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Data license: MIT · Data source: dwillis/congress-press

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1,406 rows where state = "CT" and year = 2016 sorted by date descending

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  • CT · 1,406 ✖

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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
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/in-the-news/murphy-blumenthal-call-for-further-probe-of-russia-after-sanctions Murphy, Blumenthal Call For Further Probe Of Russia After Sanctions 2016-12-31 2016 2016-12 Democrat House CT Christopher Murphy M001169 www.murphy.senate.gov     legacy Murphy, Blumenthal Call For Further Probe Of Russia After Sanctions Stamford Daily Voice Saturday, December 31, 2016 FAIRFIELD COUNTY, Conn. — U.S. Sens. Chris Murphy and Richard Blumenthal (both D-Conn.) are praising the sanctions authorized by President Barack Obama in response to Russia's attempts to interfere with the U.S. presidential election. "All Americans should be alarmed by Russia’s actions," Obama said in a statement. The Russian government’s aggressive harassment of U.S. officials and cyber operations aimed at the U.S. election followed "repeated private and public warnings that we have issued to the Russian government, and are a necessary and appropriate response to efforts to harm U.S. interests in violation of established international norms of behavior," he said. Murphy applauded the sanctions and also called for a bipartisan investigation into Russian interference. Russian President Vladimir “Putin's aggression is a direct attack on our democracy and our institutions of government, and the sanctions and expulsions announced today send a strong, clear message that these actions have consequences,” Murphy said. Murphy said his Republican colleagues in the Senate have long called out Obama for being too weak on Russia. “I encourage them to now work with Democrats to conduct a thorough, bipartisan public investigation into Russia’s interference, and make it clear that the United States will not hesitate to impose additional consequences if their illegal, destabilizing actions continue,” said Murphy. Blumenthal echoed Murphy's stance. "These sanctions are a well-deserved and well-delivered step, long overdue and only the beginning of necessary action in response to Russian cyber attacks on our nation," Blumenthal said. “A strong, … 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/blumenthal-statement-on-russian-hacking-sanctions Blumenthal Statement on Russian Hacking Sanctions 2016-12-29 2016 2016-12 Democrat House CT Richard Blumenthal B001277 www.blumenthal.senate.gov     legacy Blumenthal Statement on Russian Hacking Sanctions Print Tweet Thursday, December 29, 2016 (Hartford, CT) – U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) issued the following statement today regarding the announcement of enforcement sanctions against Russian officials and entities involved in election-related cyberattacks:   "These sanctions are a well-deserved and well-delivered step, long overdue and only the beginning of necessary action in response to Russian cyberattacks on our nation. A strong, immediate bipartisan Select Committee investigation is vital to buttress additional steps and reveal the full scope and scale of Russian aggression. The American people deserve a thorough, comprehensive inquiry to determine the full extent of hostile action by the Russian government - and to develop appropriate, ongoing enforcement actions and countermeasures. It will also be the responsibility of the Trump Administration to rigorously enforce these sanctions - a responsibility I hope the President-elect takes with the seriousness it deserves."‎ ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/in-the-news/sen-murphy-calls-aca-repeal-plan-cruel-and-inhumane Sen. Murphy Calls ACA Repeal Plan "Cruel and Inhumane" 2016-12-29 2016 2016-12 Democrat House CT Christopher Murphy M001169 www.murphy.senate.gov     legacy Sen. Murphy Calls ACA Repeal Plan "Cruel and Inhumane" WNPR Thursday, December 29, 2016 Connecticut's U.S. Senator Chris Murphy is sounding the alarm about the future of healthcare under the new Republican congress and the Trump administration. "Right now it looks as if in early January, Republicans are going to repeal the Affordable Care Act, and replace it with absolutely nothing," he told a Wednesday press conference. "For the 250,000 people here in Connecticut who rely on it, the result will be chaos." He said even if a repeal is passed but suspended for a year, the market could collapse as insurers pull out of exchanges, and raise premiums even on private policies. "We are trying to rally support all around the country to make the case to Republicans to take a breath, step back and wait, before doing something as cruel and as inhumane as ripping healthcare away from millions of Americans and throwing the entire healthcare marketplace into chaos," he said. Murphy highlighted the stories of several Connecticut residents who have benefited from the Affordable Care Act. Isabelle Endicott’s second son was born with a congenital heart condition that required a quarter of a million dollars worth of treatment within his first few weeks of life. Before the Affordable Care Act he could have been denied insurance once he reached a lifetime cap on coverage. "I worry that lifetime caps will be reintroduced," said Endicott. "For families with a medically complex child, this terrifies us. Our children could meet these caps very early in their lives, and then how will we manage?" Josh Scussell was diagnosed with stage 4 non-Hodgkin's lymphoma at the age of 23. He underwent two stem cell transplants, over years of treatment. Because of the Affordable Care… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/in-the-news/sen-murphy-to-help-the-homeless-in-winter-weather Sen. Murphy to help the homeless in winter weather 2016-12-29 2016 2016-12 Democrat House CT Christopher Murphy M001169 www.murphy.senate.gov     legacy Sen. Murphy to help the homeless in winter weather WTNH News 8 Thursday, December 29, 2016 U.S. Senator Chris Murphy will head to Waterbury on Thursday in an effort to help the homeless escape from the cold. As the cold weather begins to settle in Connecticut, Senator Chris Murphy is reaching out to the homeless. He will be at the CHD Hospitality Center in Waterbury to speak with homeless individuals first hand. The hospitality center welcomes those looking to escape from the harshness of living on the street and get some of their basic needs fulfilled. They can take a shower, use a phone or computer, collect mail, and get information to help them transition out of homelessness. Senator Murphy will shadow CHD workers to learn how the federal government can better support service providers. He will also have the opportunity to participate in group activities and ask individuals who are homeless about the struggles they face as they try to transition out of their situation. The event will start at 11:30 a.m. on Thursday at the CHD Hospitality Center, which is located on 693 East Main Street in Waterbury. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-statement-on-us-sanctions-against-russia MURPHY STATEMENT ON U.S. SANCTIONS AGAINST RUSSIA 2016-12-29 2016 2016-12 Democrat House CT Christopher Murphy M001169 www.murphy.senate.gov     legacy MURPHY STATEMENT ON U.S. SANCTIONS AGAINST RUSSIA Thursday, December 29, 2016 HARTFORD — U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), Ranking Member of the U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Subcommittee on the Near East, South Asia, Central Asia and Counterterrorism, applauded the Obama administration on Thursday for announcing sanctions against Russian officials, intelligence agencies, and institutions for cyber attacks during the 2016 presidential election. Murphy also called for a bipartisan investigation into Russian interference and for further action, as necessary, to prevent future cyber attacks against the United States. “I fully support the Obama administration’s decision today to impose sanctions against Russia. Putin's aggression is a direct attack on our democracy and our institutions of government, and the sanctions and expulsions announced today send a strong, clear message that these actions have consequences. “For years, I’ve listened to my Republican colleagues in the Senate eviscerate President Obama for being too weak on Russia. I encourage them to now work with Democrats to conduct a thorough, bipartisan public investigation into Russia’s interference, and make it clear that the United States will not hesitate to impose additional consequences if their illegal, destabilizing actions continue.”  ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://larson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/larson-encouraged-israels-proposal-accept-refugees-aleppo Larson Encouraged By Israel's Proposal To Accept Refugees From Aleppo 2016-12-28 2016 2016-12 Democrat House CT John Larson L000557 larson.house.gov     legacy Hartford, CT - Today, Rep. John B. Larson (CT -01) released the following statement about Israel’s proposal to provide medical care to wounded refugees from Aleppo: “I was encouraged to hear that Prime Minister Netanyahu is exploring ways to accept wounded refugees from Aleppo and to provide them with medical care in Israel’s hospitals,” said Larson. “These refugees are victims and are innocent. I hope that the United States will follow Israel's example and put forth a similar proposal.” ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://larson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/larson-proposed-amendments-house-rules Larson On The Proposed Amendments To The House Rules 2016-12-28 2016 2016-12 Democrat House CT John Larson L000557 larson.house.gov     legacy Hartford, CT - Today, Rep. John B. Larson (CT-01), released the following statement on the proposed amendments to the House Rules: "House Democrats will not be silenced when it comes to speaking up on behalf of the American people. Gun violence unfortunately impacts all of our communities and the need for reforms can no longer go unanswered. "I am incredibly disappointed that instead of listening to the American people and simply giving us a vote, a vote on common sense bipartisan changes like keeping guns out of the hands of terrorists, and again a few extremist Republicans are seeking to further silence the minority with the hopes of protecting the gun lobby. "At a time when America is wracked with division the answer is not Putinesque rules. The answer is greater discussion, more votes, increased transparency and efforts to ensure that Americans at least feel that they were heard even if they disagree with the outcome. Continued vitriolic attacks on the press and the rise of fake news remind us we cannot turn the cameras off and cast the people’s chamber into darkness. “This unprecedented move, of fining Members of Congress for speaking up for their constituents, when all other avenues have been blocked, is ill considered and may run afoul of Article I of the Constitution. That article holds that each House may punish its members for disorderly behavior. For more 200 years this has been interpreted to mean any contested sanctions must be approved by the full House with a floor vote. “We will continue, no matter the attempts to prevent it, to speak out on behalf of victims," said Larson. Rep. Larson helped lead the sit-in on the House floor in June. ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/blumenthal-statement-on-secretary-kerrys-remarks-on-israel Blumenthal Statement on Secretary Kerry's Remarks on Israel 2016-12-28 2016 2016-12 Democrat House CT Richard Blumenthal B001277 www.blumenthal.senate.gov     legacy Blumenthal Statement on Secretary Kerry's Remarks on Israel Print Tweet Wednesday, December 28, 2016 [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) released the following statement today in response to the remarks of Secretary of State John Kerry on U.S. - Israel relations:   “While I respect the Administration's steadfast efforts to seek successful negotiations aimed at a two state solution, I continue to be deeply disturbed and disappointed by its recent UN Security Council abstention. Secretary Kerry's speech failed to dispel my strong concerns. Our steadfast ally Israel has sought since its founding to live at peace with its neighbors. Amidst horrific terrorist attacks, economic boycotts and the most virulent anti-Semitism aimed against it citizens, the lone Jewish state has throughout its history made enormous sacrifices in pursuit of peace. Kerry's address today was remarkably remiss in recognizing Israel’s record of seeking peace and did nothing to advance it. Support for Israel must remain bipartisan, and I will work with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to advance productive measures that strengthen our commitment to our critical ally. Through robust foreign aid and defense cooperation with Israel, as well as opposing one-sided efforts to a target Israel at the United Nations, the United States can encourage direct negotiations between the parties to achieve long-sought peace for Israel, the Palestinians and the much troubled region. Most importantly, at this tumultuous time, I will work hard to assure that support for Israel is protected from partisan division and distrust. Bipartisan support is an enduring and essential element of our historic alliance.”   ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/in-the-news/murphy-other-ct-democrats-working-to-empower-states-latinos Murphy, other CT Democrats, working to empower states Latinos 2016-12-28 2016 2016-12 Democrat House CT Christopher Murphy M001169 www.murphy.senate.gov     legacy Murphy, other CT Democrats, working to empower state’s Latinos CT Mirror Wednesday, December 28, 2016 The growth in political clout of Connecticut’s Latino community is not keeping up with its population growth, so U.S. Sen. Chris Murphy and members of the Hispanic Democratic Caucus in the Connecticut legislature are trying to do something about it. They established the Latino Leadership Academy last summer to introduce promising Hispanic community leaders to the rigors of politics and a network of people who can serve as mentors. “The idea was simple,” Murphy said. “Connecticut Latinos are growing in both numbers and power, but sometimes it’s hard for community activists to make the leap to political activism.” Connecticut’s population is 15 percent Hispanic, the 11th- largest proportion among all states. But only about six percent of the members of the state’s General Assembly are Hispanic. No member of the Connecticut congressional delegation is Hispanic – or black. Murphy says only “a handful” of the 18 individuals who graduated from the leadership academy this year – the ceremony was in November – will run for political office. “But they will know how to speak up to right a wrong,” he said. Members of the first class at the academy, who come from every congressional district in the state, were addressed by various Latino leaders – and by Connecticut Attorney General George Jepsen. Jorge Cruz, who moved as a child with his mother and siblings from Puerto Rico, was among the first to apply for the academy. “I signed up and was happy that I was chosen,” he said. A recovering heroin addict who lives in Bridgeport, Cruz now does outreach to other addicts and works largely with the homeless. He ran for city council last year and lost by 23 vo… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/in-the-news/murphy-slams-gop-plans-to-quickly-repeal-obamacare Murphy Slams GOP Plans To Quickly Repeal Obamacare 2016-12-28 2016 2016-12 Democrat House CT Christopher Murphy M001169 www.murphy.senate.gov     legacy Murphy Slams GOP Plans To Quickly Repeal Obamacare CBS Connecticut Wednesday, December 28, 2016 Connecticut Senator Chris Murphy today slammed Republican plans to quickly vote to repeal the Affordable Care Act. The Democratic lawmaker says if the Republicans repeal Obamacare without putting something else in place first, insurers will leave the healthcare exchanges, and millions of people will lose health insurance. “Everyone’s rates will go up. Everyone will be in jeopardy of losing their healthcare.  This will leave no one untouched, if they unwind the Affordable Care Act without any plan for what comes next,” Murphy said. The senator says even if Republicans make the repeal effective several years in the future, the health insurance exchanges could still collapse, as insurers leave a market that would soon cease to exist. Murphy says the repeal would be ‘cruel and brutal,’ because it could undo protections provided under the law. Obamacare required insurers to provide coverage to people with pre-existing medical conditions, and it ended lifetime limits on what a health insurance policy would pay for coverage for a person. Republican lawmakers are united on getting rid of the Affordable Care Act, but they are divided on what — if anything — should replace the health care law. Some GOP lawmakers say Obamacare must be eliminated as soon as possible because it is a threat to the nation’s health care system. Donald Trump’s election gives Republicans control of the White House and both houses of Congress — and a clear chance to overturn Barack Obama’s signature healthcare law without a veto by the departing Democratic president. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://courtney.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/courtney-larson-delauro-statement-f-35-discussions-0 Courtney, Larson, DeLauro Statement on F-35 Discussions 2016-12-23 2016 2016-12 Democrat House CT Joe Courtney C001069 courtney.house.gov     legacy Hartford, CT – US Representatives Joe Courtney (CT-2), John Larson (CT-1) and Rosa DeLauro (CT-3) issued a joint statement today responding to recent comments by President-Elect Trump regarding the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter: "Any suggestion that there is a substitute for the F-35 is total non-starter. This is a program that has been vetted ad nauseum by the Pentagon, the Congress and independent experts. There is simply no aircraft in production today that can compare with the F-35’s advanced avionics, networked capabilities and integrated stealth. "Many years of hard work by industry and our military leaders have gotten this program on track and on a path of declining costs. Rather than waste time and money interrupting our nation's upgrade to a 5th generation fighter, it's time to work together to find more savings and efficiencies for the American taxpayer." Courtney is the Ranking Member of the House Seapower and Projection Forces Subcommittee. Larson is a co-chair of the bipartisan F-35 Caucus. DeLauro is a member of the House Appropriations Committee. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://delauro.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/courtney-larson-and-delauro-issue-joint-statement-f-35-discussions Courtney, Larson, and DeLauro Issue Joint Statement on F-35 Discussions 2016-12-23 2016 2016-12 Democrat House CT Rosa DeLauro D000216 delauro.house.gov     legacy HARTFORD, CT — U.S. Representatives Joe Courtney (CT-02), John Larson (CT-01) and Rosa DeLauro (CT-03) issued a joint statement today responding to recent comments by President-Elect Donald Trump regarding the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter. “Any suggestion that there is a substitute for the F-35 is total non-starter. This is a program that has been vetted ad nauseum by the Pentagon, the Congress, and independent experts. There is simply no aircraft in production today that can compare with the F-35’s advanced avionics, networked capabilities and integrated stealth. “Many years of hard work by industry and our military leaders have gotten this program on track and on a path of declining costs. Rather than waste time and money interrupting our nation’s upgrade to a 5th generation fighter, it’s time to work together to find more savings and efficiencies for the American taxpayer.” Courtney is the Ranking Member of the House Seapower and Projection Forces Subcommittee. Larson is a co-chair of the bipartisan F-35 Caucus. DeLauro is a member of the House Appropriations Committee. ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://larson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/larson-condemns-un-security-council-vote-israel Larson Condemns U.N. Security Council Vote on Israel 2016-12-23 2016 2016-12 Democrat House CT John Larson L000557 larson.house.gov     legacy Hartford, CT – Today, Rep. John B. Larson (CT-01) released the following statement after the U.N. Security Council’s vote on Israel: "Today’s resolution is a misguided attempt to isolate Israel and undermine the peace process. I am disappointed that the United States did not exercise its veto, but I am confident that our leaders will continue to support our greatest ally in the region. We are firmly committed to a peaceful resolution to the ongoing conflict, but that can only be achieved by bringing all parties to the table and recognizing the acts of terrorism Israel has endured.” ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/blumenthal-calls-for-recall-of-exploding-e-cigarettes-ban-from-us-skies Blumenthal Calls for Recall of Exploding E-Cigarettes, Ban From U.S. Skies 2016-12-23 2016 2016-12 Democrat House CT Richard Blumenthal B001277 www.blumenthal.senate.gov     legacy Blumenthal Calls for Recall of Exploding E-Cigarettes, Ban From U.S. Skies Print Tweet E-cigarettes use a rechargeable lithium-ion battery, like the recently recalled fire-catching Galaxy Note 7 phones. Blumenthal asks major U.S. airlines to take immediate voluntary action to protect travelers by banning devices in aircraft cabins. Friday, December 23, 2016 [WASHINGTON, DC] – Following numerous incidents of exploding and smoldering e-cigarettes dangerously injuring users – including the hospitalization of a Stratford, Connecticut man whose e-cigarette exploded in his mouth, knocking out several of his teeth – U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) wrote to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) today calling on the federal agencies to recall the exploding devices and establish clear safety standards for rechargeable lithium-ion batteries used in the devices. “These dangerous devices are exploding mid-use—maiming users and endangering the lives of anyone nearby. I am calling on the FDA and CPSC to immediately recall these defective e-cigarettes, and to establish clear safety standards for e-cigarette batteries,” Blumenthal said. Blumenthal also wrote to major U.S. airlines today urging the industry to take immediate voluntary action to ban e-cigarettes from aircraft cabins. Earlier this year, the U.S. Department of Transportation banned e-cigarettes from checked luggage, but stopped short of banning the devices from cabins, where they continue to pose serious safety risks. There is precedent for airline action—last year Delta, United Airlines and American Airlines all banned hoverboards from carry-on and checked baggage due to fire concerns. “Particularly on airplanes, e-cigarette explosions pose an immediate and alarming threat to public safety,” Blumenthal said. “I am calling on the airlines to take immediate voluntary steps to … 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/blumenthal-to-window-covering-manufacturers-produce-data-supporting-latest-revision-of-safety-standard Blumenthal to Window Covering Manufacturers: Produce Data Supporting Latest Revision of Safety Standard 2016-12-23 2016 2016-12 Democrat House CT Richard Blumenthal B001277 www.blumenthal.senate.gov     legacy Blumenthal to Window Covering Manufacturers: Produce Data Supporting Latest Revision of Safety Standard Print Tweet Friday, December 23, 2016 [WASHINGTON, DC] – Ahead of an end-of-year goal to develop critical new safety standards for dangerous window covering cords, U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Ranking Member on the Commerce, Science and Transportation Subcommittee on Consumer Protection, Product Safety, Insurance, and Data Security, criticized major window covering manufacturers for failing to provide data that provides key support for the latest version of the voluntary standard for window coverings. The new standards are being developed in response to a letter from Blumenthal and U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) calling for strong child safety protections, but the most recent draft does not require all window coverings to be cordless. Rather, the draft standard includes a cordless requirement for “stock” products, but not “custom” products.   “WCMA’s decision to revisit the voluntary standard represents a significant opportunity to put an end to the tragically predictable and over two-decade long trend of one child dying each month from window covering cords,” Blumenthal said. “To ensure that the new updated standard is truly effective, it is critical that we know what portion of the market will be affected by the new standards. I am disappointed WCMA has not been transparent with this information, and has not yet heeded my call to produce data that is fundamentally important to developing new safety standards. I urge them to do so immediately. “   Blumenthal wrote to the Window Covering Manufacturers Association (WCMA) and Springs Window Fashions requesting information “to have a clear understanding of the current window covering market and its trajectory, including what share of the market is sold as “custom” and as “stock,” including online sales in both categories, so that we … 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/in-the-news/sen-murphy-talks-mental-health-reform-act-in-westport Sen. Murphy talks Mental Health Reform Act in Westport 2016-12-23 2016 2016-12 Democrat House CT Christopher Murphy M001169 www.murphy.senate.gov     legacy Sen. Murphy talks Mental Health Reform Act in Westport Westport News Friday, December 23, 2016  U.S. Sen. Chris Murphy brought his victory tour to town this week, celebrating the passing of a bill he helped author that could substantially improve mental health care and substance abuse treatment in the country. On Wednesday, Murphy stopped at St. Vincent’s Behavioral Health Services in Westport to explain aspects of the Mental Health Reform Act, a bill included in the 21st Century Cures Act, signed into law by President Barack Obama on Dec. 13. Murphy teamed up with U.S. Sen. Bill Cassidy, R-La., to write the bill. The package received overwhelming bipartisan support in the House and Senate. It includes a $1 billion grant to help states combat the opioid crisis and $4.8 billion for research at the National Institutes of Health. A portion of the NIH money will focus on brain research to uncover new treatments. The new law updates substandard mental health parity laws, and thus requires insurance plans to provide comparable benefits for mental health and substance abuse as for physical health issues. “Your statement of benefits today will tell you that you have mental health coverage,” Murphy said to the audience, which included health care professionals. “But as you all know, when you try to go access that benefit, it’s often not there, or you have to go through hurdles and hoops that, frankly, you don’t have to go through when you are trying to get reimbursement for a cancer treatment or for an orthopedic procedure.” “It’s just a lot harder to get treatment for the part of your body above the neck than the part of your body below the neck,” he said. The newly passed bill enhances the ability to enforce parity laws by mandating federal agencies t… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://himes.house.gov/press-release/himes-leads-letter-requesting-qualified-science-advisor Himes leads letter requesting qualified Science Advisor 2016-12-22 2016 2016-12 Democrat House CT Jim Himes H001047 himes.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON, DC—Today, Congressman Jim Himes (CT-04), along with nine other Members of Congress, sent a letter to President-elect Donald Trump asking him to quickly appoint a qualified Assistant to the President for Science and Technology, usually known as the President’s Science Advisor. “There is a fear and concern among the American people that the incoming Administration is going to disregard the advice and recommendations of the scientific community,” said Himes. “America’s strength has always stemmed from our ingenuity and commitment to fact-based decision making. We now face a situation where decisions that will affect the future of our country – in areas including climate change, national security, exploration, health and the economy – could be made by individuals who are not just lacking a scientific background, but are, in fact, aggressively anti-science. A qualified Science Advisor would be a key component in mitigating any ideologically-driven, destructive decisions.” “A highly respected science advisor and an Office of Science and Technology Policy fully engaged in evidence-based policy decisions are essential to good government and protecting the health and safety of the American people,” added Dr. Andrew Rosenberg, director of the Center for Science and Democracy at the Union of Concerned Scientists. The Science Advisor’s role in the White House since 1976 has been to guide the President determining effective ways to use science and technology to address major national challenges. Joining Congressman Himes on the letter were Representatives Raúl Grijalva, Adam Schiff, Tim Ryan, Bill Foster, Betty McCollum, Jerry McNerney, Rick Larsen, Elizabeth Esty and David Cicilline. The full letter is attached and below.    December 22, 2016   Mr. Donald J. Trump President-Elect Trump Tower 725 Fifth Avenue New York, New York 10022 Dear Mr. President-Elect: As members of Congress who understand the importance of science to our economic strength, national security and efficient government, we write to respectfull… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/blumenthal-statement-on-un-security-council-resolution-vote-on-israel Blumenthal Statement on U.N. Security Council Resolution Vote on Israel 2016-12-22 2016 2016-12 Democrat House CT Richard Blumenthal B001277 www.blumenthal.senate.gov     legacy Blumenthal Statement on U.N. Security Council Resolution Vote on Israel Print Tweet Thursday, December 22, 2016 [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), the author, released the following statement today ahead of an expected U.N. Security Council vote on Israel:   “Support for Israel on this issue has been and will continue to be strongly bipartisan. Consistent with past policy, this Administration must now veto this most recent misguided and one-sided attempt backed by the Palestinian Authority to isolate Israel and weaken the peace process,” Blumenthal said. “The draft United Nations resolution directly contradicts the Senate resolution I authored – and passed unanimously last year – condemning Palestinian terrorism and calling on all parties to return to the negotiating table immediately and without preconditions. Direct discussions remain the best avenue to ending the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. This United Nations resolution would undermine, if not undo, the chances for productive discussions between the two sides.”   Blumenthal authored Senate Resolution S. 302, a bipartisan resolution that expresses solidarity with Israel and condemns Palestinian terrorist attacks. This resolution passed the Senate by unanimous consent in November 2015, with 68 cosponsors.   In September 2016, Blumenthal also introduced a bipartisan resolution with U.S. Senator Mark Kirk (R-IL) expressing support for and reaffirming longstanding United States policy in support of a direct bilaterally negotiated settlement of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and opposition to United Nations Security Council resolutions imposing a solution to the conflict.   In recent months, Blumenthal has joined his colleagues in sending multiple letters opposing any one-sided actions seeking to resolve the Israeli-Palestinian conflict through the United Nations instead of direct negotiations.   ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://esty.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/esty-murphy-blumenthal-courtney-applaud-usda-steps-help-connecticuts Esty, Murphy, Blumenthal, Courtney Applaud USDA Steps to Help Connecticut's Dairy Farmers, Call for Further Action 2016-12-21 2016 2016-12 Democrat House CT Elizabeth Esty E000293 esty.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON— U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), U.S. Representative Joe Courtney (CT-2), and U.S. Representative Elizabeth Esty (CT-5) released the following statement on Wednesday after the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced that they will gather in-depth information on production practices, costs, and financial well-being of American farm families for the final phase of the 2016 Agricultural Resource Management Survey. The results of the survey will help USDA and other policymakers analyze the Dairy Margin Protection Program, which has not provided adequate support to Connecticut’s dairy farmers.   “Dairy farmers in Connecticut have been getting the short-end of the stick for too long,” said Murphy, Blumenthal, Courtney, and Esty. “They’ve been hit hard by falling milk prices and the Dairy Margin Protection Program has not provided the safety net Connecticut dairy farms were promised. Collecting data is an important part of fixing the problem, but it’s not close to doing enough unless the protections are improved and the markets are stabilized. We won’t stop fighting until Connecticut’s dairy farmers get the real, tangible support they need.”   Farm milk prices have dropped almost 40% in the last few years, and Connecticut dairy farmers are struggling to bring in the revenues they need to stay afloat. Murphy, Blumenthal, and Courtney have been outspoken in urging USDA to provide emergency assistance to dairy farmers and to take greater action to support Connecticut’s dairy producers. Earlier this year, Murphy, Blumenthal, Courtney, and Esty requested that the White House Office of Management and Budget assist dairy farmers struggling with decreased milk prices. Courtney introduced bipartisan legislation with Rep. Chris Gibson (R-NY) this year to bring fairness to the federal system used to determine the price dairy farmers are paid for their milk called the Dairy Margin Insurance Location Calculation (Dairy MILC) Act of 2016. The bill would am… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://himes.house.gov/press-releases?ID=07966BE3-2808-42D4-B025-FEC2FC50F89F Himes leads letter requesting qualified Science Advisor 2016-12-21 2016 2016-12 Democrat House CT James A. Himes H001047 himes.house.gov himes https://himes.house.gov/press-releases page_html WASHINGTON, DC—Today, Congressman Jim Himes (CT-04), along with nine other Members of Congress, sent a letter to President-elect Donald Trump asking him to quickly appoint a qualified Assistant to the President for Science and Technology, usually known as the President’s Science Advisor. “There is a fear and concern among the American people that the incoming Administration is going to disregard the advice and recommendations of the scientific community,” said Himes. “America’s strength has always stemmed from our ingenuity and commitment to fact-based decision making. We now face a situation where decisions that will affect the future of our country – in areas including climate change, national security, exploration, health and the economy – could be made by individuals who are not just lacking a scientific background, but are, in fact, aggressively anti-science. A qualified Science Advisor would be a key component in mitigating any ideologically-driven, destructive decisions.” “A highly respected science advisor and an Office of Science and Technology Policy fully engaged in evidence-based policy decisions are essential to good government and protecting the health and safety of the American people,” added Dr. Andrew Rosenberg, director of the Center for Science and Democracy at the Union of Concerned Scientists. The Science Advisor’s role in the White House since 1976 has been to guide the President determining effective ways to use science and technology to address major national challenges. Joining Congressman Himes on the letter were Representatives Raúl Grijalva, Adam Schiff, Tim Ryan, Bill Foster, Betty McCollum, Jerry McNerney, Rick Larsen, Elizabeth Esty and David Cicilline. The full letter is attached and below. December 22, 2016 Mr. Donald J. Trump President-Elect Trump Tower 725 Fifth Avenue New York, New York 10022 Dear Mr. President-Elect: As members of Congress who understand the importance of science to our economic strength, national security and efficient government, we write to res… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-03-30T11:08:25Z
https://larson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/larson-meets-local-winners-congressional-app-challenge Larson Meets with Local Winners of the Congressional App Challenge 2016-12-21 2016 2016-12 Democrat House CT John Larson L000557 larson.house.gov     legacy Manchester, CT – Today, Rep. John B. Larson (CT-01) recognized Fabrizio Lazo, Isaiah Powell and Brandon Reed with Certificates of Special Congressional Recognition for designing the winning app of the First District’s 2016 Congressional App Challenge (CAC). All three are seniors at Howell Cheney Technical High School and residents of East Hartford. Their app, BoomTanks, is a multiplayer action-based game featuring quiz questions about the history of tanks. “Fabrizio, Isaiah, and Brandon blended action and education in a truly creative and impressive way,” said Larson. “I am so proud to see such talent in our local students. The Congressional App Challenge is a testament to the vitality of ideas. The winning app all started from a single idea, developed and improved upon by the entire group. I know Fabrizio, Isaiah, and Brandon all have bright futures ahead, possibly as part of Connecticut’s vibrant technology ecosystem. Certainly the skill and creativity they showed today will serve them in all their endeavors. Congratulations again to them all on a job truly well done.” The CAC is an opportunity for local high school students in the First District to highlight their STEM skills and apply what they have learned in the classroom. Larson’s office received 10 app submissions from across the First District. Nationwide, over 2,100 high school students participated in the Challenge and 650 apps were designed.  ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/blumenthal-to-continue-fighting-for-connecticut-priorities-in-senate-committee-assignments Blumenthal to Continue Fighting for Connecticut Priorities in Senate Committee Assignments 2016-12-21 2016 2016-12 Democrat House CT Richard Blumenthal B001277 www.blumenthal.senate.gov     legacy Blumenthal to Continue Fighting for Connecticut Priorities in Senate Committee Assignments Print Tweet In the upcoming Congress, Blumenthal will continue serving on Veterans Affairs, Judiciary, Armed Services, Commerce, Science & Transportation, and Aging Committees Wednesday, December 21, 2016 (Hartford, CT)—Today, U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) released the following statement announcing his Senate committee assignments for the upcoming Congress. Blumenthal will continue to serve on the Senate Committee on Veterans Affairs, Committee on the Judiciary, Committee on Armed Services, Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, and the Special Committee on Aging. “There is a great deal of hard work to be done in the next Congress – and it starts the day I return to Washington. I will be giving the President-elect’s cabinet nominees serious and exacting scrutiny during their confirmation hearings. I will defend the gains we’ve made over the last eight years, but I will also push forward for greater investments in infrastructure and our national security, better protections for consumers, and a social safety net that doesn’t let anyone fall through the cracks. And above all, I will be fighting to represent the values and priories of the people of Connecticut.”  ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-blumenthal-courtney-esty-applaud-usda-steps-to-help-connecticuts-dairy-farmers-call-for-further-action- MURPHY, BLUMENTHAL, COURTNEY, ESTY APPLAUD USDA STEPS TO HELP CONNECTICUTS DAIRY FARMERS, CALL FOR FURTHER ACTION 2016-12-21 2016 2016-12 Democrat House CT Christopher Murphy M001169 www.murphy.senate.gov     legacy MURPHY, BLUMENTHAL, COURTNEY, ESTY APPLAUD USDA STEPS TO HELP CONNECTICUT’S DAIRY FARMERS, CALL FOR FURTHER ACTION Wednesday, December 21, 2016 WASHINGTON— U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), U.S. Representative Joe Courtney (CT-2), and U.S. Representative Elizabeth Esty (CT-5) released the following statement on Wednesday after the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced that they will gather in-depth information on production practices, costs, and financial well-being of American farm families for the final phase of the 2016 Agricultural Resource Management Survey. The results of the survey will help USDA and other policymakers analyze the Dairy Margin Protection Program, which has not provided adequate support to Connecticut’s dairy farmers. “Dairy farmers in Connecticut have been getting the short-end of the stick for too long,” said Murphy, Blumenthal, Courtney, and Esty. “They’ve been hit hard by falling milk prices and the Dairy Margin Protection Program has not provided the safety net Connecticut dairy farms were promised. Collecting data is an important part of fixing the problem, but it’s not close to doing enough unless the protections are improved and the markets are stabilized. We won’t stop fighting until Connecticut’s dairy farmers get the real, tangible support they need.” Farm milk prices have dropped almost 40% in the last few years, and Connecticut dairy farmers are struggling to bring in the revenues they need to stay afloat. Murphy, Blumenthal, and Courtney have been outspoken in urging USDA to provide emergency assistance to dairy farmers and to take greater action to support Connecticut’s dairy producers. Earlier this year, Murphy, Blumenthal, Courtney, and Esty requested that the White House Office of Management and Budget assist dairy farmers struggling with decreased milk prices. Courtney introduced bipartisan legislation with Rep. Chris Gibson (R-NY) this year to bring fairness to the federal syste… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-maintains-seat-on-appropriations-health-education-labor-and-foreign-relations-committees MURPHY MAINTAINS SEAT ON APPROPRIATIONS, HEALTH, EDUCATION, LABOR FOREIGN RELATIONS COMMITTEES 2016-12-21 2016 2016-12 Democrat House CT Christopher Murphy M001169 www.murphy.senate.gov     legacy MURPHY MAINTAINS SEAT ON APPROPRIATIONS, HEALTH, EDUCATION, LABOR & FOREIGN RELATIONS COMMITTEES Wednesday, December 21, 2016 WASHINGTON— The Senate Democratic Steering Committee announced that U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) will maintain his seats on the U.S. Senate Appropriations Committee, the U.S. Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP) Committee, and the U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Committee. The committee assignments are expected to be ratified by the whole caucus in the coming weeks. Murphy is the first U.S. Senator from Connecticut to serve on the Appropriations Committee since 1987. As a member of the Appropriations Committee, Murphy will continue to focus on securing funding for Connecticut’s priorities, such as defense manufacturing, transportation infrastructure, and federal safety net programs. As a member of the HELP and Foreign Relations Committees, Murphy will also continue to be a strong voice in pushing back against Republican attempts to defund the Affordable Care Act, anti-gun violence programs, and U.S. diplomatic efforts abroad. “I’m honored to be keeping each of my committee assignments – they have served as perfect platforms from which to fight for Connecticut residents and priorities over the last couple years,” said Murphy. “I’m looking forward to continuing my work on these committees to bring more money home to Connecticut to grow jobs, to make sure all our kids get a quality education, and to push for a foreign policy that prioritizes diplomacy and keeps all of us safe.” Murphy will also maintain his seat on the Senate Democratic Steering & Outreach Committee. This Committee helps drive the Democratic agenda in the U.S. Senate by convening advocacy groups, intergovernmental organizations, and members of Congress around key policy priorities.  ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://delauro.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/letter-trump-house-democrats-draw-line-women-s-right-choose In Letter to Trump, House Democrats Draw Line on Womens Right to Choose 2016-12-20 2016 2016-12 Democrat House CT Rosa DeLauro D000216 delauro.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON, DC (December 20, 2016) — This week, 105 Democratic members of the U.S. House of Representatives sent a letter to President-elect Trump urging the elimination of the Hyde Amendment. Federal restrictions prevent millions of women, including low-income women, servicewomen, federal employees, Native American women, and residents of Washington, D.C. from exercising their constitutional right to abortion care. The letter was co-led by Congresswomen Rosa DeLauro, Barbara Lee, Jan Schakowsky, Gwen Moore, and Debbie Wasserman Schultz. “Over the last 40 years, the Hyde Amendment has been used to deny low income Americans Medicaid coverage of reproductive health care. Whether a woman has private or government funded health insurance, every woman, in concert with her family and doctor, should be able to make her own health decisions,” said Congresswoman DeLauro. “We must promote and protect the rights of every woman to make her own family planning decisions, and to have access to a full range of healthcare services. The time to repeal the Hyde Amendment is now.” “It’s past time for Congress to end the discriminatory Hyde Amendment once and for all. With this letter, House Democrats are sending a clear message: we will not back down from defending women’s constitutional rights,” said Congresswoman Lee. “No woman should ever be denied reproductive health care because of how much she earns or the type of her insurance. The EACH Woman Act would end this discrimination and ensure that all women, including low-income women and women of color, can make the health care decisions that are best for them and their family.” The letter calls on President-elect Trump to end decades of health care discrimination and adopt reproductive health care policies based in dignity and respect for women. The letter notes, “For too long, low-income women and women of color have shouldered the burden on our country’s restrictive reproductive health laws. Together, we ask that you send a strong signal that this will no longer be the lega… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://esty.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/esty-malloy-congressional-delegation-applaud-445-million-federal-grants Esty, Malloy, Congressional Delegation Applaud $44.5 Million in Federal Grants to Help State Reach Goal of Ending Homelessness 2016-12-20 2016 2016-12 Democrat House CT Elizabeth Esty E000293 esty.house.gov     legacy (HARTFORD, CT) – Governor Dannel P. Malloy and the members of Connecticut’s Congressional delegation are applauding an announcement made today from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) that the State of Connecticut will receive approximately $44.5 million in federal grants to help support the state’s goal of ending homelessness. “Over the last several years, with our partners in local, state, and federal organizations, Connecticut has created a system that is successfully working to provide housing when the need arises.  These partnerships are helping us ensure that whenever a new episode of homelessness does occur, it is brief and nonrecurring.  Ensuring and delivering housing is critical to building stronger communities for everyone, everywhere,” Governor Malloy said.  “I want to thank HUD and our local partners for working with our state to ensure these services are available so when one our residents need assistance, it is there for them.” The grants come under HUD’s Continuum of Care program, which provide critically needed support to local programs on the front lines of serving individuals and families experiencing homelessness. “Connecticut has led the nation in its efforts to reduce homelessness in our communities.  But despite these gains, every night thousands of people in our state will seek refuge in an emergency shelter or fall sleep without a roof over their heads, a heartbreaking number of them children.  In a state like ours – and in a country like ours – that is unacceptable,” the members of Connecticut’s Congressional delegation said in a joint statement.  “The $44 million in federal grant announced today brings critical additional resources to help Connecticut build on its past success and bring us closer towards achieving the goal of ending homelessness for all.” “Under Governor Malloy, Connecticut has been recognized as a national leader for its efforts to prevent and end homelessness,” Connecticut Department of Housing (DOH) Commissioner Evonne M. Klein said.  “It is be… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphys-mental-health-reform-act-signed-into-law MURPHYS MENTAL HEALTH REFORM ACT SIGNED INTO LAW 2016-12-20 2016 2016-12 Democrat House CT Christopher Murphy M001169 www.murphy.senate.gov     legacy MURPHY’S MENTAL HEALTH REFORM ACT SIGNED INTO LAW Murphy hosted 30 town halls & roundtables with CT families, professionals & advocates to craft bipartisan mental health reforms Tuesday, December 13, 2016 WASHINGTON— U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), a member of the U.S. Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions Committee, attended the bill signing ceremony at the White House on Tuesday where President Obama signed his bipartisan Mental Health Reform Act as part of the 21st Century CURES Act into law. Murphy’s bill will comprehensively overhaul America’s mental health system, expand federal resources, and improve coordination for mental health and substance abuse treatment programs across the nation. The bill, which Murphy authored with U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy (R-La.), passed the Senate 94-5 last week. “Today marks a breakthrough for people with mental illness and their families,” said Murphy. “It was an honor to stand behind President Obama at his final bill signing ceremony and watch him enact the most significant reforms of our mental health system in decades.” “Mental illness and addiction do not discriminate, so our health care system shouldn’t either. It should be as easy to access a doctor or get prescriptions for an illness of the mind as it is for an illness of the body. It’s that simple principle that motivated all the work I put into this bill,” Murphy added. “I will keep working with Republicans and Democrats to make sure our bill is implemented as Congress intended, and to keep our bipartisan coalition engaged in mental health until we finish the job we started.” After months of collaborating with mental health professionals, policy experts, consumers, and family members, Murphy and Cassidy introduced their bipartisan Mental Health Reform Act of 2015 to expand federal resources and improve coordination for mental health and substance abuse treatment programs. The Senators worked closely with U.S. Senators Lamar Alexander (R-Tenn.) and Pa… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://delauro.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/delauro-calls-chairman-cole-end-gag-order-hhs-drug-price-report DeLauro Calls on Chairman Cole to End Gag Order on HHS Drug Price Report 2016-12-19 2016 2016-12 Democrat House CT Rosa DeLauro D000216 delauro.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON, DC (December 19, 2016) — Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro (CT-03) today released the following statement to urge Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies Appropriations Subcommittee Chairman Tom Cole to revoke his hold on the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Report: Prescription Drugs: Innovation, Spending, and Patient Access. “By blocking the American people from seeing the HHS Drug Price report, Chairman Cole is denying the public critical information on spiraling drug spending in Medicare, Medicaid, and other federal health programs,” said DeLauro. “This report shows that spending on prescription drugs is skyrocketing across all the federal health programs and deserves to see the light of day.” The 2016 Omnibus required HHS to submit a report to Congress analyzing federal spending on drugs in Medicare, Medicaid, and the Veterans Affairs health program. The full report is available here. ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/blumenthal-reiterates-call-for-senate-select-committee-investigation-of-russian-interference-in-2016-elections Blumenthal Reiterates Call for Senate Select Committee Investigation of Russian Interference in 2016 Elections 2016-12-19 2016 2016-12 Democrat House CT Richard Blumenthal B001277 www.blumenthal.senate.gov     legacy Blumenthal Reiterates Call for Senate Select Committee Investigation of Russian Interference in 2016 Elections Print Tweet Senator has raised concerns regarding the safety of critical infrastructure – including election systems – against cyberattacks in Senate Committee hearings Monday, December 19, 2016 [WASHINGTON, DC] – U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) reiterated his call today for a Senate Select Committee investigation of Russian interference in the U.S. election – joining a growing chorus of bipartisan Congressional leaders, including Senate Armed Services Committee Chairman John McCain (R-AZ) and Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY), in urging action to address the overwhelming evidence of foreign intrusion in the election. “Russia’s cyberattacks on our election system should be investigated aggressively and comprehensively‎ by a bipartisan Senate Select Committee beginning immediately, as proposed by Senators McCain and Schumer yesterday,” Blumenthal said. “I support also a prompt, powerful response to these attacks suggested by President Obama, based on indisputable intelligence showing Russian interference to influence the outcome of our democratic process. The Committee should also review more broadly cyberattacks by China and North Korea, as well as Russia. My hope is that it will make encompassing recommendations with a detailed strategy for deterring and defending against such attacks. Our nation urgently needs to be better prepared to counter and repel hostile action in this advancing world of cyber conflict.” Blumenthal has supported bipartisan efforts to defend critical infrastructure against cyber-attacks, and has led efforts to protect online personal information against data theft. As a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, Blumenthal also helped elevate U.S. Cyber Command to a unified combatant command, allowing for a faster and more robust resp… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-highlights-seymour-manufacturer-microboard-processing-inc-as-murphys-monday-manufacturer MURPHY HIGHLIGHTS SEYMOUR MANUFACTURER, MICROBOARD PROCESSING INC., AS MURPHYS MONDAY MANUFACTURER 2016-12-19 2016 2016-12 Democrat House CT Christopher Murphy M001169 www.murphy.senate.gov     legacy MURPHY HIGHLIGHTS SEYMOUR MANUFACTURER, MICROBOARD PROCESSING INC., AS “MURPHY’S MONDAY MANUFACTURER” Monday, December 19, 2016 HARTFORD – U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) announced on Monday that Microboard Processing Inc. (MPI), a woman-owned manufacturer in Seymour, is this week’s “Murphy’s Monday Manufacturer.” Craig Hoekenga founded MPI in Stratford, Connecticut, in 1983. In 1995, Craig moved the company to a 60,000 square foot facility in Silvermine Industrial Park in Stratford. Today, Craig’s three children, Nicole, Ashley and Craig II own the business, with daughter Nicole as President & CEO. MPI provides Electronic Manufacturing Services to customers, such as the U.S. Department of Defense, in the aerospace, medical, defense, telecom, and industrial industries. Some of MPI’s products include defibrillators, radar systems for helicopters, weapons elevators and GPS landing systems for aircraft carriers, periscope detection systems, and high speed telecom adapters. In the last several years, MPI has successfully grown their revenue, expanded the size of their workforce, and purchased new equipment. In December 2015, MPI employed 89 full-time workers. Today, MPI employs 104 full-time workers and 16 part-time workers. MPI also recently invested approximately $8 million in new equipment and software to offer their clients the most advanced services. With the help of a grant through the Connecticut Department of Economic and Community Development’s Small Business Express Program, MPI installed new LED lighting, replaced the ceilings in their facility, renovated the building exterior, and purchased sophisticated 5D X-ray equipment. MPI President & CEO, Nicole Russo, was selected as a 2015 Woman of Innovation by the Connecticut Technology Council. “MPI is one of the many family-owned manufacturers in our state making it possible for large Connecticut companies, like Pratt & Whitney, Electric Boat, and Sikorsky, to deliver the highest quality products,” sai… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://courtney.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/connecticut-officials-respond-fra-plan-eastern-shoreline-rail Connecticut Officials Respond To FRA Plan For Eastern Shoreline Rail Realignment 2016-12-16 2016 2016-12 Democrat House CT Joe Courtney C001069 courtney.house.gov     legacy HARTFORD, CT —Today, Congressman Joe Courtney (CT-02), Governor Dannel P. Malloy, Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), and Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) released the following statement after the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) released their Tier 1 final environmental impact statement for the Northeast Corridors FUTURE plan: "The FRA's report released today continues to ignore strong and consistent concerns expressed by the State of Connecticut and local citizens about the eastern shoreline realignment plans. We specifically asked FRA to limit the NEC Future Tier 1 EIS to identify a service and investment strategy to achieve state-of- good repair and maximize the capacity, frequency and speed of existing rail lines. By continuing to include plans to bypass the current route, the FRA has inflamed impacted communities stretching from Fairfield County to Stonington where the proposed alignment will eviscerate neighborhoods, historic landmarks, and real estate values. "As the FRA itself has confirmed, this new proposed alignment cannot ultimately receive the permits, rights of way and other critical elements without the support and approval of the State of Connecticut. To this end, we will continue to do all we can to remove this bypass from the final FRA plan in order to provide our communities with the certainty they deserve. Should the FRA continue in its pursuit of its proposed alignment, we will work to ensure that Connecticut exercises every tool at its disposal at the state and federal levels to stop any effort to move forward with this misguided plan." ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://courtney.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/ranking-member-courtney-welcomes-new-navy-force-assessment Ranking Member Courtney Welcomes New Navy Force Assessment 2016-12-16 2016 2016-12 Democrat House CT Joe Courtney C001069 courtney.house.gov     legacy NORWICH, CT —Today, Congressman Joe Courtney, ranking member of the House Seapower and Projection Forces Subcommittee, released the following statement today on the Navy’s new Force Structure Assessment (FSA), which calls for an increased fleet size of 355 ships. It also increases the current requirement for attack submarines from 48 to 66. “The Navy’s new assessment is confirmation of the clear reality that a larger fleet is both necessary and vital to the nation’s security,” said Courtney. “Given the changing dynamics around the world, the growing demand for our ships, and the increasing strain on our fleet, I welcome this reassessment of our force structure requirements. This new fleet target will require the Navy, industry, and Congress to work together to build on the work we’ve done over the last several years to lay the groundwork for a larger fleet. If we are going to achieve the goal this plan calls for, we must continue to prioritize the funding, efficiencies, and authorities that will help us achieve it. I look forward to continuing to work with my colleagues in the House to achieve this important bipartisan goal. “I am particularly pleased that this plan reflects a larger attack submarine force structure. This reflects the reality that the demand for submarine capability, and their value to our national security objectives, is only going to increase. The feedback from military leaders who have routinely testified to me about the increasing demand for submarines in the Seapower Subcommittee, as well the sailors and officers I have spoken to about the pace and length of their deployments due to high operational demand on a overstressed fleet, confirms the findings of this analysis. This makes sustaining the two a year build rate as we also build the Columbia-class SSBN a national imperative, while also taking advantage of every possible opportunity to add to that build rate. I look forward to building on my bipartisan work to grow the submarine force and ensuring that the Navy has the tools and support… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/bill-blumenthal-helped-lead-to-protect-speech-in-online-reviews-signed-into-law Bill Blumenthal Helped Lead to Protect Speech in Online Reviews Signed into Law 2016-12-16 2016 2016-12 Democrat House CT Richard Blumenthal B001277 www.blumenthal.senate.gov     legacy Bill Blumenthal Helped Lead to Protect Speech in Online Reviews Signed into Law Print Tweet Friday, December 16, 2016 WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) issued the following statement applauding news that bipartisan legislation he cosponsored to ensure free speech in online reviews was signed into law by President Barack Obama on Wednesday. Businesses had attracted national scrutiny after using “gag clauses” to punish or silence honest criticism of products and services. The Consumer Review Freedom Act will outlaw the use of gag clauses in non-negotiable form contracts. “This law is a victory for free markets and free speech—outlawing anti-consumer clauses that have censored shoppers and undermined online reviews,” Blumenthal said. “From toys and tools to hotels and services, consumers rely on online reviews to decide how and where to spend their money. Consumers have a right to expect that these reviews are honest and uncensored—not muzzled by insidious contract language buried in the fine print of contracts and invoices. This success should be viewed as a model for how bipartisan collaboration can protect and advance consumer interests.” As consumers increasingly rely on online reviews for all types of purchases from toys and household goods to hotels and even doctors, some retailers are sneaking “non-disparagement” clauses into contracts that allow them to exact harsh penalties on consumers for honest, negative reviews. In one case, a New York hotel threatened to penalize newlyweds $500 for every negative review posted by anyone attending their wedding. In another case, an online retailer demanded $3,500 and from a consumer who posted online – truth – that the company had failed to send a Christmas present she had ordered for her husband. ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/blumenthal-and-markey-slam-anti-consumer_anti-safety-ftc-settlements-allowing-used-car-dealers-to-advertise-cars-with-unrepaired-recalls-as-safe Blumenthal & Markey Slam Anti-Consumer & Anti-Safety FTC Settlements Allowing Used Car Dealers to Advertise Cars with Unrepaired Recalls as 'Safe' 2016-12-16 2016 2016-12 Democrat House CT Richard Blumenthal B001277 www.blumenthal.senate.gov     legacy Blumenthal & Markey Slam Anti-Consumer & Anti-Safety FTC Settlements Allowing Used Car Dealers to Advertise Cars with Unrepaired Recalls as 'Safe' Print Tweet Final settlements between the FTC and used car dealers allow dealers to continue advertising used cars as certified and “safe” even if those vehicles have unrepaired safety recalls Friday, December 16, 2016 [WASHINGTON, DC] – A final consent order issued by the Federal Trade Commission is anti-consumer and anti-safety, U.S. Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) and Edward J. Markey (D-MA) said today after the FTC announced a settlement allowing auto dealerships to continue to advertise used cars as “safe,” “repaired for safety issues,” and having been rigorously and extensively inspected, including that they are certified—a term that connotes safety—even if those vehicles have unrepaired safety recalls. “FTC’s unsound decision to finalize this deeply flawed consent order is disappointing and anti-consumer. It finalizes a dangerous decision that permits car dealers to promote cars with unrepaired recalls as safe or certified. Under no circumstances should potentially deadly vehicles be advertised as safe,” Blumenthal said. “The disclosure requirements do more to deceive than fully inform, and worse, could protect unscrupulous dealers. Consumers must stay vigilant and always check any used car in www.safercar.gov for unrepaired defects.” “Instead of ensuring safe cars for consumers, the FTC is ensuring safe harbor for used car dealers who provide false and deceptive assurances,” Markey said. “The FTC is supposed to protect consumers, but this settlement only makes it easier for dangerous cars to remain on the road, endangering American families. I urge all consumers to continue to check www.safercar.gov to ensure they aren’t buying a car with unrepaired defects.” In November, Blumenthal led a letter with Markey, and U.S. Senators… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/blumenthal-and-murphy-welcome-navys-commitment-to-submarine-force-in-new-force-structure-assessment Blumenthal & Murphy Welcome Navy's Commitment to Submarine Force in New Force Structure Assessment 2016-12-16 2016 2016-12 Democrat House CT Richard Blumenthal B001277 www.blumenthal.senate.gov     legacy Blumenthal & Murphy Welcome Navy's Commitment to Submarine Force in New Force Structure Assessment Print Tweet Friday, December 16, 2016 [HARTFORD, CT] – U.S. Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) and Chris Murphy (D-CT) welcomed the U.S. Navy’s strong commitment to submarine investment outlined in the 2016 Navy Force Structure Assessment (FSA) released earlier today. The FSA recommends an additional eighteen attack submarines for the Navy – increasing the total number of submarines from forty-eight to sixty-six, as part of an overall 355-ship Navy.‎ “The U.S. Navy’s assessment reinforces our strong view that submarines are critical to the overall strength of our military and the long-term future of our national security. We are proud that Connecticut’s skilled defense manufacturing workforce produces the most dominant undersea force in the world,” the Senators said. “Supporting our submarine fleet is not only critical to naval preparedness, but to jobs and economic growth in our state. We are committed to working with the incoming Administration to maximize investments in our submarine force within the constraints of our national budget and our overall security needs.”  ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/blumenthal-fra-plan-to-route-rail-through-old-lyme-is-dead-on-arrival-but-investments-in-new-haven-harford-springfield-line-and-existing-track-upgrades-are-welcome Blumenthal: FRA Plan to Route Rail Through Old Lyme is "Dead on Arrival" but Investments in New Haven-Harford-Springfield Line and Existing Track Upgrades are Welcome 2016-12-16 2016 2016-12 Democrat House CT Richard Blumenthal B001277 www.blumenthal.senate.gov     legacy Blumenthal: FRA Plan to Route Rail Through Old Lyme is "Dead on Arrival" but Investments in New Haven-Harford-Springfield Line and Existing Track Upgrades are Welcome Print Tweet Friday, December 16, 2016 [HARTFORD, CT] – U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) released the following statement today in response to a proposal issued by the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) to route rail straight through Old Lyme as part of a massive, multi-million dollar undertaking to develop a vision that will meet the passenger rail needs of the Northeast in 2040. The proposed rail line realignment outlined by the FRA would shift the main rail line northward ahead of the Old Saybrook Station and run through several Connecticut and Rhode Island shoreline communities before reconnecting to the existing segment in Kenyon, Rhode Island. “I am going to fight with every ounce of energy and power to stop this half-baked, hare-brained proposal. Make no mistake: it can and must be stopped. A rail line that avoids urban downtown areas and proceeds through historic and environmentally sensitive areas is a non-starter—dead on arrival. FRA resources should be devoted to making rail improvements in the region, not a destructive plan facing strong, well-merited opposition,” Blumenthal said.  “Instead of spending enormous capital and threatening environmental and historic areas, the FRA should upgrade existing lines and focus on further enhancements to the New Haven-Hartford-Springfield line.” In July, Blumenthal joined U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-CT) and U.S. Representative Joe Courtney (D-CT) in sending a letter to the FRA reiterating their strong opposition to any proposal that would route a new rail line through Old Lyme and calling on the Administration to attend a public forum there so that community leaders can explain how to meet our region’s rail needs while honoring historic preservation and environmental protectio… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/senators-call-for-investigation-after-trump-transition-waves-off-reported-attempts-to-discriminate-against-federal-employees Senators Call for Investigation After Trump Transition Waves Off Reported Attempts to Discriminate Against Federal Employees 2016-12-16 2016 2016-12 Democrat House CT Richard Blumenthal B001277 www.blumenthal.senate.gov     legacy Senators Call for Investigation After Trump Transition Waves Off Reported Attempts to Discriminate Against Federal Employees Print Tweet Friday, December 16, 2016 [WASHINGTON, DC] – Following reports that transition officials for President-elect Donald Trump requested information about civil service employees who have worked on certain climate change policies, prompting widespread outcry, U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) led a group of nine Senators in calling on the Office of Special Counsel to investigate the apparent attempt to retaliate or discriminate against federal employees. As the Senators wrote, “These requests appear to have violated long-standing federal laws designed to protect civil servants against coercion for partisan purposes.” Reports last week showed that the Trump transition team had submitted a questionnaire to the Department of Energy requesting “…a list of all Department of Energy employees or contractors who have attended any Interagency Working Group on the Social Cost of Carbon meetings” as well as a list of “Department employees or contractors who attended any of the Conference of the Parties (under the UNFCCC) in the last five years.” Another question demands “a list of the top twenty salaried employees” at National Laboratories.  The Trump transition team’s opaque response to concerns regarding the questionnaire – indicating only that the staff member who made the request had been “properly counseled” – only increases the need for an independent investigation to ensure that appropriate action is taken in response to any violations of federal law. “We urge you to investigate whether this questionnaire, or any similar questionnaire being circulated by transition officials, violates federal law and to hold accountable those responsible,” the Senators wrote. “We also ask that you publicly communicate to Congress clear guidance on the circumstances under which the Of… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/connecticut-officials-respond-to-fra-plan-for-eastern-shoreline-rail-realignment CONNECTICUT OFFICIALS RESPOND TO FRA PLAN FOR EASTERN SHORELINE RAIL REALIGNMENT 2016-12-16 2016 2016-12 Democrat House CT Christopher Murphy M001169 www.murphy.senate.gov     legacy CONNECTICUT OFFICIALS RESPOND TO FRA PLAN FOR EASTERN SHORELINE RAIL REALIGNMENT Friday, December 16, 2016 HARTFORD, CT —Today, Congressman Joe Courtney (CT-02), Governor Dannel P. Malloy, Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), and Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) released the following statement after the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) released their Tier 1 final environmental impact statement for the Northeast Corridors FUTURE plan: "The FRA's report released today continues to ignore strong and consistent concerns expressed by the State of Connecticut and local citizens about the eastern shoreline realignment plans. We specifically asked FRA to limit the NEC Future Tier 1 EIS to identify a service and investment strategy to achieve state-of- good repair and maximize the capacity, frequency and speed of existing rail lines. By continuing to include plans to bypass the current route, the FRA has enflamed impacted communities stretching from Fairfield County to Stonington where the proposed alignment will eviscerate neighborhoods, historic landmarks, and real estate values. "As the FRA itself has confirmed, this new proposed alignment cannot ultimately receive the permits, rights of way and other critical elements without the support and approval of the State of Connecticut. To this end, we will continue to do all we can to remove this bypass from the final FRA plan in order to provide our communities with the certainty they deserve. Should the FRA continue in its pursuit of its proposed alignment, we will work to ensure that Connecticut exercises every tool at its disposal at the state and federal levels to stop any effort to move forward with this misguided plan." ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-and-blumenthal-welcome-navys-commitment-to-submarine-force-in-new-force-structure-assessment Murphy Blumenthal Welcome Navy's Commitment to Submarine Force in New Force Structure Assessment 2016-12-16 2016 2016-12 Democrat House CT Christopher Murphy M001169 www.murphy.senate.gov     legacy HARTFORD, CT – U.S. Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) and Chris Murphy (D-CT) welcomed the U.S. Navy’s strong commitment to submarine investment outlined in the 2016 Navy Force Structure Assessment (FSA) released earlier today. The FSA recommends an additional eighteen attack submarines for the Navy – increasing the total number of submarines from forty-eight to sixty-six, as part of an overall 355-ship Navy.‎ “The U.S. Navy’s assessment reinforces our strong view that submarines are critical to the overall strength of our military and the long-term future of our national security. We are proud that Connecticut’s skilled defense manufacturing workforce produces the most dominant undersea force in the world,” the Senators said. “Supporting our submarine fleet is not only critical to naval preparedness, but to jobs and economic growth in our state. We are committed to working with the incoming Administration to maximize investments in our submarine force within the constraints of our national budget and our overall security needs.”  ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://delauro.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/blumenthal-murphy-delauro-esty-join-families-and-advocates-demand-action Blumenthal, Murphy, DeLauro, Esty Join Families and Advocates to Demand Action on Gun Violence Prevention 2016-12-15 2016 2016-12 Democrat House CT Rosa DeLauro D000216 delauro.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON, DC (December 15, 2016) At a press conference today with more than eighty family members of victims and survivors of gun violence, U.S. Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) and Chris Murphy (D-CT) and U.S. Representatives Rosa DeLauro (CT-03) and Elizabeth Esty (CT-05) called for action on commonsense gun reform measures. Coming together for the first time after the election, there would be good reason for people to be desolate or despairing. Our new President-elect is hardly committed to the cause of ending gun violence. But there is a moment of opportunity here for a President-elect who, much as President Nixon did in going to China, can defy the expectations, do the unpredictable, and respond to the rally of the American people clamoring for and demanding action, Blumenthal said. The people are on our side. History is on our side. There is hope. The gun violence epidemic continues to rip through communities across this country, and I know people are frustrated that we haven't been able to make more progress over the last four years. But don't get discouragedso much has changed. Referendums have passed, the gun lobby is in retreat, and we are starting to change the national political dynamic. As we honor four years since Sandy Hook, this is the point at which we need to put our foot on the accelerator and deliver the change that we know the American people want. We should be proud of the movement we have helped to build and of the change that we've already made, and we should expect and demand that the final changes that are needed to make this country safe are around the corner. We all are going to honor this loss with action, said Murphy. Four years ago, our hearts were broken by a senseless and unspeakable act of gun violence at Sandy Hook Elementary. For the family and friends of victims from Newtown and across the country who are standing with us today, you have endured unimaginable tragedy, but you show incredible strength and courage, said DeLauro. Today we must honor with action and continue to… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://delauro.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/delauro-applauds-signing-marine-one-maintenance-contract DeLauro Applauds Signing of Marine One Maintenance Contract 2016-12-15 2016 2016-12 Democrat House CT Rosa DeLauro D000216 delauro.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON, DC (December 15, 2016) — Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro (CT-03) today released the following statement regarding the Marine One maintenance contract between the Navy and Sikorsky that will run from 2017 until 2021. “Sikorsky has built and maintained Marine One in Connecticut for the last 40 years. The workforce, who has the experience working with Marine One, is best equipped and prepared to ensure that the fleet continues to be safe and reliable,” said DeLauro. “Today’s news is a win for working families in Stratford and the highly skilled workers at Sikorsky. Connecticut has a rich history of being a leader in the defense manufacturing industry and this contract will ensure the maintenance work remains in Connecticut where it belongs.” DeLauro has been integral in securing this contract for Stratford. In July, DeLauro sent a letter to Secretary Stackley inquiring the status of negotiations; in August, she co-led a letter to Secretary Mabus urging for the Navy’s support for the program to remain in Connecticut; and in September, she led a Connecticut Delegation meeting with Secretary Stackley in Washington, DC regarding the topic. ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://larson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/larson-visits-franklin-h-mayberry-elementary-school Larson Visits Franklin H. Mayberry Elementary School 2016-12-15 2016 2016-12 Democrat House CT John Larson L000557 larson.house.gov     legacy East Hartford, CT – Today, Rep. John B. Larson (CT-01) toured the health center at the Franklin H. Mayberry Elementary School. School-based health centers like this one offer comprehensive healthcare for children and adolescents—many of whom would otherwise run the risk of receiving no care at all.  “Now more than ever, we have to protect the health of our children,” said Larson. “The vast majority of the students at Mayberry Elementary rely on their school’s health center for their medical and dental care. This program does a tremendous jobs ensuring at-risk kids get the treatment they need, and it should serve as a model for the rest of the nation. “That’s why I will be introducing legislation to support and enhance school-based health centers like the one at Mayberry Elementary. Our children’s wellbeing is too important to jeopardize while Congress debates drastic changes to national health coverage. We must make sure school-based health centers continue to get the resources they need to give our kids the very best care.” 84% of students at Mayberry Elementary School are enrolled in the health center’s services. Most of these children are recipients of Medicaid, and they receive both medical and dental care in a trusted environment from qualified practitioners. ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/blumenthal-lauds-marine-one-contract-for-sikorsky Blumenthal Lauds Marine One Contract for Sikorsky 2016-12-15 2016 2016-12 Democrat House CT Richard Blumenthal B001277 www.blumenthal.senate.gov     legacy Blumenthal Lauds Marine One Contract for Sikorsky Print Tweet Thursday, December 15, 2016 (Hartford, CT) – U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) issued the following statement lauding news that the Department of Defense has awarded a $138 million contract to Sikorsky for the final leg of maintenance work on the current fleet of the Marine One presidential helicopters. Work will begin in January and will be performed in Stratford, Connecticut.  “This landmark victory is great news for jobs and national security-- a ringing testament to the unrivaled skills and dedication of Sikorsky's amazing workforce. I fought proudly to ensure that this maintenance mission for the nation's iconic helicopter would be kept in its rightful and historical site.  I will continue that fight to ensure that Connecticut‎ remains the arsenal of our democracy-- so critical to our national defense and our economy,” Blumenthal said. As a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, Blumenthal fought hard both publicly and behind the scenes to keep this work in Connecticut. Blumenthal has met and discussed the work with Navy leadership multiple times. Blumenthal, Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro (CT-3) and Congressman Jim Himes (CT-4) worked closely as a united delegation to prevent a possible plan to shift maintenance of the Marine One fleet from Stratford to a Navy facility in Florida, which would have impacted approximately 85 jobs in Connecticut. Blumenthal spearheaded a delegation letter to Secretary of the Navy Ray Mabus in August urging against any relocation of the work. ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-applauds-138-million-marine-one-maintenance-contract-for-sikorsky MURPHY APPLAUDS $138 MILLION MARINE ONE MAINTENANCE CONTRACT FOR SIKORSKY 2016-12-15 2016 2016-12 Democrat House CT Christopher Murphy M001169 www.murphy.senate.gov     legacy MURPHY APPLAUDS $138 MILLION MARINE ONE MAINTENANCE CONTRACT FOR SIKORSKY Contract ensures that maintenance for Marine One remains in Connecticut Thursday, December 15, 2016 WASHINGTON— U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) released the following statement after the U.S. Department of Defense announced a $138 million contract for Sikorsky that ensures that maintenance on the Marine One Presidential helicopter fleet will remain in Stratford, Connecticut. Work will begin in January. Earlier this year, Murphy, U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), and U.S. Representatives Rosa DeLauro (CT-3) and Jim Himes (CT-4) urged the U.S. Navy to suspend any possible plans to shift maintenance of Marine One from Stratford. “Today is a great day for Connecticut’s workers. I strongly fought the Department of Defense’s plan to move this critical work on Marine One out of Connecticut, and I am extremely pleased that the united effort of Sikorsky, its workers, and our Connecticut delegation prevailed” said Murphy. “The Department of Defense has come to rely on Sikorsky’s unparalleled reliability and performance, and I’m thrilled that the men and women at Sikorsky will continue to keep our President safe.”  ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-paul-franken-lee-applaud-decision-to-halt-some-military-arms-sales-to-saudi-arabia-call-for-further-actions MURPHY, PAUL, FRANKEN, LEE APPLAUD DECISION TO HALT SOME MILITARY ARMS SALES TO SAUDI ARABIA, CALL FOR FURTHER ACTIONS 2016-12-15 2016 2016-12 Democrat House CT Christopher Murphy M001169 www.murphy.senate.gov     legacy MURPHY, PAUL, FRANKEN, LEE APPLAUD DECISION TO HALT SOME MILITARY ARMS SALES TO SAUDI ARABIA, CALL FOR FURTHER ACTIONS Bipartisan group of senators has voiced concerns over U.S. participation in Saudi Arabia’s military actions in Yemen Thursday, December 15, 2016 WASHINGTON— U.S. Senators Chris Murphy(D-Conn.), Rand Paul (R-Ky.), Al Franken (D-Minn.), and Mike Lee (R-Utah) applauded a decision by the White House to halt some military arms sale to Saudi Arabia, but urged further action to end military support for a war marked by humanitarian abuses. Saudi Arabia has led a military campaign in Yemen with devastating humanitarian consequences and a security vacuum that has empowered U.S. terrorist enemies, al Qaeda and ISIS. Murphy, Paul, Franken, and Lee have been outspoken about their concerns that U.S. participation in Saudi Arabia’s military actions in Yemen threatens our own national security interests. Murphy said, “Halting these weapons sales to the Saudis is the right call. But if we are concerned about U.S.-supplied bombs being dropped on civilians, we should also stop refueling the Saudi planes that are flying those missions. Both the Saudi-led coalition and the Houthi-Saleh alliance have been responsible for killing innocent civilians and denying vitally needed humanitarian aid. Any further assistance – including weapons deliveries already in the pipeline – should be conditioned on prioritizing civilian protection and a willingness to compromise in political negotiations to end the war.” “I’m pleased to see the administration respond to growing pressure over its arms sales to Saudi Arabia,” said Paul. “Halting this $350 million sale is a positive start, but it is only a drop in the bucket of the administration’s total support. Until President Obama ends his unilateral, unconstitutional involvement in this regional war, our voices will only get louder.” “Thousands of civilians have been killed or wounded in the U.S.-backed war in Yemen,” said Franken. “Thi… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://courtney.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/navy-formally-designates-next-generation-ballistic-missile-submarines Navy Formally Designates Next Generation Of Ballistic Missile Submarines As Columbia-Class 2016-12-14 2016 2016-12 Democrat House CT Joe Courtney C001069 courtney.house.gov     legacy NORWICH, CT —Today, Congressman Joe Courtney (CT-02), ranking member of the Seapower and Projection Forces Subcommittee, made the following statement after the U.S. Navy formally announced that the first Ohio-class replacement submarine will be named the USS Columbia (SSBN-826) in honor of the District of Columbia. By tradition, all of the following submarines will be known as Columbia-class. "The decision to name new ballistic missile submarine after our Nation’s Capital is the highest compliment that the Navy can bestow on this critical program. The USS Columbia and the rest of the submarines in the class will patrol the seas until the 2080s in silent but critical service to our nation’s defense, and will carry with it the history of the shipyard that launched the ‘Forty-One For Freedom’ original class of ballistic submarines starting in 1957,” said Courtney. “Designation of the first submarine is another milestone that affirms the hard work of thousands of workers in southeastern Connecticut to replace the aging Ohio-class submarines. Hardworking men and women at Electric Boat and the hundreds of suppliers across our state have already been hard at work for years to support this program, and remain committed to ensuring its success. Southeastern Connecticut is ready to take on this task which the Chief of Naval Operations, Admiral John Richardson has called ‘foundational to America's national security’." ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://delauro.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/delauro-asks-congressional-leaders-support-national-infrastructure DeLauro Asks Congressional Leaders to Support the National Infrastructure Development Act 2016-12-14 2016 2016-12 Democrat House CT Rosa DeLauro D000216 delauro.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON, DC (December 14, 2016) — Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro (CT-03) today wrote to the Ranking Members of House Committees that have jurisdiction over the National Infrastructure Development Act. In her letter, DeLauro argues that Congress must pursue clear, comprehensive infrastructure policy that addresses the scope of the problem and creates good paying jobs that cannot be outsourced. “While it is still unclear what President-elect Trump will pursue when it comes to infrastructure, we know that it could be at the forefront of his agenda,” DeLauro wrote to the Ranking Members. “When your Committee begins considering infrastructure, I encourage you to support the creation of a National Infrastructure Development Bank. It would be a bold step forward that addresses the tremendous shortfall in infrastructure investment, creates jobs, spurs long-term economic growth, and improves our competitiveness in a global economy.” DeLauro has introduced the National Infrastructure Development Act in every Congress since 1994. The legislation, modeled after the European Investment Bank, would leverage private sector dollars from institutional investors, such as pension funds, to supplement current funding in our nation’s infrastructure. It would provide loans and loan guarantees to projects, and issue Public Benefit Bonds with proceeds to fund projects. Her bill currently has strong Democratic support with 97 co-sponsors, and enjoys broad support from an array of organizations, including Blue-Green Alliance, Communications Workers of America (CWA), Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC), Service Employees International Union (SEIU), National Wildlife Federation (NWF), Utility Workers Union of America (UWUA), Union of Concerned Scientists (UCS), American Federation of Teachers (AFT), Amalgamated Transit Union (ATU), United Auto Workers (UAW), and the United Food and Commercial Workers (UFCW) as well as Transportation for America. DeLauro sent the letter to the Ranking Members of the Committee of Transportation and In… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://delauro.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/delauro-statement-fourth-anniversary-sandy-hook-shooting DeLauro Statement on Fourth Anniversary of Sandy Hook Shooting 2016-12-14 2016 2016-12 Democrat House CT Rosa DeLauro D000216 delauro.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON, DC (December 14, 2016) — Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro (CT-03) today released the following statement regarding the fourth anniversary of the Sandy Hook shooting. “Four years ago, our hearts were broken by a senseless and unspeakable act of gun violence at Sandy Hook Elementary. And while the grief and pain for the families who lost a child or parent endures, we can find hope and strength in the resilience of Newtown. We will never forget the 26 beautiful lives we lost on that cold December day and we must honor their memory with action, for no community should ever have to experience what happened in ours. “Following the tragedy at Sandy Hook, we said never again. However, from Charleston to Roseburg, and from San Bernardino to Orlando, countless other communities know the devastating and lasting effects of gun violence. We have a moral responsibility to address the issue of universal background checks, to keep guns out of the hands of potential terrorists, to allow research to be conducted, and to ban assault weapons. Congress must enact legislation that has the power to help save lives.” ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://esty.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/newtown-congresswoman-esty-marks-fourth-anniversary-sandy-hook-tragedy Newtown Congresswoman Esty Marks Fourth Anniversary of Sandy Hook Tragedy 2016-12-14 2016 2016-12 Democrat House CT Elizabeth Esty E000293 esty.house.gov     legacy NEWTOWN, CT – Congresswoman Elizabeth Esty (CT-5), representative for Newtown, Connecticut, today released a video statement recognizing the fourth anniversary of the shooting at Sandy Hook Elementary and calling for bipartisan action to prevent gun violence. Esty’s video can be watched by clicking on the image below or visiting https://youtu.be/hN4JTVKn_fA. Scroll down for a transcript of Esty’s remarks in the video. “Today we mark the fourth anniversary of when 20 schoolchildren and six brave educators were gunned down at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown, Connecticut. And in that time, millions of you have joined with me and my colleagues in Congress and with folks all across America to say that we need to do better. We can and we must work to end the scourge of gun violence in this country. “Now, it’s been a tough election. People have been worried – I’ve gotten lots of calls in my office – and I’ve found it tough, too. We haven’t had a vote in the House of Representatives in the last four years. During that time, 130,000 – let me repeat that – 130,000 Americans have lost their lives to gun violence. “But here’s what you need to know: The American people stand with us. Millions of you have joined your voices, you’ve written, you’ve called, you’ve sent emails, you’ve voted, you’ve talked to your neighbors, and insisted that we do better, that we make America safer for all of us. “And so to my new colleagues in Congress, to the newly elected President, I ask you: Join us, work with us, because I know – and I know you know – it’s not OK that 33,000 Americans a year are dying from guns. We can do better than that, and with your help, if we all work together, if we commit to work with each other, we can save lives. “That’s what the American people are asking us to do – to do better, to work together, to work for the betterment of all Americans. Because we should be able to go to Church, to pray in a temple or a synagogue or a mosque or a church, to go to school, to play in a park, to go to a movie theater, t… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://himes.house.gov/press-release/honoring-sandy-hook-action Honoring Sandy Hook with Action 2016-12-14 2016 2016-12 Democrat House CT Jim Himes H001047 himes.house.gov     legacy Statement of Congressman Jim Himes on the fourth anniversary of the shootings at Sandy Hook elementary: My heart still aches for those 20 children and six courageous educators who lost their lives four years ago at Sandy Hook Elementary School. This pain is felt throughout all of Connecticut and the nation, and I mourn with everyone who has been affected by this tragedy.  But the challenge we face calls for more than shared grief and heavy hearts. That’s why I pledge my unwavering commitment to action against the onslaught of gun violence. We cannot be complacent with the daily mass shootings that continue to plague our communities. We cannot refuse to implement even the most basic of gun safety regulations. We cannot allow partisan differences stop us from passing legislation that will prevent the next mass shooting. We cannot honor these victims if we do not act to stop the bloodshed. I’ve voiced my disapproval of Congress’s disregard for the thousands of people impacted by gun violence every year. We were sent to Washington D.C. to protect the public’s safety and implement meaningful change. Instead, Congress has done nothing. The American people expect us to do better. I’m proud of the example that Connecticut has set by enacting some of the nation’s toughest gun control laws. But we still have much more work to do. We need universal background checks and increased access to mental health services. I am encouraged by recent advancements including the passage of the 21st Century Cures Act, which expands federal resources for mental health programs. I’m also proud of the entire Connecticut Congressional delegation for supporting these endeavors. I know the fight is far from over. We must remain committed to these reforms and fight for them whenever possible. It is these actions that will honor the victims of gun violence. Families in Newtown and across the country deserve it. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://larson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/larson-welcomes-showdown-social-security Larson Welcomes Showdown on Social Security 2016-12-14 2016 2016-12 Democrat House CT John Larson L000557 larson.house.gov     legacy Washington – In the wake of Rep. Sam Johnson (TX-03)’s Social Security Reform Act of 2016—which would drastically cut benefits for the middle class and raise the retirement age—Rep. John B. Larson (CT-01) committed to reintroducing the Social Security 2100 Act. Larson’s plan would cut taxes for seniors, increase benefits, and prevent Americans from retiring into poverty. “It is time to stop talking about Social Security as an entitlement program; it is the insurance you paid for,” said Larson. “I commend Rep. Johnson for putting forth a plan to address our country’s retirement crisis—as our democracy thrives on the vitality of ideas—but slashing benefits and asking Americans to work harder for less is not the solution. “I introduced the Social Security 2100 Act to cut taxes—not benefits. My plan would in fact increase benefits across the board and ensure Social Security is actuarially sound into the next century. It has the support of advocacy groups like Social Security Works and the National Committee to Preserve Social Security and Medicare, as well as the vast majority of the Democratic Caucus. I look forward to a healthy debate about the future of Social Security, and I will keep fighting to protect the benefits Americans paid for throughout a lifetime of hard work.” ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/blumenthal-and-murray-applaud-final-rule-protecting-title-x-health-care-providers Blumenthal & Murray Applaud Final Rule Protecting Title X Health Care Providers 2016-12-14 2016 2016-12 Democrat House CT Richard Blumenthal B001277 www.blumenthal.senate.gov     legacy Blumenthal & Murray Applaud Final Rule Protecting Title X Health Care Providers Print Tweet Senators vow to fight extremist attempts to undermine reproductive health and family planning programs Wednesday, December 14, 2016 [WASHINGTON, DC] – U.S. Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) and Patty Murray (D-WA), Ranking Member of the Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor and Pensions, applauded a final rule released by the Obama Administration today that will reinforce existing protections in the Title X family planning program that prohibit states from excluding women's health providers for reasons unrelated to their ability to provide Title X services effectively. “I applaud the Obama Administration for taking long-awaited action to clarify outdated regulations that will help ensure that all people have access to critical healthcare services – no matter who they are, what they look like, or what their economic circumstances may be. The safety net providers who deliver these services are on the front lines of our healthcare system,” Blumenthal said. “Today, I am joining the women of American in putting Congressional Republicans on notice: if you prioritize the politicization of healthcare over access to services, we will fight you every single step of the way.” “Millions of women and men across the country depend on family planning clinics for basic primary care, from breast exams to HIV tests, as well as the full range of reproductive health care—and it’s completely unacceptable that elected officials would put access to that care at risk in order to impose their extreme, anti-abortion beliefs on women,” said Murray. “I’m glad that the Administration finalized a rule to ensure that quality of care, not partisan political beliefs, determine which providers get federal funding, and I look forward to working as hard as I can to ensure it is fully implemented.” Blumenthal and Murray ha… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/blumenthal-shaheen-call-on-top-intelligence-officials-to-review-security-clearance-given-lt-gen-michael-flynn Blumenthal, Shaheen Call on Top Intelligence Officials to Review Security Clearance Given Lt. Gen. Michael Flynn 2016-12-14 2016 2016-12 Democrat House CT Richard Blumenthal B001277 www.blumenthal.senate.gov     legacy Blumenthal, Shaheen Call on Top Intelligence Officials to Review Security Clearance Given Lt. Gen. Michael Flynn Print Tweet Letter sent to FBI Director James Comey, Director of National Intelligence James Clapper and OPM Acting Director Beth Colbert draws attention to Gen. Flynn’s record of mishandling classified intelligence, potential conflicts of interest with foreign actors Flynn’s conduct “appears inconsistent with the professionalism such access requires” Wednesday, December 14, 2016 [WASHINGTON, DC] – U.S. Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) and Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) sent a letter to the nation’s top intelligence officials to ask that they review the security clearance given to retired Lieutenant General Michael Flynn, who has been selected by President-elect Donald Trump to serve as national security advisor. The letter, sent to U.S. Office of Personnel Management (OPM) Acting Director Beth Cobert, Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Director James Comey, and Director of National Intelligence James Clapper, says that Gen. Flynn’s “conduct in positions that require access to national defense information, and his subsequent private practice, appears inconsistent with the professionalism such access requires.” In their letter, Blumenthal and Shaheen draw attention to Gen. Flynn’s reported record of mishandling classified intelligence, as first reported in the New Yorker, and his conduct following his military service, including a paid trip Gen. Flynn made to Russia to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the Russian government’s propaganda arm, Russia Today. Blumenthal and Shaheen also highlighted potential conflict of interests related to Gen. Flynn’s ownership of the Flynn Intel Group, which was previously registered to lobby on behalf of foreign clients. The Senators write, “This ongoing business relationship of Flynn Intel Group, owned by General Flynn and operated by his son, cre… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/blumenthal-statement-on-fourth-anniversary-of-sandy-hook-shooting Blumenthal Statement on Fourth Anniversary of Sandy Hook Shooting 2016-12-14 2016 2016-12 Democrat House CT Richard Blumenthal B001277 www.blumenthal.senate.gov     legacy Blumenthal Statement on Fourth Anniversary of Sandy Hook Shooting Print Tweet Wednesday, December 14, 2016 (Hartford, CT) – U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) issued the following statement regarding the fourth anniversary of the Sandy Hook shooting: “Our pain and grief still feel fresh, but so too is our undiminished determination to make the world better and safer in their memory. We stood together that afternoon at the firehouse-- and we continue to stand with Newtown, a community that confronted unspeakable tragedy with unimaginable courage and strength. We must never cease striving to stop gun violence, inspired by Newtown's spirit. Since that horrific day more than 120,000 have perished due to gun violence, and Congress continues to be complicit by its inaction. Undeterred and undiscouraged, we can honor the 26 beautiful children and educators lost that day by resolving to do more and do better.” ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-statement-on-the-4th-anniversary-of-the-sandy-hook-shooting MURPHY STATEMENT ON THE 4TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE SANDY HOOK SHOOTING 2016-12-14 2016 2016-12 Democrat House CT Christopher Murphy M001169 www.murphy.senate.gov     legacy MURPHY STATEMENT ON THE 4TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE SANDY HOOK SHOOTING Wednesday, December 14, 2016 WASHINGTON— U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) issued the following statement on Wednesday on the fourth anniversary of the tragic shooting at Sandy Hook Elementary School. “Today is a hard day. It's a day of crippling sadness. And a day of impossible, unanswerable questions. I have had the honor over the past four years to become close with so many of the parents and family members of those who were lost that day. Their strength gives me strength. But there is no power that can make the pain visited upon us four years ago fade away.  “There’s nothing we can do that will make it right. Our world fractured four years ago and the pieces cannot ever be reassembled the same. But we can promise to be kinder to one another, to hug our loved ones and friends a little tighter, and reach out to those who may need a helping hand. And we can commit to never, ever giving up in the fight to fix our broken laws and make our country safer. No other family should have to endure the pain that too many in Sandy Hook are suffering today, and I won't rest until our schools and our streets are truly safe." ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://courtney.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/courtney-statement-21st-century-cures-act-being-signed-law Courtney Statement On 21st Century Cures Act Being Signed Into Law 2016-12-13 2016 2016-12 Democrat House CT Joe Courtney C001069 courtney.house.gov     legacy NORWICH, CT —Today, Congressman Joe Courtney (CT-02) made the following statement after President Barack Obama signed the 21st Century Cures Act into law: “I am delighted that President Obama signed the 21st Century Cures Act into law today. This legislation was packed with important changes to healthcare policy which will make a meaningful difference in eastern Connecticut and around the country,” said Courtney. “I am particularly pleased that following my bill to authorize emergency funding to fight the opioid epidemic, this law authorized $1 billion dollars for grants to individual states to combat addiction. The Cures Act also contains important changes to tick-borne and Lyme disease research, and incentives for pediatric physicians – both changes mirror provision in bipartisan bills I have been leading for several years.” Opioids Throughout the year, Courtney has been a leading advocate in the House for the immediate allocation of federal funding to help address the growth of opioid addition in Connecticut and across the country. Just last week, he urged House leaders to include federal opioid response funding in any final Cures agreement. Over the next two years, this measure allocated $1 billion in funding which will be directed toward creating a new account under the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to make grants to states carrying out the following activities to fight opioid addiction: • Improving state prescription drug monitoring programs • Implementing prevention activities and evaluating such activities to identify effective strategies to prevent opioid abuse • Training for health care practitioners such as best practices for prescribing opioids, pain management, recognizing potential cases of substance abuse, referral of patients to treatment programs, and overdose prevention • Supporting access to health care services, including those provided by Federally certified opioid treatment programs or other appropriate health care providers to treat substance use disorders • Oth… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://himes.house.gov/press-releases?ID=BCC9A2B1-5D06-482D-801A-AC029797B34B Honoring Sandy Hook with Action 2016-12-13 2016 2016-12 Democrat House CT James A. Himes H001047 himes.house.gov himes https://himes.house.gov/press-releases page_html Statement of Congressman Jim Himes on the fourth anniversary of the shootings at Sandy Hook elementary: My heart still aches for those 20 children and six courageous educators who lost their lives four years ago at Sandy Hook Elementary School. This pain is felt throughout all of Connecticut and the nation, and I mourn with everyone who has been affected by this tragedy. But the challenge we face calls for more than shared grief and heavy hearts. That’s why I pledge my unwavering commitment to action against the onslaught of gun violence. We cannot be complacent with the daily mass shootings that continue to plague our communities. We cannot refuse to implement even the most basic of gun safety regulations. We cannot allow partisan differences stop us from passing legislation that will prevent the next mass shooting. We cannot honor these victims if we do not act to stop the bloodshed. I’ve voiced my disapproval of Congress’s disregard for the thousands of people impacted by gun violence every year. We were sent to Washington D.C. to protect the public’s safety and implement meaningful change. Instead, Congress has done nothing. The American people expect us to do better. I’m proud of the example that Connecticut has set by enacting some of the nation’s toughest gun control laws. But we still have much more work to do. We need universal background checks and increased access to mental health services. I am encouraged by recent advancements including the passage of the 21st Century Cures Act, which expands federal resources for mental health programs. I’m also proud of the entire Connecticut Congressional delegation for supporting these endeavors. I know the fight is far from over. We must remain committed to these reforms and fight for them whenever possible. It is these actions that will honor the victims of gun violence. Families in Newtown and across the country deserve it. 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-03-30T11:08:25Z
https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/after-trump-delays-announcement-on-business-plans-blumenthal-and-senate-democrats-call-on-president-elect-to-divest-holdings After Trump Delays Announcement on Business Plans, Blumenthal & Senate Democrats Call on President-Elect to Divest Holdings 2016-12-13 2016 2016-12 Democrat House CT Richard Blumenthal B001277 www.blumenthal.senate.gov     legacy After Trump Delays Announcement on Business Plans, Blumenthal & Senate Democrats Call on President-Elect to Divest Holdings Print Tweet Tuesday, December 13, 2016 In new letter, 23 senators urge President-elect Trump to follow advice of Office of Government Ethics and allow independent party to control assets Senators: “Whether the President of the United States makes decisions about potential trade agreements or sending troops into war, the American people need to know that the President is acting in their best interest.    [WASHINGTON, DC] – Today, U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) joined 21 Democratic senators led by U.S. Senator Tom Carper (D-Del.) in sending a letter urging President-elect Donald J. Trump to follow the advice of the Office of Government Ethics (OGE), an independent, nonpartisan ethics agency, and divest his business holdings in order to resolve potential conflicts of interest and deal with constitutional requirements before he assumes office. “As a businessman with interests in the United States and around the world, your holdings have the potential for serious conflicts between the national interest and your personal financial interests,” the lawmakers wrote. They continued, “Whether the President of the United States makes decisions about potential trade agreements or sending troops into war, the American people need to know that the President is acting in their best interest. Divestiture of your businesses and the establishment of a blind trust controlled by an independent party would provide assurances that you will put the interests of the American people first and are fully committed to the success of your presidency.” The letter was also signed by Senators Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.), Michael Bennet (D-Co.), Cory Booker (D-N.J.), Sherrod Brown (D-Ohio), Ben Cardin (D-Md.), Bob Casey (D-Pa.), Chris Coons (D-Del.), Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.), Kirsten Gillibran… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/blumenthal-statement-on-the-nomination-of-exonnmobil-ceo-rex-tillerson-to-be-secretary-of-state Blumenthal Statement on the Nomination of ExonnMobil CEO Rex Tillerson to be Secretary of State 2016-12-13 2016 2016-12 Democrat House CT Richard Blumenthal B001277 www.blumenthal.senate.gov     legacy Blumenthal Statement on the Nomination of ExonnMobil CEO Rex Tillerson to be Secretary of State Print Tweet Tuesday, December 13, 2016 [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal released the following statement in response to President-elect Donald Trump’s nomination of ExxonMobil CEO Rex Tillerson to be Secretary of State: “This nomination has many serious negatives – Rex Tillerson’s close personal and financial relationship to Russian leaders, his conflicts of interest in ExxonMobil’s investments abroad, his anti-environmental positions, and his lack of diplomatic or public service experience,” Blumenthal said. “One of my major concerns is his leadership of ExxonMobil’s past efforts to derail the Iran Sanctions Act, just unanimously renewed again by Congress. His continuing commitment to the interests of his oil company and the oil industry could lead him to lessen necessary sanctions against Russia and other countries. Although I have reached no final conclusion, Tillerson will have a heavy burden of doubt to overcome in the hearings on his nomination – concerns that are strongly and widely held on both sides of the aisle.” ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-statement-on-president-elect-trumps-nomination-of-rex-tillerson-as-secretary-of-state MURPHY STATEMENT ON PRESIDENT-ELECT TRUMPS NOMINATION OF REX TILLERSON AS SECRETARY OF STATE 2016-12-13 2016 2016-12 Democrat House CT Christopher Murphy M001169 www.murphy.senate.gov     legacy MURPHY STATEMENT ON PRESIDENT-ELECT TRUMP’S NOMINATION OF REX TILLERSON AS SECRETARY OF STATE Tuesday, December 13, 2016 WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), a member of the U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Committee, released the following statement on Tuesday regarding President-elect Trump’s nomination of Rex Tillerson as Secretary of State: “Rex Tillerson has spent his entire career putting oil company profits first and the interests of his country second. That’s not surprising – it was his job as the head of Exxon. But it’s fantasy to think he will magically change his stripes once in office. The people I represent in Connecticut deserve better. “Most concerning is Mr. Tillerson’s long standing alliance with Russian dictator Vladimir Putin. As one of Putin’s closest corporate allies, Tillerson opposed U.S. national security interests by siding with Russia against Europe and the United States. Mr. Tillerson opposed sanctions levied against Russia in the wake of their invasion of Ukraine. When asked by President Obama to refrain from attending a major economic development conference hosted by Putin in the middle of the Ukraine crisis, Tillerson embarrassed America and our allies by sending his deputy and announcing major new contracts with Russia at the forum. It’s not surprising that Tillerson was awarded the Order of Friendship by Putin just three years ago. “For years, I’ve listened to my Republican colleagues in the Senate eviscerate President Obama for being too weak on Russia. No Republican who has called for a tougher line against Russia should ever be taken seriously again if they vote to put a Putin ally at the top of the State Department. “At Exxon, Tillerson also worked against American policy in the Middle East. Most notably, when the United States was trying to build a unified Iraq under the control of a central government in Baghdad, U.S. officials begged Exxon not to sign an oil agreement with the Kurdistan regional government, which would undermin… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-urges-hhs-secretary-to-send-emergency-opioid-funding-to-connecticut-as-soon-as-possible MURPHY URGES HHS SECRETARY TO SEND EMERGENCY OPIOID FUNDING TO CONNECTICUT AS SOON AS POSSIBLE 2016-12-13 2016 2016-12 Democrat House CT Christopher Murphy M001169 www.murphy.senate.gov     legacy MURPHY URGES HHS SECRETARY TO SEND EMERGENCY OPIOID FUNDING TO CONNECTICUT AS SOON AS POSSIBLE Tuesday, December 13, 2016 WASHINGTON— During a phone call with U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Sylvia Burwell on Tuesday, U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) inquired about next steps and urged HHS to allocate funding to Connecticut to combat the opioid crisis as soon as possible. Murphy spoke personally with Secretary Burwell over the phone just before President Obama signed the 21st Century Cures Act, which authorizes $1 billion in emergency funding to fight the opioid epidemic, into law. Secretary Burwell and HHS are responsible for allocating the $1 billion to states across the country. Once states apply and receive the money, they would be eligible to spend it on improving prescription drug monitoring programs, implementing prevention activities, training for health care providers, and expanding access to opioid treatment programs. “Connecticut has seen over 700 drug-related deaths in just the last year. Treatment centers have months-long waiting lists and families looking for help have nowhere to turn,” said Murphy. “I called Secretary Burwell today because Connecticut needs funding to put an end to this epidemic. HHS and Secretary Burwell have been incredible partners to Connecticut in expanding access to treatment and fighting this crisis so far, but I made it clear today that Connecticut needs emergency funding to spare more families from the devastation of addiction.” Murphy is co-author of the bipartisan Mental Health Reform Act, which will expand federal resources and improve coordination for mental health and substance abuse treatment programs. Murphy also supported the Comprehensive Addiction and Recovery Act (CARA) signed into law this year, and has been a leader in calling for additional resources for federal programs that treat and prevent opioid use and addiction. Earlier this year, Murphy spent a “Day in the Life” meeting with patie… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://courtney.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/statement-passing-joseph-gingerella-groton Statement On The Passing Of Joseph Gingerella Of Groton 2016-12-12 2016 2016-12 Democrat House CT Joe Courtney C001069 courtney.house.gov     legacy NORWICH, CT —Today, Congressman Joe Courtney (CT-02) released the following statement on the passing of Joseph Gingerella of Groton: "The senseless slaying of Joey Gingerella is a terrible loss for his family and the Groton community. His courageous public battle with addiction - which he was winning - was both an example and inspiration to us all. My deepest condolences go out to his family. " ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://esty.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/esty-calls-full-investigation-russian-interference-us-elections Esty Calls for Full Investigation of Russian Interference in U.S. Elections 2016-12-12 2016 2016-12 Democrat House CT Elizabeth Esty E000293 esty.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congresswoman Elizabeth Esty (CT-5) today released the following statement regarding the conclusion by the U.S. intelligence community that Russia interfered in the U.S. elections for the purpose of altering the outcome: “Russia’s efforts to disrupt our recent elections through cyber hacking and dissemination of false media reports present a grave danger to our democracy.  This national security threat demands a serious, bipartisan response. The sanctity of our elections – and the public’s confidence in their outcome – is fundamental to our nation’s very survival. “The available evidence shows that Russia has not only committed multiple cyberattacks against American political institutions but also deliberately spread lies and propaganda for the purpose of misleading the American people and undermining a free press that is a foundation of our democratic system. “I support President Obama’s call for a full report by our intelligence agencies on Russia’s interference, and I strongly urge President-elect Trump to support these efforts as well. In addition, Congress must fulfill its oversight role by conducting its own bipartisan investigation and ensuring that our nation’s response is proportionate to the extreme gravity of Russia’s actions. “We cannot let this assault on American democracy go unanswered.” ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://larson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/larson-importance-f-35 Larson on the Importance of the F-35 2016-12-12 2016 2016-12 Democrat House CT John Larson L000557 larson.house.gov     legacy Washington – Today, Rep. John B. Larson (CT-01)—Co-Chair of the Congressional Joint Strike Fighter Caucus—released the following statement: “I’m looking forward to discussing the importance of the F-35 and the steps Lockheed Martin has already taken to drive down program costs with President-Elect Trump and his National Security team. As the nation’s premier fifth-generation fighter, the F-35 represents the very best of American ingenuity and capability. Given its pure superiority over all foreign aircraft, it will serve as a military deterrent for decades to come.  Despite growing pains, the program has cut costs significantly to date and is on course to continue achieving savings.  I’m confident in the future of the program.” ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://larson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/larson-joins-call-bipartisan-investigation-russian-interference-us Larson Joins Call for Bipartisan Investigation on Russian Interference in U.S. Elections 2016-12-12 2016 2016-12 Democrat House CT John Larson L000557 larson.house.gov     legacy Washington – Today, Rep. John B. Larson (CT-01) released the following statement on the Central Intelligence Agency’s report that Russia had interfered in the United States’ elections: “Any evidence of foreign tampering in our elections must be taken seriously. Free and fair elections are the foundation of our democracy, and the nation deserves to know that we are doing everything we can to safeguard the electoral process and protect the will of the people from outside influences. The report of Russian interference in our elections cannot be ignored. I stand with leaders on both sides of the aisle who have called for a full, bipartisan investigation into this attack on our democracy. The American public deserves to know the truth, and our institutions must be protected from further intrusions.” ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-highlights-torrington-manufacturer-seitz-llc-as-murphys-monday-manufacturer MURPHY HIGHLIGHTS TORRINGTON MANUFACTURER, SEITZ LLC, AS MURPHYS MONDAY MANUFACTURER 2016-12-12 2016 2016-12 Democrat House CT Christopher Murphy M001169 www.murphy.senate.gov     legacy MURPHY HIGHLIGHTS TORRINGTON MANUFACTURER, SEITZ LLC, AS “MURPHY’S MONDAY MANUFACTURER” Monday, December 12, 2016 HARTFORD – U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) announced on Monday that Seitz LLC of Torrington is this week’s “Murphy’s Monday Manufacturer.” Founded in Torrington in 1949, Seitz is a leading plastic-injection molding and custom contract manufacturer. The company designs, engineers and builds custom plastic gears and drives, advanced tooling and electromechanical assemblies. Seitz’s custom parts can be found throughout restaurant food and beverage systems, medical applications, money handling machines, and in many other consumer, commercial, and automotive products. Seitz’s 120 employees – many of whom are master-level engineers, managers, and machinists – operate 45 injection molding presses, which range in size from 17 to 787 tonnage capabilities, out of an 88,000 square foot facility in Torrington. Seitz recently added four new presses to its Torrington facility, and has plans to add three more in the coming year. These investments are part of the company’s ongoing commitment to quality, improving efficiencies and capacity, and striving to stay ahead of its customers’ needs.  In January and February of 2017, Seitz will be hosting two workshops in developmental training to inspire leadership, creativity, and culture in the manufacturing industry. The workshops are geared to help workers improve their managerial, engineering, sales, and marketing skills. “With Seitz’s products, hospitals can transport life-saving medications to patients quickly, and banks can safely guard customers’ valuables behind reliable vault doors,” said Murphy. “I’m excited to see Seitz investing in new machines and their skilled workforce – those are exactly the kinds of investments that boost local manufacturing and help Connecticut families.” Evan Berns, CEO of Seitz, said, “Our company is dedicated to manufacturing excellence in Connecticut. More importantly, Seitz’s focus is on t… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/blumenthal-applauds-senate-passage-of-legislation-to-bring-critical-resources-to-flint-water-crisis-and-national-water-infrastructure Blumenthal Applauds Senate Passage of Legislation to Bring Critical Resources to Flint Water Crisis and National Water Infrastructure 2016-12-10 2016 2016-12 Democrat House CT Richard Blumenthal B001277 www.blumenthal.senate.gov     legacy Blumenthal Applauds Senate Passage of Legislation to Bring Critical Resources to Flint Water Crisis and National Water Infrastructure Print Tweet Legislation also includes Blumenthal provision to return local Saturday, December 10, 2016 [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) applauded Senate passage of legislation the Water Infrastructure Improvements for the Nation Act, which was approved today in a strong bipartisan vote of 78-21. In addition to funding upgrades for our aging waterways infrastructure network, this legislation also includes $170 million to help address the ongoing water crisis in Flint, Michigan.    “The Water Infrastructure Improvements for the Nation Act is a down payment on the long-term viability of our national water infrastructure network – increasing opportunities for investments in ports like Bridgeport, New Haven and New London – and the future of our precious natural resources. Although I am disappointed that this bill undermines several key environmental provisions and slows efforts to support American manufacturing, I pledge to continue to fight for these priorities next Congress,” Blumenthal said. “And finally, after two years of devastating delays, the families of Flint, Michigan will receive the funding necessary to begin rebuilding their community. The suffering endured by the residents of Flint should never have occurred in a country like ours. The investments this legislation makes in upgrades and maintenance of our water infrastructure is critical to ensuring that it is never allowed to happen again.”    The Water Infrastructure Improvements for the Nation Act also includes a provision to return local control of the Historic Stonington Wharf. The wharf is an historic landmark of great significance to Stonington and the region, symbolizing the community’s strong sea-faring and maritime heritage. It was built in the late 1820s and… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/blumenthal-leads-senate-passage-of-bipartisan-veterans-reform-package Blumenthal Leads Senate Passage of Bipartisan Veterans Reform Package 2016-12-10 2016 2016-12 Democrat House CT Richard Blumenthal B001277 www.blumenthal.senate.gov     legacy Blumenthal Leads Senate Passage of Bipartisan Veterans Reform Package Print Tweet Landmark Miller-Blumenthal Bill named for retiring House Veterans Affairs Committee Chairman and Blumenthal Saturday, December 10, 2016 [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Ranking Member of the Senate Committee on Veterans’ Affairs, applauded Senate passage of legislation – the Miller-Blumenthal Veterans Health Care and Benefits Act – to improve veterans’ access to health care, disability benefits, education and homelessness assistance, among other important benefits for our nation’s veterans. The bill passed the House earlier this week, and now heads to the President’s desk to be signed into law. “This bipartisan, comprehensive legislation continues our progress toward leaving no veteran behind,” Blumenthal said. “With 76 separate provisions, it is broad in scope and scale. Hiring more mental health counselors and emergency room doctors will mean more veterans receive quality healthcare. Expanding eligibility for homelessness prevention programs will provide critical support to veterans at risk of homelessness. Extending critical education benefits to surviving family members will further our promise of education. Beginning work to help descendants of veterans exposed to toxic substances will help heal the residual wounds of war. But on these issues and so many more, we are only taking another step in what must be a journey toward ensuring our veterans receive the benefits they need and deserve.” The measure is named after Blumenthal and retiring chairman of the House Veterans’ Affairs Committee, Rep. Jeff Miller (R-FL) in tribute to their years-long commitment to serving veterans in Congress. Blumenthal spoke on the Senate Floor earlier this week calling on the Senate to pass the bill, reflecting on the accomplishments he achieved as Ranking Member, and looking forward towards chall… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/senate-unanimously-approves-moran-blumenthal-bill-to-reform-va-accountability Senate Unanimously Approves Moran-Blumenthal Bill to Reform VA Accountability 2016-12-10 2016 2016-12 Democrat House CT Richard Blumenthal B001277 www.blumenthal.senate.gov     legacy Senate Unanimously Approves Moran-Blumenthal Bill to Reform VA Accountability Print Tweet Saturday, December 10, 2016 [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – Today, the Senate approved legislation led by U.S. Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Ranking Member of the Senate Committee on Veterans’ Affairs Committee, and Jerry Moran (R-KS) and to improve accountability at the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). The Increasing the Department of Veterans Affairs Accountability to Veterans Act includes provisions to: limit paid administrative leave for employees under investigation; hold VA leaders accountable for department mismanagement, hiring well-qualified people, and addressing employee performance; prevent employee conflicts of interest; improve manager training; and close the gap on whistleblower protections.   “This bipartisan bill would significantly strengthen veteran’s health care, and impose tough new accountability, where virtually none existed before,” Blumenthal said. “As veterans’ needs change and men and women return home with visible and invisible wounds of war to heal, VA is in desperate need of a culture change – one that roots out bad actors and incentivizes the very best care for our veterans. This bill serves as a roadmap for how to balance those goals and put our veterans first.”   “The VA has failed to demonstrate a willingness to eliminate corruption by holding individuals responsible for their corrupt behavior,” Moran said. “This legislation will help make certain VA senior executives and health care employees who violate the sacred trust of our nation’s veterans will not be rewarded with unjustly guaranteed benefits or linger on administrative leave at taxpayer expense.”   ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-votes-to-increase-lead-poisoning-protections-return-old-stonington-wharf-to-town MURPHY VOTES TO INCREASE LEAD POISONING PROTECTIONS, RETURN OLD STONINGTON WHARF TO TOWN 2016-12-10 2016 2016-12 Democrat House CT Christopher Murphy M001169 www.murphy.senate.gov     legacy MURPHY VOTES TO INCREASE LEAD POISONING PROTECTIONS, RETURN OLD STONINGTON WHARF TO TOWN Murphy: “Connecticut's shoreline gets a big boost from this bill.” Saturday, December 10, 2016 WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) released the following statement on Saturday after voting to pass the bipartisan Water Infrastructure Improvements for the Nation (WIIN) Act. The bill authorizes critical Army Corps of Engineers projects throughout the country and contains $170 million of direct emergency assistance for communities facing threats from lead in drinking water, including Flint, Michigan. Further, the bill authorizes $60 million for lead reduction projects, including grants to low-income homeowners to replace lead service lines. The bill also includes language introduced by Murphy and U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) that will return the Old Stonington Wharf back to Stonington, Connecticut, for future development. The U.S. Senate passed WIIN by a vote of 78 to 21, sending it to President Obama’s desk to be signed into law. “I’m glad Republicans and Democrats came together tonight to pass this bill. Our coastlines and waterways are the lifeblood of our state’s economy, and this bill authorizes significant money to improve harbors and ports all along our coast. Bottom line, Connecticut’s shoreline gets a big boost from this bill,” said Murphy. “This bill cuts through loads of red tape so Stonington can start to redevelop their wharf. That's a big deal.”    Murphy added, “The bill also funds lead remediation in Flint, a community that has been ravaged by the massive contamination of their water supply. There is also money that can be accessed by Connecticut to help us keep fighting to lower our lead poisoning levels in children. This bill is far from perfect, but it's a good step forward in rebuilding our coastlines and protecting our kids.” As the author of the Healthy Homes Tax Credit, Murphy has been working to reduce lead poisoning and to prevent th… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/blumenthal-statement-on-the-senates-passage-of-a-continuing-resolution-to-keep-the-government-open Blumenthal Statement on the Senate's Passage of a Continuing Resolution to Keep the Government Open 2016-12-09 2016 2016-12 Democrat House CT Richard Blumenthal B001277 www.blumenthal.senate.gov     legacy Blumenthal Statement on the Senate's Passage of a Continuing Resolution to Keep the Government Open Print Tweet Blumenthal worked to include two provisions protecting Friday, December 9, 2016 [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) released the following statement today after the Senate voted to approve a Continuing Resolution to fund the government through April 2017.   “This bipartisan measure is a stopgap to continue government services at current funding levels through the spring – but it has some big wins for Connecticut jobs and national security. I fought to ensure that the Continuing Resolution included two provisions protecting the future of the Ohio Replacement Program and authorization for Black Hawks. Funding these programs is a victory for Connecticut defense industrial base, which is so vital to our economic security and our national security,” Blumenthal said.   “I am disappointed that Congressional Republicans kicked down the road a key issue of coal miners’ pensions and benefits and slipped a complex national security issue that could challenge a bedrock principle of our democracy – civilian control of our military – into a funding bill during the dead of night. But I felt the good in this measure far outweighed the bad.”   The Continuing Resolution approved today by the Senate was passed by the House of Representatives earlier this week, and will now be signed into law by President Obama, averting a gap in federal spending. Although a Continuing Resolution typically funds the government at a level consistent with the previous year’s budget, rare exceptions can be made. Blumenthal worked to ensure that two such exceptions benefiting Connecticut defense manufacturing and our national security were included in this Continuing Resolution:   The Ohio Replacement Program (ORP): The ORP was granted an exception to allow for $773.1 million in a new fund… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-blumenthal-bipartisan-senators-call-on-pres-elect-trump-to-stand-against-russian-aggression-support-nato-and-ukrainian-sovereignty MURPHY, BLUMENTHAL, BIPARTISAN SENATORS CALL ON PRES.-ELECT TRUMP TO STAND AGAINST RUSSIAN AGGRESSION, SUPPORT NATO UKRAINIAN SOVEREIGNTY 2016-12-09 2016 2016-12 Democrat House CT Christopher Murphy M001169 www.murphy.senate.gov     legacy MURPHY, BLUMENTHAL, BIPARTISAN SENATORS CALL ON PRES.-ELECT TRUMP TO STAND AGAINST RUSSIAN AGGRESSION, SUPPORT NATO & UKRAINIAN SOVEREIGNTY Call for increased political, economic, and military support for Ukraine Friday, December 9, 2016 WASHINGTON— U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), Vice Chair of the bipartisan Senate Ukraine Caucus and member of the U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Committee, and U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), member of the Senate Ukraine Caucus, joined U.S. Senators Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), Rob Portman (R-Ohio), and a bipartisan group of 23 other senators in calling on President-elect Donald Trump to continue America’s tradition of support for the people of Ukraine in the face of Russian aggression.  “In light of Russia’s continued aggression and repeated refusal to respect Ukraine’s territorial integrity and sovereign right to choose its own destiny, we also renew our call for the United States to increase political, economic, and military support for Ukraine,” the senators wrote. “This includes defensive lethal assistance as part of a broader effort to help Ukrainians better defend themselves, deter future aggression, and implement key structural reforms. Similarly, we believe that Russia’s illegal annexation of Crimea should never be accepted, nor should we lift sanctions imposed on Russia for its behavior in eastern Ukraine until key provisions of the Minsk Agreement are met.  Accordingly, U.S. leadership on maintaining such transatlantic sanctions should remain a priority.” In addition to Murphy, Blumenthal, Durbin, and Portman, U.S. Senators John McCain (R-Ariz.), Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), Marco Rubio (R-Fl.), Sherrod Brown (D-Ohio), Ron Johnson (R-Wis.), Cory Gardner (R-Colo.), Pat Roberts (R-Kan.), Jack Reed (D-R.I.), Chris Coons (D-Del.), John Barrasso (R-Wyo), Ben Cardin (D-Md.), Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.), Bob Casey (R-Pa.), John Boozman (Ark.), Gary Peters (D-Mich.), Jim Risch (R-Idaho), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Johnny Isakson (R-… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-statement-on-president-elect-trumps-nomination-of-andy-puzder-as-labor-secretary MURPHY STATEMENT ON PRESIDENT-ELECT TRUMPS NOMINATION OF ANDY PUZDER AS LABOR SECRETARY 2016-12-09 2016 2016-12 Democrat House CT Christopher Murphy M001169 www.murphy.senate.gov     legacy MURPHY STATEMENT ON PRESIDENT-ELECT TRUMP’S NOMINATION OF ANDY PUZDER AS LABOR SECRETARY Friday, December 9, 2016 WASHINGTON — U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), a member of the U.S. Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions Committee, released the following statement on Thursday regarding President-elect Trump’s nomination of Andy Puzder as Secretary of the U.S. Department of Labor: "It is simply unfathomable to me that a U.S. president would put someone whose calling card is attacking workers in charge of the agency that protects workers. Mr. Puzder is a well-known Department of Labor scofflaw - 50% of his restaurants were found to be in violation of wage and hour laws. It's as if the president-elect went out and looked for the business owner with the worst record of violating federal labor laws and put him in charge of those laws. Mr. Puzder also opposes an increase in the minimum wage, wants to repeal the Affordable Health Care law that provides health care for millions of low wage workers, and didn’t believe his workers needed meal and rest breaks. “It's hard to imagine a worse nominee for the Department of Labor. I won't support him, and I challenge Republicans of good conscience to explain why someone like this, who proudly opposes workers’ rights, should be put in charge of the very agency that Congress has charged with protecting workers."  ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-votes-for-bipartisan-bill-to-keep-government-open MURPHY VOTES FOR BIPARTISAN BILL TO KEEP GOVERNMENT OPEN 2016-12-09 2016 2016-12 Democrat House CT Christopher Murphy M001169 www.murphy.senate.gov     legacy MURPHY VOTES FOR BIPARTISAN BILL TO KEEP GOVERNMENT OPEN Friday, December 9, 2016 WASHINGTON— U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) released the following statement on Friday after voting for the continuing resolution to fund the government through April 28, 2017: “People are sick of government business as usual. That’s why it makes no sense to me that – time and time again – Congress reverts to patchwork funding bills that rubber stamp spending that isn’t working. It’s time for Congress to get back to passing responsible, long-term budgets. That was my priority in the Appropriations Committee this year, and I’m disheartened that once again, we’re kicking the can down the road.  “But Connecticut deserves better than a government shutdown, and that’s why I voted for this short-term funding bill. I worked hard to make sure this bill includes important funding for Connecticut, including $500 million to combat the heroin epidemic and critical support for submarine production and our defense manufacturing jobs, but averting a crisis at the last minute can’t be our standard of success. Let’s gets back in the business of responsibly funding our government and improving the lives of the people we have the honor of serving.” 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/view/senator-murphy-on-msnbc-with-andrea-mitchell Senator Murphy on MSNBC with Andrea Mitchell 2016-12-09 2016 2016-12 Democrat House CT Christopher Murphy M001169 www.murphy.senate.gov     legacy Senator Murphy on MSNBC with Andrea Mitchell Senator Murphy joins Andrea Mitchell to discuss Trump's nomination of Andy Puzder to lead the Department of Labor, the Obama administration's investigation of Russian influence in the election and the propagation of fake news. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://delauro.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/delauro-statement-president-elect-trump-s-plans-nominate-andrew-puzder DeLauro Statement on President-Elect Trumps Plans to Nominate Andrew Puzder as Secretary of Labor 2016-12-08 2016 2016-12 Democrat House CT Rosa DeLauro D000216 delauro.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON, DC (December 8, 2016) — Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro (CT-03) today released the following statement regarding news that President-elect Trump is expected to nominate Andrew Puzder, CEO of Carl’s Jr. and Hardee’s parent company CKE Restaurants, as Secretary of the Department of Labor. “As a CEO, Mr. Puzder has an extensive record of engaging in marketing tactics that degrade women, fighting against paying workers their hard earned overtime, opposing expansion of the Affordable Care Act, and even allegedly failing to pay some of his workers. It should come as no surprise then that President-elect Trump has chosen Mr. Puzder as the nation’s top labor official. “The Department of Labor has a long history as one of our nation’s most successful federal agencies, ensuring that every American who works hard and plays by the rules can enjoy dignified work and economic opportunity. From fighting against wage theft, to shielding employees from workplace hazards and discrimination, the Department of Labor is a lifeline for millions of Americans. “Rather than work to roll back eight years of progress—including employer sponsored health insurance and overtime pay for federal contractors—President-elect Trump should look to strengthen workplace protections. Whether it is expanding overtime pay, raising the minimum wage, establishing schedules that work, or enacting 12 weeks of paid family and medical leave, there are many steps he can take to make the U.S. a leader in labor. “However, with Mr. Puzder, the fox is in the henhouse. His nomination represents the greatest assault on workers that we have seen in a generation and President-elect Trump should immediately withdraw his name. I strongly urge my colleagues in the Senate to vote against Mr. Puzder’s nomination and I will do all that I can to fight for every American worker to have economic opportunity and security.” DeLauro is the Senior Democrat on the subcommittee responsible for funding the Departments of Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education. #… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://esty.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/esty-s-manufacturing-universities-act-passes-senate-be-signed-law Esty’s ‘Manufacturing Universities Act’ Passes Senate, To Be Signed into Law 2016-12-08 2016 2016-12 Democrat House CT Elizabeth Esty E000293 esty.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON, D.C. – The Manufacturing Universities Act, a bipartisan bill authored by Congresswoman Elizabeth Esty (CT-5), today was approved by the U.S. Senate and now heads to President Obama’s desk for signature. Esty’s bill was included in the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), which passed the House by a vote of 375-34 on Dec. 2 and passed the Senate today by a vote of 92-7. The Manufacturing Universities Act, which was co-authored by Rep. Chris Collins (R-NY), provides federal grants to support manufacturing engineering education programs – at institutions such as the University of Connecticut – and connect students with training and apprenticeship opportunities with local manufacturers. The bill is endorsed by a dozen major research universities, including UConn, the University of Pennsylvania, and the State University of New York, as well as the Association of American Universities, the Association of Public and Land-Grant Universities, and manufacturing businesses including the Dow Company, the Dupont Company, and the Siemens Company. “Connecticut is full of innovative manufacturers, but many of these businesses struggle to find workers with the skills needed to fill 21st-century manufacturing jobs. That’s a drag on our economy and a barrier to job creation,” Esty said. “By supporting institutions like UConn that are working to train our future manufacturing workforce, the Manufacturing Universities Act will help businesses throughout the state grow and thrive. And it will help match workers with good-paying careers in high-demand fields. I’m thrilled to see our bill pass Congress with overwhelming support. Once it is signed into law, it will expand opportunities for working families both in our state and across the country.” “The Manufacturing Universities initiative is an exciting program that will transform high-tech manufacturing technologies and workforce development in the United States,” said Mun Choi, Provost at the University of Connecticut. “University of Connecticut is uniquely position… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://esty.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/funding-esty-championed-child-summer-meals-lead-poisoning-prevention Funding Esty Championed for Child Summer Meals, Lead Poisoning Prevention Included in Year-End Continuing Resolution 2016-12-08 2016 2016-12 Democrat House CT Elizabeth Esty E000293 esty.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congresswoman Elizabeth Esty (CT-5) today applauded the inclusion of provisions to support summer nutrition for low-income children and prevent lead contamination in our water infrastructure in the continuing resolution to fund the government through April 28, 2017. “Every child needs and deserves healthy meals and clean water. These are not partisan issues,” Esty said. “This funding represents smart, critical investments in our nation’s children, and I’m proud we could work in a bipartisan way to make them a reality. “The Summer Electronic Benefits Transfer program that this bill funds has proven to be effective in Connecticut and several other states to reduce childhood hunger and provide thousands more children with nutritious meals during the summer than traditional programs. “In Connecticut, corroding water infrastructure has led to elevated lead levels in a number of cities and towns, which is a health risk for kids and families in our state. The funds made available by this bill will help communities upgrade their water infrastructure to address lead and other contaminants and expand research and services to deal with childhood lead poisoning across the country.” In March, Esty led a letter to House leaders, co-signed by 66 of her colleagues, calling for continued funding for the Summer Electronic Benefits Transfer program, which provides children in low-income households with special debit cards that are redeemable at retailers specifically authorized to provide food assistance. In the eight states where it has been implemented, the program has reached between 30 and 75 percent of eligible children, compared with only 16-to-17 percent typically reached by traditional summer meals programs. In April, after the Associated Press reported that 14 water systems in Connecticut contained lead levels in excess of federal guidelines, Esty wrote to federal government leaders calling for funds to protect residents’ access to safe drinking water. ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://larson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/larson-selection-linda-mcmahon-head-small-business-administration Larson on Selection of Linda McMahon to Head Up the Small Business Administration 2016-12-08 2016 2016-12 Democrat House CT John Larson L000557 larson.house.gov     legacy Washington, D.C. Today, Rep. John B. Larson (CT-01) released the following statement on President-Elect Donald Trump's choice of Linda McMahon to lead the Small Business Administration: As the co-founder and former CEO of World Wrestling Entertainment, Linda McMahon has shown that she has business acumen and understands firsthand the needs of small business owners. She has also used her leadership and influence to encourage and support women in business through her Women's Leadership Live initiative. In Connecticut she is known for her candor and energy, both of which will serve her well in her new role at the SBA. ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/blumenthal-applauds-final-passage-of-defense-authorization-bill-with-significant-victories-for-connecticut Blumenthal Applauds Final Passage of Defense Authorization Bill with Significant Victories for Connecticut 2016-12-08 2016 2016-12 Democrat House CT Richard Blumenthal B001277 www.blumenthal.senate.gov     legacy Blumenthal Applauds Final Passage of Defense Authorization Bill with Significant Victories for Connecticut Print Tweet As a member of the Committee tasked with crafting the bill, Blumenthal fought for investments in submarines, helicopters, and joint strike fighters that will support national security and Connecticut jobs Thursday, December 8, 2016 [WASHINGTON, DC] – U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee and the Conference Committee for the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), released the following statement today after the Senate voted to approve the Conference Report: “This powerful bipartisan measure means thousands more jobs, stronger economic growth‎, and enhanced national security-- for Connecticut and the country. It's a victory in our fight for more submarines, helicopters and joint strike fighters-- made largely in our state and vital to our national defense. Quick signature by the President will mean 55 straight years of Congressional approval and cooperation across the aisle. In an increasingly dangerous world, the fight for next year's bill begins now.” As a member of the Committee tasked with crafting the bill, Blumenthal championed provisions that will boost jobs and support critical industries with defense contracts in Connecticut: Investing in Connecticut’s Submarine Industrial Base: Blumenthal worked to secure more than $5 billion for two Virginia Class submarines, including $85 million in advance procurement above the President’s request for items that will be built on Virginia Class submarines. Blumenthal also secured $1.9 billion for Ohio Replacement Program submarines. Ohio Class – ballistic missile submarines that are particularly valuable because they are the leg of the nuclear triad most likely to survive nuclear conflict – will soon begin to retire. Electric Boat has been selected as the Navy’s prime cont… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/blumenthal-backed-provision-in-ndaa-to-help-clear-way-for-connecticut-raised-servicemember-to-receive-medal-of-honor Blumenthal-Backed Provision in NDAA to Help Clear Way for Connecticut-Raised Servicemember to Receive Medal of Honor 2016-12-08 2016 2016-12 Democrat House CT Richard Blumenthal B001277 www.blumenthal.senate.gov     legacy Blumenthal-Backed Provision in NDAA to Help Clear Way for Connecticut-Raised Servicemember to Receive Medal of Honor Print Tweet Blumenthal backed a provision that waives the statutory time limitation for the Medal of Honor. Air Force Sergeant John Chapman, raised in Windsor Locks, was killed in combat in Afghanistan in March 2002. Thursday, December 8, 2016 [WASHINGTON, DC] – U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee and the Conference Committee for the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), released the following statement today after a measure he backed to waive the statutory time limitation for the Medal of Honor in certain cases currently under review by the Department of Defense passed as part of the NDAA’s passage. The Secretary of Defense is currently considering Windsor Locks-raised Air Force Sergeant John Chapman posthumously for the Medal of Honor. If the President decides to award the Medal of Honor to Sgt. Chapman for his ultimate sacrifice in March 2002, this provision would provide the authority to waive the five-year statutory time limitation for Sgt. Chapman to receive the award. “Sergeant John Chapman is a hero,” said Blumenthal. “He made the ultimate sacrifice protecting fellow war fighters while fearlessly fighting for our country after the tragic events on September 11 and I vow to continue to support his candidacy for the Medal of Honor. This provision, rightfully included in the NDAA, is a helpful step. We will never fully be able to repay Sergeant Chapman and his loved ones for his extraordinary sacrifice in Afghanistan, but we can honor his unparalleled heroism to the highest degree.” Air Force Sgt. John Chapman, 36, graduated from Windsor Locks High School in 1983. During Operation Anaconda – a March 2002 mission in the eastern mountains of Afghanistan – Sergeant Chapman was killed while serving as an Air Force tec… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/blumenthal-sponsored-legislation-would-help-states-improve-access-to-voting Blumenthal-Sponsored Legislation Would Help States Improve Access to Voting 2016-12-08 2016 2016-12 Democrat House CT Richard Blumenthal B001277 www.blumenthal.senate.gov     legacy Blumenthal-Sponsored Legislation Would Help States Improve Access to Voting Print Tweet The Fair, Accurate, Secure and Timely Voting Act would create a competitive grant program to encourage states to implement election reforms Thursday, December 8, 2016 [WASHINGTON, DC] – U.S. Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-CT),  Chris Coons (D-Del.), Mark Warner (D-Va.), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.), Richard Durbin (D-IL), and Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.) today reintroduced legislation to help states make substantial improvements in administration of their elections to make voting faster and more accessible to all voters.  The Louis L. Redding Fair, Accurate, Secure and Timely (FAST) Voting Act of 2016 would create a competitive grant program in the model of Race to the Top, encouraging states to aggressively pursue election reforms.  The states that demonstrate the most comprehensive and promising reform plans will earn a greater portion of the grant funding. In the 2016 election, long lines and voting-machine problems were reported in well over a dozen states, including Pennsylvania, Utah, Colorado, Ohio, New York, Massachusetts, Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, Montana, Tennessee, Hawaii, Arizona, Rhode Island, and more.  There were also reports of confusion over new voter ID laws in Texas and Wisconsin, improper refusals of voter registrations in West Virginia, delayed absentee ballots in Pennsylvania and Alabama, and an absence of required bilingual support in Arizona and Florida. “Long lines, confusion, and mishaps at the polls aren’t simply an inconvenience – impediments to voting are a violation of Americans’ most basic civil right,” said Senator Blumenthal. “Instead of making it harder to vote, we should be making it easier. This bill gives states the resources and opportunity to implement more innovative ways to ensure that all Americans – no matter who they are or where they li… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/blumenthal-urges-sessions-to-respect-longstanding-precedent-and-recuse-himself-from-voting-on-his-own-nomination Blumenthal Urges Sessions to Respect Longstanding Precedent and Recuse Himself from Voting on His Own Nomination 2016-12-08 2016 2016-12 Democrat House CT Richard Blumenthal B001277 www.blumenthal.senate.gov     legacy Blumenthal Urges Sessions to Respect Longstanding Precedent and Recuse Himself from Voting on His Own Nomination Print Tweet Blumenthal also calls on Attorney General nominee to avoid appearance of bias, impropriety and recuse himself from voting on future potential Cabinet colleagues Thursday, December 8, 2016 [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), a member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, wrote to U.S. Senator Jeff Sessions (R-AL) today to urge him to recuse himself from voting on his own confirmation. In a letter to President-elect Donald Trump’s nominee to serve as the Attorney General, Blumenthal also called on him to recuse himself from voting on the confirmation of his potential Cabinet colleagues. “If confirmed as Attorney General, you will serve as the nation’s most powerful law enforcement official, responsible for administering the law impartially and fairly, faithful to the Constitution above partisan or personal interest,” Blumenthal wrote. “Public confidence and trust in the administration of justice is indispensable. Your decisions will be held to the highest standard and should be unclouded by personal bias or conflict of interest – and that approach starts with the Senate confirmation process.” Only six sitting senators have been nominated and confirmed as department heads – including Attorney General – since 1960. None of them cast a recorded vote on their own nomination.  The full text of today’s letter is available here and copied below. Dear Senator Sessions, I write concerning your nomination as United States Attorney General and the longstanding precedent that Senators nominated to Cabinet positions recuse themselves from voting on their own confirmations. All six sitting Senators, both Democratic and Republican, to be nominated and confirmed to cabinet level positions since 1960 have declined to cast a recorded vote on their own nomination… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/blumenthal-welcomes-surgeon-generals-report-on-youth-and-young-adult-e-cigarette-use Blumenthal Welcomes Surgeon General's Report on Youth and Young Adult E-Cigarette Use 2016-12-08 2016 2016-12 Democrat House CT Richard Blumenthal B001277 www.blumenthal.senate.gov     legacy Blumenthal Welcomes Surgeon General's Report on Youth and Young Adult E-Cigarette Use Print Tweet Thursday, December 8, 2016 [WASHINGTON, DC] – Following the release of a new Surgeon General’s Report on Youth and Young Adult E-Cigarette Use, U.S. Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) called on regulators and public health officials to heed the report’s call to action, and implement additional protections against youth e-cigarette use. Today’s report raised serious public health concerns regarding e-cigarette use among young people and the dangers of nicotine addiction, following in the footsteps of the first Surgeon General’s Report on Smoking and Tobacco Use released nearly fifty-three years ago. Today’s report, which was written and reviewed by more than 150 experts, is the first comprehensive federal review of the public health impact of e-cigarettes on youth and young adults in the United States. “Contrary to what the tobacco industry would have you believe, e-cigarettes are not trendy and cool, they are a deadly hazard to the people who smoke them, and to everyone in their air space. Put simply: these products are dangerous, and they are particularly dangerous to youth,” Blumenthal said. “E-cigarettes are not only unsafe when used on their own, they also threaten to lead users, especially young people, down a perilous path to tobacco addiction, a lifetime of disease, and early death. To curb this growing public health crisis, we should look to the successful tobacco control efforts that have already saved the lives of millions – enforcing minimum age-of-sale laws, restricting marketing to children, and expanding education and cessation efforts.” The Surgeon General’s Report on Youth and Young Adult E-Cigarette Use found that while nicotine is a highly addictive drug at any age, youth and young adults are uniquely vulnerable to its long-term consequences of exposing the brain to nicotine. The repo… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/isakson-murphy-neurological-research-bill-heads-to-presidents-desk ISAKSON-MURPHY NEUROLOGICAL RESEARCH BILL HEADS TO PRESIDENTS DESK 2016-12-08 2016 2016-12 Democrat House CT Christopher Murphy M001169 www.murphy.senate.gov     legacy ISAKSON-MURPHY NEUROLOGICAL RESEARCH BILL HEADS TO PRESIDENT’S DESK Bill will advance understanding & treatment of neurological diseases afflicting millions of Americans Thursday, December 8, 2016 WASHINGTON — U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) and U.S. Senator Johnny Isakson (R-Ga.), both members of the U.S. Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions Committee, applauded final passage of their bipartisan legislation – the Advancing Research for Neurological Diseases Act – to advance medical research of neurological diseases, which affect millions of Americans. The bill will be signed into law by President Obama as part of the 21st Century Cures Act. The Advancing Research for Neurological Diseases Act allows the Secretary of Health and Human Services, through the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, to collect information on the incidence and prevalence of neurological diseases to facilitate research and improve public health. This data will include the demographic information, such as age, sex, geographic location, family history, and risk factors such as potential genetic and environmental factors. This information could then be centralized through the establishment of a registry to better connect patients and researchers working to address neurological diseases. “We are now one step closer to restoring hope to the millions of families impacted by neurological diseases,” said Murphy. “Senator Isakson and I introduced this bill because we must do more to learn about diseases like MS and Parkinson’s. By creating a national system to track these horrific diseases, our bill will finally help researchers better understand their root causes and support the vital research to bring us closer to cures.” “The neurological disease registry provision within the 21st Century Cures Act compiles data for diseases such as Parkinson’s and Multiple Sclerosis, which are more prevalent than ever before, into a registry to help in more early diagnosis, earlier treatment… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-votes-to-support-connecticut-defense-manufacturing-jobs-counter-russian-propaganda MURPHY VOTES TO SUPPORT CONNECTICUT DEFENSE MANUFACTURING JOBS, COUNTER RUSSIAN PROPAGANDA 2016-12-08 2016 2016-12 Democrat House CT Christopher Murphy M001169 www.murphy.senate.gov     legacy MURPHY VOTES TO SUPPORT CONNECTICUT DEFENSE MANUFACTURING JOBS, COUNTER RUSSIAN PROPAGANDA Bill passed today includes Electric Boat submarines, Pratt & Whitney engines & Sikorsky helicopters Thursday, December 8, 2016 WASHINGTON — U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) voted on Thursday to support the FY 2017 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) Conference Report, which passed the Senate by a vote of 92-7. The bill authorizes significant investments in Connecticut’s defense manufacturers and includes the bipartisan Countering Disinformation and Propaganda Act, which Murphy introduced with U.S. Senator Rob Portman (R-Ohio) earlier this year. As a member of the U.S. Senate Appropriations Committee, Murphy successfully worked to pass a U.S. Department of Defense Appropriations bill through Committee earlier this year that appropriated higher levels of funding for Connecticut F-35s and Black Hawk helicopters. Murphy vowed to use his position on the Senate Appropriations Committee to fight to pass the Defense Appropriations bill through Congress next year, and secure higher levels of funding for Connecticut’s defense manufacturing industry. “Today’s bill is good for Connecticut workers and families,” said Murphy. “It supports good jobs making subs, helicopters and jet engines, and provides the world’s best military hardware for our Armed Forces. Murphy continued, “I’m proud that Congress solidified Connecticut’s role as a national leader in American defense, but we must do more for the men and women who work hard for a living at the more than 4,000 manufacturing companies across Connecticut. I will keep working on the Appropriations Committee to create new opportunities for Connecticut’s skilled workers.” The NDAA includes the following priorities for Connecticut: $5 billion for two Virginia Class submarines, including an additional $85 million for advanced procurement for the Virginia Payload Module $1.9 billion for Ohio Replacement Program submarine $8 … 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senate-passes-major-murphy-portman-counter-propaganda-bill-as-part-of-ndaa Senate Passes Major Murphy-Portman Counter-Propaganda Bill as Part of NDAA 2016-12-08 2016 2016-12 Democrat House CT Christopher Murphy M001169 www.murphy.senate.gov     legacy Senate Passes Major Murphy-Portman Counter-Propaganda Bill as Part of NDAA Murphy/Portman Bill Promotes Coordinated Strategy to Defend America, Allies Against Propaganda and Disinformation from Russia, China & Others Thursday, December 8, 2016 WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Rob Portman (R-OH) and Chris Murphy (D-CT) today announced that their Countering Disinformation and Propaganda Act – legislation designed to help American allies counter foreign government propaganda from Russia, China, and other nations – has passed the Senate as part of the FY 2017 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) Conference Report. The bipartisan bill, which was introduced by Senators Portman and Murphy in March, will improve the ability of the United States to counter foreign propaganda and disinformation by establishing an interagency center housed at the State Department to coordinate and synchronize counter-propaganda efforts throughout the U.S. government. To support these efforts, the bill also creates a grant program for NGOs, think tanks, civil society and other experts outside government who are engaged in counter-propaganda related work. This will better leverage existing expertise and empower local communities to defend themselves from foreign manipulation. “The passage of this bill in the Senate today takes us one critical step closer to effectively confronting the extensive, and destabilizing, foreign propaganda and disinformation operations being waged against us. While the propaganda and disinformation threat has grown, the U.S. government has been asleep at the wheel. Today we are finally signaling that enough is enough; the United States will no longer sit on the sidelines. We are going to confront this threat head-on,” said Senator Portman. “With the help of this bipartisan bill, the disinformation and propaganda used against our allies and our interests will fail.” “Congress has taken a big step in fighting back against fake news and propaganda from countries l… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/what-theyre-saying-leaders-and-advocates-praise-mental-health-reform WHAT THEYRE SAYING: LEADERS AND ADVOCATES PRAISE MENTAL HEALTH REFORM 2016-12-08 2016 2016-12 Democrat House CT Christopher Murphy M001169 www.murphy.senate.gov     legacy WHAT THEY’RE SAYING: LEADERS AND ADVOCATES PRAISE MENTAL HEALTH REFORM Mental Health America: “The most comprehensive mental health systems reform legislation in more than fifty years” Thursday, December 8, 2016 President Barack Obama: “The bipartisan passage of the 21st Century Cures Act is an example of the progress we can make when people from both parties work together to improve the health of our families, friends and neighbors…the Cures Act takes important steps to improve mental health, including building on the work of my Administration’s Mental Health and Substance Use Disorder Parity Task Force.” Mark Barden, co-founder and managing director of Sandy Hook Promise who lost his first-grade son, Daniel Barden, at Sandy Hook Elementary School: “The passing of this bill is such a monumental success for us at Sandy Hook Promise and all of the mental health organizations that we partnered with who have worked tirelessly for nearly four years to pass mental health reform. I applaud the outstanding leadership of our Senators and Representatives, as this bill will help millions of people in need. This legislation begins to do the critical work of prioritizing early intervention and increasing access to mental health services and suicide prevention programs. And we are ready for the work ahead.” American Psychiatric Association: “This long-awaited and much needed mental health reform will help to increase access to care and improve the quality of care for people with mental health and substance use disorders, especially for the 13 million Americans living with serious mental illness. The bill will toughen enforcement of existing parity laws, helping to ensure that mental health care services are covered just like other health care services.” American Psychological Association: “This legislation will improve the lives and health of countless Americans. It will increase access to effective, evidence-based care, particularly for those with serious mental illness.” Nat… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://courtney.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/courtney-announces-winner-2016-congressional-app-chalenege Courtney Announces the Winner of the 2016 Congressional App Chalenege 2016-12-07 2016 2016-12 Democrat House CT Joe Courtney C001069 courtney.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON, DC —Today, Congressman Joe Courtney (CT-02) announced that Peter Dentch, a senior at Fitch High School in Groton has won the annual Second District Congressional App Challenge.  Dentch’s app is titled Mini Robot Control. The app challenge is designed to inspire high school students to learn how to code by creating their own applications. The competition is also intended to demonstrate the value of computer science and STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) education and encourage students to engage in these fields. “I am very pleased to announce that the winner of the 2016 Congressional App Challenge for Connecticut’s Second Congressional District is Peter Dentch from Fitch High School in Groton,” said Courtney. “Once again this year we had a number of remarkable submissions to the Second Congressional District App Challenge, but Peter’s creation really stood out. Our panel of judges from the University of Connecticut was impressed by Peter’s advanced understanding of computer programming, and believe that his app can help make robotic control less intimidating and more accessible for the average person. I applaud Peter and all of our student competitors this year for their aptitude and time dedication to create these incredible programs. This nationwide app challenge is designed to engage high school students in computer science and learn how to code by creating their own applications. We need to demonstrate the value of computer science and education and encourage students to engage in these fields.  I am looking forward to meeting Peter soon and seeing his app in action.” The 2016 Congressional App Challenge took place between July 18, 2016 and November 2, 2016. It was open to all U.S. high school students in participating congressional districts, and one winner was selected per district. Challenge participants were invited, either as individuals or as teams of up to four students, to create and submit their own software application, or ‘app’ for mobile, tablet, or other computing devices… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://courtney.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/courtney-welcomes-inclusion-needed-funding-columbia-class-submarine Courtney Welcomes Inclusion Of Needed Funding For Columbia-Class Submarine Program In Year-End CR 2016-12-07 2016 2016-12 Democrat House CT Joe Courtney C001069 courtney.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON, D.C.  —Today, Congressman Joe Courtney (CT-02), ranking member of the Seapower and Projection Forces Subcommittee, highlighted the inclusion of an anomaly providing a critical funding boost for the Columbia-class submarine program in the Continuing Resolution (CR).  “This is great news for eastern Connecticut and great news for the U.S. Navy,” said Courtney. “The Columbia­-class program would face critical delays and ballooning costs without this needed adjustment to the CR. I was encouraged by the bipartisan cooperation that ensured the inclusion of this provision, and will continue to do all I can to support the design and construction of these submarines that are vital to the United States’ strategic deterrence capabilities.” On November 17, Courtney led a bipartisan group of 33 members in sending a letter to the chairs and ranking members of the full House Appropriations Committee and Defense Subcommittee to ask for the funding levels in the CR include an anomaly for the Columbia-class program.    ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://delauro.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/delauro-statement-new-report-detailing-impacts-repealing-aca DeLauro Statement on New Report Detailing the Impacts of Repealing the ACA 2016-12-07 2016 2016-12 Democrat House CT Rosa DeLauro D000216 delauro.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON, DC (December 7, 2016) — Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro (CT-03) today released the following statement regarding the Urban Institute’s new report, which details the consequences of the Republican’s plan to repeal the Affordable Care Act without providing a replacement. “For years, Republicans have touted their plans to ‘repeal and replace’ the Affordable Care Act, deriding the law as an assault on the American people. While Republicans have had more than six years to develop a replacement, they are still empty handed. Next year, when Republicans finally make their goal a reality and roll back parts of the ACA, they will be making an enormous mistake in stripping health care from nearly 30 million Americans and more than doubling the nation’s uninsured rate. “This new report from the Urban Institute exposes the shocking consequences of Republican action and the real world effects that repealing the ACA will have on the American people. By eliminating subsidies to small businesses and individuals that buy insurance in the marketplaces, repealing the ACA will leave the most vulnerable Americans without care and do lasting damage to our health care system. When American lives are at stake, we need a plan that is more than half-baked. The American people deserve better and I am going to fight any attempts to repeal the ACA.” DeLauro is the Senior Democrat on the subcommittee responsible for funding the Departments of Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education. ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://esty.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/courtney-esty-applaud-new-opioid-funds-year-end-continuing-resolution Courtney, Esty Applaud New Opioid Funds in Year-End Continuing Resolution 2016-12-07 2016 2016-12 Democrat House CT Elizabeth Esty E000293 esty.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Joe Courtney (CT-2) and Congresswoman Elizabeth Esty (CT-5) today applauded the inclusion of $500 million in new funding to combat the opioid crisis in the year-end continuing resolution that the House is expected to vote on tomorrow. “Both of us represent communities that have been devastated by opioid addiction and that don’t have the resources they need to deal with the crisis,” Courtney and Esty said. “At long last, this bill provides real, tangible funds to help our cities and towns prevent folks from becoming addicted to opiates and to help families affected by this epidemic recover and move forward. We will work hard in the New Year to ensure Congress renews this investment in the wellbeing of our communities and continue fighting for bipartisan reforms that will help Connecticut finally turn the tide on drug addiction.” The continuing resolution, which will fund federal programs through April 28, 2017, appropriates $500 million to the account created by the 21st Century Cures Act to support grants to states to respond to the opioid addiction crisis. On Nov. 21, Courtney and Esty led a letter to House Speaker Paul Ryan (R-WI) and Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) urging them to fund opioid treatment and enforcement programs in the coming year. Reps. John Larson (CT-1) and Jim Himes (CT-4) joined that effort as well. The 21st Century Cures Act, which passed the House on Dec. 1 and the Senate this afternoon, authorized the funding Courtney and Esty asked for, and this week’s continuing resolution makes that funding available through April 28, 2017. Both Courtney and Esty served on the conference committee that crafted the Comprehensive Addiction and Recovery Act, a bipartisan legislative package to respond to the nationwide opioid epidemic that President Obama signed into law in July. In addition, both Courtney and Esty have been leaders in the fight to secure additional federal resources to address the growing prescription opioid and heroin epidemic. In February, C… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/blumenthal-applauds-senate-passage-of-bipartisan-bill-to-combat-opioid-crisis-support-mental-health-reform Blumenthal Applauds Senate Passage of Bipartisan Bill to Combat Opioid Crisis, Support Mental Health Reform 2016-12-07 2016 2016-12 Democrat House CT Richard Blumenthal B001277 www.blumenthal.senate.gov     legacy Blumenthal Applauds Senate Passage of Bipartisan Bill to Combat Opioid Crisis, Support Mental Health Reform Print Tweet Wednesday, December 7, 2016 [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) today applauded the Senate’s passage of the 21st Century Cures Act, which includes emergency federal funding to combat the opioid and heroin epidemic, significant reforms to the mental health system, and funding for medical research on cancer and other diseases. The bill was passed by the House of Representatives last week, and now heads to the President’s desk to be signed into law. “Today’s passage of the 21st Century Cures Act puts America’s money where its mouth is when it comes to public health,” Blumenthal said. “Investment is key to saving lives, and this measure invests in critical initiatives that will make a real impact in the daily lives of people across Connecticut. It takes meaningful steps to combat the opioid epidemic currently plaguing our communities. It improves access to vital mental health services to ensure mental health care is readily available without stigma or additional hurdles. It spurs landmark action in the effort to address Lyme Disease, and increases support for groundbreaking medical research.” “This legislation is a major milestone, but the fight’s not over yet. I will work to ensure these lifesaving resources are used the way this legislation intends—and that they are fairly and effectively allocated in Connecticut. Our state, our communities, and our families are suffering at the wicked hands of the opioid epidemic. We must ensure Connecticut receives the support it needs to ferociously fight back, and provide our loved ones with the treatment they need to claim back their lives. Moving forward, we must continue to invest robust resources to support patient safety, prevent disease, and protect public health.” The 21st Century Cures Act will help address the f… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/blumenthal-threat-to-use-antitrust-enforcement-to-silence-news-coverage-is-abhorrent Blumenthal: Threat to Use Antitrust Enforcement to Silence News Coverage is Abhorrent 2016-12-07 2016 2016-12 Democrat House CT Richard Blumenthal B001277 www.blumenthal.senate.gov     legacy Blumenthal: Threat to Use Antitrust Enforcement to Silence News Coverage is Abhorrent Print Tweet At Senate Judiciary Committee hearing to consider the AT&T-Time Warner merger, Blumenthal questioned CEO’s on their commitment to a free and independent press Wednesday, December 7, 2016 [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – In a hearing of the Senate Judiciary Subcommittee on Antitrust, Competition Policy & Consumer Rights held to discuss the impact of the proposed AT&T-Time Warner merger, U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) rigorously questioned Randall Stephenson, Chairman and CEO of AT&T, and Jeffrey Bewkes, the Chairman and CEO of Time Warner, regarding their commitment to independent journalism in the face of threats made by President-elect Donald Trump. “What concerns me is the reason that he gave [for opposing the merger], which is that he is very unhappy with CNN’s news coverage. For a public official to use the blunt, heavy instrument of law enforcement to try to silence or change coverage by a news department of any company is, for me, absolutely abhorrent,” Blumenthal said. A video of Blumenthal speaking at today’s hearing is available for download here. In response to a question from Blumenthal regarding the President-elect’s proposed enforcement of laws targeting specific companies, Mr. Bewkes dismissed the President-elect’s well-documented remarks, attempting to compare them to dissimilar statements made by other Presidential and Vice-Presidential candidates. Blumenthal responded, “My point here is not that other candidates may have commented or not about this merger. It is perfectly appropriate for a public official or a candidate to comment on the merits of antitrust enforcement. But to threaten more vigorous or adverse enforcement against a particular company because he doesn’t like the news coverage is a threat to the First Amendment. That’s the fundamental point here.… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-applauds-department-of-labor-for-new-action-to-protect-healthcare-workers-from-workplace-violence MURPHY APPLAUDS DEPARTMENT OF LABOR FOR NEW ACTION TO PROTECT HEALTHCARE WORKERS FROM WORKPLACE VIOLENCE 2016-12-07 2016 2016-12 Democrat House CT Christopher Murphy M001169 www.murphy.senate.gov     legacy MURPHY APPLAUDS DEPARTMENT OF LABOR FOR NEW ACTION TO PROTECT HEALTHCARE WORKERS FROM WORKPLACE VIOLENCE Murphy: “Connecticut doctors and nurses should never have to worry about their safety being threatened at work.” Wednesday, December 7, 2016 WASHINGTON — U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), a member of the U.S. Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions Committee, applauded the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) on Wednesday after the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) announced they are looking to create new workplace safety standards to protect healthcare and social assistance employees from workplace violence. OSHA’s announcement comes after Murphy called on DOL Secretary Labor Thomas E. Perez to develop a new workplace safety standard that would protect workers in healthcare settings from workplace violence. “I called on DOL to take action last year because Connecticut doctors and nurses should never have to worry about their safety being threatened at work,” said Murphy. “I’m glad that OSHA and DOL are finally taking action to learn more about the severity and prevalence of workplace violence in healthcare settings, and I promise to work side by side with them in doing everything we can to put an end to it.” Murphy encourages Connecticut residents to submit comments to OSHA before the April 6, 2017 deadline on issues related to workplace violence in healthcare settings that might be considered in developing the new standard. Comments can be submitted online here. Constituents with questions should contact Murphy’s Hartford office at 860-549-8463. Healthcare workers are at an increased risk for workplace violence and existing workplace safety standards do not adequately protect individuals working in healthcare settings. From 2002 to 2013, incidents of serious workplace violence (those requiring days off for the injured worker to recuperate) were four times more common in healthcare than in private industry on average. Murphy called on DOL to… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-applauds-white-house-approval-of-first-ever-northeast-ocean-plan MURPHY APPLAUDS WHITE HOUSE APPROVAL OF FIRST-EVER NORTHEAST OCEAN PLAN 2016-12-07 2016 2016-12 Democrat House CT Christopher Murphy M001169 www.murphy.senate.gov     legacy MURPHY APPLAUDS WHITE HOUSE APPROVAL OF FIRST-EVER NORTHEAST OCEAN PLAN Wednesday, December 7, 2016 WASHINGTON — U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) applauded the President’s National Ocean Council on Wednesday for approving the first-ever Northeast Ocean Plan by the Northeast Regional Planning Body. The plan – which provides a blueprint of the northeast region’s marine life, cultural resources, commercial fishing, maritime economy, and recreational use – will help to inform policymakers and private sector leaders as they make decisions impacting the region’s ocean and coastline. The plan will be implemented immediately.  “Today’s announcement shows that when people work together, they can solve problems,” Murphy said. “We will now be better able to protect the thousands of species of wildlife, the fishing and aquaculture industries, and simple family afternoons on the beach that the Atlantic provides. I’m proud that New England is the first in the nation to step up to the plate and make this plan a reality. I’m thrilled to have been a leader in the effort to finalize it.” Established by Presidential Executive Order in 2010, the National Ocean Policy called for the formation of nine regionally-focused boards to better manage the nation’s oceans and coasts. New England was the first region in the nation to launch a planning board. Murphy encouraged Connecticut residents to provide feedback on the Northeast Ocean Plan when the first draft of the plan was released earlier this year. He also led a bipartisan, bicameral letter to the White House, which was signed by twenty-nine Members of Congress from Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and Rhode Island, expressing support for the Northeast Ocean Plan.  Murphy is committed to protecting Long Island Sound and Connecticut’s coastline. Murphy’s  Long Island Sound Investment Plan supports federal programs that invest in Long Island Sound’s coastal habitats, coastal resilience, clean water and beaches, and fishing industr… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senate-passes-landmark-mental-health-reform-new-funding-for-opioid-crisis SENATE PASSES LANDMARK MENTAL HEALTH REFORM, NEW FUNDING FOR OPIOID CRISIS 2016-12-07 2016 2016-12 Democrat House CT Christopher Murphy M001169 www.murphy.senate.gov     legacy SENATE PASSES LANDMARK MENTAL HEALTH REFORM, NEW FUNDING FOR OPIOID CRISIS Murphy hosted 30 town halls & roundtables with CT families, professionals & advocates to craft mental health reforms Wednesday, December 7, 2016 WASHINGTON — U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), author of the bipartisan Mental Health Reform Act and members of the U.S. Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP) Committee, applauded Senate passage of mental health reforms, $1 billion in emergency funding to address the opioid and heroin crisis, and increased investments in cancer treatment and medical research. The bill passed 94-5, and is now heading to President Obama’s desk to be signed into law. “This is the most comprehensive reform of our nation's mental health laws in a generation, and I'm so thrilled that we drafted it and passed it with support from both Democrats and Republicans. In Connecticut, I've met too many people struggling with mental illness who can't find the care they need, or can't get their insurance company to approve the care once they find it. This bill means millions of dollars in new treatment, and it creates a pathway to a better integrated, more coordinated system for people with serious mental illness,” said Murphy. “I’m incredibly grateful for Senator Cassidy’s partnership and friendship. He brought a doctor’s knowledge and a dogged determination to our effort, and a lot of people will be better off because of it.” After months of collaborating with mental health professionals, policy experts, consumers, and family members, Murphy worked with U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy (R-La.) introduced their bipartisan Mental Health Reform Act of 2015 to expand federal resources and improve coordination for mental health and substance abuse treatment programs. The Senators worked closely with U.S. Senators Lamar Alexander (R-Tenn.) and Patty Murray (D-Wash.) to craft an updated bill, the Mental Health Reform Act of 2016, which passed the HELP Committee unanimousl… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://courtney.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/epa-publishes-final-rule-elds-federal-register EPA Publishes Final Rule For ELDS In The Federal Register 2016-12-06 2016 2016-12 Democrat House CT Joe Courtney C001069 courtney.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON, DC —Today, Congressman Joe Courtney (CT-02) made the following statement after the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) published their final rule for the Eastern Long Island Sound Dredging Disposal Site (ELDS) in the Federal Register: “It’s hard to overstate how important dredging and dredging disposal is to the maritime economy across the Long Island Sound region,” said Courtney. “Without the regular dredging of ports and waterways, a vast array of economic activities in our region ranging from recreational boating to commercial maritime transportation, shipbuilding, the Coast Guard Academy, and the submarine base could not function. Today’s publication of the final rule for the eastern Long Island Sound represents the final step in a long process to create environmentally responsible and manageable disposal sites across the entire length of the Sound. This eagerly awaited action follows years of intense environmental reviews, robust public engagement and diligent consideration of all views with regard to the future of dredging in our region. I want to thank the EPA and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers for their hard work throughout this process. Courtney added, “Over the past two months, we have seen important developments that underscore the need for this site. For example, the New England Central Rail broke ground on new upgrades to existing rail lines which will greatly increase the freight capacity in the Port of New London adding to the need for regular dredging of the harbor. The U.S. Navy has also committed over $5 million to plan and design a major pier replacement at the base – a project that will need dredging and, without this site, could see significant increases in costs. The final designation of this site could not come at a more important time for our region.” On Sunday, The Day newspaper published an opinion editorial written by Courtney on the importance of dredging top the local economy in eastern Connecticut. Courtney has actively advocated for the designation of a final ea… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://himes.house.gov/press-release/himes-introduces-reclamation-war-powers-act Himes Introduces Reclamation of War Powers Act 2016-12-06 2016 2016-12 Democrat House CT Jim Himes H001047 himes.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON, DC—Today, Congressman Jim Himes (CT-04) introduced the Reclamation of War Powers Act, a bill that would explicitly return the power to declare and wage war back to Congress as the Constitution requires. “The power to make and execute war is explicitly granted to Congress in article I section 8 of the Constitution,” said Himes.  “In the years following 9/11, however, we have ceded that power more and more to the President to the point where, now, we operate in state of perpetual pseudo-war where neither the executive or Congress is ultimately responsible. That has to end. It’s Congress’s right. It’s Congress’s duty.” The bill has three main provisions: ·         Congresses won’t fund the introduction of US armed forces into hostilities without a declaration of war, specific statutory authorization, or a national emergency created by an attack or imminent threat of attack upon the United States, its territories or possessions, or the Armed Forces. ·         Following a declaration of war or an Authorization for Use of Military Force (AUMF), the President must issue a report every 90 days outlining the threat faced, the objectives and justifications of the conflict and a description of the anticipated scope and duration of the action. In the event of emergency action, the report must be issued within 48 hours. ·         Prior Authorizations for Use of Military Force, including the AUMFs for Iraq and Afghanistan will be repealed 180 days after enactment of this bill. Several comments from President-elect Donald Trump have raised concern about the scope and circumstances in which the Armed Forces will be used in the future, especially with regards to the conflict with ISIS and honoring our country’s NATO experience. “Donald Trump has no foreign policy experience, has signaled to the world that he plans to use his unpredictability as a deterrent and claims to have a secret plan to defeat ISIS,” continued Himes.  “Congress should have reasserted its war-making authority a long time ago, and I have voted to m… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/blumenthal-and-markey-respond-to-autonation-decision-to-resume-sales-of-deadly-cars-under-recall Blumenthal & Markey Respond to Autonation Decision to Resume Sales of "Deadly" Cars Under Recall 2016-12-06 2016 2016-12 Democrat House CT Richard Blumenthal B001277 www.blumenthal.senate.gov     legacy Blumenthal & Markey Respond to Autonation Decision to Resume Sales of "Deadly" Cars Under Recall Print Tweet Senators Call on Auto Retailer to Fully Inform Consumers of Broken Promise Tuesday, December 6, 2016 [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – U.S. Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) and Edward J. Markey (D-MA), authors of the Used Car Safety Recall Repair Act, issued the following statement after AutoNation, Inc. – the nation’s largest new auto retailer – announced that it is reversing its policy to stop selling cars with recalled safety defects until the defective parts are repaired. “AutoNation’s decision to resume the sale of deadly used cars in the wake of this presidential election is deeply troubling, and will lead to tragic consequences on our nation’s roads and highways. After reversing course on its widely-advertised pledge to not sell defective cars, AutoNation now bears the responsibility of informing consumers about its broken promise. The company now has an obligation to publicize its decision to reverse course as widely as its original move towards better safety,” the Senators said. “Unfortunately, until Congress acts to ensure there is a level playing field for used car dealers who want to do the right thing for their customers, we will continue to see cars with deadly defects on our roads. In the wake of this announcement, we plan to double down on efforts to protect consumers from the worry that they might be buying a used car with unrepaired recalls.”‎ In 2015, Blumenthal and Markey introduced the Used Car Safety Recall Repair Act, which would require used car dealers to repair any outstanding safety recalls in used automobiles prior to selling or leasing and the Repairing Every Car to Avoid Lost Lives (RECALL) Act that would require owners of vehicles with open safety recalls to be notified and help ensure defects are repaired. The Senators have also urged auto manufacturers to … 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z

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