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee (SASC), hailed the bipartisan passage of the Fiscal Year 2025 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) out of committee after more than sixteen hours of deliberation. This legislation will strengthen America’s national security, support our men and women in uniform, and boost the economies of Maine communities through shipbuilding and the hundreds of businesses that serve the military’s technological and manufacturing needs. Today’s passage represents the first step in bipartisan negotiations to pass a fiscal year budget for our armed forces and national defense interests. It includes a number of provisions that Senator King backed, including: support for veterans, an Arleigh Burke-class destroyer for Bath Iron Works (BIW), an aggressive new military-wide approach to monitoring traumatic brain injuries (TBI), provisions to address the security threats posed by artificial intelligence, and stronger measures to prevent illegal drugs from entering the country. “For over six decades, Congress has taken a bipartisan approach to ensure that America’s military and defense forces have the training, equipment, and resources to carry out their missions. I’m proud that we could continue the tradition this year to pass an annual defense bill out of Committee that will make our nation, and our state, safer and stronger,” said Senator King. “As our global community faces some of its greatest challenges, the bill makes important investments in our military’s greatest asset – its people. The legislation supports good-paying jobs in Maine communities, particularly through its funding for shipbuilding at Bath Iron Works and Portsmouth Naval Shipyard. These funds will help the shipyards plan their futures, continue to build the highest-quality ships, and maintain the submarine fleet that our Navy needs to accomplish missions across the globe. “There are many more important provisions in this legislation – including a long-overdue … | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T21:11:47Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-joins-bipartisan-efforts-to-award-vietnam-war-vet-with-congressional-gold-medal | King Joins Bipartisan Efforts to Award Vietnam War Vet with Congressional Gold Medal | 2024-06-14 | 2024 | 2024-06 | 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-ME), a member of the Senate Armed Services (SASC) and Veterans’ Affairs Committee (SVAC) has joined bipartisan legislation to award Navy Commander Everett Alvarez, Jr. with the Congressional Gold Medal in honor of his service in the Vietnam War. On August 5, 1964, while flying Operation Pierce Arrow, Commander Alvarez’s A-4 Skyhawk was shot down, and he became the first aviator captured in Vietnam. He spent eight years and six months in captivity, becoming the second-longest held Prisoner of War in U.S. history. While being held in Vietnam, Alvarez crossed paths with the late Senator John McCain, who was also being held as a POW at the H?a Lò prison. Following his release back to the United States, Commander Alvarez completed his 20-year career in the U.S. Navy in June 1980. Commander Alvarez has earned the Silver Star Medal, two Legions of Merit, the Distinguished Flying Cross, two Bronze Star Medals, two Purple Hearts, and the Prisoner of War Medal. He also served as Deputy Director of the Peace Corps, Deputy Administrator of the Veterans Administration (now known as the Department of Veterans Affairs), and Vice President for government services with the Hospital Corporation of America. Commander Alvarez was born and raised in Salinas, California and is a graduate of the U.S. Naval Postgraduate School in Monterey, California. “It is an honor to join my colleagues in seeking to recognize the incredible bravery and service of Navy Commander Everett Alvarez, Jr. who spent several years in Vietnam as a prisoner of war,” said Senator King. “The recognition of a Congressional Gold Medal acknowledges all of his sacrifices and contributions in support of our great American ideals: democracy and freedom. I am proud to join this bipartisan effort to forever memorialize the patriotism and sacrifices of Commander Alvarez.” Since the American Revolution, Congress has commissioned gold medals as its highest expression of national appreciation for distinguished achievements and … | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T21:11:47Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-cosponsors-bill-to-protect-access-to-ivf-treatments | King Cosponsors Bill to Protect Access to IVF Treatments | 2024-06-13 | 2024 | 2024-06 | 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-ME) has joined legislation to protect access to fertility treatments, such as in vitro fertilization (IVF). The Right to IVF Act would guarantee access to Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART), which is most frequently used via IVF. Each year, roughly 2% of all infants born in the United States are conceived through ART treatments. “In-vitro fertilization (IVF), and other common fertility treatments, have given hope to women across Maine who want to grow their family,” said Senator King. “In the wake of the Supreme Court’s decision to overturn Roe v. Wade, and the ongoing politically-motivated challenges to reproductive rights nationwide, we must protect a woman’s freedom to make the best, science-based decision for her family in consultation with her provider. American support for IVF is overwhelming and the Right to IVF Act would ensure every Maine family has the right to make their own decisions when it comes to planning for their future.” Earlier this year, the Alabama State Supreme Court issued a decision that ruled stored embryos must receive the same legal protections as living children. This would have allowed legal action to be taken against all medical professionals performing IVF treatments. However, the Alabama State Legislature passed, and the governor signed, a bill to protect IVF providers from civil and criminal liability for embryos lost or damaged during IVF treatments. Even so, women, families and health care providers across the country using IVF do so without certainty of legal protection. There are at least 11 other states that currently have laws broadly defining a fetus as a person under the law; additionally, 13 states have personhood bills under consideration, each of which put IVF treatment at risk. The Right to IVF Act would: Establish a statutory right for an individual to access, a provider to provide and an insurer to cover — without prohibition, limitation, interference or impediment — Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART)/in vitr… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T21:11:47Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-urges-government-agencies-to-protect-fraud-victims-from-losing-access-to-medicare | King Urges Government Agencies to Protect Fraud Victims from Losing Access to Medicare | 2024-06-13 | 2024 | 2024-06 | 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 fraudsters prey on Medicare recipients nationwide, U.S. Senator Angus King is calling on the Social Security Administration (SSA) and the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) to better protect fraud victims from losing access to Medicare subsidies. In a letter to SSA Administrator Martin O’Malley and CMS Administrator Chiquita Brooks-LaSure, King calls on the two agencies to change existing Medicare regulations so that fraud victims can substantiate fraud claims through sworn affidavits. Current Medicare rules require subsidy recipients to submit proof that someone has been convicted of defrauding them before Medicare will reduce a fraud victim’s income for subsidy qualification purposes – but this requires an arrest or ruling that often never occurs, with many criminals lurking online. As a result, fraud victims become ineligible for Medicare subsidies because they cannot prove that their income was stolen. “Seniors who are the victims of fraud deserve our full support. Current Medicare regulations disadvantage senior fraud victims, adding hundreds of dollars per month in additional Medicare premiums to the bills of some elders who already have experienced significant losses. I urge you to propose a simple change in the Medicare rules that will protect our seniors from unfair and unexpected Medicare premium increases,” Senator King wrote. Senator King continued, “Higher income can disqualify a senior from receiving Medicare premium subsidies even if a senior loses that income to fraud. If an elderly person makes a large IRA withdrawal or sells their home and then is defrauded of proceeds from either transaction, then the senior still must report income to the IRS. Medicare regulations prevent SSA from disregarding that income for subsidy calculation purposes unless the senior provides proof that someone has been convicted of fraud against them. Of course, despite the best efforts of law enforcement, many fraudsters remain at large, and the regulations require SSA to consider th… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T21:11:47Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-joins-bipartisan-resolution-recognizing-natos-75th-anniversary | King Joins Bipartisan Resolution Recognizing NATO’s 75th Anniversary | 2024-06-12 | 2024 | 2024-06 | 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-ME), a member of the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence (SSCI), Armed Services Committee (SASC), and Senate NATO Observer Group (SNOG), has joined a bipartisan resolution to celebrate the 75th anniversary of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO). It comes in anticipation of the 2024 NATO Summit which will take place July 9-11 in Washington, D.C. The resolution expresses support for the NATO Alliance, recognizes its accomplishments over the past 75 years, celebrates the new allies that have recently joined, and highlights the importance of future enlargement. The text also encourages allies to meet Alliance spending targets, lists China as an emerging threat, and acknowledges the impact that Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine has had on the security of our allies in Europe and the global economy. “As Putin wages an unprovoked, illegal war in Ukraine, we continue to recognize the critical importance of NATO in defense of democracy, peace, and freedom,” said Senator King. “This resolution highlights the organization’s role over the last 75 years in deterring conflicts, increasing capabilities in the Arctic, and expanding democratic values across Europe. As we convene in Washington next month—and look forward to the next 75 years—let us continue working together to support the alliance so that more people across the world may live in peace and freedom.” More specifically, this resolution: Celebrates the 75th anniversary of NATO’s founding and welcomes all NATO members and observers to the 75th Annual Summit in June 2024, in Washington, D.C. Applauds the addition of Finland and Sweden to the alliance. Continues to affirm the importance of Article 5 of the North Atlantic Treaty. Strongly calls on all NATO member states to immediately meet their obligations and raise their defense spending levels above the 2 percent GDP target. Encourages NATO to build closer ties with the Indo-Pacific to confront the challenges posed by the deepening partnership an… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T21:11:47Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-joins-bipartisan-bill-to-ensure-all-purple-heart-recipients-can-transfer-benefits-to-dependents | King Joins Bipartisan Bill to Ensure All Purple Heart Recipients Can Transfer Benefits to Dependents | 2024-06-11 | 2024 | 2024-06 | 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-ME), a member of the Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee (SVAC), has joined legislation that will close an existing loophole and allow Purple Heart recipients who receive this distinction after their discharge to transfer their GI bill benefits to their dependents. In 2017, Congress passed the Forever GI Bill, which incentivized servicemembers to continue serving in the military by allowing them to transfer GI bill benefits to their dependents after six years of service, if they agreed to serve an additional four. In 2018, the Department of Defense (DoD) expanded GI Bill transferability benefits to Purple Heart recipients, allowing them to transfer GI benefits to their dependents while on active duty regardless of years of service. While this policy honors most wounded warriors, it leaves behind a small group of those who received their Purple Hearts after being discharged from the military. The Purple Heart Veterans Education Act would close this loophole by allowing veterans who received their Purple Heart after their service to transfer their benefits to their dependents. “Our Purple Heart recipients are American patriots that put everything on the line in defense of democracy and freedom,” said Senator Angus King. “The Purple Heart Veterans Education Act would ensure that servicemembers who have received a Purple Heart after their honorable discharge can transfer their well-deserved benefits to their dependents. The entire family serves when a military member signs up to serve and we owe it to them to provide the upmost support by quickly closing this loophole.” Specifically, the Purple Heart Veterans Education Act would: Permit an individual awarded the Purple Heart for service in the Armed Force on or after September 11, 2001, to transfer their educational benefits to one or more of their dependents. Allow flexibility by permitting the veteran to allocate different amounts, totaling 36 months of benefits to each of their dependents. For example, one dependent… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T21:11:47Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-announces-43-million-rural-development-grant-for-passamaquoddy-tribe-to-build-eel-farm | King Announces $4.3 Million Rural Development Grant for Passamaquoddy Tribe to Build Eel Farm | 2024-06-10 | 2024 | 2024-06 | 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-ME) today announced that the Passamaquoddy Tribe has been awarded $3.4 million from the Indigenous Animals Harvesting and Meat Processing (IAG) grant program — part of the United States Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Rural Development program — to build an eel farm. The IAG program was designed to support the priorities of Tribal Nations that utilize traditional harvesting methods and indigenous animals such as bison, reindeer, salmon and eels. The grant — one of eight awarded across the nation — will help the Passamaquoddy Tribe fund the latest technology to grow eels in a controlled aquaculture facility, as opposed to relying on wild eel harvesting. “This $4.3 million grant for the Passamaquoddy Tribe to further bolster their eel aquaculture work is not only an economic investment, but also an investment in the Tribe’s rich tradition of eel harvesting,” said Senator King. “With the current wild eel harvesting quotas remaining in place, this grant is even more important as the Passamaquoddy looks to sustain and build on their eel fishery. This funding from the USDA’s Rural Development program will help further modernize our state’s seafood industry and ensure the Tribe has the tools and resources to thrive.” Senator King is a strong advocate for Maine’s coastal communities and ocean economy. He worked to secure the future of Maine’s lobster fishery as they faced an “economic death sentence,” preventing the industry from facing devastating regulations. He’s introduced legislation to spur economic development in coastal Maine communities and to boost marketing efforts and overseas sales for American agricultural products, including seafood, as well as introduced a bipartisan bill to create an aquaculture office to better support farmers and harvesters. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T21:11:47Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-leads-bipartisan-resolution-to-establish-vets-get-outside-day-on-june-9th | King Leads Bipartisan Resolution to Establish “Vets Get Outside Day” on June 9th | 2024-06-07 | 2024 | 2024-06 | 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-ME) has introduced a bipartisan resolution to establish “Vets Get Outside Day”—a day to encourage veterans who may be struggling to take a moment or two outdoors as they cope with mental health challenges. The resolution calls on veterans battling post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), traumatic brain injury, depression, anxiety, or other mental health challenges to walk, run, hike, bike ride, or simply spend time outside on June 9, 2024 as part of an effort to improve mental health. This is the second year in a row that Senator King has led the introduction of this resolution. Nearly 460,000 veterans were diagnosed with traumatic brain injuries between 2020 and 2022, and there were 6,146 veteran deaths in 2020 from suicide. Studies have shown that spending time outdoors in nature can have a positive impact on an individual’s mental health and lessen feelings of isolation. The resolution is also cosponsored by Senators Bill Cassidy (R-LA) and Kevin Cramer (R-ND). “From beach walks and fishing trips on the coast to a hike in the forest, America’s extraordinary outdoor spaces can bring moments of calm during the most difficult times,” said Senator King. “I hope that ‘Vets Get Outside Day’ will encourage Maine’s veterans to find a relaxing outdoor space that helps them process the stresses and challenges they carry with them. It’s a simple way to promote two of Maine’s greatest treasures — the great outdoors and our brave veterans.” “We owe it to the men and women who fought for our freedoms around the world to address the veteran suicide crisis,” said Dr. Cassidy. “Vets Get Outside Day ensures that our veterans know there is help available to them.” “Studies have shown fresh air and nature can be the best treatment for veterans who may be suffering from post-traumatic stress and depression. At the peak of Teddy Roosevelt’s grief and loss, he came to the tranquility of North Dakota’s badlands. This resolution recognizes the positive impact outdoor recreational activiti… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T21:11:47Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-seeking-to-bolster-school-mental-health-resources-for-students | King Seeking to Bolster School Mental Health Resources for Students | 2024-06-06 | 2024 | 2024-06 | 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 co-sponsoring legislation to boost the availability of mental health providers in public schools across Maine and the nation. The Elementary and Secondary School Counseling Act would establish a five-year renewable grant program to help elementary and secondary schools hire additional school-based mental health providers such as counselors, psychologists and social workers. According to the Maine Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), 15% of Maine children aged 6-11 have an ongoing emotional, developmental or behavior condition that requires treatment or counseling, and one in six Maine children, according to data from the John T. Gorman Foundation, have been diagnosed with anxiety. “Schools in Maine and across the country are struggling to fund resources and staff to deliver counseling and mental health services for students,” said Senator King. “Advocating for the academic success of our young people means ensuring they have access to professionals that can also help them grow socially and emotionally. The Elementary and Secondary School Counseling Act is another step forward in making sure our schools have the resources to help our children succeed and thrive both in and out of the classroom.” The recommended maximum student-to-counselor ratio is 250 students per counselor, but currently, the national average is 385 students per counselor and continues to rise. For school psychologists, the recommended maximum ratio is 500 students per provider, and 250 to 1 for school social workers. Students are 21 times more likely to visit school-based health centers for mental health than community mental health centers, but school districts across America too often lack the resources to provide students with the in-school treatment and care they need and deserve. Additionally, schools that employ more school-based health providers see improved attendance rates, academic achievement and career preparation, and graduation rates, and lower rates of suspension, expul… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T21:11:47Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/resolution-commemorating-80th-anniversary-of-d-day-unanimously-passes-senate | Resolution Commemorating 80th Anniversary of D-Day Unanimously Passes Senate | 2024-06-06 | 2024 | 2024-06 | 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. – On the 80th anniversary of D-Day, Senators Susan Collins and Angus King cosponsored a resolution commemorating the historic operation and expressing gratitude and appreciation to the members of the U.S. Armed Forces and Allied troops responsible for carrying out this unprecedented battle. This bipartisan resolution was introduced by U.S. Senators John Boozman (R-AR) and Chris Coons (D-DE) and unanimously passed the Senate. In the early morning hours of June 6, 1944, 73,000 members of the United States Armed Forces, and over 80,000 of their counterparts in the Allied Expeditionary Force, launched Operation Overlord by storming ashore five landing areas on the beaches of Normandy, France. The first day of the operation, which became known as D-Day, saw approximately 10,000 Allied soldiers wounded or killed, including 6,000 Americans. Operation Overlord led to Allied liberation of Western Europe from the control of Nazi Germany and an end to World War II. “On June 6, 1944, tens of thousands of courageous Americans and allied troops carried out the greatest amphibious troop landing in history to liberate Europe from Nazi tyranny. The sacrifices made by the thousands of Americans who perished that day, those who survived but have since passed on, and those living today, will be forever remembered,” said Senator Collins. “This anniversary is especially meaningful to me because my father was a World War II combat veteran who earned two Purple Hearts and the Bronze Star as a result of injuries he sustained in the Battle of the Bulge, a later engagement on the Western Front. It was from him that I first learned to honor, respect, and thank our veterans.” “Eighty years ago, more than 100,000 Allied forces landed on the rocky beaches of Normandy and turned the tide in the fight against Nazi fascism — a day often referred to as the beginning of the end of World War II,” said Senator King. “Today, we honor and remember the courage of those brave men: many of whom made the ultimate sacrifice. The impact o… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T21:11:47Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/in-veterans-hearing-king-stresses-impacts-of-very-serious-nursing-workforce-shortage | In Veterans Hearing, King Stresses Impacts of “Very Serious” Nursing Workforce Shortage | 2024-06-05 | 2024 | 2024-06 | 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 a joint hearing of the Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee (SVAC) and Senate Special Committee on Aging, U.S. Senator Angus King pressed Fred Sganga, the Legislative Director of the National Association of State Veterans Home, about the potential harmful impacts that proposed staffing mandates could have on nursing homes, especially those homes caring for veterans. The hearing comes just days after Senator King was joined by Senator Kevin Cramer (R-ND) in requesting the Department of Veterans’ Affairs (VA) carefully study the possible repercussions of the recently finalized Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) rule on staffing levels. This rule will require minimum staffing levels at long term care (LTC) facilities that receive funding from CMS, including facilities that serve veterans. A November 2022 report published by the National Center for Health Workforce Analysis projects that by 2025 there will be a shortage of over 78,000 full time registered nurses (RNs). In the hearing, Senator King laid out the stakes of the issue, in Maine and nationwide: “The Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) indicates by next year we will have a 78,000 nurse shortage in this country and, yet, CMS is issuing rules for increasing staffing when there is nobody to hire. I know in Maine we’ve lost four, we’re losing four nursing homes so far this year — one this week. We’ve lost 26 in the last 10 years because, mostly, lack of staff,” began Senator King. “So, these well-meaning regulations — nobody is against adequate staffing levels — but the well-meaning regulations will end up with less care if we lose nursing home beds. Mr. Sganga, do you agree?” “Well said, Senator King. I think it is a big problem and something we should be looking at nationwide. We think for skilled nursing facilities alone, we’re going to be lacking about 102,000 registered nurses and certified nursing assistants just to meet that,” Sganga replied. “And just because CMS passes a regulation does not mean tho… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T21:11:47Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-cosponsors-bill-to-strengthen-and-protect-reproductive-health-care | King Cosponsors Bill to Strengthen and Protect Reproductive Health Care | 2024-06-05 | 2024 | 2024-06 | 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. — Nearly 50 years after the Supreme Court’s Griswold v. Connecticut decision protecting access to contraception, U.S. Senator Angus King (I-ME) has joined legislation to codify this right in federal law. The Right to Contraception Act would guarantee the right for people to obtain and use contraceptives and for health care providers to prescribe contraceptives and make available information related to contraception, free from government interference. Contraception includes over-the-counter methods, such as condoms or emergency contraception; those prescribed by pharmacists, like birth control pills; or those requiring a procedure or medical appointment for short-acting or long-acting reversible contraceptives or more permanent methods. A 2022 poll conducted by FiveThirtyEight and Ipsos found a majority of Americans, regardless of political affiliation, support access to a wide range of contraceptive methods. According to a National Health Statistics Report, 90% of reproductive age women use or have used contraception. “I know as well as most that an examination room is pretty small — and in this case it only has place for a women and her doctor — not the federal government,” said Senator King. “The Right to Contraception Act would ensure women have the freedom to make the best health care decisions for themselves and their families. In the wake of the Supreme Court’s decision to overturn Roe v. Wade and continued challenges to reproductive rights across the country, it is even more important to protect women’s rights and codify access to contraception into federal law.” The Right to Contraception Act would: Guarantee the legal right for individuals to obtain and use contraception and for health care providers to provide contraceptives, contraception, and information, referrals and services related to contraception; Prohibit the federal government or any state from administering, implementing or enforcing any law, rule, regulation, standard or another provision that would prohibit or restrict… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T21:11:47Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-cramer-request-va-study-potential-harmful-effects-of-new-staffing-rule-on-long-term-care-facilities | King, Cramer Request VA Study “Potential Harmful Effects” of New Staffing Rule on Long Term Care Facilities | 2024-06-04 | 2024 | 2024-06 | 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-ME) and Kevin Cramer (R-ND) — members of the Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee (SVAC) — are requesting the Department of Veterans’ Affairs (VA) produce a report on the impact of the recently finalized Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) rule on staffing levels. This rule will require increased minimum staffing levels at long term care (LTC) facilities that receive funding from CMS, including facilities that serve veterans. In a letter to Secretary Denis McDonough, King and Cramer highlight the anticipated negative effects of the rule on long term care facilities, especially those in rural areas serving veterans. King and Cramer previously introduced a bipartisan bill that would require the VA to study the risks to elderly veterans of the then-proposed rule that would unsustainably change staffing ratios at nursing homes. The bill requires an assessment of the VA’s ability to continue meeting the LTC needs of veterans at VA and VA affiliated nursing homes, with a focus on rural areas, if the rule were to be implemented as proposed. It would require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to submit a report on the VA’s findings to Congress within 60 days of the bill becoming law. Now that this staffing rule has been finalized, understanding the potential impact on veterans is even more critical. “We write to express concerns about the potential harmful impact on veterans resulting from the recently finalized Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) rule, entitled ‘Medicare and Medicaid Programs; Minimum Staffing Standards for Long-Term Care Facilities and Medicaid Institutional Payment Transparency Reporting’ (RIN: 0938-AV25).[1] Our healthcare system is grappling with a severe shortage of qualified nurses and caregivers, spurred in part by challenges exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic,” the Senators wrote. “Long-term care facilities in Maine, North Dakota, and across the country have struggled to recover post-pandemic — we cannot simply will a new p… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T21:11:47Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/aroostook-native-sharon-campbell-named-state-director-for-senator-angus-king | Aroostook Native Sharon Campbell Named State Director for Senator Angus King | 2024-06-03 | 2024 | 2024-06 | 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 announced that Aroostook County native, Sharon Campbell, has been promoted to State Director. Campbell, who began her Senate career working for then U.S. Senator Olympia Snowe (R-ME), recently celebrated her 25th anniversary serving the people of Maine. “I could not be more pleased to promote Sharon Campbell to State Director, a well-deserved honor that truly recognizes her selfless commitment to Aroostook County and the entirety of Maine,” said Senator King. “She has a long history of working on behalf of the people of Maine, first as an advocate for victims of domestic violence in northern Maine, and then as a Regional Representative in both my office and the office of my predecessor, Senator Olympia Snowe. Sharon represents the very best of Maine – demonstrating excellent leadership, extensive community service, and effective communication. With her experience in the community and deep understanding of the federal system, I have no doubt that she will continue to be a tremendous resource for constituents across the entire state.” Sharon Campbell, a Houlton native – and long-time resident of Presque Isle - has been a public servant for Maine since 1999 when she began her tenure in the Presque Isle office of Senator Olympia Snowe. She worked for Snowe until 2013, covering the Aroostook County region. When Senator King was elected to office, Campbell continued her work for Maine as his Regional Representative for Aroostook County. Her primary responsibilities are to ensure that the constituents of Maine have both access to their elected Member of Congress and an advocate working on their behalf as issues with federal agencies arise. Prior to her service in the Senate with Senator Olympia Snowe, she worked for 10 years as a court advocate for victims of domestic violence in northern Maine. Through that work, she connected with court officials, law enforcement, social service agencies, and state and federal government to affect policy changes on behalf of the victi… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T21:11:47Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/collins-king-celebrate-todays-100th-anniversary-of-the-us-border-patrol | Collins, King Celebrate Today’s 100th Anniversary of the U.S. Border Patrol | 2024-05-28 | 2024 | 2024-05 | 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) are celebrating the 100th anniversary of the United States Border Patrol (USBP). Last week, they cosponsored a bipartisan Senate resolution with their colleagues to recognize today, May 28, 2024, as the 100th anniversary of USBP. “The United States is nation of immigrants and also a nation of laws,” said Senators Collins and King. “The U.S. Border Patrol is responsible for protecting the American way of life, stopping people and drugs from unlawful entry into our country. On this 100th anniversary of Border Patrol, we commend the frontline men and women who are keeping our nation safe — ultimately, ensuring that the United States remains true to its values of security and opportunity.” U.S. Senators John Cornyn (R-TX), Ted Cruz (R-TX) Kyrsten Sinema (I-AZ), Jon Tester (D-MT), Thom Tillis (R-NC), Jim Risch (R-ID), Mike Crapo (R-ID), Kevin Cramer (R-ND), James Lankford (R-OK), Joe Manchin (D-WV), Steve Daines (R-MT), Mark Kelly (D-AZ), John Kennedy (R-LA), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV), Lindsey Graham (R-SC), Rick Scott (R-FL), John Hoeven (R-ND), Ted Budd (R-NC), and Gary Peters (D-MI) cosponsored this resolution. Text is below, and you can view the full resolution here. +++ “Recognizing May 28, 2024, as the 100th anniversary of the U.S. Border Patrol and commending the service of the U.S. Border Patrol to the United States people. Whereas the Mounted Guard was assigned to the Immigration Service under the Department of Commerce and Labor from 1904 to 1924; Whereas the founding members of this Mounted Guard included Texas Rangers, sheriffs, and deputized cowboys; who patrolled the Texas frontier looking for smugglers, rustlers, and people illegally entering the United States; Whereas, following the Department of Labor Appropriation Act of May 28, 1924, the Border Patrol was established within the Bureau of Immigration, with an initial force of 450 patrol inspectors, an annual budget of $1,000,000, and $1,300 in annual pay for each … | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T21:01:11Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/to-commemorate-memorial-day-king-interviews-army-helicopter-mechanic | To Commemorate Memorial Day, King Interviews Army Helicopter Mechanic | 2024-05-27 | 2024 | 2024-05 | 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. — On this Memorial Day, U.S. Senator Angus King, a member of the Senate Veterans Affairs (SVAC) and Armed Services Committees (SASC), released his latest episode of “Answering the Call: Maine’s Veteran Voices.” In the 14th interview of the series, produced in partnership with the Library of Congress’ Veterans History Project, Senator King spoke with Leslie Brown of Presque Isle. Brown was a U.S. Army jet engine mechanic who served for nearly three decades and faced two deployments during Operation Enduring Freedom. During the interview, King asked Brown about her experiences serving at Army installations across the world and her work today supporting veterans in northern Maine. “Leslie’s story is one that inspires and embodies the selfless service of so many of our veterans,” said Senator King. “Following in the footsteps of her father, an Air Force mechanic, Leslie succeeded in her field and became a highly respected leader. Today, she still continues to serve by supporting her fellow veterans back home in Maine. As we commemorate Memorial Day, we honor and recognize all the men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice, as well as thank our heroes back here at home, like Leslie. It is a privilege to share these stories of unwavering dedication to our country.” Leslie Brown grew up in Woodland, Maine, the daughter of an Air Force mechanic. After graduating Caribou High School, Leslie briefly attended the University of Maine Fort Kent and later went on to enlist in the Army where she began training to become a jet engine mechanic, following in the footsteps of her father. After completing training, Brown was sent to Germany where she served as helicopter mechanic for nearly six years. During her tour in Germany, she witnessed the fall of the Berlin Wall, met her husband and welcomed two children. After her tour ended in Germany, the family moved back stateside to Fort Campbell, Kentucky. After leaving Kentucky, Brown’s career took her all across the country: Hunter Army Airfield in Savannah, … | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T21:01:11Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/in-may-podcast-king-discusses-the-importance-of-paid-family-and-medical-leave-for-maine-workers-and-businesses | In May Podcast, King Discusses the Importance of Paid Family and Medical Leave for Maine Workers and Businesses | 2024-05-25 | 2024 | 2024-05 | 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-ME) today released the May episode of his “Inside Maine” podcast, in which he discussed the importance of paid family and medical leave. During the podcast, U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-NE) joined Senator King to discuss how they are working together to extend existing federal paid family and medical leave policies. Later in the podcast, Drew Wyman, Executive Director of the Maine Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association, joined Senator King to highlight how paid family medical leave is helpful to those caring for family members suffering from memory loss diseases. Senators King and Fischer, who recently introduced the Paid Family and Medical Leave Tax Credit Extension and Enhancement Act, led the original effort to establish the country’s first ever nationwide PFML policy. Their legislation created a two-year general business tax credit for employers that voluntarily offered up to 12 weeks of PFML to employees below a certain income level. The current credit, included in the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act and implemented in 2018, is scheduled to expire in 2025. King and Fischer want to make the tax credit permanent. Paid family leave legislation is not just important for parents to take care of their children. In Maine, there are nearly 30,000 people age 65 and older living with Alzheimer’s Disease. As a result, thousands of Maine people need to take time off work to care for their loved ones. “I have often said that Maine is one big town — big community — with long roads. And when a member of our community is hurting, we drop everything to take care of our own. However, no one should have to choose between caring for our families or receiving the next paycheck to put food on the table,” said Senator King. “I am proud to be working with my colleague, Senator Deb Fischer, on legislation that will support Maine people when they need to take care of a loved one — whether that’s a child or an elderly family member suffering from a memory loss illness and want t… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T21:01:11Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-introduces-bipartisan-bill-to-combat-non-consensual-digital-deepfake-porn | King Introduces Bipartisan Bill to Combat Non-Consensual, Digital Deepfake Porn | 2024-05-24 | 2024 | 2024-05 | 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-ME), the Co-Chair of the Cyberspace Solarium Commission (CSC), is introducing bipartisan legislation to impose criminal penalties on individuals who create and share non-consensual, intimate deepfake images online—often referred to as deepfake porn. The Preventing Deepfakes of Intimate Images Act would not only establish a new criminal offense for distributing these images, but it would also allow victims to file a lawsuit against someone who intentionally distributes these images. Under the legislation, the criminal penalties can include a fine and up to two years in prison, and the civil penalties can include a fine up to $150,000. The bill is also cosponsored by Senators Maggie Hassan (D-NH), John Cornyn (R-TX), and Laphonza Butler (D-CA). “Artificial intelligence is rapidly helping to advance critical components of society, but it’s also being used maliciously to victimize innocent Americans,” said Senator King. “The Preventing Deepfakes of Intimate Images Act would ensure that Maine people, and Americans nationwide, have legal civil and criminal recourse in the event they become victims to fake content posted online. In the age of digital ingenuity and innovation, legislation is needed to protect individuals from bad actors exploiting new technology.” “The sharing of intimate images without consent can cause extraordinary emotional distress and harm and can put victims at risk of stalking and assault. Especially as technology advances to the point where it is hard to tell which photos and videos are real and which have been entirely faked, we need stronger guardrails that protect people’s safety, privacy, and dignity and prevent non-consensual intimate images from proliferating across the internet,” said Senator Hassan. “This bipartisan bill provides tools to hold accountable – both financially and criminally – the people and websites who are knowingly sharing these images without consent, and I urge my colleagues to support it.” “While there are many benefi… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T21:01:11Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/chairman-king-touts-defense-benefits-of-3d-printing | Chairman King Touts Defense Benefits of 3D Printing | 2024-05-23 | 2024 | 2024-05 | 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 a hearing of the Senate Strategic Forces Subcommittee, Chairman Angus King made clear to Admiral William Houston, the Deputy Administrator for Office of Naval Nuclear Reactors for the National Nuclear Security Administration, his support for utilizing 3-dimensional (3D) printing within the Department of Defense in order to be more cost-efficient and flexible with maintenance. During the exchange, King highlighted the Advanced Structures and Composite Center at the University of Maine, home to the world’s largest 3D printer. U-Maine’s 3D printing, also referred to as ‘additive manufacturing’, was responsible for the Center printing two large-scale boats for the U.S. Department of Defense in 2022. “Well, I'm glad to hear about the additive manufacturing. My belief is that there should be a 3D printer on every ship and in every hanger, and that we should be buying the intellectual property (IP) when we buy a platform. So, that we can maintain and build parts in a much, much more efficient way,” said Senator King. “I absolutely agree. The carriers do have printers on them. Some of our submarines have actually deployed with printers, and they've actually additively manufactured some components already for that. We need to expand that,” said Admiral Houston. “And it's more about speed now than it is so much about the process you use. And we find with additive manufacturing that it takes — it's faster than some of the just pure casting, pouring molten metal into sand and then removing all that excess metal — is all that work that you have to do is taking away from actual production time that you could be using for other things. And, so, I absolutely see it the same way as you do and we just have to keep on leading the way.” “I appreciate that and I can't resist mentioning that the University of Maine has the largest 3D printer in the world, and last year they printed a house. So, it's an amazing technology that I think is going to change everything. But it could also help us with maintenance of … | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T21:01:11Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-colleagues-urge-education-department-to-consider-pause-for-student-loan-borrowers-as-tech-transition-occurs | King, Colleagues Urge Education Department to Consider Pause for Student Loan Borrowers as Tech Transition Occurs | 2024-05-23 | 2024 | 2024-05 | 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-ME) is leading a group of his colleagues in urging the U.S. Department of Education (ED) to consider briefly pausing student loan payments for borrowers in Maine who are nearing their final payment. Their letter to Education Secretary Miguel Cardona comes as the Department announced in April that it would be transferring the sole administration of the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program from the Missouri Higher Education Loan Authority (MOHELA)—the program’s current exclusive servicer—to other additional student loan servicers for the Department of Education housed under StudentAid.gov. As a result, processing for all PSLF forms will temporarily be paused beginning in May 2024 through July 2024. Until the announcement from the Department of Education that some of the PSLF borrowers would be transferred to other federal student loan servicers, MOHELA was the sole servicer that administered the PSLF for all Direct Loan borrowers. However, MOHELA has had many processing errors and borrowers were not receiving credit for their qualifying payments. Borrowers approved for forgiveness also experienced very long wait times to obtain funds that they were entitled to receive. Therefore, MOHELA’s request to transfer these accounts is a welcome step in ensuring borrowers receive adequate support. “Historically, borrowers have faced many administrative hurdles and challenges in accessing relief they are entitled to under the PSLF program. Not only are there borrowers who will have—or already have—completed payment during this window, but there are also borrowers who are still awaiting approval and experiencing months-long delays. Further, mass transfers of borrower accounts among servicers have oftentimes left borrowers in the lurch,” the Senators wrote. The Senators continued, “We urge ED to provide clear communication to borrowers on when they can expect their applications to be processed, prioritize processing the backlog of applications once the processing p… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T21:01:11Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/after-wildly-successful-debut-in-limited-trial-king-encourages-irs-to-offer-free-filing-services-to-more-americans | After “Wildly Successful” Debut in Limited Trial, King Encourages IRS to Offer Free Filing Services to More Americans | 2024-05-22 | 2024 | 2024-05 | 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 a successful pilot program used during the 2023 tax filing season was reported to have saved Americans in 12 states $5.6 million in fees, U.S. Senator Angus King is encouraging the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) to offer its new free filing services to more taxpayers. In a bicameral letter to Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen and IRS Commissioner Daniel Werfel, King and his colleagues are encouraging the IRS, in consultation with the Department of Treasury, to expand the free filing services to taxpayers in more states. Thus far, the pilot has only been rolled out to Arizona, California, Florida, Massachusetts, Nevada, New Hampshire, New York, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Washington and Wyoming. With the successful trial under its belt, the Members of Congress are encouraging the IRS to expand its availability to all Americans. They are also encouraging the IRS to expand the program to support additional sources of income, offer more flexible identification verification procedures, and accommodate additional refundable tax credits—like the Earned Income Tax Credit and the Child Tax Credit—for low and middle income Americans. “With the 2024 tax filing season at its end, we write to commend you on the historic and resoundingly successful launch of Direct File, the first free, public, electronic federal tax filing tool in U.S. history. Taxpayers want and deserve a free and easy filing option, and thanks to this year’s pilot, taxpayers used Direct File to claim over $90 million in tax refunds and save $5.6 million in estimated filing fees, with 90 percent of surveyed users rating their experience positively and 86 percent saying their experience with the tool increased their trust in the Internal Revenue Service (IRS).[1] We applaud your leadership and Direct File’s incredible success this year, and we call on you to make Direct File a permanent program, expanding it and improving it further next year and in the years to come,” the Members wrote. They continued, “The IRS’s delivery of this … | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T21:01:11Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/chairman-king-stresses-importance-of-collaborating-with-allies-on-space-defense | Chairman King Stresses Importance of Collaborating With Allies on Space Defense | 2024-05-21 | 2024 | 2024-05 | 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 a hearing of the Strategic Forces Subcommittee focused on America’s space defense systems, Chairman Senator Angus King asked Assistant Secretary of the Air Force for Space Acquisition and Integration, Frank Cavelli, and General Michael Guetlein, Vice Chief of Space Operations, about the importance of both collaborating with allies and prioritizing deterrence as a cornerstone of America’s national defense. The hearing comes as the Space Force submitted its Defense budget authorization request for Fiscal Year 2025 and the Future Years Defense Program (FYDP). The FYDP projects DOD funding, manpower, and force structure needs over a five-year period. To begin the conversation, Senator King asked General Guetlein about how the United State Space Force is collaborating with our allies on technology development – receiving confirmation that it remains a component of America’s space posture. “General, you have talked about working with allies. That is one of our asymmetric advantages. Are we working with allies in terms of development of these technologies?” Senator King asked. “In other words, all wisdom on technology does not necessarily reside here. We have allies like Japan, the EU, Scandinavia that we could get more out of our dollars if we were working jointly with these close allies.” “Yes, Senator, we are. We are building collaborative projects, for example, SATCOM with Luxembourg and SATCOM with Norway, PNT with Japan so we are broadening out those partnerships on a daily basis. Building ground-based radars in Australia as well as in the U.K., collaborating a launch with New Zealand so we are across the board trying to embrace our allies and I will give kudos to our folks in policy that were able to break down those classification barriers that once we put those into place, it will also allow us to have broader conversations with our with some of our allies,” General Guetlein replied. Senator King then asked General Guetlein and Cavelli about the importance of deterrence against our adve… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T18:12:30Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-joins-bipartisan-ai-legislation-to-protect-online-users-from-sexually-explicit-deep-fake-images | King Joins Bipartisan AI Legislation to Protect Online Users from Sexually-Explicit “Deep Fake” Images | 2024-05-21 | 2024 | 2024-05 | 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-ME) has joined bipartisan legislation to protect Americans from sexually-explicit “deepfake” forgeries of their image or likeness. The bipartisan Disrupt Explicit Forged Images and Non-Consensual Edits Act of 2024 (DEFIANCE Act) would allow victims to sue perpetrators for up to $150,000. This focuses on fake visual depictions created through the use of software, machine learning, artificial intelligence (AI), or any other computer-generated or technological means to falsely appear to be authentic. The volume of “deepfake” content available online is increasing exponentially as the technology used to create it has become more accessible to the public and produced without the consent of the person depicted. A 2019 study found that 96 percent of deepfake videos were nonconsensual pornography. The DEFIANCE Act is led by Majority Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Senators Lindsey Graham (R-SC), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), and Josh Hawley (R-MO). Senator Mike Lee (R-UT) is also a cosponsor. “Artificial intelligence has the potential to dramatically improve and transform our way of life, but also presents a spectrum of risks that could be harmful to the American public, some of which could have catastrophic effects,“ said Senator King. “The DEFIANCE Act will ensure that any American subject to AI-generated, sexually explicit content online can defend themselves and hold the people responsible accountable. In the ever-evolving world of technology and artificial intelligence, we must be able to protect ourselves from people with bad intentions.” Extremely powerful frontier AI could be misused by foreign adversaries, terrorists, and less sophisticated bad actors to cause widespread harm to the American public and threaten U.S. national security. While Congress considers how to approach new technology developments, Congress must prioritize AI’s potential implications. New laws or regulations should protect America’s competitive edge and avoid discouraging innovation and discovery. Senator … | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T18:12:30Z |
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