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895 rows where state = "CT" and year = 2024 sorted by date descending

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  • 2024 · 895 ✖

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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/press-releases/murphy-releases-2024-end-of-year-report Murphy Releases 2024 End of Year Report 2024-12-31 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate CT Christopher Murphy M001169 www.murphy.senate.gov chrismurphy https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper HARTFORD–U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) on Tuesday released his End of Year Report outlining the work he’s done for the people of Connecticut during 2024. The report details Murphy’s legislative priorities this year, including continuing to implement the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act, building more social connection, fighting for workers, making housing more affordable, and more. Murphy also helped deliver billions of federal dollars from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, CHIPS and Science Act, and the Inflation Reduction Act to create good-paying jobs in Connecticut. This year, Murphy and his office: Introduced or co-sponsored 367 pieces of legislation, including 68 bills or resolutions as the lead sponsor. Completed his eighth Walk Across Connecticut: four days, 64 miles, 16 towns, and hundreds of people along the way. Traveled across the state, hosting 117 roundtables, listening sessions and more with Connecticut residents. Responded and reached out to Connecticut residents through over 383,000 calls, emails, and letters. Returned nearly $2 million to constituents, including owed Social Security payments, veterans’ benefits, tax refunds, and other savings from federal agencies. Helped over 3,300 constituents work through federal issues and get their owed benefits. Click here to download Senator Murphy’s 2024 End of Year Report. ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://courtney.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-courtney-statement-passing-former-president-jimmy-carter Rep. Courtney Statement on the Passing of former President Jimmy Carter 2024-12-29 2024 2024-12 Democrat House CT Joe Courtney C001069 courtney.house.gov courtney https://courtney.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper NORWICH, CT –Today, Congressman Joe Courtney (CT-02) issued the following statement in response to the passing of the 39th President of the United States, Jimmy Carter. In 2023, Rep. Courtney penned an op-ed in CT Mirror and later spoke on the House Floor recounting Carter’s exceptional service, including in the U.S. Navy, and his connection to Connecticut. “America lost a great man today. President Jimmy Carter personified the highest form of public service, not just as Governor and President, but as an ensign in the U.S. Navy who rose to be one of Admiral Hyman G. Rickover’s select officers at the birth of the 'Nuclear Navy’. “In 2005, when the Navy sought to close Submarine Base New London, former President Carter stood by'Team Connecticut' in opposition to a plan which would have moved the Base’s fleet to his home state of Georgia. His decision to support ‘Team Connecticut’ in the face of political pressure at home represents the integrity and honor he served with throughout his life. Today, eastern Connecticut maintains our proud role as Submarine Capital of the World thanks to former President Carter. I join the American people in sending my deepest condolences and gratitude to the Carter family for his lifetime of service.” 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://hayes.house.gov/press-releases?ID=55DFC002-A610-4B52-9DA6-183D76BE92EC Hayes Statement on the Passing of Former President Jimmy Carter 2024-12-29 2024 2024-12 Democrat House CT Jahana Hayes H001081 hayes.house.gov hayes https://hayes.house.gov/press-releases scraper WATERBURY, CT – Today, Congresswoman Jahana Hayes (CT-05) released the following statement on the passing of former President Jimmy Carter: “Today, our nation mourns the passing of Nobel laureate and former President Jimmy Carter. During his presidency and in the decades after, President Carter served as an advocate for peace, human rights, and democracy. His work with Habitat for Humanity inspired me to introduce my students to service and has helped build strength, stability and self reliance for so many through shelter. My thoughts and prayers are with the Carter family during this time and I thank him for his lifetime of service.” 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://larson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/larson-statement-passing-former-president-jimmy-carter Larson Statement on the Passing of Former President Jimmy Carter 2024-12-29 2024 2024-12 Democrat House CT John B. Larson L000557 larson.house.gov larson https://larson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper “President Carter led our nation with integrity, spending his life promoting human rights and peace across the globe,” said Larson. “He was a man of deep conviction who always exhibited class on the public stage, whether he was a candidate, a President, or an elder statesman. With his deep commitment to his faith and his work with the Carter Center, Jimmy Carter demonstrated how to be a role model and make a difference in the world even when you leave elective office. He will be deeply missed by so many people he touched around the world. I send my condolences to his children Jack, Chip, Donnel, and Amy, and the entire Carter family.” 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/blumenthal-statement-on-the-passing-of-former-president-jimmy-carter Blumenthal Statement on the Passing of Former President Jimmy Carter 2024-12-29 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate CT Richard Blumenthal B001277 www.blumenthal.senate.gov blumenthal https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press scraper [WASHINGTON, DC] – U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) today released the below statement following the passing of Former President Jimmy Carter: “Jimmy Carter was a public servant for all seasons—leading by example, passionately and unstintingly, over deeply different and sometimes difficult phases of his life and the nation’s. “The diversity and longevity of his public service is staggering—as a military officer, Governor and President, home builder, health care activist, and much more. He certainly showed that leadership in elected office is only one of many ways to give back to our great nation. He believed fervently in the opportunity and obligation of every single person to make a difference and better the lives of others. I’ll always be grateful for his appointing me as U.S. Attorney for Connecticut, which is how I first came to know him. “While some disagreed with his political views or positions, none could doubt his sincerity and decency, his faith and humanity. He built a legacy of giving back—personifying the adage that there’s no limit to the good you can do if you don’t care who gets the credit.” Blumenthal was appointed to be the U.S. Attorney for Connecticut by President Carter and served in that role for four years during the Carter Administration. -30- 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/-murphy-statement-on-death-of-president-jimmy-carter Murphy Statement on Death of President Jimmy Carter 2024-12-29 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate CT Christopher Murphy M001169 www.murphy.senate.gov chrismurphy https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper HARTFORD–U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) released the following statement on the death of President Jimmy Carter: “Few people have modeled what it means to live a life dedicated to the service of others more than President Jimmy Carter. He led with compassion, humility, and moral clarity even when it came at a political cost. Helping others was his calling, and President Carter didn’t need the White House to change millions of lives. From his work at the Carter Center to volunteering with Habitat for Humanity, he worked every day to build a more just world. “In a 1979 speech, President Carter warned the nation we have two paths to choose from – one toward fragmentation and self-interest and another toward common purpose. It’s a warning that rings true still today. “My heart is with the Carter family as the nation mourns the loss of a giant.” ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/icymi-permanent-subcommittee-on-investigations-releases-report-and-supporting-documents-in-coast-guard-sexual-misconduct-cover-up ICYMI: Permanent Subcommittee on Investigations Releases Report & Supporting Documents in Coast Guard Sexual Misconduct Cover-Up 2024-12-27 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate CT Richard Blumenthal B001277 www.blumenthal.senate.gov blumenthal https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press scraper [WASHINGTON, DC] – U.S. Senate Permanent Subcommittee on Investigations (PSI) Chair Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) and Ranking Member Ron Johnson (R-WI) released a bipartisan interim staff report on their inquiry into the Coast Guard’s efforts to conceal the investigation into mishandled cases of sexual assault and harassment at the Coast Guard Academy. The report, Coast Guard Efforts to Conceal the Operation Fouled Anchor Investigation from Congress and the Public, includes several newly released documents, among which is an email explaining that then-Commandant Admiral Schultz chose not to affirmatively disclose Operation Fouled Anchor to either Congress or the public based on the continuing nature of the investigation. This email was sent the same day that a briefing by the Coast Guard to Congress on Operation Fouled Anchor was scheduled to take place – effectively engaging in a cover-up. Additional evidence further suggests that the Coast Guard took affirmative steps to remove references to Operation Fouled Anchor from internal Coast Guard communications which Congress had requested as part of an inquiry into harassment, bullying, and retaliation at the Coast Guard Academy. “This report provides additional evidence that the highest levels of Coast Guard leadership engaged in a purposeful and long-term cover-up of widespread sexual assault and harassment allegations at the Coast Guard Academy,” Blumenthal and Johnson said. “The survivors of this misconduct deserve an explanation, and so does the public.” Background on the Permanent Subcommittee on Investigations Inquiry into the Coast Guard In September 2023, PSI opened a bipartisan inquiry into the Coast Guard’s internal review of sexual assault and harassment cases that occurred between 1990 and 2006, which was called Operation Fouled Anchor. The Subcommittee’s inquiry has focused on the Coast Guard’s original mishandling of these cases and the Coast Guard’s failure to reveal the conclusion of Operation Fouled Anchor, and its associated report, to Congress a… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://larson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/larson-statement-hr-82-and-path-forward-social-security Larson Statement on H.R. 82 and the Path Forward on Social Security 2024-12-23 2024 2024-12 Democrat House CT John B. Larson L000557 larson.house.gov larson https://larson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper “Thanks to the tireless work of advocates from across the country, our public servants, including teachers, firefighters, and police officers, are finally on track to receive the benefits they have earned and deserve,” said Larson. “I want to commend the countless labor leaders and public servants for their work and advocacy to correct these unjust provisions, especially the National WEP/GPO Repeal Task Force, led by my dear friend and constituent Bette Marafino.” “Now we must all roll up our sleeves and work together to prevent automatic benefit cuts set to occur in 2034 and strengthen the program for years to come, especially for the 35 million Americans who rely on their earned benefits for the majority of their income,” Larson continued. “Democrats have a plan to extend Social Security’s solvency, cut taxes for seniors, and enhance benefits by making sure that everyone, including the most wealthy, pay their fair share into the system. Let’s build on this hard-fought win for our public servants by enhancing Social Security for all beneficiaries for the first time in more than 50 years.” 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/blumenthal-statement-on-spending-bill-to-avert-government-shutdown Blumenthal Statement on Spending Bill to Avert Government Shutdown 2024-12-21 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate CT Richard Blumenthal B001277 www.blumenthal.senate.gov blumenthal https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press scraper [WASHINGTON, DC] – U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) issued the following statement after the Senate passed an end-of-year spending deal that would extend government funding until March 2025: “This stopgap spending bill averts a government shutdown’s devastating human consequences reaching every corner of Connecticut and the country. Connecticut’s economy benefits from smart, targeted investments in our future—not from repeated budgetary brinksmanship. This agreement will provide essential disaster aid for local farmers impacted by extreme flooding, safeguard Connecticut’s submarine industry, and fund essential nutrition and public health programs on which so many Connecticut families depend. I pledge to continue the fight to fund vital programs that serve the American people, lower prescription drug costs, and promote economic growth and opportunity.” The Continuing Resolution (CR) includes a number of provisions that would benefit Connecticut, including a topline of $2.94 billion in post-disaster investments. Specifically, the CR includes: Disaster Aid for Connecticut Farmers: The CR includes $20.78 billion in disaster aid for farmers for necessary expenses related to losses of revenue and quality or production of crops. Extreme weather events, including severe floods and unprecedented droughts have devastated Connecticut farms in recent years. In the wake of these events, Blumenthal has authored legislation to improve access to disaster assistance programs and crop insurance for small-sized farms. The CR includes an estimated $22 million in disaster payments and an estimated $1 million in economic assistance payments for Connecticut. Support for the Virginia Class Submarine Program: The CR provides $5.69 billion in emergency funds for the Virginia Class Submarine Program, including wage increases for non-executive workers. Blumenthal has fought for increased funding to safeguard Connecticut’s submarine industry and continue steady production of the Virginia Class program. Relief for Recovering Small … 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-statement-on-short-term-deal-to-keep-the-government-open-2024 Murphy Statement on Short-Term Deal to Keep the Government Open 2024-12-21 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate CT Christopher Murphy M001169 www.murphy.senate.gov chrismurphy https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON–U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) released the following statement after voting for a short-term deal to keep the government open and deliver disaster aid to impacted communities in Connecticut and across the country. “The government almost shut down because the only thing co-presidents Elon Musk and Donald Trump care about is making themselves and their billionaire friends richer – it’s that simple. The past 48 hours were a hostage-taking exercise that put millions of families in the lurch just days before Christmas, all in the name of raising the debt ceiling so Trump can finance a giant tax break for billionaires in January. And now that Trump and Musk didn’t get their way, they’ve hatched an even more shameful plan to cut Medicare, Medicaid, and veterans benefits by $2.5 trillion instead. This ‘Billionaire First’ agenda is what we have to look forward to next year.” ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://courtney.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-courtney-applauds-delivery-future-uss-iowa Rep. Courtney Applauds Delivery of Future USS IOWA 2024-12-20 2024 2024-12 Democrat House CT Joe Courtney C001069 courtney.house.gov courtney https://courtney.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Joe Courtney (CT-02) issued the following statement after General Dynamics Electric Boat delivered the future USS IOWA (SSN 797), the 24th Virginia class boat, to the U.S. Navy on Wednesday. “The delivery of the future USS IOWA marks the 24th boat delivered in the Virginia class program and the second boat delivered in 2024. Next year, the Navy will take delivery of the USS MASSACHUSETTS and IDAHO, the 25th and 26th boats in the class. Despite the nationwide manufacturing slowdown caused by COVID, the delivery of IOWA and the rising production cadence are promising signs of the industry's recovery. This momentum will be supported by the seapower provisions in the annual defense bill that will soon be signed into law and rejects the Navy’s inadequate budget request by authorizing a second Virginia submarine, growing the supply chain, and boosting the wages of frontline shipyard workers, a critical step to increase recruitment and retention among the metal trades workforce. “Fair winds and following seas to the crew, and kudos to the outstanding shipbuilders who worked with great patriotism and skill to deliver the IOWA.” 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://courtney.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-courtney-votes-avert-costly-harmful-shutdown Rep. Courtney Votes to Avert Costly, Harmful Shutdown 2024-12-20 2024 2024-12 Democrat House CT Joe Courtney C001069 courtney.house.gov courtney https://courtney.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Joe Courtney (CT-02) issued the following statement after voting to pass a Continuing Resolution that funds the government through mid-March and removes Elon Musk’s demand to suspend the debt ceiling. The bill overwhelmingly passed by a vote of 366-34-1. “Tonight, I voted to pass a bipartisan Continuing Resolution that keeps our federal government open, ensures essential services remain uninterrupted, and retains several important provisions I fought for, like shipbuilding investments and essential aid for our farmers, while stripping Elon Musk’s $4 trillion demand to suspend the debt limit. His last-minute intrusion had nothing to do with keeping the government open and was all about his selfish desire to pave the way for a tax cut for the super-rich next year. Last night, I joined a bipartisan majority of members to stop a blank check for Musk and his cronies. “In eastern Connecticut, the short-term spending bill will ensure that federal employees, including roughly 9,000 sailors and officers at the Groton submarine base, will not have their pay disrupted, as well the Coast Guard Academy staff in New London. Their important work will continue uninterrupted.” On the funding for submarine programs, Rep. Courtney, Ranking Member of the Seapower Subcommittee, said: “Importantly, the final Continuing Resolution maintains the Biden Administration’s request to Congress of over $14 billion for the Virginia and Columbia class submarine programs and the industrial base, which will help the Navy and industry boost production cadence and grow the supply chain. Importantly, it includes the authorities I called for in the national defense bill to allow Electric Boat and Newport News Shipbuilding to increase wages for frontline workers to ensure our shipyards can recruit and retain a talented workforce.” On direct disaster economic assistance for farmers, Rep. Courtney, said: “Many farms in Connecticut have felt the devastating consequences of several extreme weather events over the l… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://delauro.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/delauro-letter-congressional-leadership-musk-chaos-government-funding DeLauro in Letter to Congressional Leadership: Musk Chaos in Government Funding Process Protects His Chinese Investments 2024-12-20 2024 2024-12 Democrat House CT Rosa L. DeLauro D000216 delauro.house.gov delauro https://delauro.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper Earlier today, Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro (CT-03), Ranking Member of the House Appropriations Committee, sent a letter to congressional leadership raising concerns that Elon Musk may have upended the government funding process to remove a provision that would regulate U.S. investments in China. “The four corners of the Appropriations Committee and Congressional leadership reached a government funding deal earlier this week that included a key provision that would screen U.S. investments in critical sectors in China,” said DeLauro. “Musk’s investments in China and his ties with the Chinese Communist Party have only grown over the last few years with Tesla’s Shanghai plant producing about 50 percent of Tesla’s global automobile output. It is no surprise ‘President’ Musk does not want to see a funding deal containing this provision be signed into law.” In the letter, DeLauro outlines how an outbound investment provision would have kept cutting edge technologies in the United States and prevent wealthy investors from offshoring production and U.S. intellectual property to China. Musk’s Shanghai plant is Tesla’s largest car manufacturing facility – producing about 50 percent of Tesla’s global automobile output over the last year. Nearly a quarter of Tesla’s global revenue in 2023 drew from sales of Chinese made vehicles from the Shanghai factory. In May of this year, Tesla broke ground on a new $200 million factory to manufacture large batteries critical to its electric vehicle supply chain – down the street from its Shanghai car factory. Notably, proponents of regulating U.S. investment in China have advocated for the inclusion of large battery manufacturing in the list of technologies subject to outbound investment screening. “Musk’s ties to China and Tesla’s significant investments in the country raise significant questions as to why he urged House Republican leadership walking away from a bipartisan, bicameral negotiated funding deal that included this provision,” DeLauro continued. “I urge congressional leader… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://delauro.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/delauro-secures-historic-disaster-assistance-new-england-farmers DeLauro Secures Historic Disaster Assistance for New England Farmers in Funding Bill 2024-12-20 2024 2024-12 Democrat House CT Rosa L. DeLauro D000216 delauro.house.gov delauro https://delauro.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper Today, Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro (CT-03), Ranking Member of the House Appropriations Committee, announced that she created and secured funding in the government funding and disaster assistance package for a Farm Recovery and Support Block Grant Program for small and medium-sized farmers. “This year, we have seen the devastating impacts of extreme, localized weather events on small farmers across the country– particularly in New England,” said DeLauro. “What is worse is that these farmers are left with few resources to recoup their losses – forcing them to make difficult decisions that put their livelihoods in danger and community food systems at risk. This is one of the primary reasons that Connecticut has lost 460 farms over the last five years. In this bill, I created a historic new block grant that is tailored to the needs of small and medium-sized farmers, removing the barrier of crop insurance requirements, which often do not meet the needs of or provide adequate coverage for diverse crop producers. This grant also allows states to determine the need for funding, enabling more flexibility in response to extreme local weather events, which have significantly increased across our region. It will enable more farmers in need to receive disaster relief, opening the door to specialty crop producers left behind by our current farm safety net. We cannot leave small and medium sized farmers high and dry when disaster strikes.” On August 26, a severe 13-minute hailstorm damaged several farms in Connecticut. One of them was William Dellacamera’s farm, Cecarelli’s Harrison Hill Farm in Northford. Although Will had insurance coverage, he was only able to recoup a little less than half of his over $400,000 loss. Many specialty crop farms have a hard time receiving crop insurance because of the lack of availability of coverage for diverse and specialty crops. The Farm Recovery and Support Block Grant was created to ensure small and medium-sized farmers can get relief, as our current system often leaves them behind. Thi… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://delauro.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/delauro-statement-house-passage-continuing-resolution-0 DeLauro Statement on House Passage of Continuing Resolution 2024-12-20 2024 2024-12 Democrat House CT Rosa L. DeLauro D000216 delauro.house.gov delauro https://delauro.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper Today, Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro (CT-03) voted in support of a bipartisan continuing resolution to keep government programs and services functioning until March 14, 2025. This package also includes supplemental relief funds necessary to help communities across the country recover from recent natural disasters. “This bipartisan package is a responsible and necessary measure to ensure that key government functions, and the programs and services that assist and help American workers and families, continue uninterrupted. From Hurricanes Helene and Milton, to the fires in Maui, to extreme weather events in every corner of the country, severe disasters have forced hardworking families to rebuild their homes, restore their communities, and reestablish their local economies. The bill provides communities across the country with critical relief, investing $100 billion to help Americans rebuild and recover. “I am pleased that this package includes important resources for American farmers, emergency defense investments, investments in the Virginia Class submarine program, and increased funding for child care. I am disappointed this final bill removes a provision on outbound investment protections I have long fought for to prevent American dollars from fueling the Chinese Communist Party's policies with our capital and capabilities.I believe at the last minute, Elon Musk blocked this provision from becoming law because of Tesla’s significant investment in China. I will continue to fight for outbound investment screening that protects U.S. investments, capabilities, and jobs.” The legislation is now headed to the Senate. 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://larson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/larson-votes-avert-holiday-shutdown-secures-disaster-relief-connecticut Larson Votes to Avert Holiday Shutdown, Secures Disaster Relief for Connecticut Farmers 2024-12-20 2024 2024-12 Democrat House CT John B. Larson L000557 larson.house.gov larson https://larson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper “Today we stood up and stopped Elon Musk and Donald Trump’s efforts to shut down the government ahead of the holidays,” said Larson. “Once again, Democrats stood united and voted to keep government open for the people we serve. I was proud to secure critical relief for farmers in my District and across Connecticut who are recovering from the flooding and frost that devastated their crops and ensure both federal workers and our troops continue to receive their paychecks. However, this unprecedented chaos is a preview of how we can expect House Republicans, President-elect Trump, and Elon Musk to legislate in the future. I am thankful for the leadership of Rep. Rosa DeLauro and Leader Jeffries and hope we can continue to work together to fully fund the government and important community projects in the new year.” 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/blumenthal-and-connolly-introduce-bicameral-legislation-to-protect_expand-national-scenic-trails Blumenthal & Connolly Introduce Bicameral Legislation to Protect & Expand National Scenic Trails 2024-12-20 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate CT Richard Blumenthal B001277 www.blumenthal.senate.gov blumenthal https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press scraper [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – Today, U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) and U.S. Representative Gerry Connolly (D-VA) introduced legislation to preserve and expand America’s national trail system. The Complete America’s Great Trails Act gives a tax credit to landowners who voluntarily make land contributions towards the completion of National Scenic Trails, expanding the trail system and protecting the land from development. Connecticut is home to two of the 11 National Scenic Trails—the Appalachian Trail, which extends 52 miles across the state from Salisbury in the north to Sherman in the south, and the New England Trail, which extends 117 miles across the state from Suffield in the north to Guilford in the south. “The system of National Scenic Trails provides access to truly extraordinary landscapes—accessing the beauty of nature and recreational opportunities,” said Blumenthal. “The Complete America’s Great Trails Act incentivizes landowners to help close gaps in our national trail system, ensuring we protect habitat from encroachment of development while expanding the trails themselves. We owe it to ourselves and to future generations to preserve these treasured spaces.” “The Complete America’s Great Trails Act will enhance, expand, and protect trails in America’s most treasured places, from Mt. Vernon to Mount St. Helens, by providing landowners with incentives to protect public access and natural landscapes along America’s National Scenic Trails,” said Connolly. “I am proud to lead this effort with Senator Blumenthal and look forward to our continued work together to protect these American treasures for generations to come.” The Complete America’s Great Trails Act provides landowners who make a voluntary land contribution towards the completion of the National Scenic Trails with a tax credit equal to the fair market value of the portion of the land, furthering the goal of strengthening the connectivity and improving the maintenance of the trail system. The legislation is cosponsored in the Senate by U.S. S… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T22:13:55Z
https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/blumenthal-statement-on-480-million-for-sikorsky-helicopters Blumenthal Statement on $480 Million for Sikorsky Helicopters 2024-12-20 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate CT Richard Blumenthal B001277 www.blumenthal.senate.gov blumenthal https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press scraper [Hartford, CT] – U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, released the following statement applauding four awards totaling $480,294,997 for Sikorsky to support the manufacturing of CH-53K and VH-92A helicopters. “These blockbuster contracts, providing newest model helicopters, are crucial to key defense capabilities. They are also a boost for Connecticut’s economy and good-paying jobs in our state. They are a testament to the highly skilled Sikorsky workers and supply chain companies who build the world’s finest helicopters. There is an ever increasing urgency to the need for such aircraft. I will continue fighting to deliver contracts to Connecticut’s expert defense manufacturers,” said Blumenthal. -30- 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://courtney.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-courtney-speaker-johnson-abandoned-his-agreement-beck-and-call Rep. Courtney: Speaker Johnson Abandoned his Agreement at the Beck and Call of the President-elect and his Non-Elected “DOGE” Advisor Elon Musk 2024-12-19 2024 2024-12 Democrat House CT Joe Courtney C001069 courtney.house.gov courtney https://courtney.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Joe Courtney (CT-02) issued the following statement. “In the period of less than 24 hours after Republican Speaker Mike Johnson released the bipartisan Continuing Resolution that would avoid a government shutdown and fund critical programs for CT farmers, shipbuilders, and Medicare patients, he abandoned his agreement at the beck and call of the President-elect and his non-elected “DOGE” advisor Elon Musk. “The bipartisan Continuing Resolution we agreed to provided approximately $23 million in long overdue economic and disaster assistance for Connecticut’s farmers, expanded workforce training programs like Connecticut’s Manufacturing Pipeline Initiative, and delivered sorely needed aid for Americans rebuilding from recent natural disasters. The bill also would have responded to the Biden Administration’s request to Congress of over $14 billion for the Virginia and Columbia class submarine programs and the industrial base, which is desperately needed to help the Navy and industry boost production cadence and grow the supply chain—requirements that are recognized by lawmakers on both sides of the aisle. “Instead of adhering to this pro-worker, pro-farmer, and pro-Navy bipartisan deal that would keep our government open, Republicans are catering to out of touch billionaires. As a result, they are jeopardizing the pay of over 9,000 sailors and officers in Groton, Coast Guard Academy personnel in New London, and TSA agents and other federal employees ahead of Christmas. “Speaker Johnson’s waffling has brought this country to the brink of a totally avoidable crisis that will cause real life harm to eastern Connecticut.” 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://courtney.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-courtney-statement-after-musk-johnson-fiasco-fails Rep. Courtney Statement After Musk-Johnson Fiasco Fails 2024-12-19 2024 2024-12 Democrat House CT Joe Courtney C001069 courtney.house.gov courtney https://courtney.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Joe Courtney (CT-02) issued the following statement after voting ‘no’ on H.R. 10515, which was resoundingly defeated in a bipartisan vote of 174-235. “House Speaker Mike Johnson abandoned the bipartisan bill he himself introduced two days ago after misleading, threatening tweets from an unelected billionaire, Elon Musk. “Now, the new hyper-partisan Musk-Johnson bill stripped critical bipartisan provisions that Americans desperately need to lower drug costs, help seniors, and support hospitals and community clinics. Musk’s demand to prematurely suspend the debt ceiling is a blatant gambit to slash taxes for the ultra-wealthy and do so at the detriment of working-class Americans and our nation’s debt – which increased by record amounts during then-President Trump’s first term. “As President Trump said in 2019, ‘I can’t imagine anybody ever even thinking of using the debt ceiling as a negotiating wedge.’ We must return to the bipartisan Continuing Resolution that provides disaster assistance to farmers and Americans rebuilding from extreme weather events and invests in shipbuilding programs without giving the President-elect and Elon Musk unchecked power for the next two years.” 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://larson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/larson-opposes-billionaire-backed-bill-fails-working-families Larson Opposes Billionaire-Backed Bill that Fails Working Families 2024-12-19 2024 2024-12 Democrat House CT John B. Larson L000557 larson.house.gov larson https://larson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper “I am proud of the bipartisan rejection of Elon Musk’s proposed funding bill,” said Larson. “After a billionaire who operates outside of the cabinet and Congress told his associate Mr. Trump what to do, the Republican leadership broke their word and abandoned an agreement that had been negotiated by Democrats and Republicans alike. This is not how legislation is done. I was proud our whole delegation stood together and opposed this new bill that gutted critical programs for working families, including funding for childhood cancer research, early detection for cervical cancer and breast cancer, community health centers, and nutrition assistance programs. This is a glimpse of what the future will be, but I am proud that the House spoke out against Elon Musk and Donald Trump in a bipartisan manner. Now let us hope we can get back to the original deal that was constructed to keep government funded and finally deliver relief to our farmers.” 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/blumenthal-statement-on-boars-head-response-regarding-deadly-listeria-outbreak Blumenthal Statement on Boar's Head Response Regarding Deadly Listeria Outbreak 2024-12-19 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate CT Richard Blumenthal B001277 www.blumenthal.senate.gov blumenthal https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press scraper [Hartford, CT] – U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) and Congressional colleagues received a response to the September 30 letter sent to Boar’s Head Provisions Company, Inc. (Boar’s Head) in which they demanded answers about the conditions at the Jarratt, Virginia plant at the center of a nationwide Listeria outbreak. Boar’s Head’s response failed to substantively answer key questions posed by Blumenthal. “This Boar’s Head response is an insulting effort to blow off accountability. The public deserves answers, not these evasive dodges. The deadly Listeria outbreak killed 10 people and injured many more, but Boar’s Head refuses to provide any real response about their unsafe and negligent Virginia plant. Their ham-handed approach to a very serious health issue fails to take accountability for the outbreak, provide any clarity on actual plans to prevent a future outbreak, or ease the minds of consumers. With the time for action long overdue, Boar’s Head must at least own up to their actions and failures and provide a real response. I’ll continue to fight for answers and demand real responsibility from all involved in this deadly disaster,” said Blumenthal. Boar’s Head failed to answer several questions raised in the September 30 letter, including: No confirmation if they plan to reopen the Virginia plant at the center of the Listeria outbreak No clear commitment to improving plant’s infrastructure or explanation of how Boar’s Head plans to prevent non-compliances in the future No response explaining their past food safety policies No response on why staff did not act sooner to address food safety concerns or how management will be held accountable No response on the frequency Boar’s Head conducted microbial testing No response on testing data as requested No word if Boar’s Head tested non-contact food surfaces No response on whether third party inspections were conducted before the recall No response on how HQ handled food safety concerns prior to establishing the new Boar’s Head Food Safety Advisory … 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/icymi-video-senate-passes-blumenthals-legislation-to-advance-management-and-conservation-of-plum-island ICYMI Video: Senate Passes Blumenthal's Legislation to Advance Management & Conservation of Plum Island 2024-12-19 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate CT Richard Blumenthal B001277 www.blumenthal.senate.gov blumenthal https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press scraper [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – In case you missed it, the Senate unanimously passed legislation authored by U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) and cosponsored by U.S. Senators Chuck Schumer (D-NY), Chris Murphy (D-CT), and Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY) to create a long-term solution for management of Plum Island. The Plum Island Preservation Study Act requires the U.S. Department of the Interior (DOI) to conduct a study to evaluate the national significance of Plum Island and the suitability of designating Plum Island as a unit of DOI. Blumenthal spoke on the Senate floor yesterday in support of the Plum Island Preservation Study Act passing through unanimous consent. “Thank you for giving us this opportunity, and, again, I thank my colleagues for approving all of these unanimous consents on behalf of land and resources that have such great value, like Plum Island, a national treasure,” said Blumenthal. “The passage of the Plum Island Preservation Study Act, while not achieving immediate and permanent protection of Plum Island and its nationally significant natural, historic, cultural, and scenic resources, is, nevertheless, a critical step toward achieving this highly worthwhile goal,” said Preserve Plum Island Coalition spokesperson John Turner. “We applaud all of our Senate and House sponsors for sticking with it and pushing the measure over the finish line. We urge Congress next to expeditiously appropriate funding so the Department of the Interior can undertake the studied assessment which we are confident will find Plum Island worthy of permanent preservation.” “Bravo and thank you Senator Blumenthal! You heard us and have worked tirelessly for many years to promote the preservation of Plum Island,” said Louise Harrison, Save the Sound’s Long Island Project Manager. “The Plum Island Preservation Study Act sets out a route for the studies and stakeholder collaborations necessary to bring the people’s vision for Plum Island into focus. There is no place like Plum Island; we are thrilled this legislation has passed a… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-trump-and-his-billionaire-buddies-want-to-be-in-charge-to-make-themselves-richer-at-our-expense Murphy: Trump and His Billionaire Buddies Want to be in Charge to Make Themselves Richer at Our Expense 2024-12-19 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate CT Christopher Murphy M001169 www.murphy.senate.gov chrismurphy https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON–U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) on Thursday spoke on the U.S. Senate floor to call out President-elect Trump’s ongoing plan to crush political dissent and lay the groundwork to transition American democracy into an oligarchy – all before he is even sworn in. This week alone, House Republicans recommended former Congresswoman Liz Cheney (R-Wyo.) be criminally investigated for her work on the Select Committee on the January 6 Attack, Trump sued Iowa pollster Ann Selzer and the Des Moines Register for publishing a poll he didn’t like, and ABC News settled Trump’s bogus defamation lawsuit for $15 million. In his speech, Murphy laid out how these attacks on free speech and the free press, coupled with Trump and his billionaire friends demanding a Christmas government shutdown in exchange for their demands, threaten American democracy as we know it. Murphy laid out the stakes: “America has been for almost all of our history a functioning, robust democracy where the party or individual in power changes regularly because people hold all the tools necessary to choose their leaders. But that could change in a heartbeat, so quickly, but without any one galvanizing moment that the transition might just be missed by all of us. You could just wake up one day and find out that the rules of democracy have been so rigged that Republicans or the Trump family never, ever lose again, and billionaires get to steal from all of us without any accountability.” “But I think it's also equally important to talk about why Donald Trump and Elon Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy and all of his billionaire friends are engaged in this very coordinated early attack, even before he's sworn in, to try to intimidate his political opposition and bully the press. And the reason they are doing this, the reason that they are trying to suppress dissent is because they are preparing to steal from us. Donald Trump and his billionaire buddies want to be in charge of government so that they can make themselves more wealthy at our expense. They want … 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T22:13:55Z
https://courtney.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/courtney-desaulnier-sarbanes-introduce-legislation-institute-major Courtney, DeSaulnier, Sarbanes Introduce Legislation to Institute Major Reforms to Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program 2024-12-18 2024 2024-12 Democrat House CT Joe Courtney C001069 courtney.house.gov courtney https://courtney.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Rep. Joe Courtney (D-CT), a senior member of the Education and the Workforce Committee, Rep. Mark DeSaulnier (D-CA), Ranking Member of the Health, Employment, Labor, and Pensions (HELP) Subcommittee, and Rep. John Sarbanes (D-MD), introduced new legislation to institute major reforms to the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program. In 2007, Rep. Sarbanes authored, and President George W. Bush enacted, the law creating PSLF to attract more Americans to careers like teaching, public health, and law enforcement by providing those who work in these critical professions with a mechanism to discharge the balance of their student loan following at least ten years of consistent, on-time payments. Unfortunately, borrowers have faced significant challenges in navigating the program and accessing loan relief. While the Biden Administration has heeded Members’ calls to make several fixes, which Rep. Courtney has worked to make permanent, it is clear significant reforms are required to achieve the program’s intended promise. The Strengthening Efforts for Relief and Vital Incentives for Community Service Engagement Act, or the SERVICE Act, achieves that goal by shortening the time to forgiveness from 120 payments (10 years) to 96 payments (eight years); providing borrowers with more flexibility to make qualifying payments; expanding deferment options in lieu of payments to include military service, cancer treatments, and other circumstances to count as qualifying months of payments; and improving borrowers’ rights and transparency. “PSLF was established to reward Americans who entered careers that our communities depend on, like teachers, nurses, firefighters, and police officers. My office has heard from many people in these professions who worked hard, followed the rules, but were still denied the PSLF relief they were promised, and we've been pressing on their behalf to make the program more transparent and fairer. The SERVICE Act will make it easier for America's public service workers t… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://delauro.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/delauro-receives-response-boars-head-regarding-listeria-outbreak DeLauro Receives “Response” from Boar’s Head Regarding Listeria Outbreak 2024-12-18 2024 2024-12 Democrat House CT Rosa L. DeLauro D000216 delauro.house.gov delauro https://delauro.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper Today, Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro (CT-03) announced that she has received a response to her September 30 letter to Boar’s Head regarding the Boar’s Head plant at the center of the recent nationwide Listeria outbreak which caused 10 deaths and dozens of hospitalizations – the largest listeriosis outbreak since 2011. The plant was allowed to keep operating despite over 60 citations for noncompliance and U.S. inspectors warning that the conditions at the plant posed an imminent threat to public health two years prior to the outbreak. “This September, I demanded answers from Boar’s Head about their Virginia plant—the one at the center of the recent Listeria outbreak,” said DeLauro. “What I received in return was not a credible response; it was a classic corporate dodge. They skirted almost every substantive question, from how they test for contaminants, to their alarmingly vague plans to prevent another deadly outbreak. The American people will not be satisfied with marketing fluff or half-truths—they deserve straight answers. Honesty and accountability are essential to prevent another outbreak. If Boar’s Head thinks it can brush this inquiry off and slip back to business as usual, they are wrong. I will not stop pushing until we know exactly what went wrong, precisely how they are fixing it, and who is finally going to take responsibility. If they thought this flimsy, PR-driven response to a Congressional inquiry would get them off the hook, they were wrong. I expect a real, substantive response, and soon.” Boar’s Head failed to answer several questions raised by DeLauro in her September 30 letter, including: No confirmation if they plan to reopen the Virginia plant at the center of the Listeria outbreak No clear commitment to improving plant’s infrastructure or explanation how Boar’s Head plans to prevent noncompliances in the future No response on explaining their past food safety policies No response on why staff did not act sooner to address food safety concerns or how management will be held accountable … 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://himes.house.gov/press-releases?ID=26044FCA-C7D0-4504-9C30-CA5A70B466D1 Himes Announces Grants to Support Local Police Departments in Bridgeport, Stamford, Norwalk 2024-12-18 2024 2024-12 Democrat House CT James A. Himes H001047 himes.house.gov himes https://himes.house.gov/press-releases page_html Bridgeport, CT – Today, Congressman Jim Himes (CT-04) announced that the cities of Bridgeport, Stamford, and Norwalk would receive a total of $200,000 from the Department of Justice’s Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant (JAG) program. “I’m thrilled that Bridgeport, Stamford, and Norwalk will receive funding for their local police departments. From increasing patrols to expanding mental health services, these grants will make our communities safer and ensure our police officers have the proper tools and training necessary to successfully carry out their duties,” said Congressman Himes. “On behalf of the City of Bridgeport and the Bridgeport Police Department, I would like to thank Congressman Jim Himes and his staff for helping us to secure this funding through these various JAG Grants. This funding will allow us to enhance and improve our services to the citizens of the City of Bridgeport, CT,” said Bridgeport Chief of Police Roderick Porter “The Stamford Police Department will utilize this grant by having our Police Officers attend First Responder Training on how better to deal with Veterans in Crisis. It is estimated that 16.8 Veterans commit suicide daily. Many Veterans are in crisis, silently suffering with post deployment issues. This training will assist our Police Officers in identifying the signs of suicide and strategies for prevention. As Police Officers come into daily contact with Veterans, it is important that we are trained in the best practices to safely and successfully handle the needs of this special population,” said Stamford Chief of Police Timothy Shaw “The awarding of JAG and DOJ grants has provided the Norwalk Police Department with increased technology in the area of license plate readers to deter car theft and car burglary in Norwalk regions that have seen an increase in property crimes since COVID. DOJ grants have also allowed the department to multiply our Social Services in our Behavioral health unit by adding a second full-time social worker to our unit to provide a cad… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-03-30T11:08:25Z
https://larson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/larson-house-republicans-are-bowing-down-billionaire-demands-holiday Larson: House Republicans are Bowing Down to Billionaire Demands for a Holiday Shutdown 2024-12-18 2024 2024-12 Democrat House CT John B. Larson L000557 larson.house.gov larson https://larson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper “It is unbelievable that an unelected billionaire operating outside of the cabinet and United States Congress is demanding House Republicans to back out of a bipartisan agreement and ordering a holiday shutdown,” said Larson. “I 100% agree with Leader Jeffries. If Republicans back out of a good faith deal, they are leaving families to suffer. By bowing down to a billionaire, they have made the decision to act as mere puppets in the process instead of duly elected representatives. I find this whole ordeal deeply upsetting because at the end of the day, a government shutdown will not impact Elon Musk, Donald Trump, or anyone of their class one iota – it is everyday American families who will pay the price. Federal workers and our troops will go without pay while billionaires like Elon Musk and Donald Trump get their Christmas wish to grind the government to a halt. Connecticut farmers who have been fighting for the support they need to bounce back after severe flooding and frost will be left with nothing. We must get serious and keep the government open to deliver for the people we are sworn to serve.” 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/blumenthal-and-blackburn-joint-statement-on-house-leaderships-refusal-to-allow-a-vote-on-the-kids-online-safety-act Blumenthal & Blackburn Joint Statement on House Leadership's Refusal to Allow a Vote on The Kids Online Safety Act 2024-12-18 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate CT Richard Blumenthal B001277 www.blumenthal.senate.gov blumenthal https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press scraper [HARTFORD, CT] – U.S. Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) and Marsha Blackburn (R-TN) released the following statement on the status of passing the Kids Online Safety Act in the 118th Congress: “While the House has refused to take up the bipartisan Kids Online Safety Act, countless children and teens have died from suicide, mental health disorders, predation, bullying, and drug use fostered and fueled by Big Tech. One of these victims, Jesse Harrington, was a 15-year-old boy who wanted to be a firefighter and died by suicide in October after becoming addicted to Instagram, Snapchat, and TikTok, while the House sat on its hands at the behest of Mark Zuckerberg. The House’s active obstruction of the Kids Online Safety Act will tragically result in the deaths of even more children like Jesse. To be clear: the blockade against safeguards and accountability was about padding Big Tech’s financial bottom line, not principle. For nearly four years, we have worked with more than 240 organizations and colleagues across the political spectrum to craft bipartisan legislation to protect children online from Big Tech abuses – legislation that passed the Senate on a 91-3 vote. Yet falsehoods crafted in Silicon Valley boardrooms and parroted by Washington politicians, along with millions of dollars spent along the way, held up KOSA in the House to advance Meta and Google's goal of profiting off our children. We are thankful to Senate leadership, most especially Senators Chuck Schumer, Mitch McConnell, John Thune, Ted Cruz, and Maria Cantwell and the powerful bipartisan coalition that supported KOSA and continues to believe it is necessary. We are grateful for the many free speech advocates who saw through Big Tech's lies and smokescreen, including Elon Musk, Linda Yaccarino, and Donald Trump, Jr. It was House Republican leadership who chose not to move this bill forward despite overwhelming support. We will continue the strongly bipartisan fight on the Kids Online Safety Act for the young people and parents across the countr… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/blumenthal-and-swalwell-introduce-bicameral-legislation-to-reduce-student-loan-debt-for-public-servants Blumenthal & Swalwell Introduce Bicameral Legislation to Reduce Student Loan Debt for Public Servants 2024-12-18 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate CT Richard Blumenthal B001277 www.blumenthal.senate.gov blumenthal https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press scraper [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – Today, U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) and U.S. Representative Eric Swalwell (D-CA) introduced the Strengthening Loan Forgiveness for Public Servants Act, legislation to expand the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program (PSLF) to provide meaningful student debt relief to teachers, police officers, public health workers, and others who dedicate their careers to public service. “Our nation’s dedicated public servants make incredible sacrifices for the betterment of our country, and they deserve relief from the immense weight of student debt,” said Blumenthal. “The Strengthening Loan Forgiveness for Public Servants Act provides a helping hand to the loyal police officers, teachers, and healthcare workers serving our communities and expands opportunities to ease financial burdens—repaying a debt of gratitude to our public servants.” “We should support students seeking a career in public service. That’s why I introduced the Strengthening Loan Forgiveness for Public Servants Act,” said Swalwell. “Too often students are prevented from pursuing a career in public service because of crippling college loan debt. This bill seeks to offer student loan forgiveness to teachers, police officers, public health workers and others who dedicate their careers to public service. Incentivizing students to seek public service careers while staying debt free will not only benefit our communities, but also allow students to freely make decisions for their future.” The Strengthening Loan Forgiveness for Public Servants Act expands PSLF and eliminates uncertainty for borrowers. The legislation allows borrowers to receive forgiveness for their loans in qualifying intervals, further incentivizing individuals to pursue careers in public service. The legislation is cosponsored in the Senate by U.S. Senators Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Ben Cardin (D-MD), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), and Tina Smith (D-MN). The full text of the bill can be found here. -30- 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/blumenthal-applauds-final-passage-of-the-national-defense-authorization-bill Blumenthal Applauds Final Passage of the National Defense Authorization Bill 2024-12-18 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate CT Richard Blumenthal B001277 www.blumenthal.senate.gov blumenthal https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press scraper [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – Today, U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, released the following statement applauding the Senate passage of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2025. The NDAA includes a number of provisions championed by Blumenthal that make significant investments in Connecticut’s defense manufacturing workforce, support service members across the Department of Defense, and enhance national security. The bill passed the Senate by a vote of 85-14 after passing the House of Representatives last week. The full text of the NDAA is available here. A summary of the NDAA is available here. “This landmark bipartisan defense measure bolsters our national security and boosts Connecticut’s economy. We’re redoubling our nation’s commitments to servicemen and women with significant pay raises and programs and keeping faith with our allies and our own defense needs through important investments in subs, ships, artillery, and aircraft to ensure the security of the American people. This bill makes critical investments in advanced technologies and weapon platforms and the talented workforce that build them in Connecticut, showing our state’s central role in our nation’s defense efforts. We also make significant investments in the health and quality of life of servicemembers—resources rightfully earned. As a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, I was proud to fight for these provisions. I look forward to continuing my advocacy,” said Blumenthal. -30- 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/blumenthal-murphy-delauro-and-elicker-announce-20-million-for-climate-energy_other-environmental-initiatives-in-new-haven Blumenthal, Murphy, DeLauro, & Elicker Announce $20 Million for Climate, Energy & Other Environmental Initiatives in New Haven 2024-12-18 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate CT Richard Blumenthal B001277 www.blumenthal.senate.gov blumenthal https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press scraper [NEW HAVEN, CT] – Today, U.S. Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) and Chris Murphy (D-CT), U.S. Representative Rosa DeLauro (CT-03), and Mayor Justin Elicker announced $20 million in federal funding for the City of New Haven and twenty partner organizations to advance a series of environmental initiatives designed to mitigate climate change, build resiliency, and reduce pollution in New Haven. The funds are awarded through the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s Community Change Grants Program established to reduce pollution, increase community climate resilience, and build community capacity. The Community Change Grants Program is made possible by the Inflation Reduction Act. “This significant $20 million investment is a testament to New Haven’s consistent commitment to community climate resilience. New greenways, improved sidewalks, energy upgrades, and more will transform neighborhoods and reduce air pollution in the surrounding community. I’m proud that Inflation Reduction Act funding continues to advance environmental justice across Connecticut,” said Blumenthal. “This $20 million in federal funding is a huge win for neighborhoods in New Haven. With this money, the city can invest in new greenways and bike share programs that will make our communities safer to enjoy and energy-efficient upgrades that will reduce household costs for families. These investments will not only improve quality of life today but will help us build a stronger and more sustainable future for New Haven,” said Murphy. "Today, we celebrate the $20 million Environmental and Climate Justice Community Change Grant awarded to the Elm City Climate Collaborative, made possible by the Inflation Reduction Act," said DeLauro. "This funding will empower the City of New Haven and the Greater Dwight Development Corporation (GDDC) to tackle pollution, bolster climate resilience, and address environmental justice challenges. I was happy to support this joint request to the federal government having been engaged in the work that the City and GDD… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T22:13:55Z
https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/blumenthal-to-serve-as-ranking-member-of-the-senate-committee-on-veterans-affairs Blumenthal to Serve as Ranking Member of the Senate Committee on Veterans' Affairs 2024-12-18 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate CT Richard Blumenthal B001277 www.blumenthal.senate.gov blumenthal https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press scraper [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) announced today that he will become the Ranking Member of the Senate Committee on Veterans’ Affairs during the upcoming Congress: “As the Ranking Member of the Senate Committee on Veterans’ Affairs I’ll have the honor and leadership opportunity to protect and expand the care and benefits that veterans need and deserve. They’ve earned – and should receive – better healthcare, expanded access to education, increased job training opportunities, and more. I thank Chairman Tester for his great work, and I will seek to continue it, especially on implementing the PACT Act. I look forward to working closely with Senator Moran, who has been a terrific legislative partner in the past, and who has shown a deep commitment to serving our nation’s veterans.” -30- 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/new-senate-permanent-subcommittee-on-investigations-majority-staff-report-exposes-failure-to-stop-us-technology-from-fueling-russias-war-machine-and-chinas-ai-arms-race New Senate Permanent Subcommittee on Investigations Majority Staff Report Exposes Failure to Stop U.S. Technology from Fueling Russia's War Machine and China's AI Arms Race 2024-12-18 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate CT Richard Blumenthal B001277 www.blumenthal.senate.gov blumenthal https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press scraper [WASHINGTON, DC] – U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Chair of the U.S. Senate Permanent Subcommittee on Investigations (PSI), released a Majority staff report revealing how the Department of Commerce’s Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) has failed to enforce semiconductor export controls, leading to the continued appearance of American-manufactured technology in Russian weapons used in the war in Ukraine and in China’s Artificial Intelligence systems. PSI’s investigation has uncovered how chronic underfunding has undercut the BIS’s ability to fulfill a key national security function—forcing the agency to rely on laughably outdated technology to trace increasingly sophisticated distribution networks. Today’s report stresses the need for additional resources and enforcement action to strengthen our national security and protect against diversion of U.S.-made technology by Russia and China. “Our present sanction system is a sieve—enabling an illicit flow of technology to Russia that fuels its murderous war on Ukraine," said Blumenthal. "An aggressive crackdown is urgent to make export controls effective against both Russia and China. Lack of resources and effort make current controls a mockery. My PSI investigation calls for an overhaul of sanctions enforcement to protect our national security and technological dominance. I’m calling on the Department of Commerce to take immediate action and crack down on the companies allowing U.S.-made semiconductors to power Russian weapons and Chinese ambition.” In September 2023, PSI initiated an inquiry to better understand the prevalence of American-manufactured microchips in Russian weapons systems despite export controls implemented to block Russia from accessing U.S. technology. Earlier this year, PSI Majority staff released a report revealing the U.S.-based semiconductor manufacturers’ laissez-faire attitude toward export control compliance. Today, PSI is releasing its final Majority staff report in the Subcommittee’s inquiry into the U.S. technology fueling Ru… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-blumenthal-lawmakers-probe-real-estate-firm-easyknock-after-abrupt-closure-demand-answers-for-customers Murphy, Blumenthal, Lawmakers Probe Real Estate Firm EasyKnock After Abrupt Closure, Demand Answers for Customers 2024-12-18 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate CT Christopher Murphy M001169 www.murphy.senate.gov chrismurphy https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON–U.S. Senators Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) and Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) joined Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) in sending a letter to the Founder and CEO of EasyKnock—a real estate company that bought people’s homes and turned them into renters—probing the company’s allegedly deceptive and predatory business practices and their impacts on customers, after the company abruptly closed its doors on December 5, 2024. The letter was also signed by Tina Smith (D-Minn.), Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) and Peter Welch (D-Vt.). Before its recent closure, EasyKnock purchased homes from financially distressed homeowners through its “Sell & Stay” program, promising they would “[r]eceive 100% of [their] home’s value without having to move.” However, consumer lawsuits and multiple state attorneys general have alleged that EasyKnock’s deceptive advertising and business practices often left former homeowners far worse off than they were before the company found them, causing homeowners to lose cherished family homes and much of the equity they originally had in them. “We are deeply concerned about EasyKnock’s lasting impact on vulnerable homeowners, including homeowners with pending residential sale-leaseback agreements with your company, and the extent to which the company will be handling these agreements in the wake of its abrupt closure earlier this month,” wrote the lawmakers. According to reports, EasyKnock customers rarely received anything close to the full market values of their homes, and the company employed predatory tactics, such as consistent rent increases in spite of a lack of improvements to properties, placing customers in financial positions where they could no longer repurchase their homes. “Across America, the allegations against EasyKnock followed a similar pattern: EasyKnock made misleading statements about services to entrap vulnerable homeowners only to break its promises at the expense of working families,” continued the lawmakers. In March 2024, the Connecticut Attorney Gener… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-leads-democratic-colleagues-in-reintroducing-bicameral-legislation-to-expand-support-for-magnet-schools Murphy Leads Democratic Colleagues in Reintroducing Bicameral Legislation to Expand Support for Magnet Schools 2024-12-18 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate CT Christopher Murphy M001169 www.murphy.senate.gov chrismurphy https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON—U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), a member of the U.S. Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions Committee, along with U.S. Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Cory Booker (D-N.J.), and Tim Kaine (D-Va.) and U.S. Representatives Joe Courtney (D-Conn.), Jahana Hayes (D-Conn.), and Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. (D-Ga.) on Wednesday reintroduced the Magnet Schools Accessibility, Growth, and Nonexclusionary Enrollment Transformation (MAGNET) Act, legislation to strengthen support for magnet schools. The bill would require the federal Magnet Schools Assistance Program (MSAP) grant to prioritize applicants that plan to establish whole-school magnet schools, emphasize inter-district diversity, and propose strategies to improve diversity and academic performance across schools and districts. It would also authorize a new grant program housed under MSAP, the Supplemental Diversity Grant (SDG), which aims to continue supporting the work of existing magnet programs aspiring to improve their diversity-related goals. Magnet schools are public schools designed to cater to different learning styles and attract a wide range of students from different racial and socioeconomic backgrounds across zip codes. More than 3.5 million students attend magnet schools nationwide, but as school districts become increasingly segregated by race and income, this legislation updates the MSAP grant to expand access to funding and ensure it supports magnet schools with the greatest impact on improving diversity and academic performance. In Connecticut, 86 magnet schools serve nearly 40,000 students in grades pre-K through 12 across 29 districts. "Connecticut's magnet schools are proof that desegregating our classrooms improves academic outcomes for everyone," said Murphy. “Expanding access to these schools across the country will ensure every kid – no matter their zip code – can get a quality education. I’m glad to reintroduce this legislation to support existing magnet schools and help other districts get new programs off the grou… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-ricketts-flood-bera-make-bicameral-push-for-gao-study-on-federal-response-to-loneliness-crisis Murphy, Ricketts, Flood, Bera Make Bicameral Push For GAO Study On Federal Response To Loneliness Crisis 2024-12-18 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate CT Christopher Murphy M001169 www.murphy.senate.gov chrismurphy https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON—U.S. Senators Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), and Pete Ricketts (R-Neb.), and U.S. Representatives Mike Flood (R-Neb.) and Ami Bera (D-Calif.), sent a bipartisan, bicameral letter to U.S. Comptroller General Gene Dodaro requesting the Government Accountability Office (GAO) conduct a study on federal programs monitoring loneliness and social isolation. In their letter, the lawmakers underscore the alarming increase in loneliness across the United States and call for standardized data collection and a coordinated approach to address the growing health risks associated with social isolation. “The United States is experiencing a crisis of social connection, isolation, and loneliness,” the members wrote. “Today, approximately half of US adults report experiencing loneliness. In 1990, 3% of Americans reported having no close friends; by 2021 that figure had climbed to 12%. The average American spent 8% more time alone in 2019 than they did in 2003. These data points, combined with other research and scholarship, led the Surgeon General to issue a public health advisory on the growing epidemic of loneliness and social isolation.” “Despite the growing acknowledgement that loneliness and social isolation are a problem, there are still no standardized metrics that allows us to monitor these trends,” the members added. “The lack of standardization in data collection is largely due to the diversity of definitions that are found in scientific literature, which leads to inconsistencies in how loneliness and isolation are understood and measured. This variety in data collection methods across studies leads to fragmented data that makes it difficult to draw reliable comparisons. Lacking centralized and uniform definitions and protocols to monitor these metrics limits our ability to effectively address and monitor these important public health issues.” The full text of the letter is available HERE and below: Dear Comptroller General Dodaro: We write to request the Government Accountability Office (GAO) conduct a study to … 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T22:13:55Z
https://himes.house.gov/press-releases?ID=E2627031-D88F-4C62-A574-EEA99AE5CF67 Himes Announces Grant to Improve Health Services for Formerly Incarcerated Individuals 2024-12-17 2024 2024-12 Democrat House CT James A. Himes H001047 himes.house.gov himes https://himes.house.gov/press-releases page_html Bridgeport, CT – Today, Congressman Jim Himes announced Optimus Health Care will receive $1 million from the Department of Health and Human Services’ Quality Improvement Fund – Transitions in Care for Justice-Involved Populations to provide enhanced medical services to individuals as they transition back to their communities. “Getting your life back on track after serving time is that much harder if poor health prevents you from holding down a job or attending class,” said Congressman Jim Himes. “This grant will provide Optimus with funding to ease that transition by increasing access to high-quality primary care services in the communities they are rejoining.” “Optimus Health Care, Inc. is proud to announce its receipt of the FY2025 Quality Improvement Fund – Transitions in Care for Justice-Involved Populations. This funding, in collaboration with the Department of Corrections, will support efforts to enhance care transitions for individuals within 90 days of release from incarceration by improving access to high-quality, community-based primary care,” said OPTIMUS Health Care Inc. CEO Karen Daley. “With this one-time investment, Optimus will expand evidence-based practices and pilot innovative approaches to connect justice-involved individuals reentering the community with tailored medical and behavioral health services. In partnership with seven halfway houses in the region, Career Resources Center and the Recovery Network of Programs, Optimus will also provide comprehensive wraparound services, including employment support, housing assistance, and educational opportunities. These resources are vital for fostering successful reentry, better health outcomes, promoting long-term stability, and reducing recidivism.” The largest provider of primary care in Southwestern Connecticut, Optimus Health Care is a federally-qualified health center (FQHC) that offers a range of medical services and is committed to treating all patients, regardless of their ability to pay. Quality Improvement Fund – Transitions in Care f… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-03-30T11:08:25Z
https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/blumenthal-and-murphy-join-colleagues-in-introducing-ndaa-amendment-to-protect-military-parents-right-to-health-care-for-their-kids Blumenthal & Murphy Join Colleagues in Introducing NDAA Amendment to Protect Military Parents' Right to Health Care for their Kids 2024-12-17 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate CT Richard Blumenthal B001277 www.blumenthal.senate.gov blumenthal https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press scraper [HARTFORD, CT] – U.S. Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, and Chris Murphy (D-CT) joined 19 of their colleagues in introducing an amendment to the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) of 2025 to remove language that would strip away servicemembers’ parental rights to access medically necessary health care for their transgender children. The U.S. House of Representatives-passed NDAA includes language that bans health care for transgender kids and TRICARE patients under the age of 18. “I have supported and worked hard on the NDAA and its many provisions to enhance and protect our national security as well as Connecticut’s defense industrial base. I have opposed limits on healthcare for families of military personnel. I support this amendment to protect rights of service members and their families to make their own healthcare decisions,” said Blumenthal. “Parents – not politicians – are the only people who should be making health care decisions for their children. This amendment would ensure military families have the same rights as every other family to make sure their kids get the care they need. It is unbelievable that in pushing their hateful, anti-LGBTQ agenda, House Republicans want to punish parents serving our country,” said Murphy. Every major medical and mental health association in the U.S., representing more than 1.3 million U.S. doctors, supports access to this medically necessary, evidence-based health care for transgender people. If the House-passed NDAA becomes law, it is estimated that 6,000 – 7,000 transgender children of servicemembers would not be able to access the health care that their parents had approved. The amendment to the FY2025 NDAA would strike Sec. 708 of the House-passed NDAA, which would ban TRICARE from offering medically sound health care for our youngest transgender servicemembers and to transgender military children under 18. The amendment, led by Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), is also co-sponsored by Senators Ed Markey (D-MA), … 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/concerned-with-public-health-threat-blumenthal-urges-epa-to-issue-final-risk-evaluation-of-formaldehyde Concerned with Public Health Threat, Blumenthal Urges EPA to Issue Final Risk Evaluation of Formaldehyde 2024-12-17 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate CT Richard Blumenthal B001277 www.blumenthal.senate.gov blumenthal https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press scraper [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) wrote to Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Michael Regan calling on the EPA to issue a strong, science-based final risk evaluation for formaldehyde, a chemical known to pose serious health risks including cancer. This evaluation would serve as a necessary step to begin work to mitigate the harms of formaldehyde under the Toxic Substances Control Act. “Formaldehyde is a chemical found in everything from household products to pesticides to motor vehicle exhaust. It has long been known to cause adverse health impacts, including cancer,” wrote Blumenthal. “The agency’s own science is clear – formaldehyde is dangerous to human health. Therefore, the agency has an obligation to protect the public from the chemical by following their own science and precedent and concluding the risk is unreasonable.” Blumenthal emphasized the importance of a strong risk evaluation to protecting the health of Americans, writing, “Throughout your tenure, EPA has been steadfast in upholding its vital mission of protecting human health and the environment. I urge you to continue this commitment and issue a final risk evaluation for formaldehyde that is rooted in the best available science and is as strong as possible – a critical step toward future regulatory action to mitigate the known risks of the chemical.” The full text of the letter can be found here and below. December 16, 2024 The Honorable Michael S. Regan Administrator Environmental Protection Agency 1200 Pennsylvania Avenue NW Washington, D.C. 20460 Dear Administrator Regan, I write with concern over the health risks associated with formaldehyde. As highlighted in a recent ProPublica investigation, this chemical is both damaging to human health and near ubiquitous across the country – a dangerous combination.[1] I urge the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to issue a strong, science-based final risk evaluation for formaldehyde as soon as possible, a necessary step for the agency to begin work t… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/online-sports-betting-boom-blumenthal-demands-federal-standards-to-protect-consumers-against-problem-gambling Online Sports Betting Boom: Blumenthal Demands Federal Standards to Protect Consumers Against Problem Gambling 2024-12-17 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate CT Richard Blumenthal B001277 www.blumenthal.senate.gov blumenthal https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press scraper [WASHINGTON, DC] – U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), a member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, underscored the public health impacts of the widespread legalization of sports gambling in a hearing titled, “America’s High-Stakes Bet on Legalized Sports Gambling.” As mobile sports betting surges, Blumenthal called for minimum federal standards like those in his Supporting Affordability and Fairness with Every Bet (SAFE Bet) Act to better protect consumers from addictive practices and features of online sportsbooks and gambling platforms. “We are in the midst of a sports betting boom that is one of the most severe public health problems today,” said Blumenthal. “It is the cause of addiction for millions of Americans with severe gambling problems. It is tearing apart families— literally divorces, abandonment. It is a criminal justice problem, when people get into trouble, and they have to pay back the debts that they owe—when I was U.S. Attorney, I prosecuted extortion and enforcement by the gangs. And of course, it is an unemployment problem, a mental health, behavioral health problem.” Earlier this year, Blumenthal introduced the SAFE Bet Act alongside Congressman Paul D. Tonko (D-NY), which would require states offering sports betting to meet minimum federal standards in the categories of advertising, affordability and Artificial Intelligence to create a safer, less addictive product. Blumenthal is also the author of the Gambling Addiction Recovery, Investment, and Treatment (GRIT) Act, which sets aside federal funds to help prevent, treat, and study gambling addiction in the United States. Video of Blumenthal’s remarks during today’s hearing can be found here. A transcript is available below. Sen. Blumenthal: Thanks, Mr. Chairman. I am very appreciative to you, Mr. Chairman, for holding this hearing and to the witnesses here today—not only for appearing but for your good work and your help to me in drafting the SAFE Bet Act and the GRIT Act. Mr. Whyte, Mr. Levant, Mr. Baker, particularly. You know, we… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-blumenthal-join-colleagues-in-introducing-ndaa-amendment-to-protect-military-parents-right-to-health-care-for-their-kids Murphy, Blumenthal Join Colleagues in Introducing NDAA Amendment to Protect Military Parents’ Right to Health Care for Their Kids 2024-12-17 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate CT Christopher Murphy M001169 www.murphy.senate.gov chrismurphy https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON–U.S. Senators Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) and Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) joined 19 of their colleagues in introducing an amendment to the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) of 2025 to remove language that would strip away servicemembers’ parental rights to access medically necessary health care for their transgender children. The U.S. House of Representatives-passed NDAA includes language that bans health care for transgender kids and TRICARE patients under the age of 18. “Parents – not politicians – are the only people who should be making health care decisions for their children. This amendment would ensure military families have the same rights as every other family to make sure their kids get the care they need. It is unbelievable that in pushing their hateful, anti-LGBTQ agenda, House Republicans want to punish parents serving our country,” said Murphy. “I have supported and worked hard on the NDAA and its many provisions to enhance and protect our national security as well as Connecticut’s defense industrial base. I have opposed limits on healthcare for families of military personnel. I support this amendment to protect rights of service members and their families to make their own healthcare decisions,” said Blumenthal. Every major medical and mental health association in the U.S., representing more than 1.3 million U.S. doctors, supports access to this medically necessary, evidence-based health care for transgender people. If the House-passed NDAA becomes law, it is estimated that 6,000 – 7,000 transgender children of servicemembers would not be able to access the health care that their parents had approved. The amendment to the FY2025 NDAA would strike Sec. 708 of the House-passed NDAA, which would ban TRICARE from offering medically sound health care for our youngest transgender servicemembers and to transgender military children under 18. The amendment, led by Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.), is also co-sponsored by Senators Ed Markey (D-Mass.), Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-blumenthal-schatz-colleague-reintroduce-legislation-to-avoid-catastrophic-default Murphy, Blumenthal, Schatz, Colleague Reintroduce Legislation to Avoid Catastrophic Default 2024-12-17 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate CT Christopher Murphy M001169 www.murphy.senate.gov chrismurphy https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON–U.S. Senators Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) and Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) joined U.S. Senator Brian Schatz (D-Hawai‘i) and 14 of their Senate colleagues in reintroducing the End the Threat of Default Act, legislation that would permanently remove the threat of a default by repealing the national debt ceiling, an arbitrary limit restricting the amount that the United States Treasury can borrow to pay its debts. In June 2023, the president signed legislation that suspended the statutory debt ceiling until January 2, 2025. “No one should have to lose sleep wondering if their Social Security check or military pay will arrive on time just because Congress can’t get its act together,” said Murphy. “But every time we have to debate raising the debt ceiling, we take an unnecessary gamble with those benefits and with people’s lives. It’s time we put a stop to the political games and bring an end to the debt ceiling once and for all.” “Failure to increase an arbitrary debt ceiling would lead to a disruption of critical Social Security and Medicare payments, soaring unemployment, and overall economic catastrophe largely impacting vulnerable populations. I’m proud to support the End the Threat of Default Act, which would repeal the national debt ceiling and permanently remove this threat,” said Blumenthal. “Defaulting on our national debt would be an economic catastrophe for everyone, especially families, veterans, and seniors. Congress has the chance to debate federal spending, and it’s well before the bill comes due,” said Schatz. “We need to stop playing this dangerous game with the nation’s economy and get rid of the debt ceiling for good.” A default would be catastrophic and would likely trigger a recession. Military pay, Social Security and Medicare payments, and Treasury bond yields would all be disrupted. In practice, the debt limit has no impact on government spending, which is authorized and approved through the federal budget and appropriations process. Instead, the ceiling restricts the U.S. Treasury … 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T22:13:55Z
https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/blumenthal-introduces-legislation-to-prevent-frontover-child-deaths Blumenthal Introduces Legislation to Prevent Frontover Child Deaths 2024-12-16 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate CT Richard Blumenthal B001277 www.blumenthal.senate.gov blumenthal https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press scraper [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) announced today the introduction of legislation to prevent child deaths due to frontover incidents. The Standards to Prevent (STOP) Frontovers Act would require all new vehicles to come equipped with cameras, sensors, or other technology to improve drivers’ visibility and perception of kids, pets, and other objects that may be in front of and around their vehicle and avert crashes. Demonstrations by investigative reporters have shown blind zones in front of some cars to be as large as 16 feet, obscuring children from view and putting them at risk of being run over, leading to deaths and injuries. “This mandate for detection devices like cameras or sensors will save lives,” said Blumenthal. “Large blind zones around cars are reportedly resulting in heartbreaking incidents—needlessly killing or severely injuring kids. Safety is not—and should never be—a premium feature only available to those who can afford it; it should be the default. I’m proud to lead the STOP Frontovers Act to require a visibility and perception standard for cars to help prevent tragic, deadly accidents.” “As vehicles have become larger, so have front and side blind zones as demonstrated by research from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety and others,” said Cathy Chase, President of Advocates for Highway and Auto Safety. “As a result, vulnerable road users, especially small children, may not be visible to the driver thus endangering them to be hit by the vehicle. We commend Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) for introducing The STOP Frontovers Act which will require technology in new cars to prevent these crashes and heartbreaking tragedies. The STOP Frontovers Act should be given the ‘green light’ to better protect all road users.” “As American automobiles get bigger, their blindzones follow suit, leading to needless tragedies that can be prevented using readily available technology,” said Michael Brooks, Executive Director of Center for Auto Safety. “That’s why the Center fo… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T22:13:55Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-statement-on-plan-to-lift-syria-sanctions Murphy Statement on Plan to Lift Syria Sanctions 2024-12-16 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate CT Christopher Murphy M001169 www.murphy.senate.gov chrismurphy https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON–U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), Chair of the U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Subcommittee on Near East, South Asia, Central Asia and Counterterrorism, on Monday released the following statement supporting a plan for the U.S. to lift sanctions on Syria: “Since the collapse of the Assad regime, events are moving quickly to shape the new reality in Syria, and the United States cannot be left on the sideline. Syria's path forward should be determined and led by the Syrian people, but the United States should be actively and directly engaging with the new leadership to help ensure a successful transition and protect key U.S. national security interests. “The U.S. troop presence on the ground in Syria and our sanctions are important points of leverage that require us to be at the table. Decisions in Damascus will be made quickly, and too often other powers act as the U.S. wrings it hands over what to do. If it is in our interest to support the goals of the new government, the U.S. should not be stubbornly reluctant to lift decades-old sanctions that were constructed to put pressure on a government that is no longer in power. Most immediately, the U.S. should temporarily suspend sanctions that hamper the much-needed surge in humanitarian assistance and reconstruction that will be necessary to help support the Syrian people in the short term. “Officials within HTS have publicly stated their intent to govern inclusively, and Syrians and the world will be watching over the coming months ahead to see whether they intend to follow through on that commitment.” ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T22:13:55Z
https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/blumenthal-requests-briefing-on-recent-drone-activity-in-new-england-airspace Blumenthal Requests Briefing on Recent Drone Activity in New England Airspace 2024-12-13 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate CT Richard Blumenthal B001277 www.blumenthal.senate.gov blumenthal https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press scraper [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – Today, U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) wrote to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS), and U.S. Department of Defense (DOD) sharing his concerns regarding the recent reporting of drone activity in the New England airspace, including Connecticut, and requesting a briefing on how the agencies plan to address safety and security concerns. “The proliferation of reported drone activities in this region raises significant safety and security concerns for both commercial and private aviation as well as national security concerns,” wrote Blumenthal. “Incidents involving drones interfering with aircraft operations have increased, posing a real and substantial risk to passengers, crews, and others in the vicinity. And, I am particularly concerned about the potential for these unmanned aerial vehicles – many of which are as large as a car— to disrupt air traffic and, more alarmingly, to be used maliciously to threaten national security.” “It is critical that the FAA take immediate and comprehensive action to ensure the safety of the airspace. I therefore request that the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) provide briefing regarding a comprehensive plan, coordinated with interagency partners, on addressing these concerns. This briefing should cover all details available regarding these drones as to ownership, operation, impacts on aviation, national security, and privacy,” continued Blumenthal. The full text of the letter can be found here and below. December 13, 2024 The Honorable Michael Whitaker The Honorable Christopher A. Wray Administrator Director Federal Aviation Administration Federal Bureau of Investigations Washington, D.C. Washington, D.C. The Honorable Alejandro Mayorkas The Honorable Lloyd Austin Secretary Secretary U.S. Department of Homeland Security U.S. Department of Defense Washington, D.C. Washington D.C. Dear Administrator Whitaker, Director Wray, Secretary Mayorkas, and Secr… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T22:13:55Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-and-cramer-introduce-legislation-to-improve-vision-care-quality-protect-consumer-choice Murphy And Cramer Introduce Legislation To Improve Vision Care Quality, Protect Consumer Choice 2024-12-13 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate CT Christopher Murphy M001169 www.murphy.senate.gov chrismurphy https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON—U.S. Senators Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) and Kevin Cramer (R-N.D.) introduced the Vision Lab Choice Act of 2024, legislation to allow clinicians to use the medical labs of their choosing and lower costs for both patients and doctors. There are currently just two Vision Benefit Managers (VBMs) that dominate the vision insurance market, providing coverage to two-thirds of Americans with vision benefits. These VBMs often own the frame and lens manufacturers and control which labs an optometrist can use – a dynamic that has resulted in less autonomy for providers and more limited choices for their patients. The Vision Lab Choice Act of 2024 would amend Title XXVII of the Public Health Service Act to allow optometrists to choose the best labs and suppliers for their practice, ensuring patients receive high-quality, personalized vision care. “Right now, VBMs control practically every part of the vision industry – the insurance plans, the manufacturers for frames and lenses, the vision labs – and they use that power to eliminate choice and drive up costs for doctors and patients,” said Murphy. “This bill would solve a small piece of that problem by making sure optometrists aren’t forced to use a VBMs preferred vision lab. Instead, they’ll have the freedom to choose labs that lower costs and cut wait times for patients.” “Vision Benefit Managers are often a hurdle to optometrists and eye care specialists providing the best care to their patients,” said Cramer. “Expanding consumer choice benefits patients when service is improved. I joined Senator Murphy in introducing the bipartisan Vision Lab Choice Act of 2024, so doctors will have more autonomy over which labs they work with and where they source their materials.” Specifically, the Vision Lab Choice Act of 2024 would: Limit contracts between vision care providers (e.g., optometrists) and insurers for limited-scope vision benefits to two-year terms; and Prohibit health plans from restricting or limiting doctors’ choice of laboratories and sources or supplie… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T22:13:55Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-colleagues-venezuelas-demand-for-freedom-will-not-be-silenced Murphy, Colleagues: Venezuela’s Demand for Freedom Will Not Be Silenced 2024-12-13 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate CT Christopher Murphy M001169 www.murphy.senate.gov chrismurphy https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON–U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), a member of the U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Committee, along with U.S. Senators Ben Cardin (D-Md.), Tim Kaine (D-Va.), Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), Chris Coons (D-Del.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Cory Booker (D-N.J.), Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii), Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), and Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.), released the following statement condemning the Maduro regime’s ongoing campaign of intimidation against opposition leader Maria Corina Machado, her family, and peaceful protestors across Venezuela: “On July 28, despite arbitrary candidate bans, rampant censorship, and organized intimidation, Nicolas Maduro suffered a resounding electoral defeat by the people of Venezuela. Their overwhelming support for Edmundo González Urrutia sent a clear message to Maduro, Diosdado Cabello, Padrino Lopez, and all his enablers: state-sponsored violence and disinformation will never silence Venezuela’s cry for freedom. The world has heard this cry, and we will not ignore it. “We call on the Maduro regime to immediately release the thousands of political prisoners unjustly held in its custody – peaceful protestors, women, and children included. The relentless harassment and intimidation of opposition leader Maria Corina Machado and her family are shameless acts of desperation. Maduro must uphold international law, honor Venezuela’s obligations under the Vienna Convention, and end threats to opposition figures who have sought refuge in the Argentine Embassy in Caracas, under the protection of the Brazilian government. “The Maduro regime must respect the results of the July 28 election and conduct a peaceful transfer of power to the democratic opposition. While last week’s announcement of a UN Human Rights Council probe into Maduro’s efforts to subvert Venezuela’s election is a welcome step forward, this alone is not enough. The Biden administration and incoming Trump administration must intensify efforts to address the Maduro regime’s abuses, as true accountability and lasting justice are onl… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T22:13:55Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-murkowski-lead-senate-colleagues-in-calling-for-action-to-lower-costs-improve-services-for-coast-guard-installations Murphy, Murkowski Lead Senate Colleagues In Calling For Action To Lower Costs, Improve Services For Coast Guard Installations 2024-12-13 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate CT Christopher Murphy M001169 www.murphy.senate.gov chrismurphy https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON—U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), Chairman of the U.S. Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Homeland Security, and U.S. Senator Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska) led 7 of their Senate colleagues in sending a letter to U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas urging the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to finalize intergovernmental support agreement (IGSA) authority for the U.S. Coast Guard. Granting this authority will allow the Coast Guard to pursue more efficient, cost-saving service contracts through partnerships with local government entities – a practice all other military services have been taking advantage of for over a decade. Since 2013, all military services except for the Coast Guard have been entering IGSAs and coordinating with local and state governments to secure lower-cost contracts for higher-quality services, like waste removal, childcare, and road maintenance. These agreements have delivered millions of dollars in savings, reduced administrative burdens, and improved community relations at military installations across the country – including Naval Submarine Base New London. Despite a 2023 determination that the Coast Guard is also eligible to use IGSA authority, DHS has yet to issue the formal guidance necessary for Coast Guard facilities, like the Coast Guard Academy, to take advantage of these local contracting agreements and to unlock their many benefits. “We appreciate DHS’s attention to IGSA authority and the benefits it can deliver the Coast Guard and local communities, including expanded educational offerings for local children, increased employment options for military spouses, and greater opportunities for small businesses,” the senators wrote. “However, we are concerned by the delay in issuing IGSA guidance and procedures for the Coast Guard, and we worry that unless DHS leadership quickly addresses this disparity, our Coast Guard communities could be left waiting to see these agreements’ benefits for years more. While DHS has many competing demands and pr… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-06-27T22:32:39Z
https://delauro.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/delauro-statement-house-passage-national-defense-authorization-act-0 DeLauro Statement on House Passage of National Defense Authorization Act 2024-12-12 2024 2024-12 Democrat House CT Rosa L. DeLauro D000216 delauro.house.gov delauro https://delauro.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro (CT-03) voted to pass the National Defense Authorization Act, legislation that authorizes investments to strengthen our national security and support our servicemembers. “I voted yes on the National Defense Authorization Act, which authorizes critical investments in the foundation of our national defense: our servicemembers, civilian workers, and their families,” said DeLauro. “This legislation reinforces our domestic industrial base, particularly the skilled union workforce here in Connecticut, while improving our military readiness. I will work to ensure these investments are funded in a final bipartisan 2025 defense spending bill.” The bill authorizes funding for key projects that grow and sustain thousands of jobs in Connecticut: $2.07 billion for 20 CH-53Ks, built at Sikorsky; $709 million for 24 UH-60M Blackhawks, made at Sikorsky; $25 million for Blackhawk Block II Modernization, which will help sustain the engineering and design workforce at Sikorsky for work on the next fleet of Blackhawk helicopters; $527 million for F135 Engine Core Upgrade development across Air Force, Navy, and Marine Corps, a key engineering program for the F-35 engine underway at Pratt & Whitney; $3.972 billion for one Virginia Class submarine, with incremental funding authority for a second boat and $357 million for additional material and support; Moreover, the legislation: Authorizes a 14.5 percent pay raise for junior enlisted service members and 4.5 percent pay raise for all other service members; Eliminates copays for eligible TRICARE beneficiaries for contraceptives acquired through retail pharmacies and the national mail-order pharmacy; Authorizes a $177 million investment in military construction design funds to accelerate replacement of poor and failing unaccompanied housing and barracks; And authorizes funding for childcare fee assistance programs to eliminate fee assistance waitlists for eligible families; A summary of the legislation is available here. 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T22:13:55Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-applauds-senate-passage-of-legislation-to-combat-loneliness-amongst-older-adults Murphy Applauds Senate Passage Of Legislation To Combat Loneliness Amongst Older Adults 2024-12-12 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate CT Christopher Murphy M001169 www.murphy.senate.gov chrismurphy https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON—U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), a member of the U.S. Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions Committee (HELP), applauded the passage of the National Resource Center for Engaging Older Adults Act, legislation Murphy introduced to reduce loneliness and improve quality of life for older adults. The National Resource Center for Engaging Older Adults is an effort to increase the social engagement of older adults, people with disabilities, and caregivers by expanding and enhancing services that promote social connection. Murphy’s legislation would support the Center’s work to provide resources and programming to Area Agencies on Aging and community-based organizations like libraries and senior centers. The bill passed the Senate unanimously as part of a reauthorization of the Older Americans Act and passed the HELP Committee by a bipartisan vote earlier this year. “The National Resource Center for Engaging Older Adults helps places like local libraries and senior centers reach out to two of the most socially isolated groups — adults with disabilities and seniors. Nothing is more important for finding happiness and fulfillment in life than having quality relationships with other people. I’m proud we got this done, and I’ll continue to look for ways the federal government can support local places that build community,” said Murphy. ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T22:13:55Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-baldwin-booker-40-senators-no-new-anti-lgbtq-anti-abortion-provisions-in-must-pass-government-funding-bills Murphy, Baldwin, Booker, 40+ Senators: No New Anti-LGBTQ, Anti-Abortion Provisions in Must-Pass Government Funding Bills 2024-12-12 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate CT Christopher Murphy M001169 www.murphy.senate.gov chrismurphy https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON–U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) joined U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.) and U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-N.J.) who led a group of over 40 Senators to urge Senate Appropriations Committee Chair Patty Murray (D-Wash.) and Vice Chair Susan Collins (R-Maine) to keep any new dangerous, hyper-partisan policy provisions that would curtail the freedoms of women and LGBTQ individuals out of must-pass government funding legislation. House Republicans inserted so-called ‘poison pill’ provisions, which would otherwise fail the scrutiny of congressional debate, into critical government funding bills that require broad, bipartisan consensus to pass. The senators wrote, “Dangerous poison pill provisions like those included in the FY25 House appropriations bills will severely undermine Congress’ ability to push forward must-pass legislation and keep the government open and working for the American people. As such, we urge you to reject these extremist riders from the final FY25 appropriations bills.” The senators’ letter is endorsed by Human Rights Campaign, National Family Planning and Reproductive Health Association, ACLU, Guttmacher Institute, Whitman-Walker Institute, National Council of Jewish Women, National Women’s Law Center, Reproductive Freedom for All, Power to Decide, Planned Parenthood Federation of America, Advocates for Trans Equality, and Physicians for Reproductive Health. Full text of the letter can be found by clicking here and follows below: Dear Chair Murray and Vice Chair Collins: We write to urge you to keep the FY25 appropriations bills free of any new poison pill policy riders. Partisan, discriminatory, and harmful policy riders have no place in must-pass legislation such as appropriations bills. In the recent past, the Senate has had success passing bipartisan bills in committee because these bills did not contain new poison pill riders. Unfortunately, in FY25, the House has included more than 55 new anti-abortion and anti-LGBTQ+ riders in its appropriations bills, which we urge yo… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T22:13:55Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-smith-lujan-reintroduce-legislation-giving-the-us-department-of-labor-more-tools-to-enforce-mental-health-parity-laws Murphy, Smith, Luján Reintroduce Legislation Giving The U.S. Department Of Labor More Tools To Enforce Mental Health Parity Laws 2024-12-12 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate CT Christopher Murphy M001169 www.murphy.senate.gov chrismurphy https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON–U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), a member of the U.S. Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions Committee, along with U.S. Senators Tina Smith (D-Minn.) and Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.) on Thursday reintroduced the Parity Enforcement Act, legislation to hold insurance companies accountable and give the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) the authority to assess civil monetary penalties for violations of mental health parity requirements. This new authority would incentivize compliance and strengthen the protections of the Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act. “Despite the fact that insurance companies are required by law to cover mental health the same way they cover physical health, insurers continue to find new ways to dodge compliance and deny coverage of care so they can pad their profits. This is a simple bill to give the Department of Labor the power to enforce mental health parity laws and help ensure patients get the mental health care they need,” said Murphy. “We need to treat mental health with the same urgency we treat physical health, and that means making sure everyone has access to the care they need,” said Smith. “By law, insurance companies are required to provide mental health care as they provide physical health care, yet they continue to find ways to dodge compliance and deny coverage. This bill gives the federal government the teeth they need to hold insurance companies accountable when they don’t follow the law and bring us one step closer to ensuring that everyone has access to quality, affordable mental health care.” "Mental health treatment deserves the same seriousness that physical injury demands. The law demands it and yet far too many Americans go without mental health and behavioral health care because there is not parity for these essential services,” said Luján. “Enforcing mental health parity laws is crucial to holding insurance providers accountable and ensuring compliance. I’m proud to join Senators Murphy and Smith in reintroducing this legislation to strengt… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T22:13:55Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-who-would-the-sandy-hook-kids-be-today Murphy: Who Would The Sandy Hook Kids Be Today? 2024-12-12 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate CT Christopher Murphy M001169 www.murphy.senate.gov chrismurphy https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON—Ahead of the twelfth anniversary of the tragic shooting at Sandy Hook Elementary School, U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) on Thursday spoke on the U.S. Senate floor to honor the twenty children and six educators who were senselessly killed that day and the impact of America’s gun violence epidemic. "I never really know what to say every year when I come down here to give this speech, but because this is the year that those kids would have been going to college and voting for the first time, this year of transition into adulthood, it's worth thinking about who they would be today and what amazing things they might be getting ready to do in their adulthood,” Murphy said. Murphy reflected on a few of the young lives lost that day: “Catherine Hubbard, as early as preschool, just adored animals. And she knew, even when she was six years old, that her purpose in life was to protect animals. She would catch butterflies and put them in her hand, and whisper to them, ‘tell your friends that I am kind.’ Then she'd let them go. She made business cards – she's six! She made business cards for Catherine's Animal Shelter, because she knew that was what she was going to do. She was going to save animals as an adult. Chase Kowalski was a jock. He loved to run, swim, bike. So much so that that year that he died, when he was six years old, he asked his parents to find him a triathlon to compete in. He's six! You wonder what triathlon, training for a triathlon—he ran in that triathlon, he swam in that triathlon, he biked in that triathlon, and he won his age group. That kind of indomitable spirit, the willingness to tackle challenges so big, that's a recipe for success in life. What would Chase Kowalski be getting ready to do right now? What big challenges in the world would he see as an opportunity to confront? What a difference might he be making in the world, having displayed those really rare characteristics as a six-year-old? Emilie Parker was a super talented artist who didn't travel anywhere without her color… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T22:13:55Z
https://courtney.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/courtney-murphy-applaud-unanimous-house-passage-scotland-zip-code Courtney, Murphy Applaud Unanimous House Passage of Scotland Zip Code Solution 2024-12-11 2024 2024-12 Democrat House CT Joe Courtney C001069 courtney.house.gov courtney https://courtney.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, the U.S. House of Representatives unanimously passed the bipartisan H.R. 8753 which included Rep. Joe Courtney’s provision to mandate the U.S. Postal Service assign Scotland, Connecticut a single zip code. The vote comes after Courtney urged his colleagues earlier this week to support the measure. Scotland has 600-plus residencies, but six zip-codes, leading to misplaced packages, difficulty requesting mail-in ballots, and uncertainty about where to send students to school. In March, Rep. Courtney and Sen. Murphy joined forces to introduce bicameral legislation (H.R. 7800 and S. 4052) to direct the USPS to assign Scotland a single zip code. On November 21st, the House Committee on Oversight and Reform approved the House bill, 40-0, as part of a larger package (H.R. 8753), sponsored by Rep. Boebert (R-CO), to address zip-code issues for Americans in 45 towns nationwide. “With passage of this bill, the voices of Scotland residents have been heard loud and clear in Washington and we are one step closer to once and for all solving this Monty Python-esque absurdity. Senator Murphy and I will continue working together to get this bill through the Senate and to the President’s desk for signature. The hardworking, taxpaying citizens of Scotland deserve to get the same level of postal service as every other community,” Courtney said. “The people of Scotland have suffered long enough from the logistical nightmare of having six zip codes for one town. It’s great news the House passed this bill, and I’m doing everything I can to make sure the Senate does the same,” said Murphy. 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T22:13:55Z
https://courtney.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/ranking-member-courtney-speaks-house-floor-support-seapower-provisions Ranking Member Courtney Speaks on House Floor in Support of Seapower Provisions in Annual Defense Bill 2024-12-11 2024 2024-12 Democrat House CT Joe Courtney C001069 courtney.house.gov courtney https://courtney.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – This afternoon during debate on the FY25 National Defense Authorization Act(NDAA), Rep. Joe Courtney (CT-02), Ranking Member of the House Seapower and Projection Forces Subcommittee, spoke on the House floor in support of the seapower provisions in the final annual defense bill. The House is scheduled to vote on the NDAA later this afternoon. The bill (H.R. 5009) being considered today reflects the final, negotiated text between the House and the Senate following months of negotiations to reconcile the differences between the versions that each chamber passed last summer. The Senate is expected to follow the House’s lead and pass the bill in the next week and send it to President Biden’s desk for signature. For a fact sheet on Courtney-led priorities, click here. To view and download Ranking Member Courtney’s remarks, click here. Remarks as Delivered Mr. Speaker, as Ranking Member of Seapower, I want to thank its members, all of its members, for their input crafting this year's National Defense Authorization Act. I also want to salute my friend and outstanding chairman of the subcommittee, Trent Kelly, for his work crafting our bipartisan mark. I have a larger written statement which details our work, which I will submit for the record and use my time today on the issue which consumed the bulk of our time, namely the Virginia class attack submarine program. Mr. Speaker, the U.S. attack submarine fleet stands as our unmatched strategic advantage against any adversary across the globe. There is overwhelming consensus in Congress, Navy, and industry that we need to expand output for our own fleet and to satisfy our nation's commitments to the AUKUS security agreement. Despite the slowdown caused by COVID, there are promising signs of industry's recovery. In 2024, the Navy commissioned USS New Jersey, the 23rd Virginia sub, and will receive delivery of USS Iowa next week. Next year, the Navy will take delivery of USS Massachusetts and Idaho, the 25th and 26th boats in the class. This bill re… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T22:13:55Z
https://courtney.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-courtney-votes-support-national-defense-bill Rep. Courtney Votes in Support of National Defense Bill 2024-12-11 2024 2024-12 Democrat House CT Joe Courtney C001069 courtney.house.gov courtney https://courtney.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Rep. Joe Courtney voted to pass the final FY25 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). This marks the 64th consecutive year the House has passed the annual defense bill. As Ranking Member of the Seapower and Projection Forces Subcommittee, Rep. Courtney secured generational improvements for servicemembers and their families, successfully reversed the Navy’s request to cut procurement of a Virginia class submarine, and authorized wage increases for shipbuilders at Electric Boat and Newport News Shipbuilding. The bill (H.R. 5009) passed today (281-140) reflects the final, negotiated text between the House and the Senate following months of negotiations to reconcile the differences between the versions that each chamber passed last summer. The Senate is expected to follow the House’s lead and pass the bill in the next week and send it to President Biden’s desk for signature. “Last June, I sat down with servicemembers and their spouses at SUBASE NEW LONDON to brief them on the transformational ‘quality of life improvements’ that are included in this year’s defense bill which significantly boosts pay for entry-level enlisted sailors and soldiers, and provides greater housing assistance and day care support for all servicemembers. There’s no question that these provisions are sorely needed and welcomed among the thousands of submariners and their families in eastern Connecticut as well as residents who serve in other branches of the military. The bill also authorizes funding for two Virginia class submarines, rejecting the Navy’s completely inadequate budget request submitted last February. The bill boosts the Virginia account and extends new latitude to submarine shipbuilders to increase wages for frontline shipyard workers. “This final negotiated bill eliminated most of the partisan ‘poison pills’ included in the legislation that narrowly passed out of the House in June. It is unfortunate that one item that came out of the Senate that limits some TRICARE health care coverage for speci… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T22:13:55Z
https://delauro.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/house-democrats-elect-delauro-lead-appropriations-committee-119th House Democrats Elect DeLauro to Lead the Appropriations Committee for 119th Congress 2024-12-11 2024 2024-12 Democrat House CT Rosa L. DeLauro D000216 delauro.house.gov delauro https://delauro.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper Today, Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro (CT-03), was selected by her Democratic colleagues to continue serving as Ranking Member of the House Appropriations Committee for the 119th Congress. “I am honored that my colleagues selected me to continue serving as Ranking Member of the House Appropriations Committee in the 119th Congress,” said Congresswoman DeLauro. “Leading Democrats on the committee is a profound responsibility. I remain committed to passing funding bills that reflect our shared values as Americans. I will fight for bipartisan funding that helps Americans deal with the high cost of living, secures our border, keeps families safe, and protects Americans against extreme weather events and natural disasters while reinforcing United States leadership on the global stage. I will also safeguard Congress’s constitutional power of the purse and oppose any extreme proposals that harm the American people.” As the top Democrat on the House Appropriations Committee, DeLauro restored Congress’s power to deliver directly to communities across the country after more than a decade-long hiatus. She has secured more than $57 million for Connecticut’s Third Congressional District since 2021 to support local projects, including $3 million for the renovation of the Fair Haven Health Clinic and resources for local police, Boys and Girls Clubs, and infrastructure projects. She has passed dozens of bipartisan funding bills, including major increases in funding for child care, Head Start, the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program, the National Institutes of Health, and national defense. 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T22:13:55Z
https://hayes.house.gov/press-releases?ID=3B77DB60-AF07-481E-A45D-70F63087F6F0 Hayes Introduces the Helping America's Farmers Act to Assist Farmers Impacted by Disasters 2024-12-11 2024 2024-12 Democrat House CT Jahana Hayes H001081 hayes.house.gov hayes https://hayes.house.gov/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congresswoman Jahana Hayes (CT-05) introduced the Helping America’s Famers Act, legislation which would authorize the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to provide up to $10 billion in zero-interest loans to assist farms impacted by disasters. With this funding, USDA would be able to more quickly provide financial support to farmers in need in states where Federal Crop Insurance is unavailable or out of reach. Recipient farmers could use funds to account for crop or livestock losses, maintain employees, and make rent or mortgage payments. “Over the last several years, farmers in my district and across the country have more frequently experienced extreme weather events from unseasonable cold snaps to record flooding. Despite the growing need for federal disaster assistance for small farmers, USDA often lacks the funding necessary for recovery,” said Congresswoman Hayes. “The Helping America’s Farmers Act would provide USDA with the resources needed to quickly assist farmers in the aftermath of a disaster. This common sense approach allows farmers to focus on rebuilding without the fear of falling further into debt.” In addition to providing $10 billion to USDA to assist farmers directly, the Helping America’s Farmers Act directs the Secretary of Agriculture to prioritize states participating in USDA Agricultural Management Assistance (AMA), which helps agricultural producers manage financial risk through diversification, marketing, or natural resource conservation practices. Agricultural Management Assistance is available in 16 states where participation in the Federal Crop Insurance Program is historically low: Connecticut, Delaware, Hawaii, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Utah, Vermont, West Virginia, and Wyoming. Since 2023, farmers in Connecticut have experienced crop losses in excess of $10.5 million due to extreme weather events. As a member of the Committee on Agriculture, Congresswoman Hayes has worke… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T22:13:55Z
https://himes.house.gov/press-releases?ID=A3C4C3E4-01F5-4800-880B-33D910149FA1 Himes Votes to Pass Funding For Servicemembers, Connecticut’s Defense Industry 2024-12-11 2024 2024-12 Democrat House CT James A. Himes H001047 himes.house.gov himes https://himes.house.gov/press-releases page_html Washington, DC – Today, the United States House of Representatives passed the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for fiscal year 2025. The NDAA funds the United States’ defense programs and includes significant investments in defense industrial base suppliers and technology companies in Connecticut. This year, it also includes the Intelligence Authorization Act which advances funding and other priorities for the Intelligence Community. “The 2025 National Defense Authorization Act strengthens existing defense programs, improves pay and benefits for servicemembers— including a 14.5% increase for junior enlisted servicemembers— and ensures that the United States keeps pace with our adversaries in technology and innovation,” said Congressman Himes. “I am proud that Connecticut’s robust defense manufacturing presence remains at the heart of these missions, and that this legislation invests further in our businesses and workforce.” The National Defense Authorization Act of 2025 invests billions of dollars in funding for Connecticut companies. This includes: 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-03-30T11:08:25Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-courtney-applaud-unanimous-house-passage-of-scotland-zip-code-solution Murphy, Courtney Applaud Unanimous House Passage of Scotland Zip Code Solution 2024-12-11 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate CT Christopher Murphy M001169 www.murphy.senate.gov chrismurphy https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON—U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) and U.S. Representative Joe Courtney (D-Conn.-02) on Wednesday celebrated the unanimous passage of H.R. 8753 by the U.S. House of Representatives. The bipartisan legislation includes a provision requiring the U.S. Postal Service to assign a single ZIP code to the town of Scotland, Connecticut. Scotland, a town of just 600 residences, has six zip-codes, often leading to misplaced packages, difficulty requesting mail-in ballots, and uncertainty about where to send students to school. In March, Murphy and Courtney joined forces to introduce bicameral legislation (H.R. 7800 and S. 4052) to direct the USPS to assign Scotland a single zip code. On November 21st, the House Committee on Oversight and Reform approved the House bill, 40-0, as part of a larger package (H.R. 8753), sponsored by Rep. Boebert (R-CO), to address zip-code issues for Americans in 45 towns nationwide. “The people of Scotland have suffered long enough from the logistical nightmare of having six zip codes for one town. It’s great news the House passed this bill, and I’m doing everything I can to make sure the Senate does the same,” said Murphy. “With passage of this bill, the voices of Scotland residents have been heard loud and clear in Washington and we are one step closer to once and for all solving this Monty Python-esque absurdity. Senator Murphy and I will continue working together to get this bill through the Senate and to the President’s desk for signature. The hardworking, taxpaying citizens of Scotland deserve to get the same level of postal service as every other community,” said Courtney. ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T22:13:55Z
https://courtney.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-courtneys-bipartisan-legislation-support-subase-new-london-protect Rep. Courtney’s Bipartisan Legislation to Support SUBASE New London, Protect CT Waterways Passes U.S. House 2024-12-10 2024 2024-12 Democrat House CT Joe Courtney C001069 courtney.house.gov courtney https://courtney.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Rep. Joe Courtney voted to pass the final Water Resources Development Act of 2024. The bill includes several priorities Rep. Courtney fought for, including a bipartisan proposal to support Naval Submarine Base New London and enable future Virginia Class submarine missions. As the Submarine Base continues its modernization and waterfront recapitalization plan to homeport the next generation of Virginia Class submarines, known as Block V and Block VI, which will be 84-fleet longer than the current Virginia Class submarines, existing piers must be extended to homeport these larger vessels. Rep. Courtney’s provision enables construction to extend Pier 8 by transferring a certain portion of the Thames River Channel from the Army Corps of Engineers to the U.S. Navy, as the scope of the project would extend beyond Submarine Base-managed property. “Good news for SUBASE New London and the Virginia Class submarine program. Expanding the Navy’s control of the Thames River for the Virginia Class submarines enabled with Virginia Payload Modules is a strong commitment by Congress to the ‘enduring’ mission of SUBASE NEW LONDON. Block V and Block VI submarines are the future of the fleet, and this bill, which will soon be enacted by President Biden, aligns the base’s perimeter to be able to home port them while they are on patrol well into the 2060s,” said Rep. Joe Courtney, Ranking Member of the House Seapower Subcommittee. “From reducing invasive species in the CT River to protecting our watersheds and shorelines, the bill will also make significant progress to protect and strengthen eastern Connecticut’s waterways and ecosystems.” The Water Resources Development Act passed today reflects the final, negotiated text between the House and the Senate following months of negotiations to reconcile the differences between the versions that each chamber passed last summer. The Senate is expected to follow the House’s lead and pass the bill in the next week and send it to President Biden’s desk for signatu… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T22:13:55Z
https://delauro.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/delauro-amo-introduce-southern-new-england-regional-commission-act DeLauro, Amo Introduce Southern New England Regional Commission Act 2024-12-10 2024 2024-12 Democrat House CT Rosa L. DeLauro D000216 delauro.house.gov delauro https://delauro.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper Today, U.S. Representatives Rosa DeLauro (CT-03) and Gabe Amo (RI-01) introduced the Southern New England Regional Commission Act. The Southern New England Regional Commission Act would establish a commission that would encourage jurisdictions at different levels to work together to leverage federal support to strengthen the area’s economy. "The Southern New England Regional Commission is a game-changer for Connecticut, Rhode Island, and Massachusetts, driving investments in defense, maritime manufacturing, and infrastructure to create good-paying jobs and strengthen our economy,” said Congresswoman DeLauro. “Together, we’ll harness federal resources to tackle shared challenges, because our economic future requires regional collaboration." “It is great to join with our regional leaders in introducing this important piece of legislation to tackle problems that do not stop at the border of one state,” said Congressman Gabe Amo. “Through the Southern New England Regional Commission, we will better coordinate efforts to fight climate change and grow our blue economy as we leverage the unique strengths of Rhode Island, Connecticut, and Massachusetts to unlock widespread prosperity for our communities.” This legislation would establish a regional commission covering Rhode Island and surrounding counties in Massachusetts and Connecticut for purposes of promoting economic development in renewable energy, defense manufacturing, the maritime economy, infrastructure, and job training, among others. By facilitating collaboration across various levels of government with federal support, this initiative seeks to bolster the region’s economic resilience and growth. A fact sheet on the legislation is available here. DeLauro and Amo introduced the legislation with original cosponsors U.S. Representatives Stephen Lynch, Richie Neal, Seth Moulton, Joe Courtney, Seth Magaziner, Jake Auchincloss, and Lori Trahan. 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T22:13:55Z
https://delauro.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/delauro-selected-co-chair-italian-american-congressional-delegation DeLauro Selected as Co-Chair of Italian American Congressional Delegation 2024-12-10 2024 2024-12 Democrat House CT Rosa L. DeLauro D000216 delauro.house.gov delauro https://delauro.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper Today, Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro (CT-03) announced that she had been selected as the new Democratic Co-Chair of the Italian American Congressional Delegation (IACD): “Italian Americans are an integral part of our nation’s diverse cultural makeup. Growing up in Wooster Square—the heart of New Haven’s Italian American community—I learned the value of hard work, faith, family, responsibility, and community. These values were present everywhere in our neighborhood, from the religious societies to our own kitchen table. “I am grateful for my colleagues in the Italian American Congressional Delegation for putting their trust in me to lead our community in Congress. “I must also the recognize the leadership of my dear friend Bill Pascrell, our former Democratic Co-Chair, who was such a champion for our community in Congress. I hope to honor his legacy by continuing to work on issues that affect our community while promoting and celebrating our proud history as Italian Americans.” The IACD is a bicameral, bipartisan caucus committed to upholding and supporting the relationship between the United States and Italy. The IACD is composed of nearly 200 Members of Congress, many of which can trace their ancestry to Italy. U.S. Representatives Rosa DeLauro (D-CT-03) and Michael Rulli (R-OH-06) will serve as bipartisan Co-Chairs of the delegation, with U.S. Representatives Jimmy Panetta (D-CA-19) and Andrew Garbarino (R-NY-02) serving as Co-Vice Chairs. 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T22:13:55Z
https://himes.house.gov/press-releases?ID=C6A69840-0FB4-4E63-80F2-471477C7444F Himes Votes to Pass Bridgeport Ferry Terminal Proposal 2024-12-10 2024 2024-12 Democrat House CT James A. Himes H001047 himes.house.gov himes https://himes.house.gov/press-releases page_html Washington, D.C. – Today, Congressman Jim Himes (CT-04) voted to pass the Water Resources Development Act of 2024. The bill included his request to deauthorize part of the federal navigation channel in Bridgeport Harbor, clearing the way for construction of a new ferry terminal that will facilitate increased marine activity and improve maritime passenger and vessel safety. “I’d like to thank the Connecticut Port Authority, Bridgeport Port Authority, U.S. Coast Guard, and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, for their collaboration in securing this project for Bridgeport. This proposal makes it possible to build a new ferry terminal at Barnum Landing which will allow for safer, expanded service between Bridgeport and Port Jefferson, New York. Expanding transportation options for people is always a win and I’m glad to have been a part of it,” said Congressman Himes. 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-03-30T11:08:25Z
https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/blumenthal-and-hawley-demand-answers-regarding-anthems-draconian-policy-capping-anesthesia-coverage-for-patients Blumenthal & Hawley Demand Answers Regarding Anthem's "Draconian" Policy Capping Anesthesia Coverage for Patients 2024-12-10 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate CT Richard Blumenthal B001277 www.blumenthal.senate.gov blumenthal https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press scraper [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – Today, U.S. Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) and Josh Hawley (R-MO) wrote Elevance CEO Gail Koziara Boudreaux demanding answers from the company regarding a recent policy change in states including Connecticut and Missouri denying coverage for anesthesia care if a surgery or procedure goes beyond specific time limits pre-determined by the health insurance provider. Anthem announced the new policy earlier this year, and then rescinded it after facing public outcry. Anthem is a subsidiary of Elevance. “As you are well aware, health care providers are sworn to act in the best interest of their patient and are the only individuals in an operating room singularly focused on providing quality, sometimes life-saving medical care. Therefore, without strong documentation to the contrary, it was absurd for Anthem to presume that the anesthesia care being provided to patients needed to be restricted through Anthem-imposed time caps,” wrote the Senators. Blumenthal and Hawley are seeking a commitment from Anthem that the company will not enact a similar anesthesia policy going forward, writing, “In the interest of patients’ health and safety nationwide, we demand answers regarding this ill-conceived policy and clear, direct assurances that a policy cutting off full anesthesia coverage mid-procedure will not be re-considered or re-imposed.” The full text of the letter can be found here and below. December 10, 2024 Gail Koziara Boudreaux Chief Executive Officer Elevance 220 Virginia Ave Indianapolis, Indiana 46203 Dear Ms. Boudreaux, We write with deep concern over recently published reports of a new draconian policy adopted by Anthem in several states, including Connecticut and Missouri, which would limit beneficiary coverage for anesthesiology services during surgical procedures if such surgery goes beyond time limits that are unilaterally set by Anthem. Since this policy was announced – and only because of public outrage – Anthem claims it will not move forward with the policy. In the inter… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T22:13:55Z
https://courtney.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/ahead-house-vote-rep-courtney-urges-support-scotland-zip-code-solution Ahead of House Vote, Rep. Courtney Urges Support for Scotland Zip Code Solution 2024-12-09 2024 2024-12 Democrat House CT Joe Courtney C001069 courtney.house.gov courtney https://courtney.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – Ahead of a vote by the U.S. House of Representatives, Rep. Joe Courtney (CT-02) urged his colleagues to support H.R. 8753, which includes Rep. Courtney’s provision to assign just one zip-code to the town of Scotland, Connecticut. The House is scheduled to consider the bill early this week. Click here to view and download Rep. Courtney’s remarks. Scotland has 600-plus residencies, but six zip-codes, leading to misplaced packages, difficulty requesting mail-in ballots, and uncertainty about where to send students to school. In March, Rep. Courtney and Sen. Murphy joined forces to introduce bicameral legislation (H.R. 7800 and S. 4052) to direct the USPS to assign Scotland a single zip code. On November 21st, the House Committee on Oversight and Reform approved the House bill, 40-0, as part of a larger package (H.R. 8753), sponsored by Rep. Boebert (R-CO), to address zip-code issues for Americans in 45 towns nationwide. “Delivery of social security notices, checks, Medicare information, prescription medication, notices from banks, employers, and absentee ballots and absentee ballot applications are all disrupted day in and day out. Town leaders and my office have tried, along with Senator Chris Murphy, to get this ridiculous, almost Monty Python-esque absurdity resolved for many years with the Postal Service to no avail. This week's action by the House will mandate that USPS address this problem once and for all by designating a single unique zip code for these 45 small towns,” said Courtney on the House Floor today. “I urge my colleagues to support this measure, send it to the Senate for swift passage, and to the President's desk. The hardworking, taxpaying citizens of these towns deserve to get the same level of postal service as every other community,” Courtney concluded. Full Transcript Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of a bill that the House will be voting on this week, H.R. 8753, which directs the U.S. Postal Service to designate a single unique zip code for certain communit… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T22:13:55Z
https://delauro.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/us-representative-delauro-us-senator-blumenthal-and-us-senator-murphy U.S. Representative DeLauro, U.S. Senator Blumenthal and U.S. Senator Murphy Announce $1 Million EPIC Prize to ClimateHaven to Boost Clean Energy Innovation 2024-12-09 2024 2024-12 Democrat House CT Rosa L. DeLauro D000216 delauro.house.gov delauro https://delauro.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper U.S. Representative Rosa DeLauro and U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal today announced a $1 million cooperative agreement awarded to ClimateHaven, a cutting-edge climate technology incubator based in New Haven, CT. The award comes from the U.S. Department of Energy's (DOE) Energy Program for Innovation Clusters (EPIC) Prize and marks a significant investment in Connecticut’s clean energy future. ClimateHaven has been at the forefront of fostering climate technology startups that aim to drive economic growth, create new jobs, and position Connecticut as a national leader in clean energy innovation. Over the next three years, this funding will empower the organization to provide specialized support for green chemistry companies, to accelerate the adoption of sustainable technologies, and strengthen partnerships with industry leaders. “ClimateHaven’s mission is to drive transformative solutions for clean air, clean water and energy resilience by accelerating the journey of early stage climate tech companies from lab to market. This funding, secured with the invaluable support of Senator Blumenthal, Senator Murphy, and Congresswoman DeLauro, underscores the importance of federal partnerships in scaling transformative climate technologies. It is a testament of their commitment to fostering innovation in Connecticut, and to accelerating the transition to a resilient, low-carbon future,” said Justine Lee ClimateHaven CEO. “This $1 million Energy Program for Innovation Clusters (EPIC) Prize isn’t just a win for ClimateHaven, it is a win for entrepreneurs in New Haven, who are at the forefront of mitigating the impacts of climate change and creating good paying jobs,” said U.S. Representative Rosa DeLauro. “This award from the U.S. Department of Energy will support ClimateHaven’s work to keep Connecticut a leader in energy innovation, strengthening our resilience and improving energy efficiency.” “This $1 million in federal funding will support ClimateHaven’s innovative, cutting-edge work – significant to Connecticut’s … 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T22:13:55Z
https://larson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/larson-davis-wyden-ask-gao-review-social-security-administrations Larson, Davis, Wyden Ask GAO to Review Social Security Administration’s Efforts to Improve Customer Service for Overpaid Beneficiaries 2024-12-09 2024 2024-12 Democrat House CT John B. Larson L000557 larson.house.gov larson https://larson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper Washington, D.C. - Today, Ways and Means Social Security Subcommittee Ranking MemberJohn B. Larson (CT-01), Worker and Family Support Subcommittee Ranking MemberDanny K. Davis (IL-07), and Senate Committee on Finance Chair Ron Wyden (OR) sent a letter to the U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO) requesting a review of ongoing efforts by the Social Security Administration (SSA) to improve customer service for beneficiaries who are seeking to resolve overpayments of their Social Security or Supplemental Security Income benefits. “It is impossible to overstate the importance of SSA benefits to the American people – or the potentially dire consequences if a beneficiary’s monthly payments are put at risk due to the need to recoup an overpayment. While in the vast majority of cases SSA pays the correct amount, recent media reports have highlighted the plight of beneficiaries who unknowingly received overpayments for months or even years, in some cases adding up to tens of thousands of dollars or more,” the Members wrote. “Under past policies, SSA often withheld much or all of a person’s Social Security benefits to recoup an overpayment, causing severe hardship,” the Members continued. “In addition, beneficiaries often found it extremely difficult, if not impossible, to navigate the process to appeal an overpayment or to request relief in the form of a waiver. SSA’s longstanding rules and procedures were extremely complex and put the burden on customers to prove that the agency had erred and that it would cause hardship for them to repay the extra benefits” “We are pleased that under the Biden Administration, including through initiatives led by former Commissioner Martin O’Malley, SSA has prioritized taking proactive steps to address often harsh recoupment policies,” the Members concluded. To gain a better understanding of the status of SSA’s efforts to improve customer service for beneficiaries who face overpayments, the Members asked the GAO to review: The ways in which SSA overpayments can create hardship… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T22:13:55Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-larson-himes-governor-lamont-announce-98-million-in-federal-grants-to-benefit-municipal-parks-in-bridgeport-bristol-and-stamford Murphy, Larson, Himes, Governor Lamont Announce $9.8 Million In Federal Grants To Benefit Municipal Parks In Bridgeport, Bristol, And Stamford 2024-12-09 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate CT Christopher Murphy M001169 www.murphy.senate.gov chrismurphy https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper HARTFORD—U.S. Senators Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) and Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) and U.S. Representatives John Larson (D-Conn.-01) and Jim Himes (D-Conn-04) joined Governor Ned Lamont and the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) to announce that the cities of Bridgeport, Bristol, and Stamford will receive more than $9.8 million in competitive federal funding to benefit four municipal park development projects in each city. The funds are provided through the Land and Water Conservation Fund – Outdoor Recreation Legacy Partnership grants program (LWCF-ORLP), a nationally competitive program that provides matching grants to cities for park projects in underserved communities. “Public parks are one of the few places where people in the community can come together, spend time outdoors, and connect with friends and neighbors,” said Murphy. “This $9 million in federal funding will help create a new park in Bridgeport and support upgrades to Rockwell, Boccuzzi, and Cummings Parks in Bristol and Stamford, giving Connecticut families more opportunities to enjoy fun outdoor activities like hiking, picnicking, and kayaking for years to come.” “Connecticut families should have access to high-quality parks where they can come together, stay active, and enjoy the outdoors, regardless of where they live,” said Blumenthal. “This $9.8 million in federal funding expands access to parks in Bridgeport, Bristol, and Stamford, and I will continue fighting for federal investments to reinvigorate and develop Connecticut’s outdoor spaces.” “I am glad to see nearly $2 million coming to Bristol through the federal Land and Water Conservation Fund to make long overdue repairs and improvements to Rockwell Park,” said Larson. “This funding will modernize amenities, upgrade facilities, expand park hours, and improve access. I will continue to work with the entire Connecticut delegation and our partners at the state and local levels to secure investments like these that preserve access to outdoor spaces and offer… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T22:13:55Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-statement-on-the-fall-of-bashar-al-assads-regime-in-syria Murphy Statement On The Fall Of Bashar Al-Assad's Regime In Syria 2024-12-08 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate CT Christopher Murphy M001169 www.murphy.senate.gov chrismurphy https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON—U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), Chair of the U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Subcommittee on Near East, South Asia, Central Asia and Counterterrorism, on Sunday released a statement following reports that Syrian President Bashar al-Assad resigned and fled the country after armed rebels took control of the capital city of Damascus: “For more than two decades, the regime of Bashar al-Assad, and of his father who ruled before him, has relied on brutality and oppression to cling to power, torturing and jailing activists and political dissidents, mercilessly killing hundreds of thousands of Syrians, and forcing millions more to flee their homes and country. The toppling of his regime represents a watershed moment for the Syrian people, who now have an opportunity to shape a better future. We know that too often, hopeful revolutions have given way to new power struggles, and there are serious concerns about the nature of some of the groups who have swept into power. Decisions by the new de facto authorities and the willingness of the international community to play a constructive role in Syria will be critical going forward. I urge all parties to support an inclusive political process that protects the rights of all Syrian communities and works towards a free, secure democratic future.” ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T22:13:55Z
https://himes.house.gov/press-releases?ID=73A3FE17-597C-4D97-820A-3C232418BB89 Governor Lamont Announces $9.8 Million in Federal Grants to Benefit Municipal Parks in Bridgeport, Bristol, and Stamford 2024-12-06 2024 2024-12 Democrat House CT James A. Himes H001047 himes.house.gov himes https://himes.house.gov/press-releases page_html Hartford, CT – Governor Ned Lamont and the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) today announced that the cities of Bridgeport, Bristol, and Stamford are being awarded more than $9.8 million in competitive federal funding that will benefit four municipal park development projects in each city. The funds are provided through the Land and Water Conservation Fund – Outdoor Recreation Legacy Partnership grants program (LWCF-ORLP), a nationally competitive program that provides matching grants to cities for park projects in underserved communities. DEEP partnered with each of the municipalities to secure the awards. Partnerships between DEEP and municipalities to secure these awards have had a 100% success rate in 2023 and 2024, with two large-scale development projects being awarded funding in Bridgeport and Stamford in 2023 and two more approved in Bristol and Stamford in 2024. “Great parks and safe outdoor places for our communities enhances the great quality of life we have here in Connecticut,” Governor Lamont said. “I thank our Congressional delegation and federal agency partners for their efforts to secure this important funding for our state. This is a great example of federal, state, and local governments working together to accomplish big things for the residents of our state.” “Public parks are one of the few places where people in the community can come together, spend time outdoors, and connect with friends and neighbors,” U.S. Senator Chris Murphy said. “This $9 million in federal funding will help create a new park in Bridgeport and support upgrades to Rockwell, Boccuzzi, and Cummings Parks in Bristol and Stamford, giving Connecticut families more opportunities to enjoy fun outdoor activities like hiking, picnicking, and kayaking for years to come.” “Connecticut families should have access to high-quality parks where they can come together, stay active, and enjoy the outdoors, regardless of where they live,” U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal said. “This $9.8 million in … 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-03-30T11:08:25Z
https://larson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/members-connecticut-congressional-delegation-governor-lamont-announce Members of the Connecticut Congressional Delegation, Governor Lamont Announce $9.8 Million in Federal Grants to Benefit Municipal Parks in Bridgeport, Bristol, and Stamford 2024-12-06 2024 2024-12 Democrat House CT John B. Larson L000557 larson.house.gov larson https://larson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper East Hartford, CT - Members of the Connecticut Congressional delegation, Governor Ned Lamont, and the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) today announced that the cities of Bridgeport, Bristol, and Stamford are being awarded more than $9.8 million in competitive federal funding that will benefit four municipal park development projects in each city. The funds are provided through the Land and Water Conservation Fund – Outdoor Recreation Legacy Partnership grants program (LWCF-ORLP), a nationally competitive program that provides matching grants to cities for park projects in underserved communities. DEEP partnered with each of the municipalities to secure the awards. Partnerships between DEEP and municipalities to secure these awards have had a 100% success rate in 2023 and 2024, with two large-scale development projects being awarded funding in Bridgeport and Stamford in 2023 and two more approved in Bristol and Stamford in 2024. “I am glad to see nearly $2 million coming to Bristol through the federal Land and Water Conservation Fund to make long overdue repairs and improvements to Rockwell Park,” said Larson. “This funding will modernize amenities, upgrade facilities, expand park hours, and improve access. I will continue to work with the entire Connecticut delegation and our partners at the state and local levels to secure investments like these that preserve access to outdoor spaces and offer new recreational opportunities for residents.” “Great parks and safe outdoor places for our communities enhances the great quality of life we have here in Connecticut,” saidGovernor Lamont. “I thank our Congressional delegation and federal agency partners for their efforts to secure this important funding for our state. This is a great example of federal, state, and local governments working together to accomplish big things for the residents of our state.” “Public parks are one of the few places where people in the community can come together, spend time outdoors, and connect with … 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T22:13:55Z
https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/blumenthal-calls-on-ftc-to-protect-concertgoers-and-venues-from-holiday-ticket-scalpers-urges-strong-enforcement-action Blumenthal Calls on FTC to Protect Concertgoers & Venues From Holiday Ticket Scalpers, Urges Strong Enforcement Action 2024-12-06 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate CT Richard Blumenthal B001277 www.blumenthal.senate.gov blumenthal https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press scraper [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) today called on the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to investigate and take strong enforcement action against deceptive and unlawful practices in the live event ticketing market, including through vigorous enforcement of the Better Online Tickets Sales Act (BOTS Act). The BOTS Act, enacted in December 2016, bans “ticket bots” that bypass security measures on online ticketing websites to outprice individual fans. Since then, the FTC has only enforced the BOTS Act once. In a letter to FTC Chair Lina Khan, Blumenthal urged the agency to enforce existing consumer protection laws and protect concertgoers and small venues from predatory ticketing schemes amid holiday ticket sales. “High-profile ticketing failures, such as Ticketmaster’s mishandling of Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour, have brought renewed attention to the persistent and pervasive issue of scalpers and misleading marketplaces. Concertgoers are increasingly competing with well-resourced scalpers, who crowd out real fans with automated bots to buy out seats for even small, local shows,” wrote Blumenthal. “And, while many venues do all they can to stop bots from buying up their inventory, small and independent venues are outmatched in the arms race against scalper’s sophisticated circumvention and impersonation schemes,” Blumenthal continued. “This struggle to fend off bots and other anti-consumer practices by scalpers also reinforces the market power of large venues and dominant ticket sales platforms, such as Live Nation/Ticketmaster, when independent venues find themselves unable to protect real consumers’ access themselves.” “I urge the Federal Trade Commission to vigorously enforce our consumer protection laws in the live event market, including the BOTS Act, to protect concertgoers and venues from predatory ticketing schemes,” Blumenthal concluded. The full text of Blumenthal’s letter to the FTC is available here and below: December 6, 2024 The Honorable Lina M. Khan Chair Federal Trade Commi… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T22:13:55Z
https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/icymi-video-blumenthal-questions-us-postmaster-general-dejoy-on-the-future ICYMI Video: Blumenthal Questions U.S. Postmaster General DeJoy on the Future of Unused or Underutilized Postal Service Sites in Connecticut 2024-12-06 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate CT Richard Blumenthal B001277 www.blumenthal.senate.gov blumenthal https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press scraper [HARTFORD, CT] – In case you missed it, U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), a member of the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, questioned U.S. Postmaster General Louis DeJoy yesterday on unused or underutilized United States Postal Service (USPS) sites in Connecticut that are negatively affecting small businesses, economic development, and local residents. In Ridgefield, Connecticut, an often vacant USPS parking lot remains a problem for the town, surrounding businesses, and Ridgefield residents, who cannot use the parking lot to visit other businesses. The lot is underutilized or not used at all for USPS business despite claims from USPS that the parking lot is necessary “during our peak holiday season when mail and package volumes dramatically increase.” During today’s hearing, Blumenthal presented DeJoy with a photograph of the clearly empty lot from December of last year. In 2021, Ridgefield’s mail-handling operations moved to the USPS annex in Danbury, dramatically reducing operations. Blumenthal pressed DeJoy to commit to looking into the issue and consider selling unused or underutilized Connecticut sites which would result in more revenue for the USPS. “In Norwalk, they are in the process of redeveloping their downtown now in real time. In Milford, they are redeveloping a downtown. They want to provide you with reasonable alternatives for the postal property, if it ever is going to be used. I could go through a number of towns where in real time, right now there are businesses, taxpayer interests, and your customers at stake. Why can't we move on some of these properties rather than the Post Office in effect stonewalling the people of Connecticut?” asked Blumenthal. Postmaster General DeJoy committed to joining Blumenthal in Connecticut to visit the Ridgefield Postal Service site, among other unused or underutilized sites. Blumenthal followed up on DeJoy’s commitment sending him a formal invitation letter to join him in a visit to Ridgefield during the winter holiday seas… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T22:13:55Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-calls-for-expansion-of-darfur-arms-embargo Murphy Calls For Expansion Of Darfur Arms Embargo 2024-12-06 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate CT Christopher Murphy M001169 www.murphy.senate.gov chrismurphy https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON–U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), a member of the U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Committee, on Friday released the following statement on the need to expand the Darfur arms embargo during the United States’ presidency of the UN Security Council: “As the United States assumes the Presidency of the UN Security Council this month, I strongly support Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield’s commitment to using our role to shine a spotlight on the humanitarian catastrophe in Sudan. While our Mission works with partners to set the Council’s agenda for December, we must make it a priority to enforce the Darfur arms embargo and further expand it to cover the entirety of Sudan. While I am grateful the Security Council recently unanimously decided to extend the embargo until September 2025, combatants on both sides of the conflict continue to receive a steady flow of weapons and ammunition from all corners of the country. In turn, both the RSF and SAF use these weapons to continue their brutal campaigns and terrorize innocent civilians. The foreign governments and businesses responsible for violating the embargo, including the United Arab Emirates and Russia, are directly responsible for perpetuating the horrific conflict, which has killed tens of thousands of civilians and become the most severe displacement crisis in the world. The Security Council must step up to expand the embargo and take the necessary steps to hold those responsible for violating it accountable. With December’s presidency, I hope the United States will use all leverage at our disposal to end the bloodshed and bring this devastating conflict to a close.” ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T22:13:55Z
https://delauro.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/icymi-fda-deputy-commissioner-human-foods-confirms-fda-intends-finalize ICYMI: FDA Deputy Commissioner for Human Foods Confirms FDA Intends to Finalize Decision on Red 3 2024-12-05 2024 2024-12 Democrat House CT Rosa L. DeLauro D000216 delauro.house.gov delauro https://delauro.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper Today, FDA Deputy Commissioner for Human Foods Jim Jones confirmed in a Senate hearing that the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) intends to finalize their decision on the carcinogenic food dye FD&C Red No. 3, known as Red 3, in the use of foods in the coming weeks. You can view the interaction here. “Senator Tuberville: Let me say this, Red 3 has been known to cause cancer in cosmetic s but we still allow it to be put in our food… I don’t understand that. “Commissioner Jones: So, Red 3, we have a petition in front of us to revoke the authorization for it and we are hopeful that within the next few weeks we will be acting on that petition and a decision should be forthcoming.” 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T22:13:55Z
https://larson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/larson-courtney-delauro-applaud-13-billion-contract-strengthen-engine Larson, Courtney, DeLauro Applaud $1.3 Billion Contract to Strengthen Engine Manufacturing Supply Chain 2024-12-05 2024 2024-12 Democrat House CT John B. Larson L000557 larson.house.gov larson https://larson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper Washington, D.C. - Today, Reps. John B. Larson (CT-01), Joe Courtney (CT-02), and Rosa DeLauro (CT-03) applauded the Department of Defense’s announcement of a $1.3 billion modification to a Pratt & Whitney contract for F135 maintenance and sustainment. 46% of all the work completed under this contract will be performed in East Hartford and Windsor Locks, Connecticut. “The F135 is the most capable production fighter engine the world has ever known, and it is built right here in Connecticut by the best machinists and engineers in the world,” said Larson. “This contract supports nearly 20,000 jobs in our state and the security needs of our Military Services and our allies across the globe. It is a true testament to the hard work of Connecticut’s skilled machinists and engineers, who have driven down production costs of this engine by 50%. The entire Connecticut delegation led a broad coalition of machinists and Members of Congress in both parties to ensure Pratt & Whitney remains the sole source provider of the F135 engine, a decision that will secure critical investments in our region’s workforce for years to come and save taxpayers billions of dollars. Together, we will keep the eagle flying!” "This award by the Department of Defense once again validates the critical importance that the employees of Pratt & Whitney deliver to the F-35 enterprise, particularly on maintenance and life cycle sustainment," said Courtney, a senior member of the House Armed Services Committee. "The contract enables Pratt & Whitney to continue their impressive work to reduce life cycle and maintenance costs while increasing overall readiness of the F-35 fleet to deliver for our warfighters and international program partners. Kudos to my colleague and friend Congressman John B. Larson for championing the F-35 enterprise, which has created thousands of good-paying jobs for Connecticut workers.” “This $1.3 billion contract modification builds on the progress I made negotiating this year’s bipartisan funding bill, which firmly established… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T22:13:55Z
https://larson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/larson-murphy-blumenthal-courtney-delauro-call-department-education Larson, Murphy, Blumenthal, Courtney, DeLauro Call on Department of Education to Discharge Loans for Defrauded Borrowers 2024-12-05 2024 2024-12 Democrat House CT John B. Larson L000557 larson.house.gov larson https://larson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper Washington, D.C. - Today, Reps. John B. Larson (CT-01), Joe Courtney (CT-02), and Rosa DeLauro (CT-03), and Senators Richard Blumenthal and Chris Murphy called on the U.S. Department of Education to discharge student loan debt for hundreds of thousands of students who were defrauded by predatory schools. During the first Trump administration, defrauded borrowers’ applications for debt relief were left to languish for years, and if reviewed, were often denied. In their letter, the lawmakers called for the Department to use its authority to immediately discharge debt. “The Biden administration has demonstrated a commitment to supporting student borrowers and mitigating the devastating impact of student loan debt, including issuing targeted debt relief to hundreds of thousands of borrowers defrauded by predatory higher education institutions,” the lawmakers wrote. The lawmakers continued: “We urge the Department of Education to follow through on its commitment by immediately processing debt discharges for borrowers already approved for relief; issuing additional discharges for students who attended institutions with documented histories of predatory practices; and processing any outstanding borrower defense applications.” Since 2022, the Department has announced group discharges for more than 1.2 million individuals who attended schools that engaged in documented fraud and misconduct, including ITT Technical Institute and Corinthian Colleges. Yet, hundreds of thousands of borrowers are still awaiting their discharges. Many additional borrowers are eligible for borrower defense group discharge because they attended schools for which the Department possesses evidence of fraud and misconduct; 400,000 borrowers have submitted individual applications for borrower defense discharges that the Department has yet to process. The full text of the letter is available HERE and below: Dear Secretary Cardona, The Biden administration has demonstrated a commitment to supporting student borrowers and mitigating the devastati… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T22:13:55Z
https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/blumenthal-calls-on-senate-armed-services-committee-leadership-to-request-hegseth-records-from-veterans-groups Blumenthal Calls on Senate Armed Services Committee Leadership to Request Hegseth Records from Veterans Groups 2024-12-05 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate CT Richard Blumenthal B001277 www.blumenthal.senate.gov blumenthal https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press scraper [WASHINGTON, DC] – U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, wrote Chairman Jack Reed (D-RI) and Ranking Member Roger Wicker (R-MI) requesting that the Committee “ensure that Concerned Veterans of America (CVA) and the Veterans for Freedom (V.F.F.) preserve and produce all financial records and correspondence, particularly concerning credit card transactions, relating to Peter Hegseth’s tenure at these organizations to the Committee for review.” Earlier this week, public reporting revealed that the nominee to lead the Department of Defense was removed from leadership positions at both Concerned Veterans of America and the Veterans for Freedom following significant misconduct and financial mismanagement. The full text of Blumenthal’s letter is available here and copied below. Dear Chairman Reed and Ranking Member Wicker, In light of recent reporting alleging gross misconduct and financial mismanagement on the part of President-elect Trump’s nominee for Secretary of Defense, Peter Hegseth, I request that prior to scheduling any confirmation hearing, the Committee ensure that Concerned Veterans of America (CVA) and the Veterans for Freedom (V.F.F.) preserve and produce all financial records and correspondence, particularly concerning credit card transactions, relating to Peter Hegseth’s tenure at these organizations to the Committee for review. Accusations of Mr. Hegseth’s serious financial abuse and gross misconduct as the Executive Director of V.F.F. from 2007 to 2011 and again as the Executive Director of CVA from 2013 to 2016 make it imperative that the Committee have access to all relevant documentation to assess these claims prior to the Committee considering his nomination. This request includes but is not limited to credit card records, tax filings, receipts, performance reviews, and revenue reports. Thank you for your consideration of my request. -30- 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T22:13:55Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-blumenthal-larson-courtney-delauro-colleagues-call-on-department-of-education-to-discharge-loans-for-defrauded-borrowers Murphy, Blumenthal, Larson, Courtney, DeLauro, Colleagues Call On Department Of Education To Discharge Loans For Defrauded Borrowers 2024-12-05 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate CT Christopher Murphy M001169 www.murphy.senate.gov chrismurphy https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON—U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), a member of the U.S. Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee, on Wednesday joined U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) and U.S. Representatives John Larson (D-Conn.-01), Joe Courtney (D-Conn.-02), and Rosa DeLauro (D-Conn.-03) in calling on the U.S. Department of Education to discharge student loan debt for hundreds of thousands of students who were defrauded by predatory schools. During the first Trump administration, defrauded borrowers’ applications for debt relief were left to languish for years, and if reviewed, were often denied. In their letter today, the lawmakers called for the Department to use its authority to immediately discharge debt. Since 2022, the Department has announced group discharges for more than 1.2 million individuals who attended schools that engaged in documented fraud and misconduct, including ITT Technical Institute and Corinthian Colleges. Yet, hundreds of thousands of borrowers are still awaiting their discharges. Many additional borrowers are eligible for borrower defense group discharge because they attended schools for which the Department possesses evidence of fraud and misconduct; 400,000 borrowers have submitted individual applications for borrower defense discharges that the Department has yet to process. “The Biden administration has demonstrated a commitment to supporting student borrowers and mitigating the devastating impact of student loan debt, including issuing targeted debt relief to hundreds of thousands of borrowers defrauded by predatory higher education institutions,” the lawmakers wrote. The lawmakers continued: “We urge the Department of Education to follow through on its commitment by immediately processing debt discharges for borrowers already approved for relief; issuing additional discharges for students who attended institutions with documented histories of predatory practices; and processing any outstanding borrower defense applications.” U.S. Senators Edward Markey (D-Mass.), Dick Dur… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T22:13:55Z
https://hayes.house.gov/press-releases?ID=B91BDAD9-DB44-43C2-A286-D6B4010AD394 Hayes Introduces Legislation to Lower Costs for Telehealth Care 2024-12-04 2024 2024-12 Democrat House CT Jahana Hayes H001081 hayes.house.gov hayes https://hayes.house.gov/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congresswoman Jahana Hayes (CT-05) introduced the Fair Telehealth Billing Act of 2024 to prohibit healthcare providers from imposing certain facility fees for telehealth services, lowering the cost to the patient. Facility fees are often used by hospitals and providers to maximize revenue and are added on top of professional service fees. There is often little transparency on when, how, or why hospitals charge patients these supplemental fees for telehealth services. According to the National Academy for State Health Policy, facility fees can increase out-of-pocket costs for patients by as much as $1,000. “The Fair Telehealth Billing Act is a commonsense approach to lower the overall cost of telehealth care by eliminating unnecessary fees,” said Congresswoman Hayes. “Patients should not pay for facility fees if they are receiving telehealth services and never step into a physical medical office. This legislation prevents healthcare providers from charging arbitrary fees while protecting protects patients from runaway costs of care.” Further, patients are often charged separately for professional service and facility fees, resulting in double billing.The Fair Telehealth Billing Act of 2024prevents health care facilities from charging consumers a separate facility fee. This legislation ensures facility fees for telehealth would only be permitted when there is no professional fee available to the billing provider. This approach is fair to health care providers, who will get paid for their services, and to patients, who will only receive one bill for the care they receive through telehealth. The Fair Telehealth Billing Act of 2024 builds off anamendment Congresswoman Hayes offered before the House Committee on Education and the Workforce in September, which was unanimously adopted into H.R. 9457. During her time in the House of Representatives, Congresswoman Hayes has continued to advocate for policies and investments to lower the cost of healthcare. The Fair Telehealth Billing Act of 2… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T22:13:55Z
https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/blumenthal-calls-on-dot-and-treasury-to-investigate-airlines-junk-fee-tactics Blumenthal Calls on DOT and Treasury to Investigate Airlines' Junk Fee Tactics 2024-12-04 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate CT Richard Blumenthal B001277 www.blumenthal.senate.gov blumenthal https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press scraper [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Chair of the Permanent Subcommittee on Investigations (PSI), today urged the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) and the U.S. Department of Treasury to review major airlines’ tactics to boost revenue from excessive ancillary or “junk” fees, which have resulted in higher costs and negative experiences for consumers. Last week, Blumenthal released a Majority staff report today’s PSI hearing Pointing to the Subcommittee’s finding that Frontier and Spirit airlines paid $26 million in combined incentive payments to gate agents and other personnel between 2022 and 2023 to enforce airline bag policies that boost airline revenue, Blumenthal wrote to Secretary Buttigieg, “I write to request that the DOT review the Subcommittee’s report, which is enclosed with this letter, and conduct a thorough investigation into Frontier and Spirit’s policies, practices, and training surrounding the payment of incentives to gate agents and others charged with applying discretion in the application of bag policies. I further urge that, if the DOT determines that either Frontier or Spirit have engaged in unfair or deceptive practices in their implementation of ancillary incentive payments, it should prohibit the practices in question and access civil penalties if appropriate.” Blumenthal also urged DOT to consider PSI’s findings as it pursues its inquiry into the state of competition in air travel with the Department of Justice, “The Subcommittee’s investigation of American Airlines, Delta, United, Frontier, and Spirit, which together control 60% of the domestic air travel market, also revealed how the decline in airline competition has harmed American consumers. Airline industry consolidation over the past 20 years has left a handful of major airlines that implement ancillary fee increases in lock step, often leaving customers no way to avoid certain fees.” In his letter to Secretary Yellen, Blumenthal called on the department to ensure uniform application of the transpor… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T22:13:55Z
https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/blumenthal-delivers-opening-statement-at-hearing-with-airline-executives-on-junk-fees Blumenthal Delivers Opening Statement at Hearing with Airline Executives on Junk Fees 2024-12-04 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate CT Richard Blumenthal B001277 www.blumenthal.senate.gov blumenthal https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press scraper [WASHINGTON, DC] – U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Chair of the Senate Permanent Subcommittee on Investigations (PSI), delivered opening remarks at today’s hearing on “The Sky’s the Limit – New Revelations About Airline Fees.” Prior to the hearing, Blumenthal wrote to the U.S. Department of Transportation and the U.S. Department of Treasury referring PSI’s findings from its investigation into airline junk fees and urging the agencies to take action to protect consumers. “Last week was the busiest, or certainly one of the busiest, of our travel weekends,” Blumenthal said. “18 million people in the air, and many of them frustrated and infuriated, not just by delays and cancellations—some of them inevitable—but by fees that seemed to be sky high with no prospect of landing. In fact, they feel with more than understandable justification that they are piggy banks to be shaken down by these skyrocketing fees that seem to have no connection to any costs that the airlines incur. In fact, our investigation shows they have no connection to actual costs that the airlines are bearing.” “The five airlines here today generated $25.3 billion in checked bag fees over the past six years. In fact, airlines have forced parents to choose between sitting apart from their minor children and paying an extra fee,” Blumenthal continued. Blumenthal underscored the findings of PSI’s investigation into airline junk fees as published in last week’s Majority staff report, “Our investigation found that in 2023 alone, American, Delta, United, Frontier, and Spirit collected more than $3 billion in seat fees. Only seat fees. That is not airfare. That is just fees for booking a specific seat in advance or selecting a slightly better seat. And that’s an increase of 50% from 2018, just six years ago.” Blumenthal concluded by calling for action to lower costs for consumers, increase price transparency, and review the state of competition within the airline industry, “First of all, more must be done to address the rising cost of air travel… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T22:13:55Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-blumenthal-applaud-senate-passage-of-bipartisan-slow-down-move-over-resolution Murphy, Blumenthal Applaud Senate Passage of Bipartisan Slow Down, Move Over Resolution 2024-12-04 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate CT Christopher Murphy M001169 www.murphy.senate.gov chrismurphy https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper HARTFORD—U.S. Senators Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) and Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) applauded Senate passage of the bipartisan Slow Down, Move Over resolution, which raises awareness of Slow Down, Move Over state laws to reduce struck-by-vehicle injuries and fatalities and to recognize the important role fire and rescue personnel, emergency medical services personnel, law enforcement officers, tow truck operators, and transportation workers play in road safety. The resolution is inspired by Corey Iodice, a tow truck operator, who was tragically struck and killed on the Merritt Parkway in Connecticut in 2020 while assisting a driver. “When I walk across the state every year, I see firsthand how reckless driving endangers everyone on the road, especially our law enforcement, emergency personnel, and transportation workers,” said Murphy. “With roadway deaths on the rise in Connecticut, this bipartisan resolution is a reminder of why Slow Down, Move Over laws are so important to helping prevent the tragedies that have already taken far too many lives.” “This year, State Trooper First Class Aaron Pelletier, Andrew DiDomenico, Jose Diaz Nieves, and Corey Iodice will be absent from family holiday dinner tables. They tragically lost their lives on Connecticut roads, and so many other preventable deaths and injuries occur on our roadways every year,” said Blumenthal. “Today, I’m proud that the Senate has passed this bipartisan resolution to promote greater adherence and stronger enforcement of Slow Down, Move Over laws to prevent these tragic deaths.” All 50 states have Slow Down, Move Over laws that direct motorists to reduce speed or change lanes for stopped emergency and maintenance vehicles. Still, many motorists are unaware of them and roadside fatalities and injuries continue. In 2023, 45 traffic incident management responders were killed in the United States due to roadside collisions. U.S. Senators Mike Braun (R-Ind.), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.), Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T22:13:55Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-blumenthal-introduce-legislation-to-strengthen-labor-protections-for-minor-league-baseball-players Murphy, Blumenthal Introduce Legislation To Strengthen Labor Protections For Minor League Baseball Players 2024-12-04 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate CT Christopher Murphy M001169 www.murphy.senate.gov chrismurphy https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON—U.S. Senators Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) and Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) introduced the Fair Ball Act, legislation that would amend the Fair Labor Standards Act of 1938 to ensure minor league baseball players receive minimum wage and overtime protections, unless they are already protected under a collective bargaining agreement. The bill seeks to repeal provisions of the 2018 Save America’s Pastime Act, which exempted teams from adhering to federal minimum wage and overtime requirements, while encouraging MLB to uphold collective bargaining agreements and ensuring those exemptions cannot be used as leverage in future negotiations. “Connecticut fans know how much minor league teams like the Hartford Yard Goats mean to our communities,” said Murphy. “But for years, the athletes who work hard to make it all possible have been left behind by outdated and unfair labor laws. The Fair Ball Act is about righting a wrong and making sure minor league players get the fair pay and protections they deserve.” “Minor League Baseball players deserve to be fairly compensated when their determination, diligence, and discipline drive millions in revenue for MLB owners,” said Blumenthal. “Unfortunately, MLB has worked vigorously to lobby for loopholes to avoid paying a minimum wage. I’m proud to support the Fair Ball Act which will shore up protections for Minor League Baseball players ensuring they receive fair compensation and that they’re able to continue fighting for increased wages and benefits.” In 2018, Major League Baseball successfully lobbied for legislation to shield itself from a class-action lawsuit alleging the league and its teams violated federal and state wage and hour laws. The league argued that 2018 legislation would protect Minor League teams from being contracted only to contract dozens of Minor League Baseball teams just two years later. The new Fair Ball Act would help protect Minor League players and the gains they have made to earn a living wage as a result of their historic unionization under t… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T22:13:55Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-highlights-watertowns-koster-keunen-as-innovator-of-the-month Murphy Highlights Watertown's Koster Keunen As "Innovator Of The Month" 2024-12-04 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate CT Christopher Murphy M001169 www.murphy.senate.gov chrismurphy https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper HARTFORD–U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) announced on Wednesday that Koster Keunen, based in Watertown, was named “Innovator of the Month” for its leadership in natural wax production and technology. Founded in 1852, Koster Keunen specializes in the ethical development, processing, and manufacturing of wax ingredients and derivatives. The company pioneered the world’s first certified, 100% sustainably sourced beeswax and operates its Watertown facility with a 660kW solar array, offsetting nearly 900 tons of carbon emissions each year. “Koster Keunen’s innovation and commitment to sustainability highlights the power of Connecticut businesses to lead on a global scale. I’m proud to recognize this family-owned business for its pioneering efforts to create ethical, environmentally friendly solutions and pave the way for better working conditions around the world,” said Murphy. “This award is a testament to the values that have guided my family and our company for five generations. It's a recognition of our deep-rooted commitment to sustainability, community empowerment, and ethical business practices. To be acknowledged on a global stage for these efforts is truly humbling,” said John Koster, President of Koster Keunen. “At Koster Keunen, we believe innovation is the driving force behind sustainability and creating positive global impact. We are proud to be a Connecticut-based company, contributing to the state's rich legacy of ingenuity and environmental stewardship.” Koster Keunen was awarded the 2024 U.S. Secretary of State Award for Corporate Excellence in Innovation to Strengthen Communities, which recognizes U.S. companies that uphold high standards of ethical conduct, promote human rights and community development, and demonstrate environmental and social responsibility in their overseas operations. The recognition shines a spotlight on the positive impact Koster Keunen has made all over the world, where the company has partnered with local communities to empower local entrepreneurs and promote sustaina… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T22:13:55Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-statement-on-developments-in-south-korea Murphy Statement On Developments In South Korea 2024-12-03 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate CT Christopher Murphy M001169 www.murphy.senate.gov chrismurphy https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON–U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), a member of the U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Committee, on Tuesday released the following statement on the developments in South Korea: “President Yoon’s decision to declare martial law and deploy troops to the parliament was extraordinarily misguided and the National Assembly was right to quickly vote to reverse it. In declaring martial law, President Yoon aimed to bypass democratic processes and crush political dissent. South Korea has long been one of our most important allies, but this was a deeply troubling move by President Yoon, and I am glad the country’s institutions moved quickly to condemn it.” ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T22:13:55Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-statement-on-new-democratic-leadership-position Murphy Statement On New Democratic Leadership Position 2024-12-03 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate CT Christopher Murphy M001169 www.murphy.senate.gov chrismurphy https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON–U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) on Tuesday released the following statement after the Senate Democratic caucus voted to appoint him to the position of Deputy Conference Secretary within the Senate Democratic leadership team. “I’m grateful to have a seat at the table as we chart the path forward for our party. In no uncertain terms, the American people sent us a message in November. If we want to win back working-class voters, we need to change how we fight and how we communicate. I look forward to working with Leader Schumer and the rest of the leadership team as we work to build a coalition to fight back against Trump's billionaire agenda in the upcoming Congress.” ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T22:13:55Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-on-meet-the-press-this-cabinet-is-donald-trump-and-the-billionaire-class-using-government-to-enrich-themselves-at-the-cost-of-the-american-people Murphy On Meet The Press: This Cabinet Is Donald Trump And The Billionaire Class Using Government To Enrich Themselves At The Cost Of The American People 2024-12-01 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate CT Christopher Murphy M001169 www.murphy.senate.gov chrismurphy https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON–U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) on Sunday joined NBC News’s Meet the Press with Kristen Welker to discuss President-elect Donald Trump’s cabinet nominations. Murphy also discussed the path forward for the Democratic Party and the importance of shifting power away from billionaires and corporations and back to the American people. On President-elect Trump’s nomination of Kash Patel to serve as Director of the FBI, Murphy said: “I will vote no, and I will organize not just my colleagues, but the American public to understand what's happening here. Donald Trump told the American public during the campaign that he was going to turn the Department of Justice into a political operation, an arm of the White House, to destroy his political opponents, right. He said that the greatest threat to America is the enemy within. And who he said was the enemy within was us – was journalists, were his political opponents. Kash Patel’s only qualification is [that] he agrees with Donald Trump that the Department of Justice should serve to punish, lock up, and intimidate Donald Trump's political opponents. Murphy continued: “The cost to the American public is pretty simple. The Department of Justice and the FBI [are] supposed to be there to go after drug traffickers, gun smugglers, to go after corrupt Wall Street financiers. Instead, the Department of Justice is going to serve Donald Trump's political interests. That's what Kash Patel has said he thinks the Department of Justice and the FBI should do, and that's why Republicans and Democrats should be examining how damaging this nomination could be to American democracy.” Murphy highlighted the fact that Trump is using his cabinet nominations to help enrich his billionaire friends: “What worries me about this cabinet is that it is essentially putting the billionaire class in charge of American government. The net worth of Donald Trump's nominees is greater than 169 countries. The folks that are being nominated to run the Department of Commerce, Treasury, Education, … 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T22:13:55Z
https://larson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/larson-condemns-racist-threats-targeting-middle-school-students Larson Condemns Racist Threats Targeting Middle School Students in Bloomfield 2024-11-08 2024 2024-11 Democrat House CT John B. Larson L000557 larson.house.gov larson https://larson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper “To see middle school students in Bloomfield targeted by racist and threatening anonymous messages is nothing short of reprehensible,” said Larson. “All students must be able to feel safe at home, in the classroom, and on the internet, and no one should ever be targeted because of who they are. It is especially disturbing to see this was not a remote or isolated incident, with Black students across the country reporting that they received similar text messages. I completely stand behind law enforcement’s efforts to investigate these hateful threats and hope to see the perpetrators brought to justice. I join with our Attorney General, William Tong, who has made it clear there will be no tolerance for this type of hate in the State of Connecticut. While extremists may aim to divide us with their hate, diversity will always remain our strength as Americans.” 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T22:07:06Z
https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/icymi-following-blumenthal-tester-takano-push-va-moves-to-cover-k-2-veterans-sicked-by-uranium-radiation ICYMI: Following Blumenthal, Tester, Takano Push, VA Moves to Cover K-2 Veterans Sicked by Uranium Radiation 2024-11-08 2024 2024-11 Democrat Senate CT Richard Blumenthal B001277 www.blumenthal.senate.gov blumenthal https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press scraper [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – In case you missed it, following sustained oversight efforts from U.S. Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) and Jon Tester (D-MT) and U.S. Representative Mark Takano (D-CA), the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) announced it has begun an expedited process to expand the presumptive conditions associated with service at the Karshi Khanabad (K-2) Air Base in Uzbekistan. VA intends to establish service-connected presumptive benefits for veterans who served at K-2 in order to make it easier for K-2 veterans suffering from a litany of cancers, immunological disorders, and other health conditions to receive earned benefits. VA’s move to expand toxic-exposed benefits for K-2 veterans follows Blumenthal, Tester, and Takano’s push on VA Secretary McDonough last month, where they called on the Secretary directly to use authorities granted to the Department by the PACT Act to ensure K-2 veterans exposed to radiation receive the benefits they have earned. “K-2 veterans deserve comprehensive care and benefits – without exception,” Blumenthal said. “This action from the Department of Veterans Affairs marks important and commendable progress in doing right by them and ensuring they receive proper health care. I look forward to the continued action of the VA in honoring the service and sacrifice of all veterans, and especially those who served at Karshi Khanabad who suffer from exposure to toxins and poisons, by providing access to the treatment and care they have rightfully earned.” “Every veteran exposed to toxins during their military service deserves access to the benefits and health care they earned and were promised,” Tester said. “We fought alongside veterans to pass the PACT Act and ensure that was the case for generations of toxic-exposed veterans. I’m encouraged VA is now using this law to add new presumptive benefits for K-2 veterans exposed to toxic substances. And I’ll keep holding VA accountable to continue taking the necessary and immediate steps to do right by K-2 veterans.” “Veterans who … 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T22:07:06Z
https://delauro.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/delauro-statement-us-presidential-election DeLauro Statement on U.S. Presidential Election 2024-11-07 2024 2024-11 Democrat House CT Rosa L. DeLauro D000216 delauro.house.gov delauro https://delauro.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro (CT-03) released a statement in response to the results of the U.S. presidential election: “I thank Vice President Harris and Governor Tim Walz for the extraordinary campaign they ran. The American people have spoken, and I respect their decision. President-elect Trump won the trust of many of my constituents and I will help him succeed where possible. We worked together on trade issues. With the incoming administration, I am committed to finding common ground, including enacting an expanded, monthly Child Tax Credit and bipartisan government funding bills. On issues we disagree, like Project 2025, plans on federal health programs, education, and women’s health, I will oppose him. I will continue to advocate for the middle-class, working people, and the vulnerable. “Many votes are still being counted and there remains a chance Democrats will reclaim the House. Every vote must be counted.” 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T22:07:06Z
https://larson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/larson-statement-incident-us-capitol Larson Statement on Incident at the U.S. Capitol 2024-11-05 2024 2024-11 Democrat House CT John B. Larson L000557 larson.house.gov larson https://larson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper “Thank God no one was harmed during today’s incident at the Capitol," said Larson. "I am grateful for the swift action of the U. S. Capitol Police as they work to keep staff and visitors safe today and every day. We must ensure USCP and our first responders have the resources they need to investigate this incident and continue to keep the Capitol safe and secure. Threats to our democracy will not stand, especially on Election Day. The American people should rest assured their voices will be heard at the ballot box, and those results will be respected.” 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T22:07:06Z
https://hayes.house.gov/press-releases?ID=978E8597-E29D-4038-BE36-86BFAFB37575 Hayes, Connecticut Delegation Announce $77.8 Million in Low-Income Heating Assistance for Connecticut 2024-11-04 2024 2024-11 Democrat House CT Jahana Hayes H001081 hayes.house.gov hayes https://hayes.house.gov/press-releases scraper WATERBURY – Today, Congresswoman Jahana Hayes (CT-05) and the Connecticut Congressional delegation announced Connecticut will receive $77,834,656 from the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) ahead of the winter season. This is the first allocation of LIHEAP dollars this season. “LIHEAP is a lifeline for many families faced with rising heating costs. I am delighted $77.8 million is coming back to Connecticut to help families stay warm this winter,” said Congresswoman Hayes. “This assistance will help to ease the burden of high heating costs. In Congress, I will continue to advocate for additional funding for this vital resource, which lowers utility costs and prevents shut-offs across Connecticut.” “This home heating aid is desperately needed by families who face a frigid winter without fuel for basic warmth,” said Senator Blumenthal. “With $77.8 million, many families will be assured this basic necessity. Every day, I see and speak to people struggling to make ends meet and worrying about financial hardships and challenges. I’ll fight for more federal support for LIHEAP and other programs that help them with essential needs.” “For too many families in Connecticut, falling temperatures mean having to choose between heating your home or putting food on the table. This $77.8 million in LIHEAP funding will help ease that burden for households feeling the strain of rising energy costs this winter, and as a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, I’ll keep working with our delegation to ensure Connecticut families continue to have the support they need so they don’t have to make those difficult choices,” said Senator Murphy. “High costs are spreading families thin,” said Congresswoman DeLauro (CT-03). “No family should have to choose between keeping their home warm during the colder months, keeping their lights on, or putting food on the table. As Ranking Member of the House Appropriations Committee, I secured $77.8 million for the program to help Connecticut’s families keep warm this season. … 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T22:07:06Z
https://larson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/larson-blumenthal-murphy-lamont-announce-6-million-federal-funds Larson, Blumenthal, Murphy, Lamont Announce $6 Million in Federal Funds for Bradley International Airport Improvement Project 2024-11-04 2024 2024-11 Democrat House CT John B. Larson L000557 larson.house.gov larson https://larson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper Windsor Locks, CT - Today, Rep. John B. Larson (CT-01), Senators Richard Blumenthal and Chris Murphy, and Governor Ned Lamont joined the Connecticut Airport Authority (CAA) to announce $6 million in federal funding for a major improvement project at Bradley International Airport (BDL). “This $6 million in funding for Bradley International Airport builds on the progress that’s been made to improve passenger experience, modernize baggage screening, expand flight options, and create good-paying jobs,” saidRepresentative John B. Larson. “I am proud to have worked with the delegation to deliver millions of dollars in funding for Bradley through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. We will continue to work with our partners at the state, including the CAA, to advance our airport’s infrastructure and ensure a positive experience for travelers.” “As a frequent flyer – from Bradley back and forth weekly to DC – I know very personally what a great airport it is, and how much greater it could be. In fact, with this $6 million federal funding boost, it will be on a flight path to become one of the nation’s premier air travel hubs. Streamlined, upgraded, and expanded, its services will be speedier and safer than ever. I’ll continue fighting for even more federal support,” saidSenator Richard Blumenthal. “Investing in Connecticut’s airports isn’t just good for travelers—it also creates lots of good-paying jobs and draws new businesses to our state,” saidSenator Chris Murphy. “This $6 million for a new baggage handling system will help open up space for more flight options and keep flyers safe, making the travel experience even more convenient and ensuring Bradley continues to be recognized as one of the top airports in the country.” “Over the last several years, Bradley has implemented many major improvements that have resulted in this airport being ranked among the best in the nation,” saidGovernor Ned Lamont. “This funding will enable Bradley to continue making upgrades that will strengthen its reputation as one of the bes… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T22:07:06Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-highlights-sheltons-aspira-womens-health-as-innovator-of-the-month Murphy Highlights Shelton's Aspira Women's Health As "Innovator Of The Month" 2024-11-04 2024 2024-11 Democrat Senate CT Christopher Murphy M001169 www.murphy.senate.gov chrismurphy https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper HARTFORD–U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) announced on Monday that Aspira Women’s Health, a bio-analytical company based in Shelton, was named “Innovator of the Month” for its leadership in the development of blood tests that aid in the detection of ovarian cancer. The company’s flagship products, OvaWatch and Ova1Plus, employ AI technology towards effective ovarian cancer risk assessment and drive higher standard of care for women with ovarian masses. Last month, Aspira was awarded $10 million in federal funding to develop a non-invasive blood test to detect endometriosis, which is currently diagnosed through invasive surgery. “For decades, underinvestment in women’s health has meant that women and girls simply aren’t getting access to the treatments and care they deserve. I’m proud to see Aspira’s cutting-edge biomedical research positioning Connecticut as a leader in women’s healthcare and improving lives through earlier risk assessment, more accurate diagnoses, and innovative, personalized care,” said Murphy. “We are honored to be Innovator of the Month and proud to represent Connecticut on the national women’s healthcare stage. For far too long, women have been forced to resort to surgical interventions for diagnosis of gynecologic diseases. Aspira aims to change that. We believe all women deserve the opportunity to make healthcare decisions based on facts instead of fear,” said Nicole Sandford, CEO of Aspira Women’s Health. “Endometriosis is a chronic condition that impacts as many as six million women in the United States alone. It alters nearly every facet of a patient’s life, many of whom must wait years for a diagnosis. We believe Aspira is uniquely qualified to solve this problem. Our diagnostic solutions focus on a data-driven approach and powerful AI-enabled algorithms that offer noninvasive alternatives to aid in the detection of gynecologic disease. Our suite of blood tests to assess ovarian cancer risk in women with masses which have been ordered by healthcare providers more than 200,000 time… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T22:07:06Z
https://delauro.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/connecticut-delegation-announces-778-million-home-energy-assistance Connecticut Delegation Announces $77.8 Million in Home Energy Assistance Funding for State 2024-11-01 2024 2024-11 Democrat House CT Rosa L. DeLauro D000216 delauro.house.gov delauro https://delauro.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper Today, Members of Connecticut’s Congressional delegation announced that Connecticut will receive $77,834,656 from the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) ahead of the winter season. This is the first allocation of LIHEAP dollars this season. “High costs are spreading families thin,” said Congresswoman DeLauro. “No family should have to choose between keeping their home warm during the colder months, keeping their lights on, or putting food on the table. As Ranking Member of the House Appropriations Committee, I secured $77.8 million for the program to help Connecticut’s families keep warm this season. Every family deserves warmth. I am committed to ensuring no household goes cold this winter.” “This home heating aid is desperately needed by families who face a frigid winter without fuel for basic warmth,” said Senator Blumenthal. “With $77.8 million, many families will be assured this basic necessity. Every day, I see and speak to people struggling to make ends meet and worrying about financial hardships and challenges. I’ll fight for more federal support for LIHEAP and other programs that help them with essential needs.” “For too many families in Connecticut, falling temperatures mean having to choose between heating your home or putting food on the table. This $77.8 million in LIHEAP funding will help ease that burden for households feeling the strain of rising energy costs this winter, and as a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, I’ll keep working with our delegation to ensure Connecticut families continue to have the support they need so they don’t have to make those difficult choices,” said Senator Murphy. “As we approach the winter months, we must ensure all families are able to heat their homes without breaking the bank,” said Congressman Larson. “Thanks to the steadfast leadership of Rep. Rosa DeLauro on the Appropriations Committee, I am thrilled to join the entire Connecticut delegation to announce $77.8 million in new funding to help families afford their energy bills. We … 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T22:07:06Z
https://delauro.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/ranking-member-rosa-delauro-appropriations-committee-members-take Ranking Member Rosa DeLauro, Appropriations Committee Members Take Bipartisan National Security Trip to Middle East 2024-11-01 2024 2024-11 Democrat House CT Rosa L. DeLauro D000216 delauro.house.gov delauro https://delauro.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper Amid rising threats, instability, and changes in Israel, House Appropriations Ranking Member Rosa DeLauro (D-CT) joined a bipartisan Congressional delegation to the Middle East. It will help strengthen America’s defense, reinforce partnerships with allies, and make critical changes possible. The Members met with heads of state and other leaders from Egypt, Jordan, and Saudi Arabia to work effectively against Iran, address the humanitarian crisis, and to achieve peace and security in the region. It was critical to see our Armed Forces deployed in the region who play such a critical role. “I was grateful for this opportunity to join a bipartisan delegation of United States lawmakers to gather firsthand information and perspectives from some of our closest allies and security partners in the Middle East,” said Ranking Member DeLauro. “The Middle East is at a crisis point after years of destabilizing influence from Iran and its proxy groups, and it is vital that the United States work with our allies to bring critical changes. The delegation affirmed our strong bipartisan support for Israel’s security, and I emphasized that it is time to transform Israel’s military victories into strategic success. We need an immediate ceasefire, release of the hostages, and massive help for Gaza. It is tied to a political path that includes a viable Palestinian state, which is key to regional peace.” DeLauro was joined by House Appropriations Chairman Tom Cole (R-OK) and Representatives John Rutherford (R-FL), Ed Case (D-HI), and Mark Alford (R-MO). During visits with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi, King of Jordan Abdullah II bin Al-Hussein, and Saudi officials, the U.S. lawmakers held productive, high-level meetings on reinforcing strategic alliances, the importance of increased regional cooperation, and our shared commitments to supporting global security and the safety of our citizens. The group agreed to unite to bolster peace and security during this difficult time. In Israel, the delegation reiterated the unbreak… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T22:07:06Z
https://himes.house.gov/press-releases?ID=F9C9CB29-E06B-4175-B38F-ADF7115B9B42 Connecticut Delegation Announces $77.8 Million in Home Energy Assistance Funding for State 2024-11-01 2024 2024-11 Democrat House CT James A. Himes H001047 himes.house.gov himes https://himes.house.gov/press-releases page_html Washington, DC – Today, Members of Connecticut’s Congressional delegation announced that Connecticut will receive $77,834,656 from the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) ahead of the winter season. This is the first allocation of LIHEAP dollars this season. “High costs are spreading families thin,” said Congresswoman DeLauro. “No family should have to choose between keeping their home warm during the colder months, keeping their lights on, or putting food on the table. As Ranking Member of the House Appropriations Committee, I secured $77.8 million for the program to help Connecticut’s families keep warm this season. Every family deserves warmth. I am committed to ensuring no household goes cold this winter.” “This home heating aid is desperately needed by families who face a frigid winter without fuel for basic warmth,” said Senator Blumenthal. “With $77.8 million, many families will be assured this basic necessity. Every day, I see and speak to people struggling to make ends meet and worrying about financial hardships and challenges. I’ll fight for more federal support for LIHEAP and other programs that help them with essential needs.” “For too many families in Connecticut, falling temperatures mean having to choose between heating your home or putting food on the table. This $77.8 million in LIHEAP funding will help ease that burden for households feeling the strain of rising energy costs this winter, and as a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, I’ll keep working with our delegation to ensure Connecticut families continue to have the support they need so they don’t have to make those difficult choices,” said Senator Murphy. “As we approach the winter months, we must ensure all families are able to heat their homes without breaking the bank,” said Congressman Larson. “Thanks to the steadfast leadership of Rep. Rosa DeLauro on the Appropriations Committee, I am thrilled to join the entire Connecticut delegation to announce $77.8 million in new funding to help families afford their … 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-03-30T11:08:25Z

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