Press releases
Data license: MIT · Data source: dwillis/congress-press
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171 rows where party = "Republican", state = "NJ" and year = 2024 sorted by date descending
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| url | title | date ▲ | year | month | party | chamber | state | member_name | bioguide_id | domain | scraper | source | date_source | text | has_text | collected_at | updated_at |
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| https://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=413475 | A Christmas miracle Smith’s $1.95 billion Autism CARES Act signed into law | 2024-12-24 | 2024 | 2024-12 | Republican | House | NJ | Christopher H. Smith | S000522 | chrissmith.house.gov | chrissmith | https://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx | scraper | Comprehensive legislation authored by Rep. Chris Smith (R-NJ) to provide robust funding and enhanced support for Americans with autism was signed into law this week. Smith’s Autism CARES Act of 2024 will provide more than $1.95 billion over five years for programs at the National Institutes of Health (NIH), Centers for Disease Control (CDC), and the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA). “At CDC, the funding will support ongoing developmental disability surveillance and research; at HRSA, the funding will cover education, early detection and intervention services; at NIH, the funding will drive research as well as the coordination of autism-related activities, including the Inter Agency Coordinating Committee (IACC),” Smith said during debate on the House Floor on December 16th. “As the prime author of the Autism Cares Act of 2024 and previous iterations of the law in 2011, 2014, and 2019, I know this legislation will help make a huge difference in the lives of the millions of Americans with autism by providing robust funding for durable remedies as well as effective early detection and intervention services to allow them the highest quality of life possible,” Smith said. “According to the CDC, 1 in 36 children in the United States—including 1 in 35 children in my home state of New Jersey—are on the autism spectrum,” said Smith. “My legislation pursues critical research goals and focuses on responsive and effective interventions for the estimated 6.8 million individuals with autism—over 1.8 million, which is 27 percent, of whom are profoundly autistic,” Smith said. Smith’s bill included Rep. Henry Cuellar (D-TX) as the Democrat lead along with 61 other bipartisan cosponsors. “This bipartisan bill will provide vital funding to expand research and care for Americans with autism,” said Dr. Cuellar, a senior member of the House Appropriations Committee. “Through this bill, we continue important work in understanding the causes of autism, the best ways to treat autism, and incorporate the voices o… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z |
| https://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=413471 | In response to request from Monmouth and Ocean County sheriffs Smith introduces legislation to empower highly trained state law enforcement units to detect and stop drones involved in unlawful activities | 2024-12-20 | 2024 | 2024-12 | Republican | House | NJ | Christopher H. Smith | S000522 | chrissmith.house.gov | chrissmith | https://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx | scraper | Rep. Chris Smith (R-NJ) today introduced legislation that would empower highly trained state law enforcement units to detect and stop any drones involved in unlawful activities. Smith’s bill—the Law Against Nefarious Drones, Enforcement, Deconfliction (LANDED) Act—comes in response to a request from Monmouth County Sheriff Shaun Golden and Ocean County Sheriff Mike Mastronardy for more authorities to respond to potential threats posed by illegal drone activity amid the ongoing unusual drone sightings across New Jersey. “As swarms of unidentified drones have violated our airspace over the past month, our state law enforcement leaders have been precluded by law from taking more decisive action, leaving our highly trained officers—who are on the ground and situationally aware—almost completely hamstrung,” said Smith. “My legislation is critically needed given the huge gaps that exist in our ability to counter unlawful drones which have been exposed by the unusual activity occurring across our state,” said Smith, who announced he was drafting the new bill at a news conference he held in Seaside Heights last Saturday. “We need to ensure that law enforcement has the authorities, training, and capabilities to take quick action if needed to keep local residents safe, especially as drones continue to advance technologically and have the potential to be increasingly lethal,” Smith said. Smith said the Biden Administration’s frustrating lack of response to the month-long unusual drone activity in New Jersey underscores the urgent need to empower state law enforcement to address any potential immediate threats to local communities. “Regrettably, the Biden Administration not only has refused to take decisive action but also has been denying and downplaying the situation that has caused so many New Jersey residents to be understandably concerned and alarmed,” said Smith. “New Jersey residents should not have to live in fear while unidentified drones continue to fly over our critical infrastructure, sensitive military bas… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z |
| https://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=413472 | Smith announces winners of the 2024 Congressional App Challenge for local middle and high school students | 2024-12-20 | 2024 | 2024-12 | Republican | House | NJ | Christopher H. Smith | S000522 | chrissmith.house.gov | chrissmith | https://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx | scraper | Rep. Chris Smith (R-Manchester) today announced the winners of the 2024 Congressional App Challenge for the Fourth District of New Jersey. The annual competition hosted by Smith is aimed at promoting Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) skills among middle and high school students. “Congratulations to Katrina Migliore, Ahren Gaikwad, and Cameron Mock from Communications High School in Wall Township for winning this year’s competition with their app “Eco-Scan,” said Smith. The winning team was selected by a panel of judges that evaluated the app submissions from high schools across the Fourth Congressional District. “As the panel of judges noted, their innovative app combines convenience with education to help inform and encourage users to recycle,” Smith said. “By simply scanning a barcode or searching in the app, users instantly have access to a ton of information about how to properly dispose of a particular item to help them make informed decisions when discarding products.” Migliore, Gaikwad, and Mock shared that their inspiration behind developing the app stemmed from their experience with improper product disposal when trying to perform environmentally healthy tasks at home. The three Communications High School seniors pointed out that recycling contaminated products can exacerbate the problem by adding more infected recycling batches to landfills. The Congressional App Challenge—simultaneously held in multiple congressional districts across the United States—is intended for students to showcase their software app-developing skills as part of a nationwide competition administered by Members of Congress. Established in 2014, the challenge has become the largest student computer science competition in the world. Middle and high school students from the Fourth Congressional District who are interested in participating in next year’s contest should contact Congressman Smith’s Toms River Office at 732-504-0567 or Middletown Office at 732-780-3035. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z |
| https://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=413469 | Kirby intentionally misleading? Smith: Biden White House needs to stop changing their story and instead be honest and frank on the drone activity in New Jersey | 2024-12-18 | 2024 | 2024-12 | Republican | House | NJ | Christopher H. Smith | S000522 | chrissmith.house.gov | chrissmith | https://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx | scraper | Rep. Chris Smith (R-NJ) today issued the following statement in response to recent comments made by White House National Security spokesman John Kirby regarding the Coast Guard’s reported encounter with drones off the coast of New Jersey: “John Kirby is either profoundly uninformed or intentionally misleading when he asserts that highly trained Coast Guard personnel mistook drones following one of their 47-foot lifeboats for airplanes flying into JFK. The Biden White House needs to stop changing their story and instead be honest and frank with the American people—who deserve the truth and absolute transparency. We tolerate no coverups here. On Sunday, December 8th, I was briefed by a Coast Guard Commanding Officer in Sheriff Mastronardy’s mobile command center for monitoring drone activity on Island Beach State Park. One of my senior aides who was with me took contemporaneous notes during my meeting with the Coast Guard Commanding Officer,” Smith said. According to the officer who briefed me, several drones—between 13 and 30 of them—followed the Coast Guard boat as it travelled along the coast. He told me that the drones were an estimated 100 feet from the vessel and were keeping up with the boat at an estimated cruising speed of 20 knots (or approximately 23 mph),” Smith said. The officer reported that the boat turned to return, and the drones followed. At one point, the drones were flashing their headlights at the boat. He told me that the drones were between four and eight feet in wingspan and appeared between 9-11pm.” ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z |
| https://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=413470 | Smith secured $30.2 million from federal infrastructure bill Beach replenishment from Manasquan Inlet to Barnegat Inlet to begin in January | 2024-12-18 | 2024 | 2024-12 | Republican | House | NJ | Christopher H. Smith | S000522 | chrissmith.house.gov | chrissmith | https://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx | scraper | Critical beach replenishment work for Jersey Shore towns in the Fourth Congressional District is scheduled to begin next month, announced Rep. Chris Smith (R-Manchester). “I am pleased that after several contracting delays, this long-awaited project to restore our beaches that have suffered considerable erosion over the past years is finally moving forward,” said Smith, who secured $30.2 million in federal funding for the project. “We have never let up on securing this long-overdue, unjustly delayed project,” said Smith. “That we have at last received a schedule with real target dates on it gives us great confidence that the desperately needed beach replenishment will finally take place and better protect our beach towns. “Our shore communities will benefit greatly from the federal assistance and partnership to address significant safety concerns from beach erosion and help blunt damaging effects of major storms,” he said. The tentative schedule, which could vary slightly based on weather and sea conditions, entails the following six-to-seven-month construction estimate: · Seaside Heights with taper into Seaside Park: work is estimated to take place in January and February and include 241,000 cubic yards of sand; · Toms River (South): work is estimated to take place in February/March and include 426,000 cubic yards of sand; · Lavallette: work is estimated to take place in March and include 184,000 cubic yards of sand; · Bay Head with taper into Point Pleasant Beach: work is estimated to take place in Spring and include 495,000 cubic yards of sand; · Mantoloking: work is estimated to take place in Spring and include 392,000 cubic yards of sand; · Brick Township: work is estimated to take place in early Summer and include 227,000 cubic yards of sand; and · Toms River (North): work is estimated to take place in Summer and include 135,000 cubic yards of sand. The project, which has faced several setbacks, had been in serious jeopardy before Smith intervened in January 2022 and secured the entire federal s… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z |
| https://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=413462 | U.S. Congressman Chris Smith voices concern over reports of U.S. involvement with pro-abortion bill in Sierra Leone | 2024-12-16 | 2024 | 2024-12 | Republican | House | NJ | Christopher H. Smith | S000522 | chrissmith.house.gov | chrissmith | https://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx | scraper | U.S. Congressman Chris Smith (R-NJ), Chair of the House Global Health and Global Human Rights Subcommittee, today issued the following statement regarding reports of U.S. involvement with efforts to expand abortion in Sierra Leone: “It is deeply disturbing, but not terribly surprising, that we are hearing reports that the Biden Administration is threatening to withhold foreign assistance to Sierra Leone unless legislators there pass the deceptively named ‘Safe Motherhood Act’ legislation that would legalize abortion in Sierra Leone, a country that currently protects unborn life. Let me be clear, abortion is not health care, nor is it an internationally recognized human ‘right.’ The Biden Administration’s pro-abortion bullying tactics and raw attempt at ideological colonialism is unacceptable. Abortion always ends the life of the unborn baby and harms the mother. Pro-life countries should be celebrated and respected for protecting unborn children and their mothers—not penalized by a pro-abortion lame duck Biden Administration. I will work with the incoming Trump Administration to conduct a thorough review of actions by all U.S. agencies, from USAID to the Millennium Challenge Corporation, to determine whether U.S. laws were violated by U.S. government staff through misallocation—or threat of misallocation—of U.S. funding in order to pressure countries to change their prolife laws. Forcing a pro-abortion and woke agenda on financially vulnerable and democratic sovereign nations harms both the U.S. and our allies and is bad diplomacy. It must end.” ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z |
| https://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=413467 | House votes overwhelming in favor Smith’s $1.95 billion Autism CARES Act heads to President’s desk to be signed into law | 2024-12-16 | 2024 | 2024-12 | Republican | House | NJ | Christopher H. Smith | S000522 | chrissmith.house.gov | chrissmith | https://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx | scraper | Comprehensive legislation authored by Rep. Chris Smith (R-NJ) to provide robust funding and enhanced support for Americans with autism is now headed to the President’s desk to be signed into law after winning overwhelming support in a vote (374-15) on the House Floor today. Smith’s Autism CARES Act of 2024—which was approved by the Senate in late November—will provide more than $1.95 billion over five years for programs at the National Institutes of Health (NIH), Centers for Disease Control (CDC), and the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA). “At CDC, the funding will support ongoing developmental disability surveillance and research; at HRSA, the funding will cover education, early detection and intervention services; at NIH, the funding will drive research as well as the coordination of autism-related activities, including the Inter Agency Coordinating Committee (IACC),” Smith said during debate on the House Floor. “As the prime author of the Autism Cares Act of 2024 and previous iterations of the law in 2011, 2014, and 2019, I know this legislation will help make a huge difference in the lives of the millions of Americans with autism by providing robust funding for durable remedies as well as effective early detection and intervention services to allow them the highest quality of life possible,” Smith said. “According to the CDC, 1 in 36 children in the United States—including 1 in 35 children in my home state of New Jersey—are on the autism spectrum,” said Smith. “My legislation pursues critical research goals and focuses on responsive and effective interventions for the estimated 6.8 million individuals with autism—27 percent of whom, or over 1.8 million, are profoundly autistic,” Smith said. Smith’s bill—with Rep. Henry Cuellar (D-TX) as the Democrat lead and 61 other bipartisan cosponsors—is expected to become law before the end of the year. “I am pleased to help pass this bipartisan legislation, a bill I championed alongside Congressman Chris Smith (NJ-4), and send it to the Presiden… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z |
| https://kean.house.gov/media/press-releases/kean-names-jonah-park-and-arnav-jain-winners-congressional-app-challenge | Kean Names Jonah Park and Arnav Jain, Winners of the Congressional App Challenge | 2024-12-16 | 2024 | 2024-12 | Republican | House | NJ | Thomas H. Kean, Jr. | K000398 | kean.house.gov | kean | https://kean.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | (December 16, 2024) BERNARDSVILLE, NJ – Today, Congressman Tom Kean, Jr. (NJ-07) announced the NJ-07 winners of the Congressional App Challenge. The top winner of the competition is the team of Jonah Park of Westfield and Arnav Jain of Short Hills, who both attend The Pingry School. The Congressional App Challenge, which received more 3,800 applications nationwide, has become the most prestigious prize in computer science for students and stands as the largest competition of its kind in the country. Park and Jain’s winning entry, Root, “is an educational app focused on teaching kids about the science behind the environment and how change is possible. Kids from third to eighth grade follow a proprietary curriculum through articles, videos, and quizzes. The Explore page is the heart of the Root community and allows kids to apply their knowledge to create real impact." The team will receive the following as the NJ-07 winner: An Invitation to the #HouseOfCode celebration in DC in April 2025 Winning App eligible to be featured in the Capitol Building and put on House.gov (10 million visitors per year) Waived copyright registration application fees through the ARTS Act Samantha Billig and Vincent Panico, professionals in the technology field, served as judges for this year’s App Challenge. The judges also selected five entries for Honorable Mention recognition: Testify, submitted by Shrenik Rakshit of Annandale who attends Voorhees High School. NourishNest, submitted by Jonathan Chang of Berkeley Heights who attends the Union County Magnet High School. Sustainable Strides, submitted by a team from Warren: Clara Risso and Rebecca Lubeck, who attend Watchung Hills Regional High School and Kayla Peng who attends the Kent Place School. FastLingo, submitted by Dheirya Tyagi of Bernardsville who attends Bernards High School. Billology, submitted by Shiven Das of Bridgewater who attends Bridgewater-Raritan Regional High School. “I am continually inspired by the creativity and innovation demonstrated by our student… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z |
| https://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=413459 | Smith holds news conference in Seaside Heights on unidentified drone activity in New Jersey | 2024-12-14 | 2024 | 2024-12 | Republican | House | NJ | Christopher H. Smith | S000522 | chrissmith.house.gov | chrissmith | https://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx | scraper | The following are excerpts of remarks by Rep. Chris Smith (R-NJ) at his news conference today in Seaside Heights, NJ, on the ongoing unidentified drone activity across the state: "On the large number of drones flying throughout New Jersey and elsewhere that have so far evaded identification, origin, mission or potential threat to Americans, Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas shockingly said this week: ‘We haven’t seen anything unusual. We know of no threat.’ What? The massive invasion of drones observed and recorded by many of our citizens including law enforcement and military personnel—many in this room—isn’t unusual? Is he kidding? How does Secretary Mayorkas who infamously told us for years that our southern border was secure and closed—when it was and is not—now insult our intelligence that ‘we haven’t seen anything unusual’? This is usual? And how can he—and others like national security spokesman Admiral John Kirby—say we know of no threat? How can anyone speculate or issue assurances to the thousands of Americans who have witnessed the drones that there is no threat? For weeks, we’ve asked for the truth and action to mitigate any and all threats to people and property. Now we are demanding it. As the sightings increase including by servicemembers at Naval Weapons Station Earle—where several have been seen or by the Coast Guard which had one of its 47-foot rescue boats followed in very close proximity off its stern by numerous drones—why can’t we bag at least one drone and get to the bottom of this? Why can’t we even track a suspect drone to its origin? Have we so little control over our airspace? Remember the feckless response to the Chinese Communist Party Spy balloon? The elusive maneuvering of these drones suggests a major military power sophistication that begs the question whether they have been deployed to test our defense capabilities—or worse—by violent dictatorships including Russia, China, Iran, or North Korea. The Pentagon has already said the drones are not ours. I’… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T22:13:55Z |
| https://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=413461 | Fox News segment on Rep. Smith's call for answers on drones:'New Jersey lawmaker urges the Pentagon to address drone sightings' | 2024-12-14 | 2024 | 2024-12 | Republican | House | NJ | Christopher H. Smith | S000522 | chrissmith.house.gov | chrissmith | https://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx | scraper | SEASIDE HEIGHTS, NJ , Dec 14, 2024 Fox News Channel Congressman Chris Smith led a press conference with local officials on growing public concerns about unidentified drones reported across his district and other New Jersey areas. Congressman Smith was joined by State, County and Municipal officials, including law enforcement, who all have heard from their own constituents regarding similar concerns. The event was held Dec. 14, 2024 just off the dunes in the Borough of Seaside Heights, in Ocean County, N.J.. The event was carried live by various media, including Fox News Channel. Click here or on image below to watch: Congressman Chris Smith led a press conference with local officials about concern over drones on Dec. 14, 2024. | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T22:13:55Z |
| https://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=413463 | MSNBC News article on Smith's, other officials' concerns:'New Jersey officials call out federal government over response to drone sightings' | 2024-12-14 | 2024 | 2024-12 | Republican | House | NJ | Christopher H. Smith | S000522 | chrissmith.house.gov | chrissmith | https://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx | scraper | 1005 Hooper Avenue Toms River, NJ 08753 Phone: (732) 504-0567 *Please call for an appointment. | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T22:13:55Z |
| https://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=413455 | Smith: Americans want real answers on swarm of drones in N.J. not doublespeak from top Biden officials | 2024-12-13 | 2024 | 2024-12 | Republican | House | NJ | Christopher H. Smith | S000522 | chrissmith.house.gov | chrissmith | https://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx | scraper | Rep. Chris Smith (R-NJ) today issued the following statement in response to the Biden Administration’s recent comments made by White House National Security spokesman John Kirby and in a DHS/FBI joint statement on the unidentified drone activity across New Jersey: “The Biden Administration continues to be dismissive of New Jersey residents who have witnessed these drones in swarms, including coming from the ocean, following a Coast Guard lifeboat, and flying over extremely sensitive military bases like Naval Weapons Station Earle in my congressional district. Some press reports—including one from the Daily Mail—cite intelligence experts who suggest Russia could be responsible. The American people and our trained local law enforcement officials have rightfully asked for real answers—not doublespeak from top Biden officials who still admit they do not know the origin or intent behind this unidentified drone activity. The Biden Administration has an obligation to the American people to figure out and tell us what is going on immediately. Their lack of decisive action and empty reassurances will only cause increased speculation and continue to escalate the valid concerns that so many people have. Tomorrow, I will be holding a press conference in Seaside Heights, New Jersey with local law enforcement officers, mayors, and state representatives to share updates with the public and lay out our next steps in Congress to demand answers and further address this issue.” ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T22:13:55Z |
| https://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=413458 | Press conference in Seaside Heights on Saturday, Dec. 14 at 1:30pm Smith, law enforcement officers, mayors and state officials will provide updates on the unidentified drone activity in New Jersey | 2024-12-13 | 2024 | 2024-12 | Republican | House | NJ | Christopher H. Smith | S000522 | chrissmith.house.gov | chrissmith | https://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx | scraper | Rep. Chris Smith (R-Manchester) will be holding a press conference in Seaside Heights, New Jersey on Saturday, December 14th to provide updates to the public on the unidentified drone activity in New Jersey and unveil new federal legislation he will be introducing in Congress to help address the ongoing issue. The news conference will be located at the new standup Command Center established by the Ocean County Sheriff’s Office to bolster local law enforcement’s capabilities to monitor drones. Both Ocean County Sheriff Mike Mastronardy and Monmouth County Sheriff Shaun Golden will be in attendance. WHO: · Congressman Chris Smith (R-NJ) · Ocean County Sheriff Mike Mastronardy · Monmouth County Sheriff Shaun Golden · Local mayors and state representatives WHEN: Saturday, December 14th at 1:30pm WHERE: Ocean County Sheriff’s new standup Command Center to monitor drone activity 50 Hiering Avenue, Seaside Heights, NJ RSVP: To attend, please RSVP to Michael Finan at Michael.Finan@mail.house.gov ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T22:13:55Z |
| https://kean.house.gov/media/press-releases/kean-selected-serve-energy-and-commerce-committee-119th-congress | Kean Selected to Serve on Energy and Commerce Committee for the 119th Congress | 2024-12-13 | 2024 | 2024-12 | Republican | House | NJ | Thomas H. Kean, Jr. | K000398 | kean.house.gov | kean | https://kean.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | (December 13, 2024) WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Congressman Tom Kean, Jr. (NJ-07) was appointed to serve on the U.S. House of Representatives Committee on Energy and Commerce for the 119th Congress. The Energy and Commerce Committee is the oldest standing legislative committee in the U.S. House of Representatives. “I am honored to be selected to serve on the Energy and Commerce Committee, where I look forward to working with my colleagues to address the critical issues facing our nation's energy future, research and development, and economy,” said Congressman Kean. “Our work will shape the path forward for innovation, sustainability, and opportunity for New Jerseyans and people across our nation.” The committee has responsibility for matters including telecommunications, consumer protection, food and drug safety, public health and research, environmental quality, energy policy, and interstate and foreign commerce, among others. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T22:13:55Z |
| https://kean.house.gov/media/press-releases/kean-statement-house-passage-2025-national-defense-authorization-act-0 | Kean Statement on the House Passage of the 2025 National Defense Authorization Act | 2024-12-13 | 2024 | 2024-12 | Republican | House | NJ | Thomas H. Kean, Jr. | K000398 | kean.house.gov | kean | https://kean.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | (December 13, 2024) WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Congressman Tom Kean, Jr. (NJ-07) released the following statement after the passage of the Servicemember Quality of Life Improvement and National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2025 in the House of Representatives: “I commend the passage of the 2025 National Defense Authorization Act. This legislation's passage will significantly improve our servicemember’s quality of life while continuing to reinforce the superiority of our nation’s military. This bipartisan legislation continues to invest in our nation’s defense industrial base, support our allies and partners abroad, and, most of all, the American warfighter. The legislation contains increases to the basic allowance for housing, a 14.5% pay raise for junior enlisted personnel, improvements to military housing, and support initiatives for military families. For New Jersey, the bill continues to support the critical research and development work at Picatinny Arsenal and aims to better foster workforce development in the defense space. It also supports the Submarine Industrial Base, which many New Jersey companies are a part of, supporting both the Virginia and Columbia Class Programs.” - Congressman Tom Kean, Jr. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T22:13:55Z |
| https://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=413454 | AP / ABC News article on Smith, other officials' concerns:'What do we know about the mysterious drones reported flying over New Jersey?' | 2024-12-12 | 2024 | 2024-12 | Republican | House | NJ | Christopher H. Smith | S000522 | chrissmith.house.gov | chrissmith | https://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx | scraper | By BRUCE SHIPKOWSKI -Associated Press- -- A large number of mysterious drones have been reported flying over parts of New Jersey in recent weeks, sparking speculation and concern over who sent them and why. U.S. Rep. Chris Smith said a Coast Guard commanding officer told him a dozen drones closely followed a Coast Guard lifeboat near Barnegat Light and Island Beach State Park in Ocean County over the weekend. New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy and law enforcement officials have stressed that the drones don’t appear to be a threat to public safety, but many state and municipal lawmakers have nonetheless called for stricter rules about who can fly the unmanned aircraft. Gov. Murphy has said the aircraft do not pose a threat, but has not provided any details to support this. The FBI is among several agencies investigating, and it has asked residents to share videos, photos and other information they may have about the drones. Dozens of witnesses have reported seeing drones in New Jersey starting in November. At first, the drones were spotted flying along the scenic Raritan River, a waterway that feeds the Round Valley Reservoir, the state's largest aquifer, about 50 miles (80 kilometers) west of New York City. The aircraft have also recently been spotted in coastal areas. Assemblywoman Dawn Fantasia, who was briefed by the Department of Homeland Security, said the reported drones have been up to 6 feet (1.8 meters) in diameter and sometimes travel with their lights switched off. This is much larger than those typically flown by drone hobbyists and she said they appear to avoid detection by traditional methods such as helicopter and radio. Officials and experts say some witnesses may actually be seeing planes or helicopters rather than drones, or perhaps are confused about the size of the devices they're seeing. “There are certainly big drones, such as a agricultural drones, but typically they are not the type you see flying around in urban or suburban spaces,” John Duesler, president of the Pennsylvania Drone As… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T22:13:55Z |
| https://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=413456 | NJ.com news article:'More than a dozen drones spotted off Jersey Shore following Coast Guard boat, lawmaker says' | 2024-12-11 | 2024 | 2024-12 | Republican | House | NJ | Christopher H. Smith | S000522 | chrissmith.house.gov | chrissmith | https://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx | scraper | OCEAN COUNTY, NJ , Dec 11, 2024 NJ. com Everything New Jersey - Powered by Star Ledger By Tina Kelley | NJ Advance Media for NJ.com - Published: Dec. 11, 2024, 12:59 p.m. Between 12 and 30 drones were spotted following a Coast Guard lifeboat off the Jersey Shore Sunday night, a Republican lawmaker said during a Congressional hearing Tuesday on mysterious drone sightings over the last month. A Coast Guard commander in Barnegat Light said during a briefing earlier this week that the drones were spotted following the 47-foot vessel, according to U.S. Rep. Chris Smith, R-4th Dist., who spoke during a joint U.S. House of Representatives committee on possible security threats posed by drones. Smith also said an Ocean County Sheriff’s officer saw 50 drones moving over land from the ocean at Island Beach State Park over the weekend. “Maybe it’s China,” Smith told the committee. “Xi Jinping is a monster. Look at what Putin is doing. They’re all capable of doing horrible things to our people.” The Coast Guard did not immediately respond to requests for additional information. The FBI also did not immediately respond to a request to comment. The FBI is continuing to investigate thousands of nighttime drone sightings reported in New Jersey in recent weeks, though it is unclear how many of the reports were really unexplained drones and not airplanes or other objects in the night sky. The agency has asked for the public’s help in collecting video and photo evidence of sightings. Gov. Phil Murphy and some local law enforcement officials have said the drones pose no known threat to the public. Other county and local officials have said the sightings, including some over the state’s largest reservoir, are “concerning.” Ocean County Sheriff Michael G. Mastronardy told NJ Advance Media Wednesday he is “concerned” about the drone sightings. Asked if he considered them a public safety issue he said, “of course.” “I’d like to identify who the people are, or have somebody identify them,” he said. “Ironically, no one has see… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T22:13:55Z |
| https://kean.house.gov/media/press-releases/kean-urges-ai-companies-tackle-security-risks-amid-rising-threats | Kean Urges AI Companies to Tackle Security Risks Amid Rising Threats | 2024-12-11 | 2024 | 2024-12 | Republican | House | NJ | Thomas H. Kean, Jr. | K000398 | kean.house.gov | kean | https://kean.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | (December 11, 2024) WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Congressman Tom Kean, Jr. (NJ-07) sent several letters to the CEOs of major U.S. artificial intelligence companies to follow up on the voluntary commitments they’ve made, expressing deep concerns over a series of significant security lapses that threaten the safety and security of advanced AI technology. Congressman Kean’s letter calls for immediate Congressional oversight and urges the AI companies to provide a detailed overview of their efforts to prevent security breaches and safeguard AI technologies. Additionally, Congressman Kean seeks clarity on how these companies are fulfilling their commitments to the White House and fostering a culture of security within the industry as a whole. The letter addresses troubling incidents, including allegations of a Google employee leaking sensitive trade secrets to Chinese companies, a hacker gaining unauthorized access to OpenAI’s systems, and Meta’s open-source AI models being used by Chinese firms to advance their own AI capabilities. Congressman Kean emphasized that these breaches could potentially expose U.S. technological breakthroughs to theft by foreign adversaries, particularly the Chinese Communist Party (CCP), amid growing concerns over Chinese espionage efforts on an “unprecedented scale.” Congressman Kean requested a response from each of the companies, detailing the steps they plan to take to increase the security of their products and prioritize transparency. Text of each of the letters can be found HERE. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T22:13:55Z |
| https://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=413447 | On Fox News Smith demands answers on unidentified drone activity and calls on Defense Secretary to provide all available capabilities in response to possible threats | 2024-12-10 | 2024 | 2024-12 | Republican | House | NJ | Christopher H. Smith | S000522 | chrissmith.house.gov | chrissmith | https://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx | scraper | Rep. Chris Smith (R-Manchester) today joined Martha MacCallum on Fox News to discuss his ongoing efforts to get answers about the unidentified drone activity storming New Jersey skies and his call for U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin to provide all available capabilities to law enforcement officials to respond to the possible threats: | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T22:13:55Z |
| https://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=413449 | Coast Guard lifeboat followed by swarm of drones in close pursuit Smith urges Defense Secretary to immediately deploy all capabilities to identify and address widespread drone activity across New Jersey | 2024-12-10 | 2024 | 2024-12 | Republican | House | NJ | Christopher H. Smith | S000522 | chrissmith.house.gov | chrissmith | https://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx | scraper | In a letter today, Rep. Chris Smith (R-NJ) urged U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin to immediately provide all capabilities at his disposal to identify and address the widespread drone activity across New Jersey as serious concerns continue to mount over potential threats to the homeland. Smith’s letter comes after he was briefed by a U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) Commanding Officer stationed in Barnegat Light that more than a dozen drones followed a USCG motor lifeboat in close pursuit over the weekend. “As you no doubt are also aware, there have been numerous instances of unmanned aerial systems (UAS) flying over New Jersey, including in close proximity to sensitive sites and critical infrastructure, to include military installations located in my district,” said Smith. “As you know, Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst (JBMDL) possess capabilities to identify and take down unauthorized unmanned aerial systems and have utilized this capability to address overflights of the installation,” Smith said. “I urgently request all capabilities possessed by the Department of Defense, especially those in use by JBMDL to be immediately deployed to identify and address the potential threats posed by UAS over the state of New Jersey,” said Smith. Smith, who spent hours with Ocean County Sheriff Mike Mastronardy on Monday evening monitoring the New Jersey sky in the Sheriff’s Mobile Command Center, said he is deeply concerned by the potential threats posed by the drones. “The serious concerns of New Jersey residents need to be put to rest with answers—not empty reassurances,” said Smith. “The time to act is now.” ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T22:13:55Z |
| https://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=413450 | Washington Times article on Smith, other fed officials' concerns:'New Jersey drones stump FBI; lawmakers furious at federal inaction' | 2024-12-10 | 2024 | 2024-12 | Republican | House | NJ | Christopher H. Smith | S000522 | chrissmith.house.gov | chrissmith | https://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx | scraper | By Stephen Dinan and Tom Howell Jr. - The Washington Times - Tuesday, December 10, 2024 U.S. officials are not sure what to make of the swarms of drones flying over New Jersey in recent weeks, sparking outrage from lawmakers who said it makes the government look incompetent. Those lawmakers decried the lack of answers — and lack of action. “We can bring one down tomorrow,” said Rep. Christopher Smith, New Jersey Republican. Robert Wheeler Jr., who runs the FBI’s critical incident response group, said no evidence suggests nefarious motives, but he hasn’t ruled that out. “It is concerning,” he told the House Homeland Security Committee on Tuesday. He said the public has provided more than 3,000 tips, and reports are everywhere. Some drones have been fixed-wing aircraft, and others are rotary. Some are larger than the typical commercially available size. New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy, a Democrat, called the drones “sophisticated” and said they “go dark” once detected. The drones were spotted in the general area of Picatinny Arsenal, an Army research complex, and President-elect Donald Trump’s home at Bedminster. “Why are we not taking action?” Rep. August Pfluger, the Texas Republican who convened Tuesday’s hearing on drone dangers, demanded of FBI and Justice Department officials. Mr. Wheeler offered a bureaucratically intricate response. He said “authority exists to mitigate” a drone while in flight, but he didn’t explain why it hasn’t happened. At the White House, press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said President Biden knew of the New Jersey drones, but she would not comment further. Rep. Anthony D’Esposito, New York Republican, said the lack of answers has become an embarrassment. “The fact that we continue to say we don’t know what they are, we don’t know what they’re doing — the American people are looking at us and think we’re lying to them because they think, ‘How could you not have answers to drones flying over some of the most critical airspace in the country?’” he said. Mr. Smith said he was … | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T22:13:55Z |
| https://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=413451 | Asbury Park Press 'Rep. Smith: 50 drones came in from ocean; At least a dozen trailed Coast Guard ship' | 2024-12-10 | 2024 | 2024-12 | Republican | House | NJ | Christopher H. Smith | S000522 | chrissmith.house.gov | chrissmith | https://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx | scraper | Jenna Calderón and Lisa Robyn Kruse - Asbury Park Press More than a dozen drones followed a 47-foot Coast Guard boat Sunday night, while law enforcement tracked another 50 drones coming onto land from the ocean at Island State Park, Rep. Chris Smith said. Meanwhile, an FBI assistant director admitted that the agency doesn’t know who is behind the unidentified drones that are flying over New Jersey. Authorities did confirm that the drones are not coming from local military bases. The mystery of the unidentified drones deepened Tuesday, as federal officials admitted during a congressional hearing that despite repeated assurances from Gov. Murphy and other public officials, they can’t say definitively whether the drones pose a threat. MORE: Ocean County sheriff on hunt for mystery drones; Monmouth releases drone map NJ drones: Here are the post-9/11 rules on how government fights airspace intruders “There is nothing known that would lead me to say that but we just don’t know and that’s the concerning part,” Robert Wheeler, assistant FBI director, said during the congressional hearing. Rep. Christopher Smith said during the hearing, and in an interview on Fox News, that he went drone-hunting at Island Beach State Park on Monday with Ocean County Sheriff Michael Mastronardy. He said they went to that beach because the night before, a law enforcement officer had counted 50 drones coming in from the ocean onto land. In addition, he said that he was told by a Coast Guard official that one of their 47-foot ships in the ocean was trailed by 12 to 30 drones. “I think this is a very serious threat,” Smith said. He added that when he asked officials at Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst why they couldn’t shoot down the drones, he was told they don’t have the authority to do so. Smith urged officials at the hearing to grant military authorization to shoot down the drones so that their identity and capability could be ascertained. During the congressional hearing, Wheeler said that the FBI doesn’t know the people re… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T22:13:55Z |
| https://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=413452 | Patch article on Smith concerns re: unidentified drones'Drones Coming From Ocean, Tailed Coast Guard Vessel At Jersey Shore, NJ Rep Says' | 2024-12-10 | 2024 | 2024-12 | Republican | House | NJ | Christopher H. Smith | S000522 | chrissmith.house.gov | chrissmith | https://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx | scraper | Karen Wall,Patch Staff Posted Wed, Dec 11, 2024 at 10:53 am ET|Updated Wed, Dec 11, 2024 at 11:43 am ET — U.S. Rep. Chris Smith is urging the federal Defense Department to take action to identify and address the "potential threat" posed by drone activity over New Jersey after being told a U.S. Coast Guard vessel was followed by drones and that dozens of drones were seen flying onshore from the Atlantic Ocean over the weekend. Smith made the demands in a letter to U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin after conversations he had Monday night where he was told about a large number of drones coming onshore from the Atlantic Ocean and about drones following a U.S. Coast Guard boat off Ocean County. Smith told Austin he is very concerned about the proximity of unidentified drone flights over the last several weeks to sensitive sites and critical infrastructure across New Jersey, including Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst. The base is part of New Jersey's 4th District, which Smith represents. He told Fox News host Martha MacCallum on Tuesday that he had been with Ocean County Sheriff Michael Mastronardy and the sheriff's office unit that is chronicling drone activity when a U.S. Coast Guard officer told him about the drones following the Coast Guard motor lifeboat. "One of their 47-foot boats was trailed very closely by more than a dozen of these drones" off Barnegat Light, Smith said in the interview Tuesday. The drones were very large and close to the stern of the boat, Smith said he was told. In addition, Smith said a member of the sheriff's office told him of seeing 50 drones flying onshore from a boat on Sunday night. Messages left for the sheriff's office and the Coast Guard seeking additional details were not immediately returned Wednesday morning. Smith said he spoke with officials at Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst and was told the defense department has "the capability to ascertain who they are and take them down," but that the defense department has not been given the authority to shoot one down. Smi… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T22:13:55Z |
| https://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=413446 | Smith on Island Beach State Park tonight with Ocean County Sheriff Mike Mastronardy as part of ongoing efforts to address the unidentified drone activity | 2024-12-09 | 2024 | 2024-12 | Republican | House | NJ | Christopher H. Smith | S000522 | chrissmith.house.gov | chrissmith | https://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx | scraper | Rep. Chris Smith (R-Manchester) tonight is on Island Beach State Park with Ocean County Sheriff Mike Mastronardy, who has led efforts to determine the source and possible risks related to the drone activity that has been reported in Ocean County over the last few days. Rep. Smith issued the following statement: “I have been speaking with Ocean County Sheriff Mike Mastronardy, Monmouth County Sheriff Shaun Golden, and national security officials located in the area to discuss the widespread reports of unidentified drone activity across my central New Jersey congressional district and across our state. Understandably, New Jersey residents are very alarmed at this significant and reoccurring phenomenon—and the tepid response from our state and federal agencies so far is totally unacceptable. As we saw with the Chinese spy balloon last year, our fiercest adversaries will stop at nothing to surveil our homeland and threaten our national security. While the source of this drone activity is still to be determined, it is clear that the communication channels and proper authorities among local law enforcement and federal partners must be drastically improved in order to work quickly through deconfliction and security challenges as unmanned aerial systems become more prevalent. The people of New Jersey deserve swift and bold action on the part of our state and federal agencies to investigate, assess, and address the situation immediately and to alleviate the growing concerns of our community. I have already made inquiries to various federal agencies regarding their response to these sightings after being briefed by the Governor, the State Police, the Secretary of Homeland Security, and U.S. military personnel over the past week. I will continue working around the clock to ensure law enforcement has all the tools and authorities necessary to identify these unmanned aerial systems and until New Jersey residents have the comprehensive answers they deserve.” ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T22:13:55Z |
| https://kean.house.gov/media/press-releases/kean-calls-federal-action-address-unexplained-drone-activity | Kean Calls for Federal Action to Address Unexplained Drone Activity | 2024-12-09 | 2024 | 2024-12 | Republican | House | NJ | Thomas H. Kean, Jr. | K000398 | kean.house.gov | kean | https://kean.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | (December 9, 2024) WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Congressman Tom Kean, Jr. (NJ-07) issued a statement urging immediate federal action to address the growing concern over unexplained drone activity in New Jersey: “I join thousands of New Jersey residents in deep frustration regarding the growing concerns over drones operating in our skies. The safety and privacy of our residents must be a top priority, and right now, both are being put at risk. I am calling for the Department of Homeland Security, the Federal Aviation Administration, and other appropriate federal agencies to deploy greater resources to investigate and address this escalating issue. Additionally, an in-depth public briefing from authorities should take place immediately. The people of New Jersey deserve answers, and I will continue to demand accountability to ensure their rights and security are fully protected.” - Congressman Tom Kean, Jr. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T22:13:55Z |
| https://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=413438 | Rep. Smith's statement on President Biden's pardon of Hunter Biden | 2024-12-02 | 2024 | 2024-12 | Republican | House | NJ | Christopher H. Smith | S000522 | chrissmith.house.gov | chrissmith | https://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx | scraper | Rep. Chris Smith (R-Manchester) issued the following statement in response to President Biden’s decision to pardon Hunter Biden: "President Biden’s 'full and unconditional' pardon of his son Hunter makes an absolute mockery of our justice system. While other Americans are serving time for committing the very same felonies, Hunter Biden will never be held accountable for his crimes—simply because of his last name. Time and time again President Biden said that he would not pardon his son. He also said he never discussed these crimes and activities with Hunter. President Biden has been caught in many lies throughout his political career—which begs the question what else has he said as President and Vice President—and even as a U.S. Senator—that was not true? President Biden has degraded the rule of law." | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T22:13:55Z |
| https://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=413399 | Smith cosponsor of legislation House overwhelmingly passes Social Security Fairness Act to remove unjust provisions that penalize police officers, firefighters and teachers | 2024-11-12 | 2024 | 2024-11 | Republican | House | NJ | Christopher H. Smith | S000522 | chrissmith.house.gov | chrissmith | https://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx | scraper | With the strong support and vote of Rep. Chris Smith (R-Manchester), the House of Representatives today passed (327-75) the Social Security Fairness Act (HR 82) to repeal two unjust provisions known as the Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP) and the Government Pension Offset (GPO) that penalize police officers, firefighters, teachers and other public servants by unfairly reducing their Social Security benefits. “It is egregiously unfair that our fellow Americans who have spent substantial portions of their careers serving their communities are punished by having their benefits cut in this way,” said Smith, a cosponsor of the bill. “This critical legislation will help restore fairness to the retirement program for the millions of Americans who deserve their hard-earned benefits.” Currently, the WEP and GPO reduce the benefits of nearly 3 million Americans who also receive a public pension from a job not covered by Social Security or who have a spouse employed by federal, state, or local government in a job that is not covered by Social Security. In September, Smith signed a discharge petition to advance the bill directly to the House Floor for a vote after the bill stalled in the House Ways and Means Committee despite its overwhelming bipartisan support. The petition, which received the required number of 218 signatories, enabled the bill to move to the House Floor without needing further committee action. “The urgent need to repeal the WEP and GPO completely is why I have been a proud cosponsor of the Social Security Fairness Act since it was first introduced last January and why I signed the discharge petition to ensure it received its well-deserved consideration by the House of Representatives,” Smith said. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T22:07:06Z |
| https://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=413397 | New BOEM-DOD offshore wind agreement heightens concerns over whether approved projects have been properly vetted by U.S. military | 2024-10-30 | 2024 | 2024-10 | Republican | House | NJ | Christopher H. Smith | S000522 | chrissmith.house.gov | chrissmith | https://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx | scraper | Rep. Chris Smith (R-NJ) today slammed a new memorandum of understanding (MOU) between the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM) and the U.S. Department of Defense (DOD) to collaborate on offshore wind development, saying the haphazard move “heightens serious concerns over whether projects that have already been approved were thoroughly and properly vetted by the U.S. military for adverse impacts on national security and military readiness.” “It is extremely disconcerting that BOEM is only now deciding to define roles and duties with the Defense Department for offshore wind leasing and project review after 10 projects have already been fully approved by the Biden-Harris Administration with more lined up,” said Smith. “BOEM’s own analysis for the Atlantic Shores South project acknowledges that the offshore wind turbines would specifically interfere with federal and military radar systems, even mentioning Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst by name,” said Smith. “And yet shockingly, BOEM has already issued full federal approval for construction to move forward—even before reaching this new agreement to work with the Defense Department.” According to BOEM, the memorandum of understanding includes calls for BOEM and DOD to: · “Collaborate as early as possible in the offshore wind leasing process”; · “Regularly communicate and exchange information at the staff and leadership levels”; and · “Determine what areas should be deferred from leasing to enable the performance of DOD activities.” “Anyone who has been paying close attention to the shoddy and reckless approval process for these offshore wind projects will not be fooled by this after-the-fact proposal—which is far too little and far too late,” said Smith. “For years, we have been pointing out the lack of serious scrutiny and proper vetting for these projects—especially and including the likely dire impacts on national security and military readiness—but the Biden-Harris Administration has ignored our concerns,” Smith said. “In fact, the implementation of … | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T21:57:20Z |
| https://kean.house.gov/media/press-releases/kean-highlights-over-11-million-dollars-new-fema-safer-and-afg-grants-local | Kean Highlights Over $1.1 Million Dollars in New FEMA, SAFER and AFG Grants for Local Fire Departments | 2024-10-29 | 2024 | 2024-10 | Republican | House | NJ | Thomas H. Kean, Jr. | K000398 | kean.house.gov | kean | https://kean.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | (October 29, 2024) BERNARDSVILLE, NJ – Today, Congressman Tom Kean, Jr. (NJ-07) announced that the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) awarded over $1.1 million dollars for local fire departments in New Jersey’s 7th Congressional District through the Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) Program and the Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) Program. In February of this year, Congressman Kean hosted a FEMA AFG Webinar also wrote letters of support for fire departments to receive a FEMA grant in the 7th Congressional District that requested assistance. Congressman Kean’s Fire Grants and Safety Act was signed into law in July which provided the necessary federal resources through the AFG and SAFER programs. “Every day, firefighters put their lives on the line to protect our communities,” said Congressman Kean. “It is essential that we provide our first responders with the resources they need, and I am grateful to see this funding coming back to the district. Investing in our local fire departments means we are investing in the safety and well-being of our families and neighbors.” "Our agency is incredibly grateful to be chosen for a 2024 Assistance to Firefighters Grant to purchase new portable radios,” said Matthew Hoffman, Chief of Readington Volunteer Fire Company. “Radio communications are a vital part of our everyday operations and safety of our firefighters as they operate on incidents. These funds will help to take the financial burden off our agency and township in the upgrade process. We appreciate the letter of support from Congressman Kean and his office that was submitted with the application.” “Quakertown Fire Company is thrilled to be receiving a $577,000 FEMA SAFER grant for recruitment and retention,” said Bradley Patkochis, Chief of Quakertown Fire Company. “The importance of AFG and SAFER cannot be understated, particularly the ability for local fire companies to complete critical projects without putting it on the backs of New Jersey taxpayers. Thank you to Congress… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T21:57:20Z |
| https://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=413396 | Smith measure required report in response to death of Kyle Mullen IG report notes some improvements but admonishes Navy to reassess medical capabilities at Hell Week | 2024-10-28 | 2024 | 2024-10 | Republican | House | NJ | Christopher H. Smith | S000522 | chrissmith.house.gov | chrissmith | https://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx | scraper | In a new report mandated by legislation authored by Rep. Chris Smith (R-NJ), the U.S. Department of Defense Inspector General (IG) noted improvements made following Kyle Mullen’s death but admonished the Navy to “reassess” the “medical capabilities” at the Navy SEALs Hell Week training, raising serious questions over whether their medical and communications equipment can “provide the appropriate standard of care” and if their medical staffing requirements “meet clinical demand.” “The new policies following Kyle’s death are welcomed, yet they underscore the grave unnecessary risks that SEAL candidates faced before the critical changes were implemented,” said Smith. “Significantly, the IG report reinforces the findings of the Navy’s May 2023 command investigation into Kyle’s death, which cited ‘failures across multiple systems that led to a number of candidates being at high risk of serious injury,’ including ‘wholly inadequate’ medical monitoring and care during and after Hell Week,” said Smith. “The IG report shows that unnecessary health and safety risks existed and notes that some—but not all—of these failures have been addressed in the wake of the Mullen tragedy.” Proactive Pneumonia Safety Measure. Acute pneumonia was determined to be the cause of Kyle’s death in February 2022. According to the IG, one new policy implemented by the Navy following Kyle’s death was that they now administer prophylactic antibiotics to prevent bacterial infections including cellulitis and pneumonia. Also, one or two medical personnel are now required to be on-site for all Hell Week evolutions. Additionally, the IG reports that “one of the biggest improvements for SEAL candidates” is the Recovery Observation Center (ROC), which it says was established in August 2023 “to provide closer medical oversight of candidates during Hell Week and when Hell Week is complete.” “It is clear as day that there were significant medical shortfalls and lapses when Kyle Mullen and others were training during Hell Week in 2022, and the change is… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T21:57:20Z |
| https://kean.house.gov/media/press-releases/kean-fighting-restore-memorial-pond-mount-arlington | Kean Fighting to Restore Memorial Pond in Mount Arlington | 2024-10-25 | 2024 | 2024-10 | Republican | House | NJ | Thomas H. Kean, Jr. | K000398 | kean.house.gov | kean | https://kean.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | (October 25, 2024) BOROUGH OF MOUNT ARLINGTON, NJ – Yesterday, Congressman Tom Kean, Jr. (NJ-07) toured Memorial Pond to gain insight into the critical need for renovations ahead of the FY25 appropriations discussion. Congressman Kean is advocating for $560,000 in the FY25 appropriation process to benefit the Borough of Mount Arlington. The funding will be used for data collection and analysis of the sediment, surveying, engineering, regulatory requirements, and dredging of Memorial Pond. The dredging involves pumping the sediment through a pipeline into geotubes. This funding has passed the House Appropriations Committee. "In our ongoing efforts to both protect and enhance our community’s natural resources, I am advocating for $560,000 in the FY25 appropriations to support vital renovations at Memorial Pond,” said Congressman Kean. “My recent tour and conversations with local stakeholders and leaders reinforced the importance this funding. These resources will be used for data collection, engineering assessments, and the dredging process itself. This project is not just about maintaining a beautiful space; it's about ensuring the ecological health of our environment for future generations. By investing in Memorial Pond, we are making a commitment to the well-being of the Borough of Mount Arlington and fostering a sustainable community." “This is a fantastic project that will have a positive impact on the quality of the water, not only in Memorial Pond and at our town beach, but in Lake Hopatcong as a whole,” said Michael Stanzilis, Mayor of Mount Arlington Borough. “Congressman Kean has worked hard to protect the environment and the quality of water both in and around Lake Hopatcong and Mount Arlington.” “We are incredibly grateful to Congressman Tom Kean, Jr. for visiting Lake Hopatcong and for his support of projects meant to improve the water quality of our lake, including the vital dredging of Memorial Pond in Mount Arlington,” said Kyle Richter, Executive Director of the Lake Hopatcong Foundation. “His c… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T21:57:20Z |
| https://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=413395 | Patch News article on Rep. Smith bill:'New VA Clinic To Be Named For Toms River World War 2 Hero Lomell' | 2024-10-22 | 2024 | 2024-10 | Republican | House | NJ | Christopher H. Smith | S000522 | chrissmith.house.gov | chrissmith | https://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx | scraper | Reps. Chris Smith and Andy Kim promised local officials including then-mayor Maurice Hill to see to it that Lomell was honored with the clinic naming. Smith introduced HR 9997 to do just that. The legislation is cosponsored by Kim, Rep. Jeff Van Drew of the 2nd District, and Rep. Donald Norcross of the 1st District. "A decorated war hero and upstanding citizen, Bud Lomell sacrificed so much for our country and courageously led his platoon during the D-Day invasion of Normandy," Smith said in announcing the legislation "It is only fitting that the new modern health care facility in Toms River that will serve so many of our Nation’s heroes living in our community be named after one of our very own heroes from Ocean County." Smith had represented Toms River and Brick for years until a redistricting moved those towns out of the 4th District. He led the fight to build the James J. Howard VA outpatient clinic in Brick in the 1980s. Kim, who represents the 3rd District, had helped fight for the new clinic in Toms River since he was elected in 2018. Toms River and Brick were in the 3rd District until 2023, following the 2022 election when redistricting shifted the two towns (and others) back to Smith's district. Lomell was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross for his valor and leadership while scaling the cliffs of Pointe Du Hoc in a critical and highly difficult mission to disable an installment of German heavy guns. He later earned a Silver Star for his actions to capture and secure Hill 400 in the Battle of Hurtgen Forest, during which he led the Rangers in defending the hilltop against a German counterattack, even after being severely wounded. After serving our nation overseas, Lomell returned home to Ocean County and became President of the Ocean County Bar Association, a director of the First National Bank of Toms River, and a member of the then Dover Township Board of Education. He died of natural causes in 2011 at his Toms River home. The new Toms River clinic is a 68,000-square-foot, state-of-the-art fa… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T21:57:20Z |
| https://kean.house.gov/media/press-releases/kean-advocates-over-16-million-funding-bernards-township-police | Kean Advocates for Over $1.6 Million in Funding for Bernards Township Police | 2024-10-22 | 2024 | 2024-10 | Republican | House | NJ | Thomas H. Kean, Jr. | K000398 | kean.house.gov | kean | https://kean.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | (October 22, 2024) BERNARDS TOWNSHIP, NJ – Yesterday, Congressman Tom Kean, Jr. (NJ-07) toured the Bernards Township Police Department ahead of the FY25 appropriations discussion to gain insight into local law enforcement needs and priorities. Congressman Kean is advocating for $1,626,100 in the FY25 appropriation process to benefit Bernards Township. This funding would be used for improving the communications capabilities of the Bernards Police Department and partner emergency response agencies within the Township. “I will continue to advocate for the return of as many federal funds as possible to the Bernards Township Police Department,” said Congressman Kean. “This funding for Bernards Township has already passed the House Appropriations Committee. With these resources, local police officers will be able to upgrade their radio communication system, significantly enhancing their ability to communicate and coordinate deployments. This investment is crucial for ensuring the safety and security of this community.” “Bernards Township is grateful to Congressman Kean's support of our community, especially regarding public safety,” said Jennifer Asay, Mayor of Bernards Township. “In February, he hosted a Crime Roundtable webinar where I was a panelist and learned from my fellow panelists and the Congressman collective concerns and where to partner to develop solutions to protect residents. Additionally, we are honored to be one of the Congressman's 15 submissions for Community Project Funding FY2025. If awarded, this $1.6M grant will upgrade the communications capabilities of the Bernards Township Police Department and partner emergency response agencies within the Township, resulting in enhanced resident safety.” “The Bernards Township Police Department appreciated meeting and speaking with Congressman Tom Kean, Junior,” said Jon Burger, Chief of Bernards Township Police Department. “We appreciate the support he provides the community and law enforcement.” Congressman Kean requested 15 projects in this year’s app… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T21:57:20Z |
| https://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=413394 | Azerbaijani dissident murdered in France in run-up to UN climate change conference in Baku Smith urges Biden-Harris Administration to establish increased protection for Azerbaijanis in the U.S. threatened by escalating transnational repression | 2024-10-21 | 2024 | 2024-10 | Republican | House | NJ | Christopher H. Smith | S000522 | chrissmith.house.gov | chrissmith | https://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx | scraper | In the wake of the reported murder of outspoken Azerbaijani dissident Vidadi Isgandarli who was brutally beaten and stabbed to death in his house in France, Rep. Chris Smith (R-NJ) is urging the Biden-Harris Administration to “establish a U.S. Government effort to provide increased protection to Azerbaijanis living in the United States who may be in danger of escalating transnational repression in the run-up to next month’s COP29 Climate Change Conference in Baku.” “This shocking crime perpetrated against a leading critic of Azerbaijani dictator Ilham Aliyev is extremely concerning and has placed Azerbaijanis in the United States on high alert—especially those who are bravely exposing Aliyev’s cruel regime and its egregious human rights violations and large-scale corruption,” said Smith, senior member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee and Co-Chair of the Tom Lantos Human Rights Commission. “The Biden-Harris Administration needs to directly address Aliyev’s horrific and heightening transnational repression before it’s too late,” said Smith, the author of the Transnational Repression Policy Act (HR 3654) that would comprehensively enhance the U.S government’s response to foreign governments who target and persecute individuals living in the United States. “If top Biden-Harris officials pretend this murder was not intended to intimidate other outspoken Azerbaijanis, they will be responsible for emboldening the perpetrators and increasing the threat to other Azerbaijanis,” said Smith, who has chaired numerous congressional hearings and has visited Azerbaijan on several human rights trips as part of his longtime efforts to advocate for victims of Azerbaijan’s human rights abuses, including ethnic Azerbaijanis and Armenians. The murder of Isgandarli follows numerous reports detailing Azerbaijani dissidents who have been targeted and attacked in recent years around the world, including in the U.S., France, Germany and Georgia. In 2020, the Institute for Peace and Democracy noted it had been informed of “confide… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T21:57:20Z |
| https://kean.house.gov/media/press-releases/kean-advocates-nearly-2-million-funding-readington-police | Kean Advocates for Nearly $2 Million in Funding for Readington Police | 2024-10-19 | 2024 | 2024-10 | Republican | House | NJ | Thomas H. Kean, Jr. | K000398 | kean.house.gov | kean | https://kean.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | (October 19, 2024) READINGTON TOWNSHIP, NJ – On Thursday, Congressman Tom Kean, Jr. (NJ-07) toured the Readington Township Police Department ahead of the FY25 appropriations discussion to gain insight into local law enforcement needs and priorities. Congressman Kean is advocating for $1.9 million in the FY25 appropriation process to benefit Readington Township. This funding would be used to enhance the operational capacity, efficiency, and community engagement of the department through strategic upgrades and expansion efforts. "As we continue with the FY25 appropriations process, I remain committed to advocating for the $1.9 million in funding that has already passed the House Appropriations Committee," said Congressman Kean. "This critical investment will help modernize infrastructure, upgrade technology, and expand resources, ensuring that our officers have the tools they need to effectively serve and protect the residents of Readington Township." “As mayor of Readington Township, I am deeply grateful for Congressman Tom Kean’s partnership in securing millions of dollars through the House Appropriations Committee’s community project funding grant,” said Adam Mueller, Mayor of the Readington Township. “This crucial funding will be used for the expansion and modernization of our police department, ensuring they have the resources to serve our community effectively. Congressman Kean has been a devout supporter of our first responders, and his commitment to their safety and success is truly commendable.” “The Readington Township Police Department is grateful for Congressman Kean’s continued support for law enforcement, and his commitment to secure funding that ensures our police officers have the tools they need to deliver the highest quality police service to the residents of Readington Township,” said Jim Curry, Director of Public Safety for the Readington Township Police Department. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T21:57:20Z |
| https://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=413392 | Ahead of Tuesday’s opening Smith introduces legislation to name new Toms River veterans clinic after highly-decorated local war hero Bud Lomell | 2024-10-18 | 2024 | 2024-10 | Republican | House | NJ | Christopher H. Smith | S000522 | chrissmith.house.gov | chrissmith | https://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx | scraper | Rep. Chris Smith (R-Manchester), the author of more than a dozen laws to help our nation’s veterans and their families, today introduced legislation (HR 9997) to name the new veterans clinic in Toms River after World War II hero and longtime Toms River resident, Second Lieutenant Leonard G. “Bud” Lomell. Smith’s bill, which notes that Lomell is “exceedingly deserving of the posthumous honor,” is already cosponsored by Reps. Donald Norcross (D-NJ), Jeff Van Drew (R-NJ) and Andy Kim (D-NJ). “A decorated war hero and upstanding citizen, Bud Lomell sacrificed so much for our country and courageously led his platoon during the D-Day invasion of Normandy,” said Smith, who served two terms as Chairman of the House Veterans Affairs Committee. “For his incredible leadership and remarkable bravery, Bud Lomell received a Purple Heart, Silver Star and Bronze Star.” “It is only fitting that the new modern health care facility in Toms River that will serve so many of our Nation’s heroes living in our community be named after one of our very own heroes from Ocean County,” Smith said. Smith’s legislation has received the strong support of the entire Lomell Family—including Bud’s surviving wife, Charlotte Ewart Lomell, who was married to Bud for 63 years. After citing Lomell’s extraordinary heroism, HR 9997 concludes: “As a decorated war hero, model citizen, and dedicated husband and father, Second Lieutenant Lomell is exceedingly deserving of the posthumous honor of having a new and long-awaited Toms River-based Department of Veterans Affairs outpatient clinic named in his honor.” Lomell, who served as a U.S. Army Ranger in World War II through multiple engagements including the Invasion of Normandy and the Battle of the Bulge, was recognized by famed historian Stephen Ambrose as “the single individual—other than Dwight Eisenhower—as most responsible for the Allied successes on D-Day.” Lomell was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross for his valor and leadership while scaling the cliffs of Pointe Du Hoc in a critical and… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T21:57:20Z |
| https://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=413391 | Smith secured $30.2 million from federal infrastructure bill Beach replenishment from Manasquan Inlet to Barnegat Inlet ready to move forward with new contract awarded | 2024-10-17 | 2024 | 2024-10 | Republican | House | NJ | Christopher H. Smith | S000522 | chrissmith.house.gov | chrissmith | https://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx | scraper | Critical beach replenishment for Jersey Shore towns in the Fourth Congressional District is primed to begin after the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers officially awarded a contract for the project to Great Lakes Dredge and Dock Company, announced Rep. Chris Smith (R-Manchester). “After several contracting delays, this long-awaited project to restore our beaches that have suffered considerable erosion over the past years is finally ready to move forward,” said Smith, who secured $30.2 million in federal funding for the project. The project, which has faced several setbacks, had been in serious jeopardy before Smith intervened in January 2022 and secured the entire federal share—or approximately half of the $73.5 million total cost—from the federal infrastructure bill passed by Congress. “We have never let up on securing this long-overdue, unjustly delayed project,” said Smith. “Our shore communities will benefit greatly from the federal assistance and partnership to address significant safety concerns from beach erosion and help blunt damaging effects of major storms.” Smith said that while the work schedule is yet to be finalized, the project will likely be completed over the winter months—or possibly sooner. “I am confident that the Army Corps will work closely with the contract awardee to help see that this important operation, now finally awarded, is not derailed again,” said Smith. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T21:57:20Z |
| https://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=413390 | Lufthansa fined $4 million for discriminating against Jewish passengers in antisemitic incident | 2024-10-15 | 2024 | 2024-10 | Republican | House | NJ | Christopher H. Smith | S000522 | chrissmith.house.gov | chrissmith | https://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx | scraper | Rep. Chris Smith (R-Manchester), Co-Chair of the House Task Force for Combating Antisemitism, said the $4 million fine levied against Lufthansa today for discriminating against Jewish passengers—including some from Smith’s congressional district—“sends a strong message that discrimination and antisemitism has absolutely no place in our society and will not be tolerated.” The record fine comes in response to a May 2022 incident when 128 members of the Orthodox Jewish community were denied boarding on a connecting flight in Germany based on the actions of only some of the passengers, even though many did not know each other and were traveling separately. In the wake of the incident, Smith wrote a letter to Lufthansa Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Carsten Spohr expressing his “utter disgust” for the way in which the travelers were treated and requested a meeting with the German airline’s top brass to address “several vexing questions.” At Smith’s request, the Lufthansa CEO met with him and a constituent in Smith’s DC office to hear directly from a victim of the discrimination just two weeks after the antisemitic incident. Lufthansa conducted an investigation, changed policies and continued negotiations with many of the passengers. “The rising tide of antisemitism worldwide cannot be overlooked,” said Smith. “Tragically, Jewish men, women and children continue to suffer bias, cruelty, hate and violence simply because they are Jewish.” “Silence is not an option—nor is inaction,” said Smith. “If our fight against this pernicious form of hatred is to succeed, we must be absolutely clear and bold in word, deed, policies and treatment.” ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T21:57:20Z |
| https://kean.house.gov/media/press-releases/kean-honors-local-law-enforcement-hometown-heroes-event | Kean Honors Local Law Enforcement at Hometown Heroes Event | 2024-10-15 | 2024 | 2024-10 | Republican | House | NJ | Thomas H. Kean, Jr. | K000398 | kean.house.gov | kean | https://kean.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | (October 15, 2024) BERNARDSVILLE, NJ – Last Friday, Congressman Tom Kean, Jr. (NJ-07) hosted his inaugural Law Enforcement Hometown Heroes event at the Bernardsville Library to recognize and honor outstanding law enforcement officers in the community. In attendance were Bernardsville Council President Al Ribeiro, Bernards Township Mayor Jennifer Asay, the Hometown Heroes, along with their families, friends, and supervisors. Congressman Kean honored 22 Hometown Heroes, who represent all six counties in New Jersey’s 7th Congressional District. Each Hometown Hero was nominated by their chiefs and supervisors for the outstanding work they do every day. “First responders and law enforcement are the backbone of our communities' safety,” said Congressman Kean. “I am fortunate to represent a district filled with some of the most selfless and hard-working people, including those we recognized as Law Enforcement Hometown Heroes. I am grateful to play a small role in recognizing their efforts as a token of appreciation for the difficult responsibilities these men and women have keeping our communities safe.” “I’m grateful to Congressman Kean for choosing to recognize our law enforcement professionals,” said Sergeant Daniel Kern, 2024 Law Enforcement Hometown Hero. “Law enforcement officers are some of the most misunderstood professionals. The vast majority of officers sacrifice a great deal for their communities and do so without the expectation or desire of any recognition. My department is full of officers that could easily be here in my place.” “I am grateful to have been nominated and recognized as part of Congressman Kean’s Hometown Heroes Initiative,” said Sergeant Tracy Baldassare, 2024 Law Enforcement Hometown Hero. “I am proud to represent and serve alongside all of the honorable women and men of the Bernards Township Police Department. Being able to do so in my hometown has been an added privilege, for which I will always be thankful.” Photos of the event can be found HERE. The Honorees are: Honorees That A… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T21:57:20Z |
| https://kean.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-kean-accepting-applications-spring-2025-internships | Congressman Kean Accepting Applications for Spring 2025 Internships | 2024-10-10 | 2024 | 2024-10 | Republican | House | NJ | Thomas H. Kean, Jr. | K000398 | kean.house.gov | kean | https://kean.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | (October 10, 2024) WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Congressman Tom Kean, Jr. (NJ-07) announced that his office is now accepting applications for the Spring 2025 Internship Program. This valuable opportunity provides college students with a unique chance to gain hands-on experience in the fast-paced world of public service and legislative affairs. As an integral part of the congressional office, interns will have the chance to work closely with dedicated staff members and contribute to the development and implementation of legislative initiatives. This immersive experience will provide valuable insights into the inner workings of the U.S. Congress and the day-to-day responsibilities of a congressional office. "We are excited to offer this internship program to students who are passionate about public service," said Congressman Kean. "Our interns play a vital role in supporting our work on behalf of the constituents we serve, and I am proud to provide them with a valuable learning experience." To apply for the Spring Internship Program for both the DC and the NJ District offices, interested individuals should visit https://kean.house.gov/services/internships and complete the online application. The deadline for applications is Friday, November 15, 2024. Internships are for currently enrolled college students. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T21:57:20Z |
| https://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=413388 | In bicameral letter Members of Congress put federal agency on notice for violating the law by allowing congressional health plans to subsidize abortion | 2024-10-09 | 2024 | 2024-10 | Republican | House | NJ | Christopher H. Smith | S000522 | chrissmith.house.gov | chrissmith | https://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx | scraper | In a bicameral letter to the U.S. Office of Personnel Management (OPM) today, more than two dozen Members of Congress—led by Rep. Chris Smith (R-NJ), Rep. Eric Burlison (R-MO), and Sen. Mike Lee (R-UT)—admonished the human resources agency for violating federal law that prohibits congressional health plans from subsidizing elective abortion. “It is a clear violation of the Smith Amendment for health plans available to Members and staff to offer elective abortion,” wrote the 22 House Members and 4 Senators, who noted the provision—which was first authored by Rep. Chris Smith—has been renewed annually for nearly 30 years. The letter comes on the heels of reports that Aetna—currently the sole provider of congressional-eligible plans that comply with the Smith Amendment by excluding coverage of elective abortion—will stop offering health plans on Washington, DC’s Affordable Care Act exchange known as DC Health Link. Congressional Members and staff have been advised that only two plans that do not cover elective abortion will be made available for the upcoming plan year. “Under the Smith Amendment, OPM is prohibited from engaging in administrative activity in connection with any plan that subsidizes elective abortion, let alone almost all of them,” the lawmakers continued. “The severity of OPM’s specious implementation of—or perhaps malicious disregard for—the law must be finally and permanently remedied and brought into compliance with congressional intent,” the lawmakers wrote. As a result of Aetna’s withdrawal from the exchange, Members of Congress and staff enrolled in Aetna plans will be forced to select new health plans during their upcoming “open season,” which is scheduled for November 11 through December 9, 2024. “In Plan Year 2024, Aetna offered eight health plans that did not subsidize elective abortion,” the lawmakers wrote. “The situation has now deteriorated to the point that Members of Congress and their designated staff have only two plans available to them in 2025.” “This outcome is a tragic re… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T21:57:20Z |
| https://kean.house.gov/media/press-releases/kean-visits-fy25-community-project-funding-site-warren-county | Kean Visits FY25 Community Project Funding Site in Warren County | 2024-10-09 | 2024 | 2024-10 | Republican | House | NJ | Thomas H. Kean, Jr. | K000398 | kean.house.gov | kean | https://kean.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | (October 9, 2024) WARREN COUNTY, NJ – Today, Congressman Tom Kean, Jr. (NJ-07) met with Dr. William Austin, Warren Community College President, along with students, faculty, and deans, ahead of the FY25 appropriations discussion to gain insight into the critical need for funding to enhance the Agricultural Education and Training Center’s facilities. Congressman Kean requested $978,625 for Warren Community College in this year’s appropriation process. The funding would be used for improvements to the existing Agricultural Education and Training Center’s facilities to serve as a location for training students on vocational agriculture and culinary studies. “Hands-on experience bridges the gap between classroom learning and practical application, providing opportunities that can be transformed into valuable real-world skills,” said Congressman Kean. “This funding would provide students with the necessary resources and training in vocational agriculture and culinary studies, helping to foster skill development and workforce readiness in these fields. I thank President Austin and his team for taking the time to show me the site today and look forward to getting this funding across the finish line.” “We are honored to welcome Congressman Kean to our Robotics research facility, where we reviewed our past work in precision agriculture and discussed our plans to automate food processing,” said Dr. William Austin, President of Warren Community College. “By collaborating with local farmers and the Congressman, we aim to develop a cutting-edge food science innovation center for Northwest New Jersey.” Congressman Kean requested 15 projects in this year’s appropriation process. To view the full list, click HERE. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T21:57:20Z |
| https://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=413385 | Patch News article:'500 Rally In Sea Girt Against Offshore Wind Turbines' | 2024-10-08 | 2024 | 2024-10 | Republican | House | NJ | Christopher H. Smith | S000522 | chrissmith.house.gov | chrissmith | https://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx | scraper | Carly Baldwin,Patch Staff Posted Mon, Oct 7, 2024 at 10:56 am ET|Updated Tue, Oct 8, 2024 at 8:57 am ET — Nearly 500 people rallied in Sea Girt Sunday morning to protest the planned installation of wind turbines off the Jersey Shore. Gov. Phil Murphy drove by the crowd as he entered the National Guard Training Center, located in Sea Girt, where he had to attend an annual military review. Organizers say they planned the protest specifically because they knew Murphy would be in the area. Murphy did not speak to the crowd. "We wanted him to see us and he did see us, and snuck past us when (NJ Republican governor candidate Jack) Ciattarelli was speaking," said one of the organizers, Lynette Viviani of Stop the High-Risk Power Cables.org, a group of Jersey Shore residents that are trying to prevent plans to bring the wind energy ashore in Sea Girt, Manasquan and Wall. 'The rush to install these expensive and expansive offshore wind farms — with industrial cables tearing up towns like Sea Girt, Manasquan, Wall and Howell — is a catastrophe in the making... Gov. Murphy’s blatant disregard for the concerns of local residents, the dangers presented by these projects, and the reckless spending in pursuit of them makes no sense whatsoever.' - Congressman Chris Smith (R- Manchester) The wind farm that is currently progressing off the Jersey Shore is Atlantic Shores, which is actually composed of three wind farms, according to the company website, Atlantic Shores Wind: Atlantic Shores North: A wind farm about 9-10 miles off Barnegat Light Atlantic Shores South: 195 turbines 8.7 miles off Atlantic City at its closest point to land Atlantic Shores Bight: A third lease area much farther out to sea, located in an area known as the Atlantic Bight. AtlanticShoresWind.com is a private subsidiary owned by Shell Oil and EDF Renewables. They currently hold the leasing rights to three areas of the Atlantic Ocean on which they plan to build turbines. Energy from Atlantic Shores will be brought ashore in Monmouth County: Under… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T21:57:20Z |
| https://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=413381 | October 7th Commemorating the innocent victims of Hamas’ barbaric terrorist attack and ongoing war of hatred against Israel | 2024-10-07 | 2024 | 2024-10 | Republican | House | NJ | Christopher H. Smith | S000522 | chrissmith.house.gov | chrissmith | https://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx | scraper | Rep. Chris Smith (R-NJ), senior member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee and Co-Chair of the Israel Allies Caucus, today issued the following statement marking one year since Hamas’ barbaric terrorist attack on Israel: “Today, we remember with deep sadness the more than 1,200 innocent men, women and children who were mercilessly slaughtered by Hamas terrorists in the most fatal incident of antisemitic violence since the Holocaust. We also continue to grieve with the families of the hostages who were subsequently tortured and killed and those who remain captive and suffering the cruelty of Hamas every day. The United States and the international community cannot let up in the slightest until each and every single hostage is returned home and Israel has all the tools and support it needs to defend itself against Hamas’ ongoing war of hatred—which is fueled and exacerbated by Iran and its other terrorist proxies in the region. Additionally, the deep roots of the terrorists’ support network at the United Nations and other international organizations who perpetuate antisemitic hate for Israel must be completely torn out.” ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T21:57:20Z |
| https://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=413384 | Smith calls for robust sanctions on ‘the twin butchers of Darfur’ after Sudanese warlord allowed entry into the United States and received by UN Secretary-General | 2024-10-07 | 2024 | 2024-10 | Republican | House | NJ | Christopher H. Smith | S000522 | chrissmith.house.gov | chrissmith | https://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx | scraper | In response to Sudanese warlord Abdel Fattah al-Burhan’s recent meeting in New York with UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, Rep. Chris Smith (R-NJ) today called on the Biden-Harris Administration to sanction the leaders of both the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) for their gross violations of internationally recognized human rights. “Burhan has blood on his hands and should never have been let into the United States—let alone received by the UN Secretary-General in New York,” said Smith, the Chair of the House Foreign Affairs human rights subcommittee and Co-Chair of the Tom Lantos Human Rights Commission. “The United States must exert maximum pressure and place robust sanctions not only on Burhan but also on Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo—known to the world as ‘Hemeti’—for their extensive criminal records and their failure to allow humanitarian aid into Sudan and let civilians evacuate combat zones,” said Smith, who has chaired 15 congressional hearings and markups on Sudan and South Sudan alone. Smith, who noted that more than 18,000 civilians have been killed (though estimates rise as high as 150,000) and over 10 million have been displaced since 2023 alone, said “there will never be peace in Sudan until there is accountability for the atrocities committed by these twin butchers of Darfur.” “Together, these two warlords have ravaged Sudan with utter impunity and brutality, and their bloody records are littered not just with war but with arbitrary killings, detentions, abductions, rapes, repression of fundamental human rights, illicit gold mining, and recruitment of child soldiers,” said Smith, who cited a recent UN report that found the SAF and RSF have committed “an appalling range of harrowing human rights violations and international crimes.” “The U.S. also needs to stem the flow of illicit Sudanese gold—which the RSF smuggles through the United Arab Emirates into global markets—by working with our partners to ensure gold is traced to its source and declared clean before enter… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T21:57:20Z |
| https://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=413386 | TAPInto News article:'Communities Stand Together: Rally Against Offshore Transmission Lines and Wind Energy' | 2024-10-07 | 2024 | 2024-10 | Republican | House | NJ | Christopher H. Smith | S000522 | chrissmith.house.gov | chrissmith | https://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx | scraper | 'Sea Girt, Manasquan, Wall Twp, Howell Residents Rally Against Offshore Transmission Lines and Wind Energy Projects' MONMOUTH COUNTY, NJ , Oct 7, 2024 TAPinto By Jim Lonergan SEA GIRT, NJ – On Sunday morning, around 500 residents from Sea Girt, Manasquan, Wall Township, and Howell gathered to protest the offshore wind projects and high-risk power cables slated to run through their towns. Organized by the nonprofit group Stop The High-Risk Power Cables, the rally aimed to raise awareness about the impact these transmission lines could have on local communities and draw the attention of Governor Phil Murphy. Protesters assembled outside the New Jersey National Guard training center, where Governor Murphy was attending an annual military review. For two hours, they held signs and voiced their demands, though they didn’t get to speak directly with the governor. However, many believe their message was seen and heard as his caravan passed by—a message that's been growing louder over the past few months. Sea Girt resident Alex Fatenko shared her concerns: "I live where the line is set to go, just eight feet from my front door. It’s emitting so much energy, and no one has ever had something like this installed so close to a home. It’s outrageous. I want to be here 50 years from now, free from cancer or other health risks it could cause. My home is my biggest investment, and this was pushed through with no regard for the people it impacts." 'The rush to install these costly offshore wind farms, with industrial cables ripping through towns like Sea Girt, Manasquan, Wall, and Howell, is a disaster waiting to happen' - Congressman Smith Photo Credit: Jim Lonergan Photo Credit: Jim Lonergan 2025 Governor candidate Jack Ciattarelli speaking with residentsPhoto Credit: Jim Lonergan Photo Credit: Jim Lonergan Photo Credit: Jim Lonergan Photo Credit: Jim Lonergan NJ Assemblyman Paul Kinitra, a vocal opponent of the plan, also attended the rally. He criticized the Murphy administration, saying, "The Murphy Administr… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T21:57:20Z |
| https://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=413379 | News 12 New Jersey reports on Smith's legislation to give local communities more say in planned telecom projects'Spring Lake residents fight Verizon plan to place 5G towers along shoreline' | 2024-10-04 | 2024 | 2024-10 | Republican | House | NJ | Christopher H. Smith | S000522 | chrissmith.house.gov | chrissmith | https://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx | scraper | Spring Lake, Oct 4, 2024 By Jim Murdoch, News 12 New Jersey. As Verizon makes 5G upgrades along the Jersey Shore, the message is clear in Spring Lake - stay off Ocean Avenue. “Verizon is a big company. They have a lot of money, a lot of power. I feel like they are bullying their way into our town,” says Laura Demeo, a longtime resident of Spring Lake. Demeo is one of more than 150 residents who are fighting Verizon’s plans for a half-dozen 5G poles next to the 2-mile boardwalk after the company submitted an application back in January. Republican Rep. Chris Smith introduced legislation in April to give more power to people like Demeo and towns like Spring Lake to fight big communication companies and come up with alternatives and compromises. “They need to say, ‘Hey, we serve you. You don’t serve us.’ And again, government has to be the same way. They are just rolling over the local population, and that’s a bad neighbor policy,” says Smith. In Spring Lake, there’s already a local ordinance banning such towers along the immediate beachfront. An antenna in Sea Girt already utilizes an existing telephone pole. Spring Lake Borough Manager Bryan Dempsey says Verizon can add its 5G equipment to poles inland. “We made the ordinance that way because of how pristine the beachfront is, knowing there are other areas in town that have telephone poles they could utilize,” says Dempsey. Spring Lake’s mayor and council must now answer Verizon’s application within the next two weeks. In a statement to News 12, a Verizon spokesperson says, “Verizon's network improvements provide crucial connectivity for customers and emergency service providers in the community. With consumers and businesses using increasing amounts of data each year, we continually enhance our network to meet the needs of homeowners, first responders and as vacationers in beach communities. Verizon has installed and now operates similar cell sites in adjacent communities with no negative impact on residents or wildlife. Our Company continually works to… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T21:57:20Z |
| https://kean.house.gov/media/press-releases/kean-visits-fy25-community-project-funding-site-mountainside | Kean Visits FY25 Community Project Funding Site in Mountainside | 2024-10-04 | 2024 | 2024-10 | Republican | House | NJ | Thomas H. Kean, Jr. | K000398 | kean.house.gov | kean | https://kean.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | (October 4, 2024) MOUNTAINSIDE, NJ – On Wednesday, Congressman Tom Kean, Jr. (NJ-07) met with Mountainside Mayor Paul Mirabelli ahead of the FY25 appropriations discussion to gain insight into local law enforcement needs and priorities. Congressman Kean requested $63,250 for Mountainside Borough Hall in this year’s appropriation process. This funding will allow the Borough to purchase and install new security cameras at the Borough Hall and the fire department, as well as a computerized badged locking system. “With the uptick of crime in our neighborhoods, it is crucial that public safety buildings are updated with modern technology to enhance security measures, improve surveillance capabilities, and ensure the safety of residents, visitors, and staff alike,” said Congressman Kean. “Borough Hall contains the police department, senior center, recreation center, building and construction office, tax office, clerk’s office, and municipal court. I will continue to advocate on behalf of Mountainside to get this community the funding they deserve.” Congressman Kean requested 15 projects in this year’s appropriation process. To view the full list, click HERE. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T21:57:20Z |
| https://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=413375 | Smith, Jordan, Salazar introduce legislation to stop U.S. taxpayer funds from supporting Brazil’s crackdown on free speech | 2024-10-01 | 2024 | 2024-10 | Republican | House | NJ | Christopher H. Smith | S000522 | chrissmith.house.gov | chrissmith | https://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx | scraper | On the heels of a recent report documenting Biden-Harris Administration support for censorship in Brazil, Rep. Chris Smith (R-NJ), the Chair of the House Global Human Rights Subcommittee, has introduced legislation to stop U.S. taxpayer funds from flowing to progressive non-governmental organizations (NGOs) that are promoting Brazil’s escalating crackdown on free speech. “The Biden-Harris Administration has weaponized U.S. foreign assistance programs and other means to promote censorship in Brazil and crack down on free speech that would be protected under our U.S. Constitution here at home,” said Rep. Smith, a senior member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, who chaired a congressional hearing in May examining Brazil’s extensive human rights abuses. “Free speech is fundamental to democracy,” said Smith, an international human rights leader. “It is unconscionable that the United States is using taxpayer dollars to promote this type of censorship which completely contradicts our entire American constitutional tradition.” Cosponsored by Reps. Jim Jordan and Maria Salazar, Smith’s legislation—the No Funding or Enforcement of Censorship Abroad Act (HR 9850)—would cut off U.S. foreign assistance to any entities that promote censorship and prohibit U.S. law enforcement agencies from cooperating with foreign countries to promote censorship against speech that would otherwise be protected if the speaker was located in the United States. “The House Judiciary Committee and the Select Subcommittee on the Weaponization of the Federal Government have uncovered how the FBI under the Biden-Harris Administration facilitated a foreign government’s censorship requests against Americans,” said Rep. Jordan. “This bill is critical in stopping foreign government censors from using the DOJ or the FBI to silence disfavored views.” “The United States must defend Elon Musk from the attacks of Alexandre de Moraes and the other forces of socialism in Brazil,” said Rep. Salazar. “The United States needs to uphold the principles of … | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T21:57:20Z |
| https://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=413376 | Jersey Shore under threat Biden-Harris Administration greenlights catastrophe in the making by approving construction plan for Atlantic Shores South offshore wind project | 2024-10-01 | 2024 | 2024-10 | Republican | House | NJ | Christopher H. Smith | S000522 | chrissmith.house.gov | chrissmith | https://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx | scraper | Rep. Chris Smith (R-NJ) today issued the following statement in response to the Biden-Harris Administration’s approval of the construction and operations plan for the Atlantic Shores South offshore wind proposal: “The Biden-Harris Administration has foolishly greenlighted a catastrophe in the making by approving the construction and operations plan for the Atlantic Shores South offshore wind project. Allowing this project to move forward with construction when other projects have been blatantly unsafe and unviable makes no sense whatsoever. During this past summer, several beaches in Massachusetts were littered with large, sharp fiberglass shards when a blade from a Vineyard Wind turbine failed disastrously. Just last week, the manufacturer of these blades announced they would be laying off as many as 900 workers citing industrywide challenges for offshore wind. Here in New Jersey, another offshore wind project was forced to pause its project at least through December—and potentially longer—because the company in charge of the project could not secure a viable turbine blade manufacturer. To add insult to injury, the approval of each new offshore wind project means higher electricity costs for New Jersey ratepayers. It’s long past time the Biden-Harris Administration and Governor Murphy come to their senses and stop propelling this train wreck in slow motion.” ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T21:57:20Z |
| https://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=413377 | U.S. must stand in absolute solidarity with Israel in the face of Iran’s massive ballistic missile attack | 2024-10-01 | 2024 | 2024-10 | Republican | House | NJ | Christopher H. Smith | S000522 | chrissmith.house.gov | chrissmith | https://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx | scraper | Rep. Chris Smith (R-NJ), senior member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee and Co-Chair of the Israel Allies Caucus, issued the following statement in response to the Iranian missile attack launched against Israel: “Make no mistake, the adversaries of Israel are the adversaries of the United States. Now more than ever, we must stand in absolute solidarity with our great U.S. ally—and the only true, stable democracy in the Middle East. All efforts must be made to extend the strongest support possible to the people of Israel—including both defensive weapons systems like Iron Dome, Arrow systems, and David’s Sling and all necessary offensive military capabilities—for as long as it takes to defeat Iran, Hezbollah, and other proxies bent on carrying out radical Islamists’ aggression. It is critical that the United States immediately push for the resumption of sanctions on Iran’s nuclear program, take further efforts to deny sanctuary to Iranian terrorist proxies, and ensure the Tehran regime is unable to use international governing bodies—such as the United Nations and UNRWA—to fund and support its export of antisemitism and terrorism around the globe. Furthermore, the Federal Government must immediately investigate all Iranian-directed campaigns of influence within the United States and provide Congress with a full accounting of all Iranian efforts to influence federal policy as well as their attempts to sow discord through the funding of pro-terrorist protests since October 7th. It is well past time that this threat is addressed in a serious manner. The United States must make explicitly clear that it will no longer tolerate a campaign of destruction against our closest ally in the region, nor will it allow the Iranian regime to hold the world hostage through acts of violence.” ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T21:57:20Z |
| https://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=413374 | Stop kidding yourself Smith: This is who UNRWA is | 2024-09-30 | 2024 | 2024-09 | Republican | House | NJ | Christopher H. Smith | S000522 | chrissmith.house.gov | chrissmith | https://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx | scraper | “This is who UNRWA is,” said Rep. Chris Smith (R-NJ), senior member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, in response to confirmed reports that Hamas’ top leader in Lebanon, Fateh al-Sharif—who was killed in an airstrike on Monday—was also employed by the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA). “If you were surprised that Hamas’s top leader in Lebanon was also employed by UNRWA, stop kidding yourself,” said Smith, the Chair of the congressional global human rights and international organizations subcommittee. “UNRWA’s deep ties to terrorism—including its employment of hundreds of staffers with terrorist affiliations—have been vastly documented, including by expert witnesses at four congressional hearings I’ve chaired over the past 18 months on UNRWA’s decades-long complicity in the most vicious forms of antisemitic hate,” said Smith. “In an April report, the UN even admitted that it does not vet UNRWA employees for connections or sympathies with Hamas or Islamic Jihad,” Smith said. “UNRWA is an incubator of hatred and a child-soldier factory whose textbooks, curricula, summer camps, and official media all exist to perpetuate conflict,” said Smith. “The United States and all those who are committed to combating terrorism cannot resume any funding for UNRWA and instead should provide humanitarian assistance to an agency that does not promote, espouse, or affiliate with those that support violence, terrorism or antisemitism,” said Smith, the author of legislation that would permanently prohibit any U.S. funding for UNRWA. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T21:43:57Z |
| https://kean.house.gov/media/press-releases/kean-constituent-services-return-over-10-million-nj-07-residents | Kean Constituent Services Return Over $10 Million to NJ-07 Residents | 2024-09-26 | 2024 | 2024-09 | Republican | House | NJ | Thomas H. Kean, Jr. | K000398 | kean.house.gov | kean | https://kean.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | (September 26, 2024) BERNARDSVILLE, NJ – Today, Congressman Tom Kean, Jr. (NJ-07) announced that his casework team has returned more than $10,012,316 to constituents. Since the office opened in January of 2023, Congressman Kean and his team have closed over 2,730 constituent cases, representing over $10,012,316 dollars returned back to New Jerseyans in the 7th Congressional District. From the beginning of Congressman Kean’s term in office, Team Kean has helped constituents save money and obtain benefits from the VA, IRS, Social Security Administration, and other federal agencies. The top three groups of people served are seniors, veterans, and families. “$10,000,000 back to constituents is an incredible milestone that demonstrates the positive impact of the work we do to help our fellow New Jerseyans,” said Congressman Kean. “I am committed to serving my district to ensure every constituent receives the benefits and assistance to which they are entitled." Below are testaments from constituents who have received assistance from Team Kean with their federal agencies. “The staff was very helpful through the process and they were reassuring. I appreciate the great assistance!!” -Payal from Flemington “Thank you to the Congressman Kean's office for your help with expediting my EAD! It was expedited so quickly and truly appreciate your help. I was also very pleasantly surprised by the customer service on the phone. It was great there were no automated phone systems and I was able to reach a rep right away and they were very courteous. Overall a very positive experience.” -Aparajitha from Somerville “Congressman Keans staff was highly responsive and helpful in resolving my issue. They reached out numerous times and even when the problem was resolved they followed up to ensure all was well. Thank you for all of your help.” -Antonio from Ledgewood “I emailed the office late in the evening after business hours and they responded around 9am the next morning. By 4:00pm that day, the social security worker called me an… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T21:43:57Z |
| https://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=413370 | Arrives in midst of hurricane season Smith secures over $1.2 million in federal funds for major technology upgrades to Monmouth County emergency operations center | 2024-09-25 | 2024 | 2024-09 | Republican | House | NJ | Christopher H. Smith | S000522 | chrissmith.house.gov | chrissmith | https://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx | scraper | The Emergency Operations Center (EOC) operated by the Monmouth County Sheriff’s Office was awarded $1,241,250 in federal funding for major technology and communications equipment upgrades, announced Rep. Chris Smith (R-Manchester), who personally secured the funds through a congressional earmark. “Monmouth County—under the great leadership of Sheriff Shaun Golden—has provided top-notch and cost-effective emergency services for local residents through this critical law enforcement and first responder unit,” said Rep. Smith. “This significant investment will go a long way to enhance the lifesaving mission of the center, which comprehensively evaluates and works to mitigate the damage of natural disasters, extreme weather, environmental emergencies, and other catastrophic events—before, during and after tragedy strikes,” Smith said. Monmouth County Sheriff Shaun Golden welcomed the funds secured by Smith, which will be supplemented by a local match of $413,750 to cover the project’s total cost of $1,655,000. “The Monmouth County Sheriff's Office - Office of Emergency Management is extremely grateful to Congressman Chris Smith for his ongoing support of emergency operations,” said Sheriff Golden. “Emergency Operations Centers are critical when coordinating, facilitating, and directing during crises situations, and this valuable grant will enable us to remain in the forefront of emergency response,” Golden continued. “It will be utilized to significantly upgrade technology and enhance our ability to respond swiftly and effectively, with the very best resources to ensure the safety and well-being of our communities and residents.” Among the upgrades needed at the EOC are the replacement of an aging video wall; radio communications system upgrades; the replacement of outdated desktop computers and monitors; the purchase of laptops to conduct field assessments; the purchase of tablets to allow for real-time tracking and status of evacuations; seating upgrades to better suit 24/7 operations; and replacement of the E… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T21:43:57Z |
| https://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=413371 | Federal prosecutors use Chris Smith’s landmark law to bring sex trafficking and forced labor charges against Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs | 2024-09-25 | 2024 | 2024-09 | Republican | House | NJ | Christopher H. Smith | S000522 | chrissmith.house.gov | chrissmith | https://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx | scraper | In the recent high-profile indictment and arrest of Sean “Diddy” Combs, federal prosecutors used a landmark law authored by Rep. Chris Smith (R-Manchester) to bring sex trafficking and forced labor charges against the rapper and music mogul. Among other crimes, Combs is accused of leading a criminal enterprise to facilitate his abuse and exploitation of women, protect his reputation, and conceal his conduct for over a decade. Pursuant to Smith’s Trafficking Victims Protection Act of 2000 (Public Law 106-386), Combs could now face a maximum sentence of life in prison—and a mandatory minimum sentence of 15 years in prison—for sex trafficking by force, fraud, or coercion. At a press conference announcing the charges, Damian Williams, the U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of New York, credited the severe penalties provided by Smith’s law, specifically noting that “the sex trafficking conduct carries some significant penalties, and we are gratified that we were able to bring that charge.” Smith, who has authored five laws to combat human trafficking to date, said “my Trafficking Victims Protection Act created a new whole-of-government domestic and international strategy to combat sex and labor trafficking and established numerous new programs to protect victims, prosecute traffickers, and to the extent possible, prevent it in the first place.” “The legislation had its naysayers at the time, but the law has proven critical in locking up criminals that abuse and traffic in women and children,” said Smith. “Thousands of human traffickers have been and continue to be prosecuted and jailed pursuant to the Trafficking Victims Protection Act, including several charges brought against Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs, all of the charges brought against Jeffrey Epstein, and the infamous convictions involving the ‘Smallville’ actress Allison Mack,” said Smith. Smith noted that the reforms included in his Trafficking Victims Protection Act represented a “sea change” to the criminal code—portions of which are cited by federal prose… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T21:43:57Z |
| https://kean.house.gov/media/press-releases/house-passes-keans-bill-expedite-flight-training-veterans | House Passes Kean’s Bill to Expedite Flight Training for Veterans | 2024-09-25 | 2024 | 2024-09 | Republican | House | NJ | Thomas H. Kean, Jr. | K000398 | kean.house.gov | kean | https://kean.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | (September 25, 2024) WASHINGTON, DC – Today, the House of Representatives passed H.R. 7323 – Montgomery GI Bill Selected Reserves Tuition Fairness Act of 2024. Included in this package is the Veterans Flight Training Responsibility Act of 2024, a bipartisan bill led by Congressman Tom Kean, Jr. (NJ-07) that would expedite the flight training process for veterans by removing the one-year requirement for accessing their GI Bill benefits. Under the current GI Bill, students can access a maximum of $26,000 per academic year for their flight training. Once these funds are exhausted, they must wait until the following academic year to continue their training. Watch Congressman Kean speak on the House floor in support of the bill HERE. This bill was introduced by Congressman Tom Kean, Jr. (NJ-07) and is co-led by Congressman Morgan McGarvey (KY-03). “Veterans should be able to pursue their aviation careers – or any career – without excessive financial burdens and unnecessary delays,” said Congressman Kean. “The current GI bill system needs to be improved and I’m thankful for my House colleagues for passing today’s revised legislation, which included my bill, the Veterans Flight Training Responsibility Act, so veteran students can expedite the flight training process.” “Every veteran should be able to use their education benefits however they see fit—and we should be making it easier for them to do so,” said Congressman McGarvey. “Our bill would give veterans the flexibility to use their benefits for flight school without breaking the bank, and I’m thrilled to see it pass through the House of Representatives.” More specifically, this bill would: Cap the flight training fees and tuition to approximately $115,000 for public flight training institutions. Allow student veterans to use their GI Bill throughout the whole year, instead of taking time off or paying out of pocket. Read more about the bill HERE. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T21:43:57Z |
| https://kean.house.gov/media/press-releases/house-passes-keans-bill-expand-satellite-data-sharing | House Passes Kean’s Bill to Expand Satellite Data Sharing | 2024-09-23 | 2024 | 2024-09 | Republican | House | NJ | Thomas H. Kean, Jr. | K000398 | kean.house.gov | kean | https://kean.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | (September 23, 2024) WASHINGTON, DC – Today, the House of Representatives passed H.R. 6219, the Accessing Satellite Capabilities to Enable New Discoveries Act (ASCEND Act), legislation to permanently authorize the Commercial SmallSat Data Acquisition program within NASA. Introduced by Congressman Tom Kean, Jr. (NJ-07) and Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici (OR-01), this bipartisan bill provides statutory authority for the Commercial SmallSat Data Acquisition Program. The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) established the program as a pilot program in 2017 to acquire commercial small-satellite data in support of NASA's earth science research. Congressman Kean spoke on the House floor in support of his bill, watch HERE. "Passing the ASCEND Act demonstrates our strong commitment to NASA's commercial operators and public-private partnerships,” said Congressman Kean. “These efforts are essential for advancing human exploration and ensuring America’s leadership in space innovation. The ASCEND Act will provide access to data sets and imagery from the commercial space sector, supporting critical scientific research and paving the way for a sustainable future for generations to come. I thank my House colleagues for supporting my bill and look forward to seeing this on the Senate floor soon.” “The bipartisan ASCEND Act is a commonsense solution to help researchers benefit from the vast, high-quality data available from commercial satellites to better understand climate change, natural disasters, and earth sciences,” said Congresswoman Bonamici. “I’m grateful that the House passed this legislation and I will continue advocating with Rep. Kean for the Senate to schedule a vote on the bill.” The ASCEND Act would: Establish CSDA as a permanent program within NASA’s Earth Science Division. Direct NASA to expand procurement licenses to provide federal agencies access to high quality Earth remote sensing datasets and imagery. Promote the acquisition of new datasets for scientific and non-scientific applicati… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T21:43:57Z |
| https://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=413361 | Smith chairs congressional hearing on the first anniversary of the fall of Nagorno-Karabakh | 2024-09-19 | 2024 | 2024-09 | Republican | House | NJ | Christopher H. Smith | S000522 | chrissmith.house.gov | chrissmith | https://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx | scraper | Rep. Chris Smith (R-NJ), Co-Chair of the Tom Lantos Human Rights Commission (TLHRC), today chaired a congressional hearing highlighting the continued plight of ethnic Armenians on the first anniversary of the fall of Nagorno-Karabakh to Azerbaijan. “Azerbaijan’s genocidal blockade and ethnic cleansing of Nagorno-Karabakh last year was a monstrous injustice,” said Smith, who noted that despite its egregious human rights violations, Azerbaijan is slated to host the United Nations international climate change summit COP29 in November. “Ethnic Armenians continue to have a right to live in peace and freedom in Nagorno-Karabakh according to their faith and traditions,” said Smith, who chaired two congressional hearings last year in June and early September as the human rights crisis escalated. “We must defend the human rights of the ethnic Armenians who are now political prisoners or prisoners of war in Nagorno-Karabakh, as well as the cultural heritage of Armenia in Nagorno-Karabakh,” said Smith, who personally met with Azerbaijani dictator Ilham Aliyev in 2015 to press him on his human rights record and noted that many ethnic Azerbaijanis are also suffering under his regime. Smith’s TLHRC hearing—entitled “Human Rights in Azerbaijan Since the Fall of Nagorno-Karabakh”—featured a panel of human rights experts, including Gegham Stepanyan, Human Rights Defender for the Republic of Artsakh; Professor Adam T. Smith, Co-Director of Caucasus Heritage Watch at Cornell University; Kate Watters, Co-Founder and Executive Director of Crude Accountability; and Sharmagh Mardi, Supervising Lawyer at the Center for Truth & Justice; Van Krikorian, Co-Chair of the Armenian Assembly of America; and Andrea J. Prasow, Executive Director of Freedom Now. “The realization that you are leaving your home for good is an inexplicable feeling,” said Stepanyan. “When you realize that you need to leave behind everything that makes up your identity and head towards the unknown, where no one is even waiting for you and you don't know what will … | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T21:43:57Z |
| https://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=413367 | HOTEL Act of 2024 Smith, Krishnamoorthi introduce bipartisan legislation aimed at combating human trafficking in hotels | 2024-09-19 | 2024 | 2024-09 | Republican | House | NJ | Christopher H. Smith | S000522 | chrissmith.house.gov | chrissmith | https://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx | scraper | Reps. Chris Smith (R-NJ) and Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-IL) today introduced the HOTEL Act of 2024 (HR 9681)—bipartisan legislation aimed at bolstering federal efforts to combat human trafficking in hotels. “Hotels are hotspots for identifying and responding to sex and labor trafficking,” said Congressman Smith, the author of five major laws to combat human trafficking. “This critical legislation will help empower hotels to train their staff using free online trainings and resources, adopt procedures to regularly educate and report violations, and provide information and resources to potential victims,” Smith said. “We also want to protect employees who report these crimes from any retaliation and ensure proper coordination with local and federal authorities.” “Hotel employees are uniquely positioned to help report and stop human trafficking, but only if they have the knowledge and ability to recognize it,” Congressman Krishnamoorthi said. “By creating a federal employee travel preference for accommodations that voluntarily train their staff to identify human trafficking, the HOTEL Act will help ensure many more hotel staff members are equipped to stop exploitation and help survivors.” Specifically, the Halting of Trafficking and Exploitation in Lodging (HOTEL) Act would ensure that the U.S. Government’s “preferred places of accommodation for hotel and lodging”—where federal agencies host conferences and federal employees stay when they travel—are committed to training staff on how to recognize, prevent, and respond to human trafficking. The HOTEL Act has already received support from some of the nation’s leading anti-trafficking organizations and lodging associations, including the American Hotel and Lodging Association (AHLA), PACT (Protecting All Children from Trafficking), and Hope for Justice. “The HOTEL Act recognizes the crucial role hotels play in the fight against human trafficking, and we are proud to support this important legislation,” said AHLA Interim President and CEO Kevin Carey. “We look forwar… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T21:43:57Z |
| https://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=413352 | Autism CARES Act of 2024 House overwhelmingly passes Smith’s new legislation to provide robust funding and enhanced support for Americans with autism | 2024-09-18 | 2024 | 2024-09 | Republican | House | NJ | Christopher H. Smith | S000522 | chrissmith.house.gov | chrissmith | https://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx | scraper | The House of Representatives today overwhelmingly passed (402-13) new comprehensive legislation (HR 7213) authored by Rep. Chris Smith (R-NJ) to provide more than $1.95 billion to reauthorize and strengthen the United States’ whole-of-government autism spectrum disorder (ASD) initiative through 2029. Smith’s bill—with Rep. Henry Cuellar (D-TX) as the Democrat lead and 61 other bipartisan cosponsors—now heads to the Senate. Smith, who has authored four major autism laws to date, said his new legislation “will help make a huge difference in the lives of the millions of Americans with autism by providing robust funding for durable remedies as well as effective early detection and intervention services to allow them the highest quality of life possible.” “With substantive input from advocates in the autism community, my legislation will also help advance key research priorities and ensure enhanced collaboration between federal agencies and families and individuals with autism,” Smith said. “This bipartisan bill will provide vital funding to expand research and care for Americans with autism,” said Dr. Cuellar, a senior member of the House Appropriations Committee. “Through this bill, we continue important work in understanding the causes of autism, the best ways to treat autism, and incorporate the voices of those previously missed by research. I would like to thank Representative Chris Smith for his leadership on this important legislation.” Smith’s legislation—which received unanimous approval from the House Energy and Commerce Committee in a vote (42-0) to send the bill to the House Floor earlier this year—has received strong support from the nation’s leading autism advocacy groups, including Autism Speaks, the Autism Society, the Autism Science Foundation, the Arc of the United States, the Profound Autism Alliance, and the Association of University Centers on Disabilities. Specifically, the Autism Collaboration, Accountability, Research, Education, and Support (CARES) Act of 2024 would: · Authorize $1.95 bi… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T21:43:57Z |
| https://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=413341 | APP news article; Rep Smith addresses Navy Secretary, vets, 5,000+ attendees at Earle Navy base'The USS New Jersey sub joins the US Navy’s fleet' | 2024-09-17 | 2024 | 2024-09 | Republican | House | NJ | Christopher H. Smith | S000522 | chrissmith.house.gov | chrissmith | https://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx | scraper | Juan Carlos Castillo Asbury Park Press USA TODAY NETWORK – NEW JERSEY New Jersey’s Sandy Hook Bay witnessed the commissioning of the most complex warfare machine ever built in the country — the USS New Jersey, now dubbed as the fastest submarine in the U.S. fleet and the first to be designed with gender inclusion in mind. The commissioning ceremony took place Saturday at the Naval Weapon Station Earle in Middletown, where close to 4,000 attendees including veterans, sailor’s family members, and Navy and government officials. “It’s an absolute honor to be here with all of you today in this beautiful state, the birthplace, yes, the birthplace of the United States Submarine Force,” said Secretary of the Navy Carlos Del Toro. Gov. Phil Murphy was present at the event and said he was proud to witness the launch of this Virginia-class submarine, now nicknamed the “Jersey Girl.” “This ceremony is a proud and joyous occasion, but it is also one that marks the beginning of a journey that will take the officers and crew of the USS New Jersey far from home,” Murphy said. “On behalf of your nine-and-a-half million- member New Jersey family, let me say thank you for your service and thank you for your commitment to maintaining peace and freedom in our fragile world,” he added. And the submarine is very Jersey. Besides the nickname given to the vessel by Newport News Shipbuilding President Jennifer Boykin, its interior spaces were decorated with all things Jersey. 'The deterrence that this USS New Jersey helps to procure, makes us safer. Of course, you never want a war, but the way you prevent a war is by having a credible defense and deterrence.' - Rep. Smith The walls of this nuclear-powered, fast-attack submarine feature posters from Rutgers University, New Jersey Devils memorabilia, a guitar gifted by Jon Bon Jovi and more. Members of the crew said they are even considering making the communal eating area look like a New Jersey diner. This is the third naval vessel named after the Garden State. The first tw… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T21:43:57Z |
| https://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=413340 | U.S. Naval Weapons Station Earle Smith delivers remarks at ceremony to commission new submarine named after New Jersey | 2024-09-14 | 2024 | 2024-09 | Republican | House | NJ | Christopher H. Smith | S000522 | chrissmith.house.gov | chrissmith | https://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx | scraper | Rep. Chris Smith (R-Manchester) joined high-ranking Navy officers and sailors today at U.S. Naval Weapons Station Earle in Middletown to commission the USS New Jersey—the branch’s newest submarine and the third naval vessel named after the state of New Jersey. “Today is a special day for the United States Navy and our country,” said Smith, who has represented three Navy installations during his tenure in Congress—including Naval Weapons Station Earle, Naval Air Warfare Center Trenton and Naval Air Engineering Station Lakehurst (now part of Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst). “Once again, a vessel named after the great state of New Jersey will take to sea flying the flag of the United States, venturing to the darkest depths of the ocean to protect the homeland, deter aggression, and safeguard the American way of life,” Smith, the Dean of the New Jersey Congressional Delegation, said delivered remarks at the ceremony. A highly advanced and lethal fast attack submarine, the USS New Jersey measures 377 feet long, weighs 7,800 tons, and can remain submerged under water for up to three months. Smith, a senior member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, noted that threats to U.S. national security are ubiquitous and said, “the importance of this submarine’s capability and decisiveness in battle cannot be overstated in a world with escalated existential threats from Xi Jinping, Vladimir Putin, Kim Jong Un and Iran.” “Deployment of the USS New Jersey and other submarines—especially this Virginia class of nuclear-powered, cruise missile, fast-attack sub—provide the extra level of deterrence and long-range capability to dissuade our enemies,” said Smith. “It’s not lost on us that this ceremony is taking place in the shadow of the Freedom Tower where 23 years ago this week, terrorists unleashed a deadly, coordinated attack on our country and everything we hold dear,” Smith said. Smith—who recognized the significant contributions of Navy Secretary Carlos Del Toro, the submarine’s sponsor Dr. Susan DiMarco, and member… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T21:43:57Z |
| https://kean.house.gov/media/press-releases/kean-hosts-annual-seniors-distinction-event | Kean Hosts Annual Seniors of Distinction Event | 2024-09-13 | 2024 | 2024-09 | Republican | House | NJ | Thomas H. Kean, Jr. | K000398 | kean.house.gov | kean | https://kean.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | (September 13, 2024) BRIDGEWATER, NJ – Today, Congressman Tom Kean, Jr. (NJ-07) hosted his second annual Seniors of Distinction event at the Bridgewater Township Senior Center, to honor outstanding seniors in the community. Congressman Kean honored 29 seniors, who represent all six counties in New Jersey’s 7th Congressional District. Each senior was nominated by their friends, families, and neighbors and recognized at the event. The seniors who were selected were chosen for their long history of giving back to their community and for continuing to lend their expertise, experience and many talents to helping and supporting others today. Every honoree has a long list of achievements but more important, a long list of professional, philanthropic, charitable, and spiritual activities to which they devote their time and energy to every day. “All the seniors honored dedicate their talents, passions and experience toward enriching the well-being of New Jersey communities,” said Congressman Kean. “Their impressive achievements and extensive involvement in both professional and volunteer activities reflect their dedication and hard work. I extend my warmest congratulations to all the seniors recognized today and thank them for their tireless efforts to uplift our communities.” “What I find particularly moving and positive is that an event like this highlight good community efforts at a time where the world needs that kind of motivation,” said Elisa Sananman of Westfield, 2024 Senior of Distinction Honoree. “It is very affirming to all the work that we are doing. Very personally and professionally motivating. With appreciation that it was originated.” “I knew nothing about this award until I received a letter from the Congressman Kean in the mail,” said Edna Deacon of Mine Hill, 2024 Senior of Distinction Honoree. “I was very impressed. I would like to thank the Congressman for the invitation and Bill Koroski for nominating me.” The honorees are: Honorees That Attended: Eleanor Annis of Mountainside Ida Brown of H… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T21:43:57Z |
| https://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=413336 | Smith calls on Brazil’s government to reverse course and to restore free speech and democracy | 2024-09-11 | 2024 | 2024-09 | Republican | House | NJ | Christopher H. Smith | S000522 | chrissmith.house.gov | chrissmith | https://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx | scraper | Rep. Chris Smith (R-NJ), senior member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, today called on Brazil’s government to reverse its recent decision to block access to X (formerly known as Twitter) and ban its citizens from accessing the popular social media platform. “The government of Brazil has both raised the stakes and hit a new low—it has expanded from persecuting political opposition by removing them from social media to banning one of the biggest social news networks in the world and making it illegal for Brazilians to access it,” said Smith, the Chair of the House Global Human Rights Subcommittee. “Brazil must immediately reverse course,” said Smith. “Threats to free speech are threats to free elections and to democracy itself.” Smith, who has long been an outspoken advocate in Congress for victims of human rights violations, chaired a congressional hearing in May examining Brazil’s extensive human rights abuses. In advance of his hearing, Smith also requested information from the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights on allegations against the government of Brazil. Earlier this year, Smith also hosted a news conference on Capitol Hill where Brazilians who had been de-platformed from social media by order of Brazilian Supreme Court Justice Alexandre de Moraes shared personal testimonies of government persecution. Smith said he asked de Moraes about the allegations in a letter, but has yet to hear back from the Supreme Court Justice. “On June 21, I sent a letter to Minister Alexandre de Moraes asking for information about allegations regarding de Moraes’s role in widespread human rights violations committed,” said Smith. “Minister de Moraes did not reply—nor did I hear from the Presidents of the Federal Senate and Chamber of Deputies, who also received my letter to de Moraes.” “In order to respond to the crisis de Moraes has created in Brazil, I am now working with colleagues on legislation about the matter,” said Smith, who thanked all the Brazilian patriots who are fighting for freedom and democ… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T21:43:57Z |
| https://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=413337 | Smith cosponsor of important bill to protect U.S. sovereignty House passes legislation to prevent the Biden-Harris Administration from approving the WHO pandemic treaty without Senate ratification | 2024-09-11 | 2024 | 2024-09 | Republican | House | NJ | Christopher H. Smith | S000522 | chrissmith.house.gov | chrissmith | https://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx | scraper | With the strong support and vote of Rep. Chris Smith (R-Manchester), the House today passed (219-199) legislation that would prevent the Biden-Harris Administration from signing the World Health Organization (WHO) pandemic treaty without prior Senate ratification. “The World Health Organization’s pandemic treaty—which has been drafted through backroom negotiations with no transparency—is an absolute power grab by a troubled U.N. agency that is in the pocket of China’s Communist dictator Xi Jinping,” said Smith, a cosponsor of the No WHO Pandemic Preparedness Treaty Without Senate Approval Act (HR 1425). “From the very start, we have been pressing the Biden-Harris Administration to ensure that our U.S. sovereignty is protected from the unelected bureaucrats at the WHO, but so far, our demands have not been heeded,” said Smith. “This important legislation will help ensure that there is extensive and rigorous review by the American people—who would be forced to foot the bill for any treaty commitments—and sufficient public debate by members of the Senate before any agreement can be made by the Biden-Harris Administration,” Smith said. Specifically, HR 1425 would ensure that any international instrument on pandemic prevention, preparedness, and response agreed to by the World Health Assembly is deemed a treaty and thereby sent to the Senate for advice and consent. Smith, who has been leading the charge in Congress raising a slew of questions and significant issues surrounding the proposed treaty, also hosted a news conference on Capitol Hill in February featuring a panel of experts from a wide-range of backgrounds. “Under no circumstances should our critical health authorities be handed over to WHO bureaucrats,” said Smith. “They cannot be empowered to dictate policies to U.S. medical professionals and U.S. taxpayers when it comes to vaccines, therapeutics and the like.” “Using potential pandemics as a pretext to violate the principles of good governance only serves to erode trust and further undermines intern… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T21:43:57Z |
| https://kean.house.gov/media/press-releases/keans-bill-improve-artificial-intelligence-literacy-k-12-passes-committee | Kean's Bill to Improve Artificial Intelligence Literacy for K-12 Passes Committee | 2024-09-11 | 2024 | 2024-09 | Republican | House | NJ | Thomas H. Kean, Jr. | K000398 | kean.house.gov | kean | https://kean.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | (September 11, 2024) WASHINGTON, DC – Today, the Science, Space and Technology Committee passed H.R. 9211, the Literacy in Future Technologies (LIFT) Artificial Intelligence Act, a bill to improve artificial intelligence literacy for K-12. This bill was introduced by Congressman Tom Kean, Jr. (NJ-07) and is co-led by Congressman Gabe Amo (RI-01). “Early childhood understanding of AI will have positive spillover impacts in our everyday life, work productivity, and social circles,” said Congressman Kean. “Proficient understanding of AI will mitigate negative impacts of this technology, specifically in the AI generated content space. To ensure our children succeed in the field of artificial intelligence, we need to start preparing them early in the classroom. I thank my colleagues on the Science, Space and Technology Committee for supporting my bill and look forward to seeing this on the House Floor.” “The bipartisan LIFT AI Act is about helping the next generation of students be prepared by making sure that they have skills to use artificial intelligence responsibly and effectively, regardless of the career they decide to pursue,” said Congressman Gabe Amo. “I thank Congressman Kean for his leadership and my colleagues on the House Committee on Science, Space, and Technology who voted to advance this legislation today. I look forward to pushing together for it to be passed in the full House of Representatives.” "Supporting the bipartisan LIFT AI Act is critical to ensuring that every student in America has the opportunity to understand and shape the future. By prioritizing the teaching of computer science and artificial intelligence in K-12 schools, we not only equip students with essential skills for tomorrow's workforce but also empower them to be ethical creators and informed citizens in an AI-driven world." — Pat Yongpradit, Chief Academic Officer of Code.org. The LIFT AI Act would: Support a grant program within NSF for research and development of AI literacy curriculum and evaluation methods for K-12, en… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T21:43:57Z |
| https://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=413328 | China Week House overwhelmingly passes Smith’s bill to rescind the immunities and privileges of Hong Kong diplomatic outposts that do the bidding of the Chinese Communist Party within the U.S. | 2024-09-10 | 2024 | 2024-09 | Republican | House | NJ | Christopher H. Smith | S000522 | chrissmith.house.gov | chrissmith | https://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx | scraper | As part of its “China Week” push to counter the Chinese Communist Party’s (CCP) economic aggression and espionage in America, the House of Representatives today overwhelmingly passed (413-3) legislation authored by Rep. Chris Smith (R-NJ) aimed at rescinding the diplomatic immunities and privileges of Hong Kong Economic and Trade Offices (HKETOs) that do the bidding of the CCP within the United States. Smith’s legislation—the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office (HKETO) Certification Act (HR 1103)—would empower the President to effectively terminate the operations of Hong Kong’s official representative offices in Washington, New York, and San Francisco since the U.S. no longer recognizes Hong Kong as autonomous following the CCP’s imposition of its National Security Law on the people of Hong Kong. “My HKETO Certification Act is a necessary next step in tangibly demonstrating our solidarity with the persecuted citizens of Hong Kong,” said Smith, who is also the prime author of the Hong Kong Human Rights and Democracy Act, which he first introduced in 2014 to provide strong sanctions and other ramifications in response to the crackdown on democracy activists and egregious human rights abuses in Hong Kong. “Tragically, by the time the Hong Kong Human Rights and Democracy Act was passed by Congress and signed into law in 2019, it was a day late and a dollar short,” Smith said. Smith, who noted the HKETOs were originally granted diplomatic privileges and immunities under the expectation that Hong Kong would remain free from CCP rule, said the United States must deal with a new reality. “At one time, the HKETOs represented a city whose prosperity was based on its protection of the fundamental human rights and freedom of the Hong Kong people,” Smith said. “But the Hong Kong all of us knew and respected is gone,” said Smith, who noted that Hong Kong unjustly detains political prisoners at a rate only surpassed by a handful of authoritarian countries such as Belarus and Burma. “The city is now governed by Chinese Com… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T21:43:57Z |
| https://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=413332 | Tenth anniversary of Smith’s law to combat international child abduction New Jersey adult survivor of international child abduction testifies at Smith’s hearing | 2024-09-10 | 2024 | 2024-09 | Republican | House | NJ | Christopher H. Smith | S000522 | chrissmith.house.gov | chrissmith | https://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx | scraper | A New Jersey adult survivor of international child abduction shared heartbreaking testimony of her immense tribulations growing up in a foreign land and her long and difficult journey to return to the United States at a congressional hearing chaired by Rep. Chris Smith (R-NJ) today. Born in Newark, Nafeesah Ali Ismail was only seven years old when she was abducted by her father to a small village in Northern Egypt, where everything was foreign to her. “I was only seven, and I didn’t really understand that when I left New Jersey, I was leaving my family, my language, and all that I had known in my young life,” Ali Ismail testified. “My expectation as a child was that everything was going to be okay because I was with my dad,” she continued. “But it was not okay, at all. I was a seven-year-old American in an Egyptian village surrounded by people who did not want to understand me; people who saw and treated me as ‘less than’ simply because I did not have the same skin color and hair texture.” “When I wasn’t in school, I mainly stayed in my room—imagining someone from the United States government would knock on the door and ask for me,” she shared. “I know other survivors like me also had this silly dream. I became depressed, lost hope that I would return to the United States, and attempted suicide multiple times.” Back home, Nafeesah’s mother appealed to the U.S. State Department to bring her back, but to no avail. “The heartbreaking reality is that hundreds of American children are still abducted every year—illegally kidnapped by one of their parents to a foreign land,” said Rep. Smith. “They are subjected to what amounts to a form of child abuse—with devastating psychological and even physical consequences for them and their families left behind.” Smith’s hearing, which marked the 10-year anniversary of his Sean and David Goldman International Child Abduction Act, examined the U.S. State Department’s implementation of the groundbreaking law since its enactment in 2014. It featured testimony from top officia… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T21:43:57Z |
| https://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=413327 | Smith leads the House of Representatives in a moment of silence honoring the late Bill Pascrell Jr. | 2024-09-09 | 2024 | 2024-09 | Republican | House | NJ | Christopher H. Smith | S000522 | chrissmith.house.gov | chrissmith | https://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx | scraper | The following are excerpts of remarks delivered on the House Floor by Rep. Chris Smith (R-NJ), the Dean of the New Jersey Congressional Delegation, while leading the House of Representatives in a moment of silence to honor the late Rep. Bill Pascrell Jr. (D-NJ): “Mr. Speaker, my colleagues and I rise to convey our deepest sorrow on the passing of our longtime friend and 14-term New Jersey Congressman Bill Pascrell Jr. of the 9th District in New Jersey. We offer our prayers and heartfelt condolences to his wife Elsie and his three sons Bill III, David and Glenn. Bill’s life was marked by exemplary service, having served in the U.S. Army and as a high school history teacher and adjunct professor before becoming a state assemblyman, mayor, and congressman. He was dedicated to New Jersey families and an outspoken advocate for our law enforcement community, our firefighters, and our Nation’s veterans. His Firefighter Investment and Response Enhancement (FIRE) Act created the groundbreaking Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) program, which provides funding for protective equipment, emergency vehicles, training and other crucial support to aid firefighters in their lifesaving mission. Since its creation in 2001, this incredible program has awarded over $10 billion to fire departments across the country—including more than $198 million to those in New Jersey. As co-chair and founder of the Congressional Brain Injury Task Force, Bill also helped lead the charge to advance brain health. His bipartisan Traumatic Brain Injury Reauthorization Act of 2018 provided critical funding to help patients with brain injuries and their families, enhance breakthrough research, and for the first time ever, create a national concussion surveillance system to improve prevention, care and recovery efforts for traumatic brain injuries. Bill was also devoted to preserving New Jersey’s beautiful natural resources and led efforts to designate Paterson Great Falls—the stunning 77-foot-tall waterfall on the Passaic River—as a national… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T21:43:57Z |
| https://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=413380 | 'My good friend and a trailblazer for Lyme Disease patients' Pat Smith's transformational, extraordinary work | 2024-09-06 | 2024 | 2024-09 | Republican | House | NJ | Christopher H. Smith | S000522 | chrissmith.house.gov | chrissmith | https://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx | scraper | The following are remarks by Rep. Chris Smith (R-Manchester) submitted in the Congressional Record in honor of his good friend and remarkable Lyme disease advocate, Pat Smith of Wall, New Jersey, who passed away peacefully on August 17, 2024: | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T21:43:57Z |
| https://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=413342 | Asbury Park Press article on project psuhed by Smith'Manasquan Inlet shoal dug away' | 2024-09-05 | 2024 | 2024-09 | Republican | House | NJ | Christopher H. Smith | S000522 | chrissmith.house.gov | chrissmith | https://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx | scraper | POINT PLEASANT BEACH - The dangerous shoal is all but gone. In the end, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers dug enough sand out of Manasquan Inlet to fill 13½ Olympic-size swimming pools. There is still some mop-up work to be done later this month, but the Corps finished the great majority of the job on Aug. 25, roughly 2½ weeks after it started dredging the inlet to rid the shoal which formed on the Point Pleasant Beach side of the inlet. The final tally was approximately 45,000 cubic yards, Army Corps' Philadelphia District spokesman Stephen Rochette told the Asbury Park Press. An Olympic pool is 50 meters long by 25 meters wide, or roughly 164 feet by 82 feet, and usually three meters deep, or just shy of 10 feet. In terms of the weight in wet sand, that figure equals about 121.5 million pounds. The Army Corps received several calls at the start of August for help from stakeholders, including U.S. Rep. Chris Smith, R-N.J., after the shoaling in the Manasquan Inlet returned to the Point Pleasant Beach side of the inlet for the second time in three years. The last time was 2022. Fishing boat captains, who use the inlet daily to enter the Atlantic Ocean, said the shoal was larger this time. Capt. William Egerter Jr. of the Dauntless party fishing boat compared it to a "beach" in the inlet; one that drew body boarders, surfers and beachgoers despite the warnings from public officials to stay off it. How it was going halfway through:Over 60 million pounds of sand dug from Manasquan Inlet shoal The Corps used the Murden, a 156-foot split hull hopper dredge with a capacity of 500 cubic yards, to vacuum up the sand. The vessel was redeployed to the Shark River on Aug. 26, but will return to the Manasquan Inlet later this month to finish the final small piece. View of the bay taken away by sand: JakeaBob's in Union Beach needs NJ, federal help to get it back The likely cause of the shoal were the persistent south wind and swells this summer, which pushes the sand in, according to the Army Corps. It was the same dy… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T21:43:57Z |
| https://kean.house.gov/media/press-releases/kean-introduces-bill-provide-extended-care-services-spouses-veterans | Kean Introduces Bill to Provide Extended Care Services to Spouses of Veterans | 2024-09-03 | 2024 | 2024-09 | Republican | House | NJ | Thomas H. Kean, Jr. | K000398 | kean.house.gov | kean | https://kean.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | (September 3, 2024) WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman Tom Kean, Jr. (NJ-07) has introduced the Home Health Aides for Veterans’ Spouses Act, a bill that would allow veterans who are over the age of 75 to defer their home health aide benefits to their spouses in extenuating circumstances. This legislation was inspired by a 92-year-old Berkeley Heights veteran, Mr. John O’Connor, who requested that a VA home health aide assist his wife. The VA would not permit this and rejected this veteran’s appeal numerous times despite his pleas. Spouses of veterans can only obtain VA home health aide benefits upon the passing of their veteran spouse. This issue leaves some with limited to no access to home health aide services. “Just as veterans have given so much in service to our country, their spouses have given just as much in support and sacrifice,” said Congressman Kean. “This commonsense legislation was a direct response to Mr. O’Connor’s concern. He was informed by the VA that the only way he would be able to pass these benefits on to his wife were to pass away himself. The VA should have the leeway to share these benefits with veterans’ spouses if the need arises. I appreciate Mr. O’Connor reaching out to my office and sharing his story.” “I am interested in other veterans who are faced with the same issues I have and are really in difficult situation,” said Mr. John O’Connor. “They are unable to adequately take care of their spouse, either financially or socially. No one is the VA was going to fight for us. Only Congressman Kean made that effort. We both appreciate it.” Other key efforts Congressman Kean has taken to support veterans: Sponsored H.R.4171 - Driving Veterans Success Act, which requires that at least 10% of the funds under specified infrastructure programs are expended through Veteran owned small businesses. Sponsored H.R.7613 - Veterans Flight Training Responsibility Act of 2024 to provide for a limitation on the amount of entitlement to educational assistance payable for flight training under the Post-9… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T21:43:57Z |
| https://kean.house.gov/media/press-releases/kean-constituent-services-return-over-8-million-nj-07-residents | Kean Constituent Services Return Over $8 Million to NJ-07 Residents | 2024-08-30 | 2024 | 2024-08 | Republican | House | NJ | Thomas H. Kean, Jr. | K000398 | kean.house.gov | kean | https://kean.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | (August 30, 2024) BERNARDSVILLE, NJ – Today, Congressman Tom Kean, Jr. (NJ-07) announced that his casework team has returned more than $8,652,279 to constituents. Since the office opened in January of 2023, Congressman Kean and his team have closed over 2,641 constituent cases, representing over $8,652,279 dollars returned back to New Jerseyans in the 7th District. From the beginning of Congressman Kean’s term in office, Team Kean has helped constituents save money and obtain benefits from the VA, IRS, Social Security Administration, and other federal agencies. The top three groups of people served are seniors, veterans, and families.“I am excited to share that our constituent service team has returned over $8 million dollars back to constituents through our casework services,” said Congressman Kean. “This achievement underscores our commitment to serving New Jerseyans and ensuring they receive the benefits and assistance they’re entitled to. This is a testament to the hard work of my team and our unwavering commitment to addressing the needs of every individual we represent.” In a recent case that conveys the impact of dedicated constituent services, a Clark resident and her husband faced a challenging situation regarding their Medicare Part B enrollment. The couple, who had private insurance through the husband’s union, sought to enroll in Medicare Part B under the Special Enrollment Period due to the impending termination of their private coverage. Despite their eligibility for special enrollment, they were initially advised by a Social Security representative that they could not enroll until the next open enrollment period and would face a late enrollment penalty. Undeterred, the constituent reached out to our office for assistance. With proof of their private health coverage in hand, our office took immediate action, contacting the Social Security Administration (SSA) to provide the necessary documentation. This intervention ensured that the couple was enrolled in Medicare Part B without incurring any lat… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T21:36:13Z |
| https://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=413325 | TAPInto news article on Smith, community efforts:'Jersey Shore: Over 1,000 Residents Rally Against Offshore Wind Project, Unite to Expose Hidden Risks' | 2024-08-28 | 2024 | 2024-08 | Republican | House | NJ | Christopher H. Smith | S000522 | chrissmith.house.gov | chrissmith | https://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx | scraper | Hughes continued "as it relates to the questions raised by many - levels of radiation and what are known as Extremely Low Frequency Electric Magnetic Fields (ELF/EMF) - there's been a number of reports out there about the impact of radiation, but most reports are around cell phones which put out 5 watts of energy. As a comparison, the scale of this transmission line we're talking about is 5,720 MW which is actually 5.7 billion watts. The bottom line on the studies and the safety - first of all, this has never been done before, so that would challenge any study, so you will not find a study giving you an answer and nor has the NJBPU." "The offshore wind energy project, with so many risks, is not a partisan issue, said Hughes." There are over 200 homes along the power cable route. Many of the homes are 10-15 yards away, some less than 10. It will run adjacent to 3 schools, a daycare center, playgrounds, an athletic field, and it will run through superfund site right on Sea Girt Ave." 3. Highly unified group to fight the industrialization of the Ocean Mayor Mangan of Manasquan said "Manasquan's position is we are against the industrialization of the ocean, and as a town dependent on the ocean for tourism and our healthy fishing industry. Mayor Mangan thanked the citizens group and Assemblyman Kanitra "who has been a true partner" and Congressman Chris Smith who has supported us at the Federal level." Mayor Fetzer of Sea Girt challenged 40-CFR35 (state and local environmental protection) with 3 key facts: "For a project to get the blessing of the EPA it needs to be cost-effective; environmentally sound; Implementable. I dare anyone in this room to point to any of those 3 things and how this is satisfied by this project. The subsidies can't possibly cover the cost of this project. In fact, I think you are going to see the cost/benefit ratio less than one. The project is not economically feasible." Ocean expert Cindy Zepf of Clean Ocean Action, a key player in restoring our ocean from its days as a dumping ground,… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T21:36:13Z |
| https://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=413440 | APP news article:'5G poles coming down in Point Pleasant Beach after settlement' | 2024-08-28 | 2024 | 2024-08 | Republican | House | NJ | Christopher H. Smith | S000522 | chrissmith.house.gov | chrissmith | https://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx | scraper | Mike Davis Asbury Park Press The 5G wireless poles under construction across the borough will be removed under the terms of a settlement announced Tuesday. In a Facebook post, Point Pleasant Beach Mayor Doug Vitale said the borough would pay "limited compensation" to developer Munisite Networks, who began construction on 5G wireless poles earlier this year. The poles were approved as part of a 2021 agreement with the borough, which allowed Munisite to construct wireless poles at as many as 74 locations across the borough. (Vitale has maintained that it was unlikely all 74 sites would be used.) In April, U.S. Rep. Chris Smith, R-N.J., introduced a bill in Congress that would nullify the effects of those regulations on municipalities. The bill was referred to the House Energy and Commerce Committee but has yet to receive a hearing. That agreement was terminated as part of the settlement, Vitale said. The financial terms of the settlement were not immediately available, but are expected to be prepared for approval by the Point Pleasant Beach Borough Council at its Sept. 3 meeting. Negotiations between Munisite and Point Pleasant Beach had been ongoing for most of the summer. Construction was halted, at the borough's request, after neighbors complained about the aesthetic designs and potential health impacts of the wireless poles. The borough's special counsel demanded the poles be removed in a July 8 letter. The settlement between Point Pleasant Beach and Munisite doesn't mean 5G wireless poles aren't coming to the borough. Instead, they will simply be subject to more stringent regulation by borough officials. On Aug. 20, the council adopted an ordinance that requires the developer of any "small wireless facilities" in the public right-of-way lawn to go before the planning board, which will hold a public hearing, and reach a right-of-way agreement with the borough council, which will also be voted on in public. In 2018, the Federal Communications Commission ruled that municipalities can regulate certai… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T21:36:13Z |
| https://kean.house.gov/media/press-releases/kean-and-scholten-introduce-bill-ban-members-congress-profiting-american | Kean and Scholten Introduce Bill to Ban Members of Congress from Profiting Off American Adversaries | 2024-08-27 | 2024 | 2024-08 | Republican | House | NJ | Thomas H. Kean, Jr. | K000398 | kean.house.gov | kean | https://kean.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | (August 27, 2024) WASHINGTON, DC – Last Friday, Representatives Tom Kean, Jr. (NJ-07) and Hillary Scholten (MI-03) introduced the Foreign Adversary Investment Prohibition Act, a bill to prohibit Members of Congress from conducting financial transactions involving certain foreign adversaries of the United States. This bipartisan bill would mandate that any disclosed financial transaction, directly or indirectly, that benefits a foreign adversary (or company that is designated by the US State Department as a foreign entity and adverse to the US) by a Member of Congress or Senator is accompanied by a fine to the affect of $5,000 for the first offense, $10,000 for the second offense, and $15,000 for subsequent offenses. “The public servants who represent our country should not be profiting off other countries who wish to do us harm,” said Congressman Kean. “We cannot tolerate politicians who prioritize personal gain over what is best for the American people. Republicans and Democrats need to come together to ensure honesty and transparency in government.” "Effective leadership starts with ethical leadership; and we cannot count on elected officials to act in America's best interest if their finances are tied up in an adversarial nation’s economy,” said Congresswoman Scholten. “Today, I am proud to co-lead the Foreign Adversary Investment Prohibition Act to hold our nation's leaders to a higher ethical standard ensuring we always put America first." Full text of the bill can be found HERE. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T21:36:13Z |
| https://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=413323 | Coast Star article on Smith, community opposition'Opponents call ocean wind plan ‘ill thought out’' | 2024-08-23 | 2024 | 2024-08 | Republican | House | NJ | Christopher H. Smith | S000522 | chrissmith.house.gov | chrissmith | https://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx | scraper | After gaining traction in the local community since the group’s formation, the group held the meeting before a virtual audience of over 1,000 attendees about a proposed turbine plan off the East Coast. The meeting was attended by U.S. Rep. Chris Smith, Assemblyman Paul Kanitra and six other panel members, including an environmentalist, local mayors and citizen advocates who shared their opinions and called for project transparency. “Our goal was to end the secrecy and shed a light on what is planned for our communities. We believe that residents and businesses have a right to understand the risks and rewards of a major infrastructure project that runs through our neighborhoods and will significantly impact our quality of life,” said Kimberly Paterson, one of the organizers of the meeting. She continued, “The meeting was beyond our wildest expectations with more than 1,000 participants and people actually hosting Zoom watch parties. The level of interest shown during prime vacation weeks of summer tells you how passionate people are about stopping this project. Our efforts are just beginning.” Stop The High-Risk Power Cables describes itself as a bipartisan, grassroots, self-funded group of residents who oppose the underground cable that would be part of the Atlantic Shores Offshore Winds South Project. Assemblyman Kanitra said his office invited the New Jersey Board of Public Utilities (BPU), which is the government agency overseeing offshore wind development. However, according to Kanitra, the BPU declined to attend. While the meeting featured a panel of politicians, environmentalists and advocates who oppose the proposed turbine projects, several other environmental coalitions have been at the forefront supporting Gov. Murphy’s push for renewable energy, including the National Wildlife Federation, New Jersey Sustainable Business Council and the New Jersey Audubon Society, to name a few. In a May 28 BPU press release, Gov. Murphy said, “Offshore wind development remains a once-in-a-generation opportunity t… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T21:36:13Z |
| https://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=413324 | Brick Times article on Smith efforts to get dangerous Manasquan Inlet sand dredged'Dredging Begins On Manasquan Inlet To Remove Built-Up Sand' | 2024-08-22 | 2024 | 2024-08 | Republican | House | NJ | Christopher H. Smith | S000522 | chrissmith.house.gov | chrissmith | https://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx | scraper | The two-mile-long manmade channel is located within the boundaries of Point Pleasant Borough and became navigable in 1926. The waterway connects the Manasquan River and the Barnegat Bay. Crews from the Corps started dredging the waterway on August 6, with a goal to remove the sand built-up on the Point Pleasant Beach side of the inlet, Rep. Chris Smith (R-4th). Smith had sent a letter to Lt. Col. Jeffrey Beeman, Commander, urging them to take immediate action as the inlet has become a hazard to vessels. “The build-up of sand on the Point Pleasant side of the inlet against the jetty has reached unprecedented proportions. As you know, this is not only a grounding hazard to vessels, but the waves created inside the inlet as a result of this shoaling are enough to capsize boats that regularly traverse the channel,” Smith said. Point Pleasant Beach Mayor Doug Vitale was also in contact with the Corps and addressed the safety concerns of the dangerous shoaling. “I am aware of the sand shoaling on the south side of the inside of the Manasquan Inlet due in large part to the southerly wind we’ve been having. I trust the U.S. Coast Guard is monitoring and will ensure safety of the Inlet,” Vitale said. “I am monitoring the situation as well and understand the gravity of the situation: safety, navigability, and the blockage it causes for our fishing industry.” “I am aware that Manasquan Inlet is categorized as a dynamic inlet with constantly shifting sands created by the currents, but this inlet beach is highly dangerous to navigation during the busiest boating time of the year on the Jersey Shore,” Smith added. On August 6, the Dredge Murden conducted two dredging cycles at Manasquan Inlet, the Corps said. They also noted that they will return soon for more dredging. During this time, residents and beachgoers are asked to remain off the sand bar at all times while work is being performed. “It’s important to note that the Manasquan inlet is dynamic and conditions within the inlet can rapidly change. Significant shoa… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T21:36:13Z |
| https://kean.house.gov/media/press-releases/kean-hosts-annual-eagle-scout-award-event | Kean Hosts Annual Eagle Scout Award Event | 2024-08-22 | 2024 | 2024-08 | Republican | House | NJ | Thomas H. Kean, Jr. | K000398 | kean.house.gov | kean | https://kean.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | (August 22, 2024) BERNARDSVILLE, NJ – Last Friday, Congressman Tom Kean, Jr. (NJ-07) held his second annual Eagle Scout Award Event ceremony. Scouts from New Jersey's 7th Congressional District who have achieved or will achieve the rank of Eagle Scout between July 2023 and the end of 2024 were invited to attend. Additionally, parents, Scoutmasters and other adult scout leaders from across the district were also welcomed to join the celebration with their Scouts. An Eagle Scout title is the highest rank attainable in the Boy Scouts of America organization. To become an Eagle Scout, one must earn a total of 21 merit badges and demonstrate Scout spirit, service, and leadership. This includes an extensive service project that scouts plan, organize, lead, and manage. “I am incredibly impressed by the talent and dedication of the Eagle Scouts in our district,” said Congressman Kean. “Earning the title of Eagle Scout is no easy feat, and these young adults have every reason to be proud of their achievement. They are natural leaders with bright futures ahead of them. Congratulations to all the Eagle Scouts!” “This is a really nice event,” said Lily Harness of Summit. “It’s great to see others in the community and meet other scouts. Thank you, Congressman Kean, for hosting this event.” “This is a great way for all Eagle Scouts and upcoming Eagle Scouts to come together as a family and join together for one cause,” said Akash Gopal of Budd Lake. “It was great how Congressman Kean acknowledged my Eagle project and all the other Eagle Scouts.” The event honored 17 Eagle Scouts who represented all six counties in New Jersey’s 7th Congressional District. More than 50 people attended this event, including parents, grandparents, siblings, and adult scout leaders. To view pictures from this event, click HERE. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T21:36:13Z |
| https://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=413321 | Meals on Wheels in Ocean and Monmouth deliver 600,000 meals to local seniors each year Smith urges robust federal funding for critical nutritional service programs like Meals on Wheels that help millions of American seniors in need | 2024-08-21 | 2024 | 2024-08 | Republican | House | NJ | Christopher H. Smith | S000522 | chrissmith.house.gov | chrissmith | https://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx | scraper | In a letter to House Appropriations Committee Chairman Tom Cole (R-OK), Rep. Chris Smith (R-NJ) strongly advocated for robust federal funding for programs that provide critical nutritional services for seniors, including Meals on Wheels of Ocean and Monmouth Counties and other effective community-based initiatives that deliver hot meals to seniors in need. “With the appropriations process underway, I urge you to ensure that sufficient funding is provided for the Older Americans Act (OAA) Title III-C Nutrition Services program—a program that serves as an essential lifeline for millions of our nation’s seniors, including many of my constituents,” Smith wrote in his letter to Cole. “Across the nation, this critical funding allows over 260 million meals to be delivered to nearly 2.2 million seniors annually—tens of thousands of whom live in New Jersey,” said Smith. “In Ocean and Monmouth counties alone, Meals on Wheels delivers 600,000 meals each year to local seniors.” “Not only has the program delivered proven results in boosting seniors’ nutritional and health outcomes, but it also offers significant support to those who wish to remain safe in their own homes as they continue to age,” Smith said, noting that isolation can often be an issue for older Americans. “The need for these services is so great that, for many seniors, the meals they receive through this program constitute much of their daily food intake while also offering added socialization.” Smith noted the effectiveness of the program, citing a recent survey conducted by Meals on Wheels of Ocean County, which delivers over 250,000 meals each year to local seniors. According to the study: · 99 percent of program participants feel more confident living independently receiving home delivered meals; · 97 percent are satisfied with the quality and variety of the food; and · 95 percent say receiving daily home delivered meals makes them feel less lonely. “These results speak to the clear impact of this program in helping our nation’s seniors thrive,” s… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T21:36:13Z |
| https://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=413322 | On the passing of Bill Pascrell | 2024-08-21 | 2024 | 2024-08 | Republican | House | NJ | Christopher H. Smith | S000522 | chrissmith.house.gov | chrissmith | https://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx | scraper | Rep. Chris Smith (R-Manchester), the Dean of the New Jersey Congressional Delegation, today issued the following statement on the passing of Rep. Bill Pascrell, Jr. of Paterson: “Bill’s life was marked by steadfast public service to the people of his beloved state and country, having served in the U.S. Army and as a high school history teacher and adjunct professor before becoming a state assemblyman, mayor, and congressman. He was dedicated to New Jersey families and an outspoken advocate especially for our law enforcement community, our firefighters, and our Nation’s veterans. As co-chair and founder of the Congressional Brain Injury Task Force, Bill also helped lead the charge to advance brain health. Earlier this year, I was proud to be the lead cosponsor of his resolution to designate a National Huntington’s Disease Awareness Month to raise public awareness and support for those who suffer from this terrible degenerative brain disorder. My wife Marie and I offer our prayers and condolences to his family, friends and loved ones.” ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T21:36:13Z |
| https://kean.house.gov/media/press-releases/kean-statement-passing-congressman-bill-pascrell-jr | Kean Statement on the Passing of Congressman Bill Pascrell, Jr. | 2024-08-21 | 2024 | 2024-08 | Republican | House | NJ | Thomas H. Kean, Jr. | K000398 | kean.house.gov | kean | https://kean.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | (August 21, 2024) WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman Tom Kean, Jr. (NJ-07) released the following statement following the passing of Congressman Bill Pascrell, Jr. "Today, we mourn the loss of a great friend and colleague, Congressman Bill Pascrell. Bill was a dedicated public servant, a tireless advocate for his constituents, and a passionate supporter of firefighters. We worked closely together on many issues. My deepest condolences go out to his family during this difficult time. Bill will be dearly missed." - Congressman Tom Kean, Jr. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T21:36:13Z |
| https://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=413326 | Manasquan-Belmar Patch news article:'Sea Girt Residents Fight Plans To Bring Wind Energy Ashore In Town' | 2024-08-20 | 2024 | 2024-08 | Republican | House | NJ | Christopher H. Smith | S000522 | chrissmith.house.gov | chrissmith | https://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx | scraper | "The transmission cables that will be buried beneath community streets will carry 6,400 megawatts of power — 10 times the electrical output of the recently closed Oyster Creek nuclear plant," wrote the group here on their website. "Based on our research, no project of this magnitude has been tested and proven safe anywhere in the world." The high-voltage electric cables will run within 10-15 yards of homes and recreational facilities, by three schools and underneath the Coast to Capital Bike Trail, the residents say. The group says not enough people in Monmouth County know this is being proposed. Monday night's meeting was originally planned to be in person, but the group said they had to move it online due to the crowd size. Monday night's meeting was attended by Congressman, Rep. Chris Smith (R-Manchester), who has been vocal in trying to stop wind farms off the Jersey Shore. The meeting was also attended by Manasquan Mayor Michael Mangan, Sea Girt Mayor Donald Fetzer, Monmouth/Ocean county Assemblyman Paul Kanitra, Mike Dean from Save the East Coast, Cindy Zipf from Clean Ocean Action and Keith Moore from Defend Brigantine Beach. “We know that without a change in plans, the communities of Sea Girt, Wall, Howell and Manasquan — who are being forced to host the huge cables coming off the wind turbines — will be the next victims,” said Smith. “The work needed on these projects — which could last for years and will inevitably require ongoing maintenance — will indefinitely turn neighborhoods into hazardous construction zones." “We can’t find an example anywhere in the world where this much power is landing on a beach and running within 15-20 yards of homes, schools and recreation areas,” said Kimberly Paterson, one of the founding members of StopTheHighRiskPowerCables.org. “Residents should not be expected to be guinea pigs in New Jersey’s high-risk experiment.” Construction of the onshore infrastructure in Monmouth County is scheduled to begin in 2025, and a contractor is expected to chosen this September. | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T21:36:13Z |
| https://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=413316 | More than 500 residents tune in to community meeting Local experts and public officials inform residents about the dangers of high-powered transmission cables that will disrupt Sea Girt and other Jersey Shore towns | 2024-08-19 | 2024 | 2024-08 | Republican | House | NJ | Christopher H. Smith | S000522 | chrissmith.house.gov | chrissmith | https://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx | scraper | At a community education meeting today in Manasquan, Rep. Chris Smith (R-Manchester) and a host of experts and public officials informed local residents about the dangers of high-powered transmission cables that are slated to make landfall in Sea Girt and continue through Manasquan, Wall, and Howell as part of the planned Atlantic Shores South offshore wind project. “The reckless push by the Biden and Murphy Administrations to stand-up expensive and expansive industrial wind farms in size and scope never seen before—without real review, examination, or most importantly, local input—is appalling,” said Smith. “We know that without a change in plans, the communities of Sea Girt, Wall, Howell and Manasquan—who are being forced to host the huge cables coming off the wind turbines—will be the next victims,” said Smith, who noted the cables would transmit energy from 195 offshore wind turbines off Atlantic City. The event was organized by Stop the High-Risk Power Cables, a local group of residents working to raise awareness about the dangerous cables. Although originally planned to be an in-person meeting, the event had to be moved largely online after drawing overwhelming interest from members of the local community, far exceeding venue capacity. “We can’t find an example anywhere in the world where this much power is landing on a beach and running within 15-20 yards of homes, schools and recreation areas,” said Kimberly Paterson, one of the founding members of StopTheHighRiskPowerCables.org. “The regulatory agencies’ and developers’ documents acknowledge there is a risk but they are charging ahead anyway. Residents should not be expected to be guinea pigs in New Jersey’s high-risk experiment.” In addition to Smith, a wide-range of experts and local officials also presented at the meeting, including Manasquan Mayor Michael Mangan; Sea Girt Mayor Donald Fetzer; Assemblyman Paul Kanitra; Mike Dean from Save the East Coast; Cindy Zipf from Clean Ocean Action; and Keith Moore from Defend Brigantine Beach. “The work … | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T21:36:13Z |
| https://kean.house.gov/media/press-releases/kean-introduces-presidential-security-bill-bridge-crucial-gaps-funding | Kean Introduces Presidential Security Bill to Bridge Crucial Gaps in Funding | 2024-08-19 | 2024 | 2024-08 | Republican | House | NJ | Thomas H. Kean, Jr. | K000398 | kean.house.gov | kean | https://kean.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | (August 19, 2024) WASHINGTON, DC - Congressman Tom Kean, Jr. (NJ-07) has introduced the Presidential Security Resources Reimbursement Act of 2024, a bill to authorize Secret Service to reimburse State and local governments for the use of services, personnel, equipment and facilities. Following the assassination attempt on President Donald Trump on July 13, 2024, the Secret Service has requested enhanced protections for past presidents and presidential candidates during travel, as well as increased security measures for major public events, to ensure the safety of all involved and prevent further threats. Currently, when Secret Service utilizes local resources for additional security, the funding comes out of the local government’s budget, a cost that is not always accounted for or reimbursed, which strains local funds and resources. The Trump National Bedminster is located in the 7th Congressional District of New Jersey. “The Secret Service can fully accomplish their mission when they have robust partnerships with local law enforcement agencies,” said Congressman Kean. “Currently, a significant amount of that partnership is funded by small-town taxpayers and local budgets. I wrote this commonsense legislation to ensure that adequate resources are readily available to supplement each and every security plan. The Secret Service protects Americans leaders and must execute that function flawlessly every day." “I recently called Congressman Kean when the Secret Service made a request of our township for additional law enforcement resources to supplement the protection around Trump National Golf Club and to dedicate township fire and first aid resources to the property,” said Larry Jacobs, Mayor of Bedminster. “Bedminster has always been willing to step up and answer the call to keep every resident in our town safe, and that includes the former President. We fully appreciate the Secret Service’s request, especially in light of the July 13th assassination attempt. However, this request could easily run into six figu… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T21:36:13Z |
| https://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=413319 | TAPInto article on wind farm risks'The High Cost of Offshore Wind: What NJ Residents & Businesses Need to Know '' | 2024-08-18 | 2024 | 2024-08 | Republican | House | NJ | Christopher H. Smith | S000522 | chrissmith.house.gov | chrissmith | https://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx | scraper | By Jim Lonergan - Editor At a recent field hearing in Brigantine, Congressmen Jeff Van Drew (D-2) and Chris Smith (D4) led a discussion on the implications of the proposed offshore wind programs. They were joined by PA Congressman Scott Perry (PA-10) and a panel of experts to provide their viewpoints to New Jersey residents about the potential impact of these initiatives. This article, part of the TAPinto Gold Coast offshore wind energy series, is focused on the possible financial effects offshore wind energy may have on households and businesses statewide. To clarify the funding basis and the New Jersey Board of Public Utility's (NJBPU) role in offshore wind development, former NJBPU President and Commissioner Joanne Solomon explained: "The NJBPU is tasked with ensuring safe, reliable utility service at reasonable rates. Essentially, the Board functions as an economic regulator. While they don’t set policy on energy sources, they are required to implement legislative directives. The legislation authorizing offshore wind development mandates that there must be a net benefit to ratepayers—encompassing reliability, safety, environmental attributes, and economic development. In short, the benefits must outweigh the costs. However, the proposals received for offshore wind are significantly more expensive than conventional energy resources." Concerns about the economic viability of offshore wind projects came to the forefront when Orsted, the developer, canceled the first two New Jersey offshore wind projects citing a "lack of economic viability," according to Orsted's CEO (click HERE for related article). Financial Impact to NJ Taxpayers Independent energy expert Ed O'Donnell of Whitestrand Consulting LLC who has studied, written, and testified about Offshore Wind Energy told TAPinto Gold Coast "Offshore Wind is not economically viable without major subsidies in the form of Federal Tax credits and guaranteed above market utility prices for power generated." There are four main components of costs: 1) NJ Electric… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T21:36:13Z |
| https://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=413318 | 'Over 60 million pounds of sand dug from Manasquan Inlet shoal; here's where it's going' | 2024-08-15 | 2024 | 2024-08 | Republican | House | NJ | Christopher H. Smith | S000522 | chrissmith.house.gov | chrissmith | https://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx | scraper | The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers' dredge boat Murden has vacuumed up about 20,000 cubic yards of sand out of the Manasquan Inlet so far as it works to dig out the dangerous shoal that formed this summer. That converts to about 64 million pounds of wet sand removed from the inlet since the work began in earnest this past weekend. The job is not complete, so the final total figures to be higher once the shoal is completely removed. The Murden, which is a 156-foot split hull hopper dredge, has a capacity of 500 cubic yards, said Army Corps' Philadelphia District spokesperson Stephen Rochette. However, for ease of transport, they're only filling it up with 400 cubic yards of sand per cycle. The Army Corps received several calls for help from stakeholders, including U.S. Rep. Chris Smith, R-N.J., after the shoaling in the Manasquan Inlet returned to the Point Pleasant Beach side of the inlet for the second time in three years. The last time was 2022. Fishing boat captains who use the inlet daily to leave the Manasquan River and enter the Atlantic Ocean said the shoal was the worst it has ever been. Capt. William Egeter Jr. of the Dauntless party boat described the shoal as a "beach" that reached out to about one third of the mouth of the inlet, presenting a navigational hazard to boaters. The Army Corps and locally elected leaders are also warning people to stay off the shoal. The sand is being deposited just offshore of Manasquan's Riddle Way beach, which is four beaches north of the inlet. Rochette said they chose that spot because it’s relatively close to the inlet for quick transport, and secondly because the sand drifts north from there, so it supports Manasquan beaches without going back into the inlet. Lastly, it is within the ‘depth of closure,’ meaning it’s within the zone that will eventually migrate toward the beach. How we got here:Army Corps will stay and complete dredging Manasquan Inlet's dangerous shoal Rochette said if they place the sand outside the 'depth of closure," it basically won't rea… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T21:36:13Z |
| https://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=413311 | Asbury Park Press news article on Rep. Smith efforts to press Army Corps of Engineers to make important NJ waterway safer'Army Corps to stay, dredge Manasquan Inlet shoal' | 2024-08-12 | 2024 | 2024-08 | Republican | House | NJ | Christopher H. Smith | S000522 | chrissmith.house.gov | chrissmith | https://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx | scraper | Dan Radel Asbury Park Press/USA TODAY NETWORK JERSEY - The U.S. Army Corps of Engineer’s 56-foot split-hull hopper dredge Murden will stay put and resume pumping the sand that has built up on the Point Pleasant Beach side of the Manasquan Inlet. Army Corps’ Philadelphia District spokesperson Stephen Rochette said the Murden will resume dredging operations possibly this weekend, depending on sea conditions, and remain for one to two weeks. The Shore was facing the effects of Tropical Storm Debby on Friday, which brought gusty winds and strong seas to area on Friday. In response to rapid shoaling on the inside of the inlet’s south jetty, the Army Corps completed hydrographic surveys on Aug. 6. The Army Corps said the surveys have been shared with the U.S. Coast Guard and are available to mariners on the Army Corps’ website. Additionally, the Murden did complete two cycles of dredging on Aug. 6, but work was stopped due to a coastal storm. The Murden, which is owned and operated by the Army Corps’ Wilmington District, was already stationed on the Manasquan Inlet but was doing work on the Shark River. It has now been diverted to the Manasquan Inlet. “I’m grateful to the USACE Wilmington, New England and New York Districts for their flexibility and rearranging dredging operations at other locations to enable this work to move forward this weekend as opposed to later in the month when it was originally scheduled,” said Army Corps’ Philadelphia District Commander Lt. Col. Jeffrey Beeman. “I also want to thank our survey crews and the Murden crew for their efforts.” The Army Corps received several calls for help from stakeholders, including U.S. Rep. Chris Smith, R-N.J., after the shoaling in the Manasquan Inlet returned for the second time in three years. Fishing boat captains who use the inlet daily to leave the Manasquan River and enter the Atlantic Ocean said the shoal was the worst it has ever been. Capt. William Egeter Jr. of the Dauntless party boat described it as a “beach” that reached out to about one … | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T21:36:13Z |
| https://kean.house.gov/media/press-releases/kean-introduces-bill-help-expand-access-ivf-treatments | Kean Introduces Bill to Help Expand Access to IVF Treatments | 2024-08-09 | 2024 | 2024-08 | Republican | House | NJ | Thomas H. Kean, Jr. | K000398 | kean.house.gov | kean | https://kean.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | (August 9, 2024) WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Congressman Tom Kean, Jr. (NJ-07) introduced the IVF for Families Act, a bill to provide an income tax credit for the costs of certain fertility treatment. A recent study revealed that a single IVF cycle—defined as ovarian stimulation, egg retrieval and embryo transfer—can range from $15,000 to $30,000, depending on the center and the patient’s individual medication needs. Medications can account for up to 35% of those charges. “Everyone knows a neighbor, colleague, or friend who has struggled when trying to grow their family and benefited from IVF,” said Congressman Kean. “I have heard firsthand from constituents of the many emotional and financial struggles that they face throughout this process. Making this remarkable technology more accessible can and will change countless lives for the better. I will continue to support a woman’s right to choose and am proud to introduce this bill to provide greater support to those who need help growing their family.” Congressman Kean is a cosponsor of H.Res.1037, a resolution to support protection of IVF treatments led by Congresswoman Chavez-Deremer and a cosponsor of H.R.9141, a bill to help families more effectively plan and manage medical expenses, including IVF, led by Congresswoman Cammack. Full text of the bill can be found HERE. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T21:36:13Z |
| https://kean.house.gov/media/press-releases/kean-visits-fy25-community-project-funding-site-washington-township | Kean Visits FY25 Community Project Funding Site in Washington Township | 2024-08-09 | 2024 | 2024-08 | Republican | House | NJ | Thomas H. Kean, Jr. | K000398 | kean.house.gov | kean | https://kean.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | (August 9, 2024) WASHINGTON TOWNSHIP, NJ – Yesterday, Congressman Tom Kean, Jr. (NJ-07) toured the Washington Township Police Department in Morris County ahead of the FY25 appropriations discussion to gain insight into local law enforcement needs and priorities. Congressman Kean requested $560,000 for Washington Township in this year’s FY25 appropriation process. This funding would be used for communication technology upgrades for emergency operations of the police department to allow the agency to meet the growing needs of the community. “As we move forward with the FY25 appropriations discussion, I am committed to securing $560,000 for Washington Township,” said Congressman Kean. “This funding will be instrumental in upgrading communication technology for emergency operations, ensuring the Washington Township Police Department is equipped to meet the evolving needs of our community effectively and efficiently." “We appreciate the hard work and dedication of our Police Department to ensure the residents of Washington Township live in one of the safest towns in New Jersey,” said Matthew Murello, Washington Township Mayor. “This funding included in the federal budget by Congressman Kean will help to support the infrastructure of our police department’s headquarters building.” “I am honored that the Congressman would take the time to visit our headquarters and take the time to see how the grant money would be used,” said Jeffrey Almer, Washington Township Police Chief. “I also want to thank Mayor Matt Murello for his hard work on this as well. I am exceptionally proud of my officers and the department, and this will help us continue to be one of the best with one of the finest facilities.” Congressman Kean requested 15 projects in this year’s appropriation process. To view the full list, click HERE. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T21:36:13Z |
| https://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=413309 | On the 10th anniversary of the Goldman Act | 2024-08-08 | 2024 | 2024-08 | Republican | House | NJ | Christopher H. Smith | S000522 | chrissmith.house.gov | chrissmith | https://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx | scraper | Rep. Chris Smith (R-Manchester) today issued the following statement marking the 10th anniversary of the enactment of the Sean and David Goldman International Child Abduction Prevention and Return Act: “Ten years ago today, the Sean and David Goldman International Child Abduction Prevention and Return Act—which I authored to help bring home American children who have been abducted overseas—was enacted into law. While the ‘Goldman Act’ is helping to reunite families and prevent possible future abductions, many left-behind parents have been waiting far too long to see their kids again as the U.S. State Department fails to employ the full range of powerful tools at its disposal. At a hearing I will chair in September, we will be asking the hard questions and pressing the State Department and other U.S. officials to take bolder action on behalf of these left-behind parents, especially those whose children have been abducted to Japan.” ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T21:36:13Z |
| https://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=413315 | NJ.com article on new adult autism school Smith helped with fed grant'This N.J. college is launching an academy for adults with autism' | 2024-08-08 | 2024 | 2024-08 | Republican | House | NJ | Christopher H. Smith | S000522 | chrissmith.house.gov | chrissmith | https://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx | scraper | MIDDLETOWN, NJ , Aug 8, 2024 NJ. com Everything New Jersey - Powered by Star Ledger Brookdale Community College is developing a program that will equip adults who are on the autism spectrum with a variety of life skills, from meal preparation to financial literacy. The Achieve Academy for Adults with Autism, which is slated to begin taking clients in 2025 at Brookdale’s satellite campus in Wall, seeks to fill a gap in services for individuals with special needs who are no longer eligible to receive public school-provided support. “In New Jersey, a child with autism is allowed to be in school until they turn 21,” said Eileen Shaklee, an autism advocate and board member of Monmouth Ocean Foundation for Children, which has been working to develop the academy for a decade. “What happens after 21 is what a lot of parents like myself kind of call the cliff, because you’re leaving school where you had all these services, lots of reinforcements, lots of supports, and then there’s nothing.” Rep. Chris Smith assisted in securing a $400,000 federal grant for the project, which will be used to furnish the academy, according to the release The Achieve Academy for Adults with Autism celebrated the completion of its facility with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on July 16. The academy will begin serving clients in 2025.Brookdale Community College “One of the most important things for someone who’s on the spectrum is to have a consistent support system that can reinforce skills like life skills, being independent in your home,” Shaklee added. For Shaklee, her passion for the academy is fueled by her own experiences as a parent to a child with autism, who will soon turn 21. “I’ve been selfishly motivated to get this thing off the ground, and it’s because of my son,” she said. Shaklee said there is a lack of programs offered for adults with autism to engage in meaningful work and contribute to the community. “There are various programs out there that are more care-based. They’re making sure that the person is safe. A child lik… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T21:36:13Z |
| https://kean.house.gov/media/press-releases/kean-visits-fy25-community-project-funding-site-phillipsburg | Kean Visits FY25 Community Project Funding Site in Phillipsburg | 2024-08-08 | 2024 | 2024-08 | Republican | House | NJ | Thomas H. Kean, Jr. | K000398 | kean.house.gov | kean | https://kean.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | (August 8, 2024) PHILLIPSBURG, NJ – Last week, Congressman Tom Kean, Jr. (NJ-07) toured the Delaware River Park with Phillipsburg Mayor Randy Piazza, Warren County Commissioner Director James Kern, and local leaders ahead of the FY25 appropriations discussion to gain insight into the potential impact and benefits of the proposed park revitalization. Congressman Kean requested $2,400,000 for the Town of Phillipsburg in this year’s FY25 appropriation process. This funding would be used for revitalizing the existing Delaware River Park to be reused for recreational purposes. The project would focus on building recreation fields and resume services for the youth of the community. “Local leaders in Phillipsburg have a fantastic vision for revitalizing the existing Delaware River Park,” said Congressman Kean. “This project would create several new spaces for the entire community to come together and I will continue to fight in Congress to get this funding across the finish line.” "On behalf of the entire town of Phillipsburg, I want to extend our heartfelt thanks to Congressman Kean for taking the time to visit and tour the site where his support in this year's appropriation process is making a real difference," said Randy Piazza, Mayor of Phillipsburg. "Congressman Kean's dedication and commitment to our community are truly appreciated, and we are grateful for your ongoing efforts to help Phillipsburg thrive. Thank you for always being a champion for our town and for the invaluable role you play in our community's progress." “I’m grateful Congressman Kean was able to visit Phillipsburg last week to view and hear about the potential of Delaware River Park,” said James Kern, Warren County Commissioner Director. “This site has the opportunity to be a major attraction for not only residents of Phillipsburg but the surrounding communities as well.” “We in Phillipsburg are extremely grateful to Congressman Kean for his vision and commitment to the well-being and development of our community,” said Patrick Kays, Director… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T21:36:13Z |
| https://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=413312 | News12 NJ on Army Corps of Engineers work prompted by Smith'Operations to clear shoal in Point Pleasant Beach to begin soon' | 2024-08-07 | 2024 | 2024-08 | Republican | House | NJ | Christopher H. Smith | S000522 | chrissmith.house.gov | chrissmith | https://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx | scraper | 'Locals say it might be dangerous to boaters and those who use watercraft.' OCEAN COUNTY, NJ , Aug 7, 2024 News12 NJ News12NJ Report Tony Caputo News 12 continues to keep an eye on the unexpected shoal (sandbank) that developed after this past weekend's storm in Point Pleasant Beach, Ocean County. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers responded to Rep. Chris Smith's request for help on Monday, saying the dredge boat “Murden” is scheduled to be in the area later this month. Locals say it might be dangerous to boaters and those who use watercraft. It could also negatively affect the local seafood businesses if they can't get their fishing boats in and out. This news article and video was published on Aug. 6, 2024 and subsequently updated several times and can be online at found at: https://newjersey.news12.com/operations-to-clear-shoal-in-point-pleasant-beach-to-begin-soon | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T21:36:13Z |
| https://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=413314 | Star Ledger/NJ.com article'Work underway to remove gigantic sandbar from Jersey Shore inlet, officials say' | 2024-08-07 | 2024 | 2024-08 | Republican | House | NJ | Christopher H. Smith | S000522 | chrissmith.house.gov | chrissmith | https://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx | scraper | MANASQUAN RIVER, NJ, Aug 7, 2024 NJ. com Everything New Jersey - Powered by Star Ledger NJ.com logo Star Ledger logo The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers began work Tuesday to remove the massive build-up of sand on the southern shore of the Manasquan Inlet that has concerned multiple local officials, authorities said. Crews from the Corps have started dredging the waterway and removing the sand on the Point Pleasant Beach side of the inlet, according to Rep. Chris Smith, R-4th Dist. In a follow-up letter to Army Corps Commander Lieutenant Colonel Jeffrey Beeman on Monday, Smith urged the Corps to take immediate action to mitigate what his office called a “growing navigational hazard.” “We are very grateful to Lt. Col. Beeman and his team from the Philadelphia Army Corps for their quick response to our concerns over the dangerous shoaling in the Manasquan Inlet that poses serious navigational hazards to boaters during this especially busy time of the year on the Jersey Shore,” Smith said in a release. “(Point Pleasant Beach) Mayor (Doug) Vitale was also quick to help ensure that this important safety issue was raised and addressed as soon as possible.” Smith added that while the weather and sea conditions would likely impact the dredging and sand removal efforts, he was confident the “Army Corps will continue to see this critical operation through to its end as quickly as possible.” The congressman said that in the meantime, beachgoers should remain off the sand bar at all times as the work being done by the Corps could make the shoal extremely unstable and unsafe. A spokesman from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers said Monday it was working to obtain hydrographic surveys of the current inlet conditions. Once they were completed, they would be posted online for mariners to access and would be shared with the Coast Guard. That survey was completed earlier Tuesday, Smith said. The same spokesman said Tuesday that the dredge crew did two cycles before the bad weather hit and that dredging would resume likely e… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T21:36:13Z |
| https://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=413303 | Army Corps begins dredging Manasquan Inlet to address dangerous build-up of sand | 2024-08-06 | 2024 | 2024-08 | Republican | House | NJ | Christopher H. Smith | S000522 | chrissmith.house.gov | chrissmith | https://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx | scraper | The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) has begun dredging the Manasquan Inlet today to address the dangerous build-up of sand along the jetty on the Point Pleasant Beach side of channel, said Rep. Chris Smith (R-Manchester), who has been in constant communication with Army Corps officials on board the USACE Dredge Murden. “We are very grateful to Lt. Col. Beeman and his team from the Philadelphia Army Corps for their quick response to our concerns over the dangerous shoaling in the Manasquan Inlet that poses serious navigational hazards to boaters during this especially busy time of the year on the Jersey Shore,” said Smith. “Mayor Vitale was also quick to help ensure that this important safety issue was raised and addressed as soon as possible.” “With a storm coming in later today, weather and sea conditions may impact their ongoing work, but I am confident that the Army Corps will continue to see this critical operation through to its end as quickly as possible,” Smith said. “In the meantime, beachgoers should remain off the sandbar at all times as the removal of sand in the inlet could make the temporary sandbar extremely unstable and unsafe,” Smith said. “Safety is the absolute number one priority.” The Army Corps’ action comes after Smith initiated conversations with Army Corps officials and local boat captains over the weekend as the shoaling began to develop. In a follow-up letter to Army Corps Commander Lieutenant Colonel Jeffrey Beeman on Monday, Smith urged the Corps to take immediate action to mitigate the growing navigational hazard. As a result, the Corps performed a survey of the inlet floor earlier today and immediately began removing the build-up of sand. Manasquan Inlet, which is categorized as a dynamic inlet with constantly shifting sands created by the currents, has been prone to shoaling before. When similar safety hazards plagued the Manasquan Inlet in August 2022, Smith secured an emergency survey of the inlet from the Army Corps in addition to continued, close monitoring of the ri… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T21:36:13Z |
| https://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=413313 | NJ101.5 news article on Manasquan Inlet, Smith's call for USACE to fix ASAP'NJ boating: Extremely dangerous conditions develop off Pt. Pleasant Beach NJ' | 2024-08-06 | 2024 | 2024-08 | Republican | House | NJ | Christopher H. Smith | S000522 | chrissmith.house.gov | chrissmith | https://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx | scraper | By Dan Alexander / NJ101.5 staff reporter - A large sandbar that has developed along the Point Pleasant Beach side of the Manasquan Inlet may be getting attention before it grows any further. Mayor Doug Vitale said in a statement on his Facebook page the shoaling was likely caused by constant southerly winds in recent weeks. Fishing boat Capt. William Egerter Jr. told the Asbury Park Press that the sandbar is taking up a third of the channel connecting the Manasquan River and the Atlantic Ocean. “The build-up of sand on the Point Pleasant side of the inlet against the jetty has reached unprecedented proportions,” U.S. Rep. Chris Smith, R-N.J. 4th District, said in a letter to the Army Corps of Engineers. “This is not only a grounding hazard to vessels, but the waves created inside the inlet as a result of this shoaling are enough to capsize boats that regularly traverse the channel.” ALSO READ: The latest on Debby: Day-by-day heavy rain forecast for NJ The congressman requested "immediate corrective action" by the Corp. Dredging was scheduled for the inlet this week but was postponed because of mechanical problems. He suggested a "more urgent response" was needed because of the busy summer season that brings increased recreational, for-hire and commerical vessel traffic. Vitale said that the dredging vessel Murden is currently scheduled to conduct dredging operations within the inlet later this month and may bump up the operations depending on weather and sea conditions. The mayor said people should not go onto the shoal because of the "dynamic nature of the inlet and sea conditions." A similar shoal developed in 2022 even after being dredged twice. Wave action from a storm helped break down the sandbar that some described as a "mini beach." | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T21:36:13Z |
| https://kean.house.gov/media/press-releases/kean-visits-fy25-community-project-funding-site-hopatcong | Kean Visits FY25 Community Project Funding Site in Hopatcong | 2024-08-05 | 2024 | 2024-08 | Republican | House | NJ | Thomas H. Kean, Jr. | K000398 | kean.house.gov | kean | https://kean.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | (August 5, 2024) HOPATCONG, NJ – Last week, Congressman Tom Kean, Jr. (NJ-07) met with Hopatcong Mayor Marie Galate ahead of the FY25 appropriations discussion to gain insight into the new lead service lines replacements in Hopatcong, Sussex County. Congressman Kean requested $1,000,000 for the Borough of Hopatcong in this year’s FY25 appropriation process. This funding would be used for completing the initial phase of lead service line replacements along various roadways in Hopatcong. “After visiting impacted neighborhoods and hearing firsthand the need for infrastructure improvements, I am even more committed to securing the funding for Hopatcong to replace the lead lines,” said Congressman Kean. “These replacements will ensure families throughout Hopatcong has access to clean, safe drinking water. I will continue to fiercely advocate to bring critical federal funding back to New Jersey to improve the lives of my constituents throughout 7th Congressional District, and beyond.” “On behalf of the residents of Hopatcong Borough, we wish to extend our heartfelt gratitude for the hard work and dedication advocating for the funding needed to replace our lead service lines,” said Marie Galate, Mayor of Hopatcong. “The generous Grant totaling $1,000,000 will provide significant relief to our residents, allowing them to successfully replace their lead service lines. This critical infrastructure improvement, ensures, safer, drinking water, and healthier environment for all the residents of Hopatcong. We are grateful to Congressmen Tom Kean for his dedication to public safety and health and welfare of our community.” Congressman Kean requested 15 projects in this year’s appropriation process. To view the full list, click HERE. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T21:36:13Z |
| https://kean.house.gov/media/press-releases/kean-presents-120000-check-abilities-northwest-jersey | Kean Presents $120,000 Check to Abilities of Northwest Jersey | 2024-08-02 | 2024 | 2024-08 | Republican | House | NJ | Thomas H. Kean, Jr. | K000398 | kean.house.gov | kean | https://kean.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | (August 2, 2024) WASHINGTON, NJ – Today, Congressman Tom Kean, Jr. (NJ-07) presented a $120,000 ceremonial check to the Abilities of Northwest Jersey, secured by the FY2024 Community Project Funding process. This funding will increase training and employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities through classroom and distance learning. The project will provide distance learning focusing on soft skills and provide professional growth and pre-employment services. Moreover, it provides funds for training and support to instructors to enhance students’ success in coding, technology, and website development and testing. “This $120,000 federal grant secured for the Abilities of Northwest Jersey is a vital investment in our family, friends, and neighbors with intellectual disabilities and developmental disabilities,” said Congressman Kean. “I have had the privilege of touring the Abilities of Northwest Jersey since being sworn into Congress and have been impressed by their dedication and the impact they have on our community. This grant is a testament to our commitment to fostering an inclusive and supportive environment for everyone in our district.” “We are truly grateful to Congressman Kean for advocating on behalf of persons with autism and other developmental disabilities,” said Cindy Wildermuth, CEO of Abilities of Northwest Jersey. “This funding will allow us to implement a hybrid classroom and distance learning platform, providing soft skill support and training in the technology industry. It is our goal that this initiative will lead to competitive employment in neurodiversity programs found at many tech companies across the country.” “On behalf of the people of northwest New Jersey, I thank Congressman Kean for securing these necessary funds for Abilities, which will go a long way toward helping individuals with disabilities being given the opportunity to reach their fullest potential in life,” said Senator Doug Steinhardt. “I am thankful to Congressman Kean and his team for securing funding for … | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T21:36:13Z |
| https://kean.house.gov/media/press-releases/kean-presents-277000-check-borough-mount-arlington | Kean Presents $277,000 Check to the Borough of Mount Arlington | 2024-08-02 | 2024 | 2024-08 | Republican | House | NJ | Thomas H. Kean, Jr. | K000398 | kean.house.gov | kean | https://kean.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | (August 2, 2024) MOUNT ARLINGTON, NJ – Yesterday, Congressman Tom Kean, Jr. (NJ-07) presented a $277,000 ceremonial check to the Borough of Mount Arlington, funding secured by the FY2024 Community Project Funding process. The grant will be used for purchasing security cameras and automated license plate readers for Mount Alington’s public spaces, such as municipal buildings, facilities, parks, attractions, and points of entry. “This $277,000 grant secured for Mount Arlington will fill an existing gap in critical public safety measures for the Borough,” said Congressman Kean. “As a member of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, I have and will continue to prioritize critical security infrastructure improvements for New Jerseyans. This grant not only supports the enhancement of our infrastructure but also shows our commitment to supporting local law enforcement efforts. By investing in both public safety measures and the resources that support our police force, we are ensuring that Mount Arlington's officers have the tools they need to protect and serve our community effectively.” "Thanks to Congressman Kean this federal funding will provide critical public safety and security measures to not only the residents of the Borough of Mount Arlington but surrounding communities in northern New Jersey as well,” said Michael Stanzilis, Mayor of Mount Arlington. “I truly appreciate that Congressman Kean is bringing federal money back to New Jersey and back to Mount Arlington. My number one priority as Mayor is ensuring the safety and security of our residents. This funding is a tremendous help in achieving that goal." “In light of the recent public safety concerns across New Jersey, this money will be paramount in helping law enforcement provide the safety and security our communities need and give Mount Arlington residents the peace of mind they deserve,” said Senate Republican Leader Anthony M. Bucco (R-25). “Thank you to Congressman Kean for your efforts to secure this funding and I look forward to w… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-07T21:36:13Z |
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