Press releases
Data license: MIT · Data source: dwillis/congress-press
- url
- Link to the original release on the member's official site
- text
- Extracted body text (may be empty if the page could not be fetched)
- has_text
- 1 if body text was successfully extracted
- date_source
- How the publication date was determined
- bioguide_id
- Bioguide ID of the member
1,154 rows where state = "MA" and year = 2015 sorted by date descending
This data as json, CSV (advanced)
| 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.markey.senate.gov/news/press-releases/blumenthal-markey-on-nhtsa-recall-completion-rates-completely-unacceptable-and-a-massive-disappointment | Blumenthal, Markey on NHTSA Recall Completion Rates: “Completely Unacceptable and a Massive Disappointment” | 2015-12-23 | 2015 | 2015-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Edward Markey | M000133 | www.markey.senate.gov | legacy | Blumenthal, Markey on NHTSA Recall Completion Rates: Completely Unacceptable and a Massive Disappointment Wednesday, December 23, 2015 (Washington, DC) U.S. SenatorsRichard Blumenthal(D-Conn.) and Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.) issued the following statement on the National Highway Traffic Safety Administrations (NHTSA) current completion rates for replacing recalled Takata airbags: Todays update from NHTSA reiterates what we already know: the current pace of recall efforts is completely unacceptable and a massive disappointment. While they have increased somewhat in the last few weeks, these completion rates are dismal NHTSA and automakers deserve a lump of coal this year for failing to get their act together to get every potentially deadly airbag off the road. As the holiday season brings increased travel, Americans on the road to visit family or friends should not be at risk because of NHTSAs lethargic recall. The coordinated remedy and appointment of an independent monitor are helpful steps, but are largely required because NHTSA has moved too slowly and ineptly for years, allowing a patchwork of recalls too confusing for consumers to follow. Automakers have dragged their feet and failed to quickly and clearly communicate the extent of the risk to NHTSA and the public. While NHTSAs appointment of John D. Buretta, an experienced litigator with a track record of protecting consumers, as independent monitor of the recall is a positive step, NHTSA must ensure that Mr. Buretta has all resources necessary to effectively oversee this critical task. While we appreciate Honda, Subaru, and Mazdas recall expansions to ensure an adequate safety margin, there remain many un-recalled vehicles on the road that still contain potentially defective Takata airbags. The identification of yet another preventable death this time a young boy and well after when this safety defect was first made known reiterates the urgent need for swift recall of all cars with these potentially defective airbag… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.warren.senate.gov?p=news&id=1055 | Associated Press: Warren, Markey: Let States Allow Partial Opioid Prescriptions | 2015-12-23 | 2015 | 2015-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Elizabeth Warren | W000817 | www.warren.senate.gov | legacy | BOSTON (AP) - Several U.S. senators are urging federal regulators to make it clear that partially filling prescriptions for opioid drugs is permitted under federal law. Massachusetts Sens. Elizabeth Warren and Edward Markey said in a letter to the Drug Enforcement Administration that officials in many states - including Massachusetts - have pushed for the change as a way to combat the opioid addiction problem. Read the full Associated Press article here. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.warren.senate.gov?p=news&id=1056 | Springfield Republican: U.S. Sen. Elizabeth Warren and colleagues press feds for more answers on medical marijuana research | 2015-12-23 | 2015 | 2015-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Elizabeth Warren | W000817 | www.warren.senate.gov | legacy | A group of U.S. senators, including Elizabeth Warren and Ed Markey of Massachusetts, is still seeking answers on federal barriers to research on medical marijuana and hit U.S. agencies for a lack of coordination with states on the issue. Warren, Markey and six other senators sent a letter in July asking for information on federal agencies' efforts on medical marijuana research. Medical marijuana is currently legal in 23 states, including Massachusetts and Washington, D.C. Read the full article here. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.warren.senate.gov?p=press_release&id=1042 | Bipartisan Group of Senators Urges DEA to Clarify 'Partial Fill' Policies to Help Address Opioid Crisis | 2015-12-23 | 2015 | 2015-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Elizabeth Warren | W000817 | www.warren.senate.gov | legacy | Full text of the letter available here (PDF) Washington, DC - United States Senators Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.), Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), and Kelly Ayotte (R-N.H.) sent a bipartisan letter asking the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) to clarify that partial filling of Schedule II opioid drugs is permitted under federal law. "States like Massachusetts are considering policies that would give patients, their providers, and pharmacists the option to dispense opioid medication a few days' supply at a time, up to the total amount in the prescription, so that patients don't receive more drugs than they will use," wrote the senators. "These partial-fill' policies could empower patients to work with their doctor and pharmacist to achieve the desired level of pain control while also limiting the amount of unused medication in their home." But the Controlled Substances Act and the Food Drug and Cosmetic Act are both silent with regards to the partial filling of prescriptions. "While these regulations do not specifically prohibit partially filling prescriptions for Schedule II substances in other scenarios, the lack of clarity has deterred states from moving forward with partial fill policies," the senators wrote. The letter requests that the DEA "issue guidance or undertake the rulemaking process to clarify that Schedule II opioid drugs are permitted to be partially filled under federal law. This modest change can make a big difference in our fight against the opioid epidemic." Read a PDF copy of the letter here. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://lynch.house.gov/press-release/funding-veterans-and-drug-courts-top-rep-lynch%E2%80%99s-agenda | Funding for Veterans and Drug Courts Top Rep. Lynchs Agenda | 2015-12-22 | 2015 | 2015-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Stephen Lynch | L000562 | lynch.house.gov | legacy | Funding for Veterans and Drug Courts Top Rep. Lynchs Agenda Dec 22, 2015 BOSTON, MA Last week, the Congress passed and President Obama signed a bipartisan omnibus appropriations bill funding the government through Fiscal Year 2016 by a vote of 316-113. As local communities struggle to provide veterans with the services they have earned, I am very pleased that Congress recognized the need to invest heavily in efforts to end veterans homelessness and support suicide prevention programs. In addition, many families in the 8th District are faced with the devastating impacts of a loved one struggling with addiction and increased support for the drug courts program is a critical way to help halt the cycle of addiction, said Congressman Stephen F. Lynch (D-Boston) who voted in favor of the legislation. While the spending package was imperfect, it makes critical investments to promote economic growth and assist the hardworking families of the 8th District. My concerns about lifting the oil export ban were outweighed by the substantial funding for alternative energy, which will create jobs across the country. From increased support for medical research into debilitating diseases to investing in updates for our aging infrastructure, the federal government has prioritized funding for many issues close to the hearts of residents of Massachusetts, Congressman Lynch added. Important priorities for Massachusetts families and businesses in the omnibus package include: $1.4 billion for Ending Veterans Homelessness: As the VA works with local communities to reduce the number of veterans living on the streets, this funding will help support efforts to end veterans homelessness. In addition, funding for rental assistance programs for veterans was included in the $11.3 billion for housing programs. $26.7 millio… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://lynch.house.gov/2015/12/funding-veterans-and-drug-courts-top-rep-lynchs-agenda | Funding for Veterans and Drug Courts Top Rep. Lynch’s Agenda | 2015-12-22 | 2015 | 2015-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Stephen F. Lynch | L000562 | lynch.house.gov | lynch | https://lynch.house.gov/press-releases | scraper | BOSTON, MA – Last week, the Congress passed and President Obama signed a bipartisan omnibus appropriations bill funding the government through Fiscal Year 2016 by a vote of 316-113. “As local communities struggle to provide veterans with the services they have earned, I am very pleased that Congress recognized the need to invest heavily in efforts to end veterans’ homelessness and support suicide prevention programs. In addition, many families in the 8th District are faced with the devastating impacts of a loved one struggling with addiction and increased support for the drug courts program is a critical way to help halt the cycle of addiction,” said Congressman Stephen F. Lynch (D-Boston) who voted in favor of the legislation. “While the spending package was imperfect, it makes critical investments to promote economic growth and assist the hardworking families of the 8th District. My concerns about lifting the oil export ban were outweighed by the substantial funding for alternative energy, which will create jobs across the country. From increased support for medical research into debilitating diseases to investing in updates for our aging infrastructure, the federal government has prioritized funding for many issues close to the hearts of residents of Massachusetts,” Congressman Lynch added. Important priorities for Massachusetts families and businesses in the omnibus package include: $1.4 billion for Ending Veterans Homelessness: As the VA works with local communities to reduce the number of veterans living on the streets, this funding will help support efforts to end veterans’ homelessness. In addition, funding for rental assistance programs for veterans was included in the $11.3 billion for housing programs. $26.7 million for Defense Suicide Prevention Office: Funding to support suicide prevention is included in the $50 billion for VA Medical Services. With high suicide rates among veterans returning from service in Iraq and Afghanistan, the omnibus directs the VA to move forward with implementation of … | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T20:33:33Z |
| https://tsongas.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=49&itemid=1655 | Tsongas leads letter to FDA urging reconsideration of decision on OxyContin use by children | 2015-12-22 | 2015 | 2015-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Niki Tsongas | T000465 | tsongas.house.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON Congresswoman Niki Tsongas (MA-3) led a bipartisan group of House Members in sending a letter to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regarding the use of OxyContin by children as young as 11 years old. The letter urges the FDA to reconsider its decision to approve OxyContin for use by children and instead allow an Advisory Committee to gather public input and expert testimony before making an official recommendation. The letter was signed by 14 other Members of Congress,including Massachusetts Representatives Michael Capuano, Stephen Lynch, Kathrine Clark and Seth Moulton. The text of the letter is included below: Dear Acting Commissioner Ostroff: We write to express our concerns regarding the Food and Drug Administrations decision to approve the opioid prescription painkiller OxyContin for use by children as young as 11 years old. Our country is suffering from a serious epidemic of opioid addiction and abuse. According to the Centers for Disease Control, 44 people die every day as a result of a prescription opioid overdose in the United States. We understand that FDAs goal was to give doctors better guidelines on how to use OxyContin safely in pediatric patients. However, we believe that the flawed methodology used to arrive at this decision, as well as FDAs actual guidance, may actually encourage the expanded use of opioids among a population who are at an even greater risk of addiction. As other federal agencies, including the Centers for Disease Control, Department of Health and Human Services, Office of National Drug Control Policy, and the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration work to combat this growing epidemic, we find it startling that FDA took this action without the benefit of review and input from an Advisory Committee. And, most egregiously, that FDA relied solely on an evaluation conducted by the pharmaceutical company who stands to benefit from the sale of this drug; a private company that only a few years ago pleaded guilty to falsely marketing the drug in … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.markey.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senators-ask-ftc-to-investigate-liquid-nicotine-retailers-for-unfair-or-deceptive-practices | Senators Ask FTC to Investigate Liquid Nicotine Retailers for Unfair or Deceptive Practices | 2015-12-22 | 2015 | 2015-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Edward Markey | M000133 | www.markey.senate.gov | legacy | Senators Ask FTC to Investigate Liquid Nicotine Retailers for Unfair or Deceptive Practices Tuesday, December 22, 2015 Lawmakers also send letters to 167 liquid nicotine retailers demanding they stop marketing efforts and to 25 corporations whose trademarks appear to be misused by retailers Washington (December 22, 2015) Senator Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.) was today joined by Senators Sherrod Brown (D-Ohio), Jack Reed (D-R.I.), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Al Franken (D-Minn.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Barbara Boxer (D-Calif.), Richard Durbin (D-Ill.) and Patty Murray (D-Wash.) in a letter to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) asking it to investigate unfair or deceptive acts of liquid-nicotine retailers. The organization First Focus has found that there are many cases of these retailers advertising liquid nicotine as recognizable brand names of candy, breakfast cereal, and other foods and drinks, including Red Vines, A&W Root Beer, Trix, Bubblicious, and Swedish Fish. Last year, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention warned of increased numbers of calls to poison control centers for liquid nicotine exposure, and it is reported that one half teaspoon of liquid nicotine can cause severe stomach aches, seizures, difficulty breathing and even death. Nicotines dangerous and addictive properties are well documented.Liquid nicotine poses an especially serious threat to children,write the Senators in the letter to the FTC.We must not tolerate the marketing of a harmful chemical to teenagers and children, especially under the imprimatur of recognizable brands an advertising activity plainly undertaken to create a new generation of nicotine-addicted smokers or vapers. A copy of the letter to the FTC can be foundHERE. Copies of the letter to the liquid nicotine retailers can be foundHERE. Copies of the letter to the candy/cereal companies can be foundHERE. The full list of the 167 liquid nicotine retailers and 25 candy/cereal companies who were sent letters can be… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.warren.senate.gov?p=press_release&id=1041 | Warren Joins Quigley, Lee, and Baldwin in Responding to FDA Policy Change to Blood Donor Deferral Policy for MSM | 2015-12-22 | 2015 | 2015-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Elizabeth Warren | W000817 | www.warren.senate.gov | legacy | Washington- U.S. Senator Elizabeth Warren joined Senator Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) and Representatives Mike Quigley (IL-05) and Barbara Lee (CA-13) in responding to the Food and Drug Administration's (FDA) change of the blood donor deferral policy for men who have sex with men (MSM) from a lifetime ban to a one-year deferral: "This past year, we saw tremendous progress for the LGBT community with the legalization of same sex marriage nationwide. Unfortunately, today's official policy change by the FDA on blood donations from men who have sex with men (MSM) from a lifetime ban to one-year deferral does not keep up with that same progress," said. Rep. Quigley. "A time-based deferral focusing solely on men who have sex with men is still discriminatory and fails to exclude donors based on actual risk factors. However, I remain encouraged by the ongoing conversation to change this outdated policy. As the leader of the bipartisan, bicameral effort to reverse the FDA's discriminatory policy, I will continue to fight for a deferral policy based on behavioral risks, commensurate with the rest of the population and based on sound science, bringing equality for the LGBT community while still protecting the U.S. blood supply." "I am encouraged that the FDA swiftly finalized this guidance to move forward and revise the discriminatory lifetime ban on blood donations. However, this is just the first step toward ending an outdated policy that is medically and scientifically unwarranted," said Senator Baldwin. "This revision doesn't go far enough - and I expect the FDA to maintain its commitment to work with stakeholders to develop better blood donor policies based on science. I will continue to push the Administration to move forward to achieve our ultimate goal of blood donation policies that are based on individual risk factors, that don't unfairly single out one group of individuals, and that allow all healthy Americans to donate." "The FDA's long-overdue decision to overturn the lifetime ban on blood donations from men who have… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.markey.senate.gov/news/press-releases/bipartisan-group-of-senators-urges-education-department-not-to-use-unsolicited-robocalling-for-student-loan-debt-collection-without-evidence-of-benefits-for-borrowers-and-taxpayers | Bipartisan Group of Senators Urges Education Department Not to Use Unsolicited Robocalling for Student Loan Debt Collection Without Evidence of Benefits for Borrowers and Taxpayers | 2015-12-21 | 2015 | 2015-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Edward Markey | M000133 | www.markey.senate.gov | legacy | Bipartisan Group of Senators Urges Education Department Not to Use Unsolicited Robocalling for Student Loan Debt Collection Without Evidence of Benefits for Borrowers and Taxpayers Monday, December 21, 2015 Washington, DC- In a bipartisan letter sent to the U.S. Department of Education (ED) today, Senators Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Mike Lee (R-Utah), Orrin Hatch (R-Utah), and Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.) raised concerns about the newly-authorized use of unsolicited "robocalling" to collect student loan debt. Federal law has generally protected individuals from automated, unsolicited robocalling by debt collectors and others, but this consumer protection recently was eliminated as it pertains to the collection of debts owed to or guaranteed by the federal government. "We are concerned that this provision will subject student loan borrowers to a barrage of unsolicited calls - and possibly leave them with no refuge to stop the calls," the senators wrote. They noted that ED has offered no evidence that robocalling will help borrowers choose the right repayment plan and avoid default, or that it will help the federal student loan program by generating meaningful revenue. "The Department has an obligation to demonstrate with data that the use of this authority will provide net benefits for both student loan borrowers and taxpayers and will not result in potentially abusive debt collection practices. In the absence of such data, the Department should not direct anyone, including third party debt collectors, to use robocalls to collect student loan debt," the letter states. The senators ask ED to explain the steps it will take to generate data on this issue, and request information about the Department's interpretation of its authority under the new law. "The federal government should focus on giving students the tools they need to repay their debts and to avoid default - not on squeezing them even harder,"Senator Warren said. "The new robocalling provision raises real concerns, and … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.markey.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senate-unanimously-passes-electrify-africa-bill | Senate Unanimously Passes Electrify Africa Bill | 2015-12-21 | 2015 | 2015-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Edward Markey | M000133 | www.markey.senate.gov | legacy | Senate Unanimously Passes Electrify Africa Bill Monday, December 21, 2015 Washington - U.S. SenatorsBob Corker(R-Tenn.),Ben Cardin(D-Md.),Marco Rubio(R-Fla.) andChris Coons(D-Del.), all members of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, today praised Senate passage of the Electrify Africa Act of 2015 (S.2152), legislation that will leverage private sector resources through loan guarantees to help 50 million Africans access electricity for the first-time and add 20,000 megawatts of electricity to the grid by 2020. Providing access to electricity will stimulate economic growth while also improving access to education and public health. The bill also was cosponsored by SenatorsEd Markey(D-Mass.),Jeff Flake(R-Ariz.),Johnny Isakson(R-Ga.), andLisa Murkowski(R-Alaska). The legislation requires the president to create a comprehensive strategy for United States engagement with sub-Saharan Africa in developing a broad mix of power solutions to increase electricity access and reliability. It encourages the Overseas Private Investment Corporation (OPIC), USAID, the U.S. Department of Treasury, U.S. Trade and Development Agency, World Bank, and African Development Bank to prioritize loans, grants, and technical support that promote private investment in projects designed to increase electricity access and reliability. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.markey.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senators-urge-obama-administration-to-release-proposed-rules-for-internet-access-under-the-americans-with-disabilities-act | Senators Urge Obama Administration to Release Proposed Rules for Internet Access Under the Americans with Disabilities Act | 2015-12-21 | 2015 | 2015-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Edward Markey | M000133 | www.markey.senate.gov | legacy | Senators Urge Obama Administration to Release Proposed Rules for Internet Access Under the Americans with Disabilities Act Monday, December 21, 2015 Washington (December 21, 2015) Last week, Senator Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.) led a group of eight other Senators in a letter to the Obama administration calling for the prompt release of rules that would clarify and support access to information and communications technology (ICT) under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Unfortunately, because the ADA predated the information-technology revolution, the statute and its implementing regulations lack sufficient clarity on the question of ICT accessibility. This ambiguity has resulted in individuals with disabilities facing frequent and unacceptable barriers to Internet access and information and communications technology. Senators Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Sherrod Brown (D-Ohio), Cory A. Booker (D-N.J.), Barbara A. Mikulski (D-Md.), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Benjamin L. Cardin (D-Md.), Al Franken (D-Minn.) and Richard J. Durbin (D-Ill.) also signed the letter to the Office of Management and Budget (OMB). Far too many entities covered by current ADA regulations are not taking appreciable actions to support ICT accessibility, exploiting the current lack of regulatory clarity,write the Senators in the letter to OMB.By approving publication of DOJs proposed ICT regulations, the Administration can demonstrate its commitment to the ADA and ensuring that individuals with disabilities are able to take full advantage of Twenty-First Century ICT. A copy of the letter to OMB can be foundHERE. A digitally-accessible version can be foundHERE. Dave Power, President and CEO of Perkins School for the Blind Perkins School for the Blind applauds the efforts of Senators Markey, Warren, Brown, Booker, Mikulski, Blumenthal, Cardin, Durbin and Franken as they urge OMB to approve publication of a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking by DOJ that advances the promise of making digital reso… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.warren.senate.gov?p=press_release&id=1038 | Bipartisan Group of Senators Urges Education Department Not to Use Unsolicited Robocalling for Student Loan Debt Collection Without Evidence of Benefits for Borrowers and Taxpayers | 2015-12-21 | 2015 | 2015-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Elizabeth Warren | W000817 | www.warren.senate.gov | legacy | Full text of the letter available here (PDF) Washington, DC - In a bipartisan letter sent to the U.S. Department of Education (ED) today, Senators Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Mike Lee (R-Utah), Orrin Hatch (R-Utah), and Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.) raised concerns about the newly-authorized use of unsolicited "robocalling" to collect student loan debt. Federal law has generally protected individuals from automated, unsolicited robocalling by debt collectors and others, but this consumer protection recently was eliminated as it pertains to the collection of debts owed to or guaranteed by the federal government. "We are concerned that this provision will subject student loan borrowers to a barrage of unsolicited calls - and possibly leave them with no refuge to stop the calls," the senators wrote. They noted that ED has offered no evidence that robocalling will help borrowers choose the right repayment plan and avoid default, or that it will help the federal student loan program by generating meaningful revenue. "The Department has an obligation to demonstrate with data that the use of this authority will provide net benefits for both student loan borrowers and taxpayers and will not result in potentially abusive debt collection practices. In the absence of such data, the Department should not direct anyone, including third party debt collectors, to use robocalls to collect student loan debt," the letter states. The senators ask ED to explain the steps it will take to generate data on this issue, and request information about the Department's interpretation of its authority under the new law. "The federal government should focus on giving students the tools they need to repay their debts and to avoid default - not on squeezing them even harder," Senator Warren said. "The new robocalling provision raises real concerns, and the Education Department should not use this authority without evidence that it would benefit borrowers and taxpayers." "Our higher education system is in desperate need of reform," Senator Lee said… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.warren.senate.gov?p=press_release&id=1039 | Senators Seek Further Information About Federal Efforts to Facilitate Medical Marijuana Research | 2015-12-21 | 2015 | 2015-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Elizabeth Warren | W000817 | www.warren.senate.gov | legacy | Follow-up letter comes after federal agency response leaves unanswered questions about efforts to address regulatory barriers to critical research Full text of the letter available here (PDF) Washington, DC -United States Senators Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Barbara Mikulski (D-Md.), Barbara Boxer (D-Calif.), Ron Wyden (D-Ore.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.), Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.), and Cory Booker (D-N.J.) sent a follow-up letter to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), the Office of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP), and the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) seeking additional information about the agencies' efforts to facilitate and coordinate scientific research on medical marijuana. Today's letter comes after the agencies' response to the senators' July letter and a subsequent staff briefing failed to answer key substantive questions. The senators reiterated the important role the federal agencies have to collaborate with each other and with states to conduct research on the risks and benefits of medical marijuana use. Instead, they wrote, "there are currently numerous federal and state regulatory barriers to researching marijuana. This regulatory scheme which limits medical marijuana research is outdated and in desperate need of serious and immediate review, and these problems are exacerbated by a lack of coordination between the agencies and states." In todays letter, the senators seek additional information from the agencies in several areas: (1) The supply of marijuana for research purposes.The senators reiterated concerns about the monopoly held by the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) on the bulk manufacture of marijuana for research purposes, which limits access to adequate supply and appropriate varieties of marijuana and presents significant barriers to research. While the DEA said in the staff briefing that it does not view supply limits as a barrier, the senators note this explanation only applied to one strain of marijuana and does not refle… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://lynch.house.gov/press-release/us-rep-lynch-pushes-%E2%80%9Cquiet-skies%E2%80%9D-provision | U.S. Rep. Lynch Pushes Quiet Skies Provision | 2015-12-19 | 2015 | 2015-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Stephen Lynch | L000562 | lynch.house.gov | legacy | U.S. Rep. Lynch Pushes Quiet Skies Provision Dec 19, 2015 BOSTON, MA The recent Omnibus bill passed in Congress and signed by President Obama included language that requires the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to increase community engagement. The provision states that not later than 60 days after enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall review and update the agencys Community Involvement Manual related to new air traffic procedures, public outreach and community involvement: Provided further, That the Administrator shall complete and implement a plan which enhances community involvement techniques and proactively addresses concerns associated with performance based navigation projects. Following passage of the Omnibus including the quiet skies provision, Congressman Stephen F. Lynch (DBoston) released the following statement: The families who live in the neighborhoods and towns surrounding Logan Airport have struggled to have their concerns about airplane noise heard by the FAA for a long time. Thanks to the efforts of our Congressional Quiet Skies Caucus, Congress is trying to hold the FAA accountable by mandating that the FAA update their community involvement strategy and report back to Congress on these important changes. The lack of public outreach from the FAA has been a significant issue for residents of the 8th Congressional District and communities across the country. This new provision will ensure that the FAA is more responsive. It gives us more leverage in dealing with the FAA. And to all the 600 or so good people who sat through our 3-1/2 hour FAA forum at Milton High School, I would say that this is because of your involvement and it's a step forward on the road to a better and healthier environment for the people who live and work near Logan Airport. This is progr… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://lynch.house.gov/2015/12/us-rep-lynch-pushes-quiet-skies-provision | U.S. Rep. Lynch Pushes “Quiet Skies” Provision | 2015-12-19 | 2015 | 2015-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Stephen F. Lynch | L000562 | lynch.house.gov | lynch | https://lynch.house.gov/press-releases | scraper | BOSTON, MA – The recent Omnibus bill passed in Congress and signed by President Obama included language that requires the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to increase community engagement. The provision states that “not later than 60 days after enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall review and update the agency’s ‘Community Involvement Manual’ related to new air traffic procedures, public outreach and community involvement: Provided further, That the Administrator shall complete and implement a plan which enhances community involvement techniques and proactively addresses concerns associated with performance based navigation projects.” Following passage of the Omnibus including the “quiet skies” provision, Congressman Stephen F. Lynch (D–Boston) released the following statement: “The families who live in the neighborhoods and towns surrounding Logan Airport have struggled to have their concerns about airplane noise heard by the FAA for a long time. Thanks to the efforts of our Congressional Quiet Skies Caucus, Congress is trying to hold the FAA accountable by mandating that the FAA update their community involvement strategy and report back to Congress on these important changes. The lack of public outreach from the FAA has been a significant issue for residents of the 8th Congressional District and communities across the country. This new provision will ensure that the FAA is more responsive. It gives us more leverage in dealing with the FAA. And to all the 600 or so good people who sat through our 3-1/2 hour FAA forum at Milton High School, I would say that this is because of your involvement and it's a step forward on the road to a better and healthier environment for the people who live and work near Logan Airport. This is progress.” | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T20:33:33Z |
| https://mcgovern.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=396817 | McGovern Votes to Pass Omnibus Appropriations Bill to Help Create Jobs and Grow the Economy | 2015-12-18 | 2015 | 2015-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Jim McGovern | M000312 | mcgovern.house.gov | legacy | Today, Congressman Jim McGovern (D-MA) joined House Democrats and Republicans in voting 316-113 to pass the FY 2016 Omnibus Appropriations bill.This measure funds the government for Fiscal Year 2016. The omnibus bill was part of a bipartisan deal that included a tax extenders bill passed yesterday with a strong bipartisan vote of 318-109. Today I joined my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to vote for the Omnibus to avert a disastrous government shutdown and to make the investments we need to help our families succeed and grow our economy. While the bill is not perfect, it is a bipartisan compromise that makes strong investments in a wide range of critical programs with increased funding for NIH, Head Start, Pell Grants, job-training, state and local law enforcement, the McGovern-Dole international school feeding program, and many others. One of the most important victories for working families in the bipartisan deal this week was the provisions in the tax extenders bill that make permanent the improvements to the Earned Income Tax Credit and Child Tax Credit that were passed in 2009 as part of the Recovery Act. As a result, these improvements are expected to lift about 16 million people, including about 8 million children, out of poverty or closer to rising above the poverty line. College affordability is a big priority for me and I am glad that we also made permanent the recent improvement to the American Opportunity Tax Credit to help millions of low- and middle-income families pay for college each year. Additionally, the Omnibus includes provisions to reauthorize the vital Land and Water Conservation Fund for three years.The LWCF is one of our country's most successful outdoor recreation and conservation programs. Over the last 50 years, it has helped to protect national parks and forests, farms and ranches, fish and wildlife refuges, trails, and state and local parks in Massachusetts and across the country. Following the historic international climate agreement reached in Paris last weekend, I am also… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.markey.senate.gov/news/press-releases/bipartisan-coalition-of-senators-hails-senate-passage-of-historic-chemical-safety-law | Bipartisan Coalition of Senators Hails Senate Passage of Historic Chemical Safety Law | 2015-12-18 | 2015 | 2015-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Edward Markey | M000133 | www.markey.senate.gov | legacy | Bipartisan Coalition of Senators Hails Senate Passage of Historic Chemical Safety Law Friday, December 18, 2015 WASHINGTON Today, a bipartisan coalition of senatorscelebrated the Senate's historic passage of the Frank R. Lautenberg Chemical Safety for the 21st Century Act, a chemical safety reform bill to overhaul the nation's broken Toxic Substances Control Act of 1976 (TSCA). The bill passed the Senate last night by a unanimous voice vote and now has 61 bipartisan cosponsors. The 39-year-old TSCA is the last of the major environmental laws passed in the 1960s and '70s that has not yet been modernized. The bill must now be reconciled with the U.S. House of Representatives-passed legislation on the same issue. Passage of the bill was thanks to hard work from many senators. At a news conference this morning,U.S. Sens. Tom Udall (D-N.M.)andDavid Vitter (R-La.)thanked several partners who have worked hard to make the bill stronger and more bipartisan: Environment and Public Works Committee Chairman James Inhofe (R-Okla.) and Sens. Tom Carper (D-Del.), Cory Booker (D-N.J.), Chris Coons (D-Del.), Richard Durbin (D-Ill.), Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), and Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.). Markey said:For too long, TSCA has been a statute that simply does not work and EPAs authority to regulate dangerous chemicals has been broken. The legislation to reform and update TSCA that unanimously passed the Senate represents the kind of bipartisan commitment, married with compromise, that yields important, long-lasting policy. Enormous credit is owed to the tremendous efforts made by Senators Udall, Vitter, and Inhofe and their staffs. I thank Senator Durbin for his partnership to strengthen this legislation and Senators Merkley, Whitehouse and Booker who worked to improve this bill. I stand ready to roll up my sleeves to work with the House to turn this bill into law and protect the health and safety of the American people. Udall said: "After years of negotiations… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.markey.senate.gov/news/press-releases/markey-statement-on-senate-passage-of-omnibus-and-tax-legislation | Markey Statement on Senate Passage of Omnibus and Tax Legislation | 2015-12-18 | 2015 | 2015-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Edward Markey | M000133 | www.markey.senate.gov | legacy | Markey Statement on Senate Passage of Omnibus and Tax Legislation Friday, December 18, 2015 Washington (December 18, 2015) Senator Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.) released the following statement after voting against the government spending and tax package. Everyone wants the government to remain open and working for America. This spending package includes important raises for the National Institutes of Health, the National Science Foundation, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration and other federal agencies working to support Americas middle class and working families. This funding will help us in our efforts to find cures to Alzheimers and other deadly diseases, combat climate change and implement a comprehensive solution to the opioid epidemic. The tax provisions contain important tax credits for hard-working American families that I have long supported for middle class families, college students, and businesses. But this bill also contains a massive giveaway to Big Oil that would be a disaster for our economy, our national security and our environment. This spending package lifts the longstanding crude oil export ban and gives the oil industry yet another permanent windfall while the wind and solar industries are left with tax breaks that will phase out and then be gone. This spending bill hamstrings our clean energy future to protect our dirty energy past. It will be consumers in Massachusetts and across the country who pay the price, literally, for decades to come. Big Oil, aided by Congressional Republicans, made lifting the oil export ban their number one priority in budget negotiations. Lifting the ban is an oil-drenched Christmas present for the American people wrapped by Big Oil and delivered by Congressional Republicans. Using this must-pass spending bill to jam through this massive, permanent giveaway to the oil industry is just plain wrong. This bill also contains a provision that sacrifices Americans privacy under the guise of securi… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.markey.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-markey-statement-on-un-resolution-on-syrian-civil-war | Senator Markey Statement on U.N. Resolution on Syrian Civil War | 2015-12-18 | 2015 | 2015-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Edward Markey | M000133 | www.markey.senate.gov | legacy | Senator Markey Statement on U.N. Resolution on Syrian Civil War Friday, December 18, 2015 Washington (December 18, 2015) Senator Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.), a member of the Foreign Relations Committee, released the following statement after the United Nations Security Council approved a resolution calling for political negotiations to help end the Syrian civil war. I commend Secretary Kerry for his strong and effective leadership today chairing the United Nations Security Council meeting where it unanimously adopted a roadmap to end Syrias civil war, provide humanitarian relief to its victims, and move the Syrian government and opposition into negotiations early next month on political transition. I look forward to working closely with my Senate colleagues and the administration to do everything we can to ensure that this effort succeeds. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.warren.senate.gov?p=press_release&id=1037 | Senators Warren, Blumenthal, Reid, Schumer Introduce Puerto Rico Emergency Financial Stability Act | 2015-12-18 | 2015 | 2015-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Elizabeth Warren | W000817 | www.warren.senate.gov | legacy | Washington, DC - Today, United States Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Senate Democratic Leader Harry Reid (D-Nev.) and Senator Charles E. Schumer (D-NY) introduced the Puerto Rico Emergency Financial Stability Act. This legislation would establish a short-term stay on creditor litigation until Congress takes action to allow Puerto Rico to restructure its debts. "Congress should take action on a long term plan to deal with Puerto Rico's debt crisis now--no more excuses, no more delays. Republican congressional leadership claims they will work with Democrats to pass a legislative package for Puerto Rico by the end of March, so, in the meantime, Congress needs to pass this bill to give the island critical legal protections," Senator Warren said."The Puerto Rican people have been asked to bear huge costs of a long running debt crisis, and now Congress should do its part for the millions of Americans in Puerto Rico who are trying to build a future for themselves and for their kids." "Puerto Rico desperately needs this short term financial tourniquet to stop its fatal bleeding, even as we fight for a real cure. If Congress waits until a messy and disruptive default has begun, the price of addressing the crisis-in both dollars and human suffering of our fellow Americans in Puerto Rico-will be immense and irreparable. Puerto Rico has already missed a debt payment to one class of creditors and indicated that it will be unable to make payments to others. By year's end, Puerto Rico could face expensive and unnecessary creditor lawsuits as a result of its lack of access to an orderly process for restructuring its debt. Those lawsuits would drain precious resources from the island's treasury-resources that will then be unable either to pay creditors or to meet the basic needs of the Puerto Rican people," said Senator Blumenthal. "I am pleased to cosponsor this bill granting Puerto Rico temporary relief from creditors' lawsuits, giving Congress additional time to act to provide Puerto … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://kennedy.house.gov/media/press-releases/kennedy-introduces-bill-to-hold-insurers-accountable-for-mental-health-coverage | KENNEDY INTRODUCES BILL TO HOLD INSURERS ACCOUNTABLE FOR MENTAL HEALTH COVERAGE | 2015-12-17 | 2015 | 2015-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Joseph Kennedy | K000379 | kennedy.house.gov | legacy | Washington, D.C. Congressman Joe Kennedy III introduced the Behavioral Health Coverage Transparency Act of 2015, which will hold health insurers accountable for providing adequate mental health benefits and increase transparency for consumers seeking coverage for mental illness and substance use disorders. Under current federal law, most insurance plans must provide mental health coverage on par with the coverage they provide for other medical or surgical services, a requirement known as parity. However, adherence to existing parity laws has been weak and inconsistent. According to a recent National Alliance on Mental Illness report, insurers denied authorization for mental health care at nearly twice the rate they did for medical care, often providing no information about the criteria used to make the decision. A separate survey of 84 major health plans found that only 15 made detailed plan documents outlining the scope of their mental health coverage available to consumers. Too many Americans suffering from mental illness are unable to access the treatment they need because their insurance company refuses to cover it oftentimes with no explanation at all , said Congressman Kennedy. By boosting transparency and giving consumers more information, this bill would ensure insurance providers treat mental health and substance use disorders the same way they would a broken leg or heart disease. As we work to fill systemic gaps in our mental health system, holding insurers accountable for providing adequate mental health coverage is critical. The Behavioral Health Coverage Transparency Act would require insurance issuers to disclose annually to federal regulators the analysis they perform in making parity determinations as well as the rates and reasons for mental health claims denials versus medical/surgical denials. It also would require the Department of Health & Human Services, the Department of Labor and the Department of Treasury to undertake a minimum of 12 random audits of health plans… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://mcgovern.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=396816 | McGovern: Restoration of Transit Benefit is Big Win for Massachusetts | 2015-12-17 | 2015 | 2015-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Jim McGovern | M000312 | mcgovern.house.gov | legacy | Today, following House passage of the PATH Act a multiyear tax package Representatives Jim McGovern (D-MA), Peter King (R-NY), Earl Blumenauer (D-OR), and Bob Dold (R-IL) welcomed a permanent increase of the commuter tax benefit exclusion for transit riders to $255 a month, finally giving transit equal treatment with parking subsidies in the tax code. This provision incorporates legislation introduced by Congressman McGovern and the other lawmakers, H.R. 990, the Commuter Parity Act. Representative McGovern (D-MA) said, For millions of Americans across the country who use mass transit every day to commute to work, this is a big victory. Making this transit tax benefit permanent will bring critical relief to commuters by saving them money and it also offers employers another attractive benefit to offer their workers. And by making mass transit more affordable, we are giving Americans more commuting options and taking important steps to support sustainable transportation, mitigate congestion and reduce wear and tear on our roads and bridges. This has been a big priority for my constituents in Central and Western Massachusetts who take the train everyday into downtown Boston and I am proud to join Republicans and Democrats to support this important measure. Representative King (R-NY) said, This provision is a common-sense solution to ensuring that public transportation is a cost-effective choice. Commuters will receive the same level of tax relief regardless of whether they drive or use public transportation but it will provide an incentive to use mass transportation, which will reduce our dependence on foreign oil, ease traffic congestion and the costs associated with road repair. Representative Blumenauer (D-OR) said, As we face worsening congestion on our roads and the growing threat of climate change, we should not be incentivizing driving to work over modes of transportation. Restoring parity for the transit tax benefit saves Americans in all communities time and money by easing congestion and road wear an… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.markey.senate.gov/news/press-releases/twenty-one-democratic-senators-express-profound-concern-over-second-iranian-ballistic-missile-test-in-letter-to-president-obama | Twenty-One Democratic Senators Express Profound Concern over Second Iranian Ballistic Missile Test in Letter to President Obama | 2015-12-17 | 2015 | 2015-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Edward Markey | M000133 | www.markey.senate.gov | legacy | Twenty-One Democratic Senators Express Profound Concern over Second Iranian Ballistic Missile Test in Letter to President Obama Thursday, December 17, 2015 WASHINGTON U.S. Senator Ben Cardin (D-MD), Ranking Member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee,along with Senators Chuck Schumer (D-NY), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Chris Coons (D-DE), Gary Peters (D-MI), Michael Bennet (D-CO), Ron Wyden (D-OR), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Debbie Stabenow (D-MI), Heidi Heitkamp (D-ND), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Bill Nelson (D-FL), Ed Markey (D-MA), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Bob Casey (D-PA), Mark Warner (D-VA), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Maria Cantwell (D-WA), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), Barbara Mikulski (D-MD), and Jeff Merkley (D-OR) expressed profound concern in a letter to President Obama regarding a second ballistic missile test conducted by Iran on November 21st. In the letter, the Senators write: We are deeply concerned by Irans continued violations of UN Security Council Resolution (UNSCR) 1929 by testing a second ballistic missile on November 21, 2015If there are no consequences for this violation, Irans leaders will certainly also question the willingness of the international community to respond to violations of the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) and UN Security Council Resolution 2231. The letter sent to President Obama today by the 21 U.S. Senators appears below. Dear Mr. President: We are deeply concerned by Irans continued violations of UN Security Council Resolution (UNSCR) 1929 by testing a second ballistic missile on November 21, 2015. Once again, the international community has an opportunity to demonstrate its resolve in the face of Iranian violations of its international obligations. On December 15, a panel of expert monitors working on behalf of the United Nations Security Council reported that, "On the basis of its analysis and findings the Panel concludes that the Emad launch on October 10this a violation by Iran of paragraph 9 of Security Council Resolution 1929." Unfo… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://mcgovern.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=396815 | McGovern Announces Bipartisan Cuba Working Group | 2015-12-16 | 2015 | 2015-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Jim McGovern | M000312 | mcgovern.house.gov | legacy | With this week marking one year since President Obama announced a new U.S. policy toward Cuba, Congressman Jim McGovern (D-MA) joined Republicans and Democrats today in a letter to Speaker Ryan and Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi to announce a new bipartisan coalition to build on that historic progress and advance U.S.-Cuba relations. McGovern has been a leading voice in Congress in the push for normalizing U.S.-Cuba relations, joining Secretary Kerry at the U.S. Embassy opening in Havana last summer, and this bipartisan Cuba Working Group of 12 House lawmakers will address a wide range of issues with growing support from both parties in Congress. Americans are ready for a 21st century approach to Cuba and one year after President Obama's historic announcement of the new U.S.-Cuba policy, I am proud to join my colleagues in this bipartisan push to build on that progress, Congressman Jim McGovern said. Standing with Secretary Kerry at the opening of the U.S. Embassy in Havana last summer, I was inspired to see Americans and Cubans of all backgrounds united and ready to end the outdated and ineffective Cold War policy that divided us for so many years. With our two nations working together, we can create new opportunities for American businesses, increase travel and exchange, and support efforts in Cuba to advance political and economic reforms and promote human rights, McGovern added. Working with Democrats and Republicans in this bipartisan group, I look forward to addressing these and many other issues as we seize this moment and continue to advance U.S.-Cuba relations. In the letter to Speaker Paul Ryan and Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi announcing the group's formation, the steering committee members said: Increasingly, the American people are indicating their desire for a new, more pragmatic approach to Cuba. More people are traveling from the U.S. to Cuba, more businesses are looking for opportunity on the island, and more sectors are eager for trade. The bi-partisan Cuba Working Group will promote a U.S… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://tsongas.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=49&itemid=1644 | Army releases new, updated policy on breastfeeding | 2015-12-16 | 2015 | 2015-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Niki Tsongas | T000465 | tsongas.house.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON December 16, 2015 Over the past year, Congresswoman Niki Tsongas (MA-3) has championed legislation that would require the U.S. Army to develop a comprehensive policy regarding breastfeeding. The Army was the only branch of the military that did not have a standard policy to which breastfeeding mothers and their commanders could refer. The Army has released a new, updated set of policies regarding breastfeeding, requiring, among other things, that commanders set aside specific nursing areas that are sanitary and provide the necessary time and resources for nursing mothers. The Army previously released a policy in September that received sharp criticism from Army women and mothers who deemed it inadequate. The Army subsequently went back and revised the policy. Although there is much more work to do to support Army moms and servicewomen in general, the changes are certainly a positive step, said Rep. Tsongas. Secretaries Carter and McHugh, Acting Secretary Fanning, General Milley and General Odierno and others showed a willingness to make this a priority. The Army listened to concerns from Army moms and took them seriously after putting forward an inadequate first attempt back in September. This policy shows a strong commitment to helping our dedicated American servicewomen to be the best soldiers and the best mothers that they can be. Tsongas legislation was included in the final version of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), which required the Army to put in place a comprehensive policy. In recent months, Tsongas remained in communication with Army leaders, receiving updates on progress from then-Army Chief of Staff General Raymond Odierno and others. The NDAA was signed into law by President Obama last month. Rep. Tsongas has long advocated on behalf of the growing number of women in the military, and supported the militarys efforts to recruit and retain women within the services. She has taken a leading national role on critical issues such as womens health, gender-specific body armor and… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.markey.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-markey-on-omnibus-big-oils-clean-energy-trojan-horse | Senator Markey on Omnibus: Big Oil’s Clean Energy Trojan Horse | 2015-12-16 | 2015 | 2015-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Edward Markey | M000133 | www.markey.senate.gov | legacy | Senator Markey on Omnibus: Big Oils Clean Energy Trojan Horse Wednesday, December 16, 2015 Provision to lift the crude export ban would be disaster for consumers, climate, natl security Washington (December 16, 2015) Senator Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.), a member of the Environment and Public Works Committee and chair of the Senate Climate Change Clearinghouse, released the following statement on the government spending bill and tax break extenders package released last night by House Republicans. Lifting the crude oil export ban is nothing more than Big Oil corporate welfare. As beneficiaries already of billions of dollars every year of permanent tax breaks, Big Oil stands to benefit now in the tens of billions by lifting the crude oil export ban. The oil industry wants to send our oil overseas to the highest bidder even as we still import millions of barrels of oil every day from nations around the world in unstable regions. This repeal isnt about helping consumers at the pump, its about pumping up Big Oils profits. The clean energy provisions in this spending package are Big Oils Trojan horse for enacting the largest energy tax American consumers have ever seen. Saudi Arabia and their OPEC allies can control the global oil trade. OPEC recently suggested oil prices may rise next year, jeopardizing the economic benefits that low gasoline prices have provided for average Americans. And in exchange for another permanent benefit for Big Oil by lifting the export ban, Republicans would only extend wind and solar tax credits for a few years that end with them being phased out. Thats not a good deal for America or New England. The wind tax credits being phased down through 2019 could be a deathblow for Massachusettss nascent offshore wind industry that needs the additional time and assistance to get projects off the ground off our shores. We know Republicans aided by the oil and gas industry wont stop with just lifting the crude oil export ban. Their goal is to roll back a… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.markey.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senators-introduce-legislation-to-honor-amb-christopher-stevens-glen-a-doherty-tyrone-woods-and-sean-smith_-heroes-killed-in-libyan-consulate-attack | Senators Introduce Legislation to Honor Amb. Christopher Stevens, Glen A. Doherty, Tyrone Woods and Sean Smith - Heroes Killed in Libyan Consulate Attack | 2015-12-16 | 2015 | 2015-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Edward Markey | M000133 | www.markey.senate.gov | legacy | Senators Introduce Legislation to Honor Amb. Christopher Stevens, Glen A. Doherty, Tyrone Woods and Sean Smith - Heroes Killed in Libyan Consulate Attack Wednesday, December 16, 2015 Washington (December 16, 2015) Senators Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Kelly Ayotte (R-N.H.), Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.), Barbara Boxer (D-Calif.), Ron Wyden (D-Oreg.), Jeff Merkley (D-Oreg.) and Marco Rubio (R-Fla.) today introduced legislation to posthumously award the Congressional Gold Medal to J. Christopher Stevens, Glen A. Doherty, Tyrone Woods and Sean Smith in recognition of their contributions to the nation. Stevens, Doherty, Woods and Smith were killed in the attack on the U.S. consulate in Benghazi, Libya in September 2012. Stevens was serving as United States Ambassador to Libya during the attack. Doherty, a former combat-decorated Navy SEAL, was a native of Winchester, Massachusetts. Woods, a native of Portland, Oregon was also a former combat-decorated Navy SEAL. Smith had served in the Air Force where he was awarded the Air Force Commendation Medal. A copy of the legislation can be foundHERE. These distinguished public servants and warriors made the ultimate sacrifice for our nation, and their memories will live on as an inspiration to everyone for their bravery and commitment,said Senator Markey.I am proud to introduce bipartisan legislation to honor their courage with the Congressional Gold Medal. These heroes made the ultimate sacrifice, and we will never forget their last full measure of devotion to our nation. Four brave Americans died serving our country in Benghazi, and they deserve the recognition of a grateful nation,said Senator Warren.The Congressional Gold Medal the most prestigious award that the American people's elected representatives can bestow is a fitting honor. I am especially proud that this legislation honors a son of Massachusetts, Glen A. Doherty, for his sacrifice. His memory will always remain in the hearts of everyon… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://mcgovern.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=396814 | McGovern, Gallego Introduce Bipartisan Resolution Supporting the Peace Process in Colombia | 2015-12-15 | 2015 | 2015-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Jim McGovern | M000312 | mcgovern.house.gov | legacy | Today, Congressman Jim McGovern (D-MA), a senior House Democrat and leading voice in Congress for human rights, joined Congressman Ruben Gallego (D-AZ) and three other House lawmakers in introducing a bipartisan resolution in support of the peace negotiations between the Colombian government and the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC). The resolution recognizes the importance of the ongoing negotiations and commends Colombian President Juan Manuel Santos for his leadership in the process. It also calls on the negotiating parties to make meaningful reparations to the victims of the conflict and urges President Barack Obama to continue to support the negotiations and develop plans to support the Colombian people in building a just and lasting peace. In addition to McGovern and Gallego, original cosponsors include Reps. Bradley Byrne (R-AL) and Henry C. Hank Johnson Jr., who both serve with Rep. Gallego on the House Armed Services Committee, and Reps. John Lewis (D-GA) and Sam Farr (D-CA). The full text of the resolution can be found here. Rep. Jim McGovern (D-MA) said, Colombia is engaged in a historic, difficult and complex negotiation to end the longest armed conflict in the hemisphere.It deserves the support of the U.S. government, the U.S. Congress and the American people.Billions of U.S. tax dollars having been invested in Colombia's security, institutions and the protection of human rights. It is now time for us to demonstrate that same support for the peace negotiations and, if successful and an agreement reached, their implementation. Rep. Ruben Gallego (D-AZ) said, As the first Colombian American elected to the U.S. House of Representatives, I am committed to strengthening the ties that bind our two nations. We have a moral obligation and a vested interest in helping the Colombian people to secure a just and lasting peace. It's heartening to see the great strides that both parties have made at the negotiating table. I remain committed to ensuring that the Colombian government can continue to… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.markey.senate.gov/news/press-releases/markey-blumenthal-introduce-legislation-to-increase-protections-for-online-consumers | Markey, Blumenthal Introduce Legislation To Increase Protections For Online Consumers | 2015-12-15 | 2015 | 2015-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Edward Markey | M000133 | www.markey.senate.gov | legacy | Markey, Blumenthal Introduce Legislation To Increase Protections For Online Consumers Tuesday, December 15, 2015 Do Not Track Online Act would require companies to allow consumers to stop collection of personal information Recent reports show consumers increasingly concerned about companies tracking online behavior, likely to try ad-blocking software to avoid possible tracking (Washington, DC) U.S. Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) and Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.), Ranking Member and Member, respectively, of the Senate Commerce Subcommittee on Consumer Protection, today introduced the Do Not Track Online Act of 2015, legislation that would give consumers the ability to control their personal information and allow them to prevent online companies from collecting and using their information for profit. The bill follows the recent release of a report identifying that the majority of online consumers are concerned about companies that track online behavior and a growing number of internet users are opting for ad-blocker software to eliminate potential for being tracked. Consumers need this protection against invasive tracking companies that collect private, sensitive information with every online click, said Blumenthal. The Do Not Track Act prevents privacy abuse and gives back control over personal lives online. People deserve to be empowered to stop trackers who collect and store their personal, private information. Every online click consumers make provides a detailed and private picture of their personal lives, and American should have control over the collection and use of this personal, sensitive information, said Senator Markey. The Do Not Track Act gives Americans the right to say no to private companies tracking their every move online. I thank Senator Blumenthal for his work on this important bill and look forward to working with my colleagues to pass this important consumer protection legislation. Individuals should be able to easily indicate to provide… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.markey.senate.gov/news/press-releases/sen-markey-leads-call-to-cut-wasteful-nuclear-expenditures-cancel-new-nuclear-air-launched-missile | Sen. Markey Leads Call to Cut Wasteful Nuclear Expenditures, Cancel New Nuclear Air-launched Missile | 2015-12-15 | 2015 | 2015-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Edward Markey | M000133 | www.markey.senate.gov | legacy | Sen. Markey Leads Call to Cut Wasteful Nuclear Expenditures, Cancel New Nuclear Air-launched Missile Tuesday, December 15, 2015 Administrations 2010 Nuclear Posture Review states programs to maintain nuclear weapons will not support new military missions or provide for new military capabilities Washington (December 15, 2015) Senator Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.) today led a group of eight Senators in a letter urging President Obama to cancel the new nuclear air-launched cruise missile. Recent reports indicate that the administration plans to develop 1,000 to 1,100 new nuclear cruise missiles, which are projected to cost between $20 to $30 billion to build. In the letter, the Senators note that this new nuclear weapon does not reflect our current national security needs, is redundant with existing nuclear and conventional options, and could lead to dramatic escalation and potential devastating miscalculations with other nuclear-armed states. Outdated and unnecessary nuclear weapons are relics of the past,write the Senators in the letter to President Obama.Your administration should instead focus on capabilities that keep our economy and defense strong while reducing the role of nuclear weapons. Senators signing the letter include Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Bernard Sanders (I-Vt.), Patrick Leahy (D-Vt.), Al Franken (D-Minn.), Ron Wyden (D-Ore.) and Barbara Boxer (D-Calif.). A copy of the letter can be foundHERE. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.markey.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-markey-statement-on-3rd-anniversary-of-sandy-hook-elementary-school-shooting | Senator Markey Statement on 3rd Anniversary of Sandy Hook Elementary School Shooting | 2015-12-14 | 2015 | 2015-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Edward Markey | M000133 | www.markey.senate.gov | legacy | Senator Markey Statement on 3rd Anniversary of Sandy Hook Elementary School Shooting Monday, December 14, 2015 Boston (December 14, 2015) - Senator Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.) released the following statement to commemorate the third anniversary of the mass shooting at the Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown, Connecticut. Three years after the tragic mass shooting at Sandy Hook Elementary School took the lives of twenty innocent children and six adults, we must recommit ourselves to taking action to prevent future tragedies. With more mass shootings than days so far this year, Americans cannot deny or hide from the epidemic of gun violence. Democrats in Congress have proposed commonsense gun safety reforms to strengthen and improve background checks. But Republicans and the gun lobby have blocked these efforts at every turn. We need to close the loophole that allows those on a terrorist watch list to purchase guns. We need to close the loophole that allows illegal guns to flood our neighborhoods and endanger our communities. We need to ban assault weapons and high capacity magazines. Americas doctors and public health professionals agree that its time to end the ban on gun violence research so we can study this epidemic like the public health crisis that it is. I call on all of my Congressional colleagues to commit to stopping the hemorrhaging of lives and spirit that gun violence causes for families in Massachusetts and across the country and to support commonsense gun safety measures. In June,Senator Markey introduced bicamerallegislationto fund research at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention on gun violence prevention and firearms safety. The legislation calls for $10 million each year for six years beginning in fiscal year 2016.Senator Markey is also the author ofThe Handgun Trigger Safety Act, legislation to ensure that only authorized users can operate handguns. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.markey.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-markey-statement-on-paris-climate-agreement | Senator Markey Statement on Paris Climate Agreement | 2015-12-14 | 2015 | 2015-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Edward Markey | M000133 | www.markey.senate.gov | legacy | Senator Markey Statement on Paris Climate Agreement Monday, December 14, 2015 Washington (December 12, 2015) - Senator Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.), chairman of the Senate Climate Change Clearinghouse, released the following statement after the full negotiating body of the COP21 negotiations released a final agreement. Senator Markey, a member of the Environment and Public Works Committee, is former Chairman of the House Select Committee on Energy Independence and Global warming and is co-author of the only comprehensive climate change legislation to pass a chamber of Congress. Last week, Senator Markey joined a delegation of ten Senators who traveled to COP21 for the Paris talks. For the first time at any UN climate conference, the urgency of the impacts was matched by the urgency of world leaders to act on climate change. The result is a global solution to global warming - an agreement that commits the nations of the world to all doing their fair share to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and support climate-smart economic development. The people of the United States and the entire world owe a debt of gratitude to President Obama, Secretary Kerry, Special Envoy Todd Stern and the entire U.S. negotiating team for their efforts and success. American leadership was key to crafting this global roadmap to a clean energy future. Now, governments and businesses have a strong signal to invest in and develop the technologies that will make a low carbon economy a reality. America can lead this clean energy revolution, and then we can partner with developing nations to share this technology and protect the world's poorest and most vulnerable. This agreement will support a shift to sustainable economic growth that will be just what the United States needs to catalyze the changes in our energy system that we do want, and to end the changes to the climate system that we dont. Even as Republicans and Big Oil work to lift the crude oil export ban here in the United States, the nations… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://tsongas.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=49&itemid=1640 | Congressional Delegation Applauds Federal Disaster Funding for Massachusetts | 2015-12-11 | 2015 | 2015-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Niki Tsongas | T000465 | tsongas.house.gov | legacy | FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE December 10, 2015 Contact: Lacey Rose (Warren), 202-224-2292 Giselle Barry (Markey), 202-224-2742 William Tranghese (Neal), 202-225-5601 Abraham White (McGovern), 202-225-6101 Alison Mills (Capuano), 617-621-6208 Elizabeth Zappala (Lynch), 202-226-1918 Michael Hartigan (Tsongas), 978-459-0101 Dan Black (Kennedy), 202-225-5931 Carrie Rankin (Moulton), 617-485-4544 Congressional Delegation Applauds Federal Disaster Funding for Massachusetts Commonwealth to receive more than $120 million in federal aid Washington, DC Members of the Massachusetts congressional delegation today applauded the Federal Emergency Management Agencys (FEMA) announcement that more than $120 million in disaster assistance has been awarded to the Commonwealth for costs associated with this past winters historic snowfall. This disaster funding is a big help for Massachusetts cities and towns as we continue to recover from last winters severe storms,Senator Elizabeth Warren said.Its important for the federal government to be a good partner for our local communities, especially during emergencies, and Im glad the congressional delegation was able to work with FEMA and with our state and local officials to secure this critical aid. This funding will support much-needed repairs to the Commonwealth's aging infrastructure as we work to improve resiliency for the winter months. This disaster funding will go a long way to help pay the bills that piled up as high as last years historic snowfall," Senator Edward J. Markey said. "Im pleasedthe entire Congressional delegation was able to help Massachusetts and our local municipalities get the federal relief and resources we need to repair, rebuild and recoup costs incurred from last year's winter disaster. Last year, the people of Massachusetts experienced some of the most severe weather in recent history. Record snowfall and historically cold temperatures made the winter months challenging, especially for our cities … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.markey.senate.gov/news/press-releases/congressional-delegation-applauds-federal-disaster-funding-for-massachusetts | Congressional Delegation Applauds Federal Disaster Funding for Massachusetts | 2015-12-11 | 2015 | 2015-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Edward Markey | M000133 | www.markey.senate.gov | legacy | Congressional Delegation Applauds Federal Disaster Funding for Massachusetts Friday, December 11, 2015 Commonwealth to receive more than $120 million in federal aid Washington, DC Members of the Massachusetts congressional delegation today applauded the Federal Emergency Management Agencys (FEMA) announcement that more than $120 million in disaster assistance has been awarded to the Commonwealth for costs associated with this past winters historic snowfall. This disaster funding is a big help for Massachusetts cities and towns as we continue to recover from last winters severe storms,Senator Elizabeth Warren said.Its important for the federal government to be a good partner for our local communities, especially during emergencies, and Im glad the congressional delegation was able to work with FEMA and with our state and local officials to secure this critical aid. This funding will support much-needed repairs to the Commonwealth's aging infrastructure as we work to improve resiliency for the winter months. This disaster funding will go a long way to help pay the bills that piled up as high as last years historic snowfall,"Senator Edward J. Markey said. "Im pleasedthe entire Congressional delegation was able to help Massachusetts and our local municipalities get the federal relief and resources we need to repair, rebuild and recoup costs incurred from last year's winter disaster. Last year, the people of Massachusetts experienced some of the most severe weather in recent history. Record snowfall and historically cold temperatures made the winter months challenging, especially for our cities and towns. That is why this unprecedented amount of disaster assistance from FEMA is welcome news. It will help communities cover storm related costs and give them the resources to plan for the upcoming winter season. Its an early Christmas present for the entire Commonwealth,said Congressman Richard E. Neal. Our last winter was one of the harshest that Massachusetts has faced and thi… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://lynch.house.gov/press-release/congressional-delegation-applauds-federal-disaster-funding-massachusetts | Congressional Delegation Applauds Federal Disaster Funding for Massachusetts | 2015-12-10 | 2015 | 2015-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Stephen Lynch | L000562 | lynch.house.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON, DC Members of the Massachusetts congressional delegation today applauded the Federal Emergency Management Agencys (FEMA) announcement that more than $120 million in disaster assistance has been awarded to the Commonwealth for costs associated with this past winters historic snowfall. This disaster funding is a big help for Massachusetts cities and towns as we continue to recover from last winters severe storms,Senator Elizabeth Warren said.Its important for the federal government to be a good partner for our local communities, especially during emergencies, and Im glad the congressional delegation was able to work with FEMA and with our state and local officials to secure this critical aid. This funding will support much-needed repairs to the Commonwealth's aging infrastructure as we work to improve resiliency for the winter months. This disaster funding will go a long way to help pay the bills that piled up as high as last years historic snowfall," Senator Edward J. Markey said. "Im pleasedthe entire Congressional delegation was able to help Massachusetts and our local municipalities get the federal relief and resources we need to repair, rebuild and recoup costs incurred from last year's winter disaster. Last year, the people of Massachusetts experienced some of the most severe weather in recent history. Record snowfall and historically cold temperatures made the winter months challenging, especially for our cities and towns. That is why this unprecedented amount of disaster assistance from FEMA is welcome news. It will help communities cover storm related costs and give them the resources to plan for the upcoming winter season. Its an early Christmas present for the entire Commonwealth, said Congressman Richard E. Neal. Our last winter was one of the harshest that Massachusetts has faced and this federal aid will provide much-needed relief to the cities and towns that were impacted, Congressman Jim McGovern said. Bringing these federal dollars back to Massachusetts to help families and communities … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://lynch.house.gov/2015/12/congressional-delegation-applauds-federal-disaster-funding-massachusetts | Congressional Delegation Applauds Federal Disaster Funding for Massachusetts | 2015-12-10 | 2015 | 2015-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Stephen F. Lynch | L000562 | lynch.house.gov | lynch | https://lynch.house.gov/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON, DC – Members of the Massachusetts congressional delegation today applauded the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) announcement that more than $120 million in disaster assistance has been awarded to the Commonwealth for costs associated with this past winter’s historic snowfall. “This disaster funding is a big help for Massachusetts’ cities and towns as we continue to recover from last winter’s severe storms,” Senator Elizabeth Warren said. “It’s important for the federal government to be a good partner for our local communities, especially during emergencies, and I’m glad the congressional delegation was able to work with FEMA and with our state and local officials to secure this critical aid. This funding will support much-needed repairs to the Commonwealth's aging infrastructure as we work to improve resiliency for the winter months.” “This disaster funding will go a long way to help pay the bills that piled up as high as last year’s historic snowfall," Senator Edward J. Markey said. "I’m pleased the entire Congressional delegation was able to help Massachusetts and our local municipalities get the federal relief and resources we need to repair, rebuild and recoup costs incurred from last year's winter disaster.” “Last year, the people of Massachusetts experienced some of the most severe weather in recent history. Record snowfall and historically cold temperatures made the winter months challenging, especially for our cities and towns. That is why this unprecedented amount of disaster assistance from FEMA is welcome news. It will help communities cover storm related costs and give them the resources to plan for the upcoming winter season. It’s an early Christmas present for the entire Commonwealth,” said Congressman Richard E. Neal. “Our last winter was one of the harshest that Massachusetts has faced and this federal aid will provide much-needed relief to the cities and towns that were impacted,” Congressman Jim McGovern said. “Bringing these federal dollars back to Massachusetts to h… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T20:33:33Z |
| https://mcgovern.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=396813 | Congressional Delegation Applauds Federal Disaster Funding for Massachusetts | 2015-12-10 | 2015 | 2015-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Jim McGovern | M000312 | mcgovern.house.gov | legacy | Members of the Massachusetts congressional delegation today applauded the Federal Emergency Management Agency's (FEMA) announcement that more than $120 million in disaster assistance has been awarded to the Commonwealth for costs associated with this past winter's historic snowfall. Our last winter was one of the harshest that Massachusetts has faced and this federal aid will provide much-needed relief to the cities and towns that were impacted, Congressman Jim McGovern said. Bringing these federal dollars back to Massachusetts to help families and communities recover has been a top priority. I'm proud to work side-by-side with such strong partners in our delegation to help continue recovery efforts as we prepare for this year's winter. This disaster funding is a big help for Massachusetts' cities and towns as we continue to recover from last winter's severe storms,Senator Elizabeth Warren said.It's important for the federal government to be a good partner for our local communities, especially during emergencies, and I'm glad the congressional delegation was able to work with FEMA and with our state and local officials to secure this critical aid. This funding will support much-needed repairs to the Commonwealth's aging infrastructure as we work to improve resiliency for the winter months. This disaster funding will go a long way to help pay the bills that piled up as high as last year's historic snowfall," Senator Edward J. Markey said. "I'm pleasedthe entire Congressional delegation was able to help Massachusetts and our local municipalities get the federal relief and resources we need to repair, rebuild and recoup costs incurred from last year's winter disaster. Last year, the people of Massachusetts experienced some of the most severe weather in recent history. Record snowfall and historically cold temperatures made the winter months challenging, especially for our cities and towns. That is why this unprecedented amount of disaster assistance from FEMA is welcome news. It will help communities cover storm… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.markey.senate.gov/news/press-releases/markey-blumenthal-statement-on-nhtsa-fiat-civil-penalty-settlement-on-failure-to-report-legally-required-auto-safety-data | Markey, Blumenthal Statement On NHTSA-Fiat Civil Penalty Settlement On Failure To Report Legally Required Auto Safety Data | 2015-12-10 | 2015 | 2015-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Edward Markey | M000133 | www.markey.senate.gov | legacy | (Washington, DC) U.S. Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) and Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.) issued the following statement on the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) announcement today that it has imposed a civil penalty of $70 million on Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA) for failing to comply with the Early Warning Reporting (EWR) system, which requires auto manufacturers to report safety data: Ignoring legal obligations to disclose vehicle crash death and injury reports not only violates the law, but puts lives in jeopardy. NHTSAs Early Warning Reporting system is a critical tool in NHTSAs toolbox to identify deadly safety defects. Although $70 million was likely the maximum fine NHTSA could levy, NHTSAs civil penalty authority needs to be dramatically increased to effectively deter future violations and failures to report. Furthermore, as sponsors of the Early Warning Reporting System Improvement Act, we also believe NHTSA must immediately act to require automakers to automatically makemore early warning documents publicly available so that consumers and independent safety experts can evaluate potential safety defects for themselvesand perhaps even help discover earlier when there are discrepancies in data or that manufacturers like Fiat Chrysler are failing to report death and injury reports. Last year, Markey and Blumenthalintroduced the Early Warning Reporting System Improvement Act, legislation that would require NHTSA to make information it receives from auto manufacturers publicly available in a searchable, user-friendly format so that consumers and independent safety experts can personally evaluate potential safety defects. Later that year,the senators expressed concernin the efficacy of NHTSAs regional recall system and EWR program after Honda Motor Company failed to report accidents caused by a now-confirmed airbag safety defect and urged NHTSA to ensure that all manufacturers were complying with the systems. They additionallywrote to NHTSAurging NHTSA to promulgate rules to … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.markey.senate.gov/news/press-releases/new-england-senators-call-for-robust-federal-funding-to-support-conte-refuge-and-connecticut-river-watershed | New England Senators Call For Robust Federal Funding To Support Conte Refuge & Connecticut River Watershed | 2015-12-10 | 2015 | 2015-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Edward Markey | M000133 | www.markey.senate.gov | legacy | New England Senators Call For Robust Federal Funding To Support Conte Refuge & Connecticut River Watershed Thursday, December 10, 2015 Today,U.S. SenatorsChris Murphy(D-Conn.),Richard Blumenthal(D-Conn.),Ed Markey(D-Mass.),Elizabeth Warren(D-Mass.),Jeanne Shaheen(D-N.H.),Patrick Leahy(D-Vt.), andBernie Sanders(I-Vt.)called on the U.S. Department of the Interior to provide robust federal funding to support the protection of the diverse plant, fish, and wildlife species in the Silvio O. Conte National Fish and Wildlife Refuge. In a letter to Secretary Sally Jewell of the Department of the Interior, the senators urged the Department to continue funding the Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) and to prioritize the Conte Refuge which is of great environmental and recreational importance but is in need of more than $14 million for necessary upkeep and improvement projects. The Silvio O. Conte National Fish and Wildlife Refuge spans more than 36,000 acres throughout the Connecticut River watershed in Connecticut, New Hampshire, Vermont, and Massachusetts. As elected representatives of the four states encompassing the boundaries of the Connecticut River Watershed and the Silvio O. Conte National Fish and Wildlife Refuge, we write to urge you to provide sufficient funding in your FY17 budget to support the Refuge.The current need for the Refuge is acute: Fish and Wildlife Service staff and the non-governmental partner groups composing the Friends of Conte have identified over $14 million in projects as current and available priority opportunities within the Refuge,wrote the senators.These land trusts have added a combined total of more than 350,000 acres to the conservation estate basin-wide, providing recreational opportunities to the more than 2.3 million people who live in the basin and another 70 million who live within a day's drive of these properties. While we continue to work to reauthorize and for full funding for LWCF, we hope you will continue to put forward adequ… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.warren.senate.gov?p=press_release&id=1036 | Congressional Delegation Applauds Federal Disaster Funding for Massachusetts | 2015-12-10 | 2015 | 2015-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Elizabeth Warren | W000817 | www.warren.senate.gov | legacy | Washington, DC Members of the Massachusetts congressional delegation today applauded the Federal Emergency Management Agencys (FEMA) announcement that more than $120 million in disaster assistance has been awarded to the Commonwealth for costs associated with this past winters historic snowfall. This disaster funding is a big help for Massachusetts cities and towns as we continue to recover from last winters severe storms,Senator Elizabeth Warren said.Its important for the federal government to be a good partner for our local communities, especially during emergencies, and Im glad the congressional delegation was able to work with FEMA and with our state and local officials to secure this critical aid. This funding will support much-needed repairs to the Commonwealth's aging infrastructure as we work to improve resiliency for the winter months. This disaster funding will go a long way to help pay the bills that piled up as high as last years historic snowfall," Senator Edward J. Markey said. "Im pleasedthe entire Congressional delegation was able to help Massachusetts and our local municipalities get the federal relief and resources we need to repair, rebuild and recoup costs incurred from last year's winter disaster. Last year, the people of Massachusetts experienced some of the most severe weather in recent history. Record snowfall and historically cold temperatures made the winter months challenging, especially for our cities and towns. That is why this unprecedented amount of disaster assistance from FEMA is welcome news. It will help communities cover storm related costs and give them the resources to plan for the upcoming winter season. Its an early Christmas present for the entire Commonwealth, said Congressman Richard E. Neal. Our last winter was one of the harshest that Massachusetts has faced and this federal aid will provide much-needed relief to the cities and towns that were impacted, Congressman Jim McGovern said. Bringing these federal dollars back to Massachusetts to help families and communities … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.warren.senate.gov?p=video&id=1034 | Senator Warren at Aging Committee Hearing on Drug Prices | 2015-12-10 | 2015 | 2015-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Elizabeth Warren | W000817 | www.warren.senate.gov | legacy | Senator Elizabeth Warren's Q&A at a December 9, 2015 Senate Special Committee on Aging hearing titled "Sudden Price Spikes in Off-Patent Drugs: Perspectives from the Front Lines." More information about the hearing is available here. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://lynch.house.gov/press-release/committee-votes-reauthorize-bipartisan-terror-financing-task-force | Committee Votes to Reauthorize Bipartisan Terror Financing Task Force | 2015-12-09 | 2015 | 2015-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Stephen Lynch | L000562 | lynch.house.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON, D.C. The House Financial Services Committee voted unanimously Tuesday to reauthorize the bipartisan Task Force to Investigate Terrorism Financing led by Chairman Mike Fitzpatrick (R-PA) and Ranking Member Stephen F. Lynch (D-MA). As weve seen in recent days and weeks, the threats posed by terrorist organizations like ISIS as well as lone actors is real and evolving. It is my goal to advance upon the findings from our previous work to discover additional ways Congress may better assist our intelligence, law enforcement, and defense communities to cut off funding streams to terror groups seeking chaos and destruction. To this end, I am confident we can succeed together, said Congressman Fitzpatrick. Id like to thank Chairman Hensarling Ranking Member Waters and my colleague Mr. Lynch for working to reestablish this important task force and reaffirming this committees determination to use its role to address the dangers of terrorism. Following the recent horrific terror attacks on our soil and abroad, it is vital to continue the work of the Task Force to Investigate Terrorism Financing. By working closely with FinCEN and other financial intelligence agencies, the Task Force can identify ways to evolve our capabilities to monitor and disrupt the flow of funding to terrorist organizations around the world, said Congressman Lynch. I am very pleased that Chairman Hensarling, Ranking Member Waters, and the Committee as a whole recognized the need to renew the Task Force. I look forward to continuing to work with Congressman Fitzpatrick on a bipartisan basis to improve our strategy to target the global threat of ISIL and other extremist groups by halting their funding sources. The initial six months of operation of the Task Force shed significant light on multiple issues with regards to counter threats finance and anti-money laundering initiatives. The discovery of the various revenue streams ISIL utilizes to fund its terror operation and the ways in which the U.S. may effectively counter them such as con… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://lynch.house.gov/2015/12/committee-votes-reauthorize-bipartisan-terror-financing-task-force | Committee Votes to Reauthorize Bipartisan Terror Financing Task Force | 2015-12-09 | 2015 | 2015-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Stephen F. Lynch | L000562 | lynch.house.gov | lynch | https://lynch.house.gov/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – The House Financial Services Committee voted unanimously Tuesday to reauthorize the bipartisan Task Force to Investigate Terrorism Financing led by Chairman Mike Fitzpatrick (R-PA) and Ranking Member Stephen F. Lynch (D-MA). “As we’ve seen in recent days and weeks, the threats posed by terrorist organizations like ISIS – as well as lone actors – is real and evolving. It is my goal to advance upon the findings from our previous work to discover additional ways Congress may better assist our intelligence, law enforcement, and defense communities to cut off funding streams to terror groups seeking chaos and destruction. To this end, I am confident we can succeed together,” said Congressman Fitzpatrick. “I’d like to thank Chairman Hensarling Ranking Member Waters and my colleague Mr. Lynch for working to reestablish this important task force and reaffirming this committee’s determination to use its role to address the dangers of terrorism.” “Following the recent horrific terror attacks on our soil and abroad, it is vital to continue the work of the Task Force to Investigate Terrorism Financing. By working closely with FinCEN and other financial intelligence agencies, the Task Force can identify ways to evolve our capabilities to monitor and disrupt the flow of funding to terrorist organizations around the world,” said Congressman Lynch. “I am very pleased that Chairman Hensarling, Ranking Member Waters, and the Committee as a whole recognized the need to renew the Task Force. I look forward to continuing to work with Congressman Fitzpatrick on a bipartisan basis to improve our strategy to target the global threat of ISIL and other extremist groups by halting their funding sources.” The initial six months of operation of the Task Force shed significant light on multiple issues with regards to counter threats finance and anti-money laundering initiatives. The discovery of the various revenue streams ISIL utilizes to fund its terror operation and the ways in which the U.S. may effectively counter … | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T20:33:33Z |
| https://mcgovern.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=396812 | On House Floor, McGovern Outraged at House GOP Refusal to Debate Bipartisan Bill to Close Terrorist Gun Loophole | 2015-12-09 | 2015 | 2015-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Jim McGovern | M000312 | mcgovern.house.gov | legacy | On the House floor today, Congressman Jim McGovern (D-MA) expressed outrage at House Republicans' continued refusal to allow a debate and vote on H.R. 1076, the Denying Firearms and Explosives to Dangerous Terrorists Act of 2015, Republican Congressman Peter King's bipartisan bill to close the dangerous loophole that allows terrorist suspects to legally buy deadly weapons. Only in this Republican-controlled House of Representatives would this idea of prohibiting terrorist suspects from getting weapons be considered controversial. These people we are talking about are on our no-fly list. They can't fly on airplanes and I'm glad. And I'm glad they can't fly with me when I go back and forth from Washington to Boston every week. I think the majority of Americans, Democrats and Republicans, are glad that terrorist suspects are not on their plane, flying around the country when they're on these planes. Why, then, would it somehow be a good idea to say that these people who cannot fly on our airplanes because we suspect them of links to terrorism could somehow go buy a weapon, a weapon of war that could potentially be used against our citizens? There are a lot of things we need to do. This is one of them. I get it that there's a particular special interest out there that is putting a lot of pressure on the leadership and some members of the other side to not be able to bring this bill to the floor, but I would say that the majority of the members of the National Rifle Association actually agree with us on this issue. And by the way, this idea that we're putting forward here today is not a Democratic idea, it's introduced by a Republican member of Congress, Congressman Peter King of New York. It's an idea that has been endorsed by a Republican president and his administration, the Bush Administration. Their Justice Department thought it was a good idea. Former New Jersey Governor Tom Kean, Co-Chair of the bipartisan 9/11 Commission, said this is a good idea. Reasonable people, rational people think this is a good id… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://tsongas.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=49&itemid=1636 | On House Floor, Tsongas urges Republicans to allow vote to prevent terror watch list suspects from buying guns | 2015-12-09 | 2015 | 2015-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Niki Tsongas | T000465 | tsongas.house.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON, DC December 9, 2015 Congresswoman Niki Tsongas spoke today on the House Floor strongly urging Republican leadership to allow Congress to vote to prevent individuals on the FBIs terror watch list from buying guns. The Congresswoman raised this issue during debate on a separate bill because she believes that Congress must urgently address the scourge of gun violence. Several pieces of legislation have been proposed to close the loophole that allows people who are linked to terrorist activities to purchase a gun, including a bipartisan bill introduced by Republican Congressman Peter King. Congresswoman Tsongas is a cosponsor of Congressman Kings bill. Congresswoman Tsongas is a senior member of the House Armed Services Committee. Click for video of the Congresswomans remarks regarding Rep. Kings bill. Below please find the text of the Congresswomans remarks on Rep. Kings bill from the House Floor on December 9, 2015, as prepared for delivery: Before I reserve my time, I want to note that as we approach the end of the year, there are critical issues that we have yet to address. Funding the federal government, extending tax breaks, and yes, addressing the scourge of gun violence in this country are just a few that deserve our urgent attention instead of debating this bill, which the President will likely veto. For example, Representative Kings bill, H.R. 1076, the Denying Firearms and Explosives to Dangerous Terrorists Act, is a bipartisan and commonsense bill that would make our communities safer. Since 2004, more than 2,000 suspected terrorists have legally purchased weapons in the U.S. That is an alarming figure. Thats why I am a cosponsor of Republican Congressman Peter Kings bill, which would prevent people who are linked to terrorist activities from buying a gun a commonsense bill that has support from both Republicans and Democrats and would protect our communities. It is pretty simple, if the federal government doesn't allow you to board an airplane, it shouldn't allow you to buy … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://tsongas.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=49&itemid=1639 | Tsongas calls on Republican leadership to provide funding for toxic mine cleanups | 2015-12-09 | 2015 | 2015-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Niki Tsongas | T000465 | tsongas.house.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON, DC December 9, 2015 Today, the House Natural Resources Committee held an oversight hearing regarding the August 5th toxic mine spill in Colorado that contaminated the Animas River, turning it an appalling bright yellow. Congresswoman Niki Tsongas (MA-3) discussed the need to hold the EPA accountable for this incident, as well as the urgency of addressing the tens of thousands of other abandoned mine sites across our country that continuously pollute our rivers. Congresswoman Tsongas is a co-sponsor of Rep. Raul Grijalva (AZ-3) legislation to bring the 1872 Mining Law into the modern age, which would address the problem of abandoned mines and help prevent future spills. The bill would require companies to pay royalties to the American taxpayers for metals extracted from our public lands, and create a much needed funding source for cleanups of old and abandoned hardrock mines. The legislation also includes a "Good Samaritan provision which would make it easier for third-parties to clean up abandoned mine sites in their communities. Congresswoman Tsongas is the top Democrat on the Natural Resources Federal Lands Subcommittee. Click below for video of the Congresswomans statement and questions at todays hearing. #### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.markey.senate.gov/news/press-releases/markey-amendments-to-strengthen-natural-gas-pipelines-pass-key-senate-committee | Markey Amendments to Strengthen Natural Gas Pipelines Pass Key Senate Committee | 2015-12-09 | 2015 | 2015-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Edward Markey | M000133 | www.markey.senate.gov | legacy | Markey Amendments to Strengthen Natural Gas Pipelines Pass Key Senate Committee Wednesday, December 9, 2015 Amendments to pipeline reauthorization legislation would help increase safety of natural gas pipelines and transparency related to oil spills Washington (December 9, 2015) Senator Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.) released the following statement after the Senate Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee today included three Markey amendments when it passed pipeline reauthorization legislation (S. 2276). Two of Senator Markeys amendments would help address lost and unaccounted for natural gas from aging, leaky pipelines. The Obama Administrations recently released Quadrennial Energy Review highlighted the fact that most safety incidents on natural gas pipelines occur on distribution pipelines. A recent Massachusetts analysis found approximately 20,000 potentially dangerous and damaging natural gas pipeline leaks. Senator Markeys April 2013reportfound that Massachusetts ratepayers paid up to $1.5 billion from 2000-2011for gas that never reached their homes and businesses. A third Markey amendment would improve oversight by ensuring companies submit complete, unredacted oil spill response plans to Congress. The need to update our old, leaking, dangerous, and polluting natural gas pipelines is long overdue,said Senator Markey.Aging infrastructure is costing Massachusetts consumers money and putting our first responders and our climate at risk. Repairing these aging and leaking natural gas pipelines is a win for safety, a win for job creation, a win for consumers, and a win for the climate. I will continue to work with my Senate colleagues to ensure passage of this important legislation. Markey amendment 1 improves the safety of natural gas distribution pipelines by directing Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) to study reporting of lost and unaccounted for natural gas from these pipelines, make recommendations as appropriate, and implement r… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.markey.senate.gov/news/press-releases/statement-on-dots-inclusion-of-crash-avoidance-technology-in-5-star-auto-ratings | Statement on DOT’s Inclusion of Crash Avoidance Technology in 5-Star Auto Ratings | 2015-12-09 | 2015 | 2015-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Edward Markey | M000133 | www.markey.senate.gov | legacy | Statement on DOTs Inclusion of Crash Avoidance Technology in 5-Star Auto Ratings Wednesday, December 9, 2015 Announcement Follows Passage of Multi-Year Transportation Bill with a Mandate to Incorporate Crash Avoidance Systems in 5 Star Program Car Window Stickers WASHINGTON U.S. Sen. John Thune (R-S.D.), chairman of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, and Commerce Committee members Sen. DeanHeller(R-Nev.) and Sen. Ed Markey (D-Mass.),released the following statements on the Department of Transportations announcement it will begin the rulemaking process for incorporating crash avoidance technology into its 5-Star crash rating program that helps make individuals who are shopping for an automobile aware of the crashworthiness and safety technologies that can prevent accidents as part of the window sticker thats displayed on new vehicles. I congratulate Sen.Heller, Sen. Markey and the House members who co-sponsored the Safety Through Informed Consumers Act that began the effort to include innovative crash avoidance technology in a government safety rating system that currently only considers crash test results,said Thune.The Department of Transportations announcement follows Senate and House passage of a new mandate in the long-term transportation bill that the president signed into law last week to incorporate innovative safety technology into the 5-Star program. This update is a win both for consumers and innovators highlighting a vehicles advanced safety systems will allow consumers to make informed purchasing decisions, and in turn, spur greater use of these potentially-lifesaving technologies. When ideas in Congress serve as catalysts for positive change for American consumers, its a sign were doing our job on Capitol Hill. Im pleased to see NHTSA moving forward with a plan to modernize the New Car Assessment Program, as required by our Safety Through Informed Consumers Act, enacted as part of the transportation bill. Incorporating active safet… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.warren.senate.gov?p=press_release&id=1031 | Senator Elizabeth Warren's Remarks on the Every Student Succeeds Act | 2015-12-09 | 2015 | 2015-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Elizabeth Warren | W000817 | www.warren.senate.gov | legacy | Washington, DC - United States Senator Elizabeth Warren delivered the following remarks on Tuesday evening in advance of the Senate's vote on the Every Student Succeeds Act. Video of the remarks is available here. SENATOR ELIZABETH WARRENREMARKS ON THE SENATE FLOORDECEMBER 8, 2015 Mr. President, I rise today in support of the Every Student Succeeds Act-the bill to reauthorize the Elementary and Secondary Education Act. We have only one goal in mind: to give all our children the best possible education. The challenge has been to figure out the right role for the federal government to do that. This bill, which will replace No Child Left Behind, moves away from rigid standardized tests and respects the vital work that our teachers do every day. I strongly support those changes. However, I voted against this bill when it was first approved by the Senate a few months ago because I felt that it lacked even the minimum safeguards necessary to ensure that states would use federal funds effectively to support teachers and students. And I was deeply concerned that without stronger accountability, billions of dollars in taxpayer money would not actually reach those schools and students who needed them the most. Unlike the bill initially approved by the Senate, the proposal before us today has significantly enhanced those safeguards. I argued that it was essential that billions of dollars a year of federal funding must be accompanied by some minimum expectations for what states are going to do with that money. One of those expectations must be that states target their efforts toward schools that are most in need of improvement and resources. And that is why I'm glad this final bill includes the text of an amendment that I offered with Senator Cory Booker to ensure that states address the 1,200 high schools in the United States where fewer than two-thirds of students graduate every year. When one third of a high school's students don't graduate, we know we have a crisis on our hands. We can't just turn our backs. This prov… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.warren.senate.gov?p=video&id=1033 | Senator Elizabeth Warren's Remarks on the Every Student Succeeds Act | 2015-12-09 | 2015 | 2015-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Elizabeth Warren | W000817 | www.warren.senate.gov | legacy | Senator Elizabeth Warren spoke on the Senate floor on December 8, 2015 about the Every Student Succeeds Act, which will replace No Child Left Behind. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://kennedy.house.gov/media/in-the-news/joe-k-pushes-bill-to-ban-gun-sales-to-those-on-terror-watchlist | Joe K pushes bill to ban gun sales to those on terror watchlist | 2015-12-08 | 2015 | 2015-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Joseph Kennedy | K000379 | kennedy.house.gov | legacy | Kimberly Atkins, Boston Herald | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://kennedy.house.gov/media/press-releases/kennedy-deutch-urge-response-to-iran-s-illegal-missile-launch | KENNEDY, DEUTCH URGE RESPONSE TO IRANS ILLEGAL MISSILE LAUNCH | 2015-12-08 | 2015 | 2015-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Joseph Kennedy | K000379 | kennedy.house.gov | legacy | Washington, D.C. In the wake of reports of a second illegal ballistic missile launch in as many months, Congressman Joe Kennedy III (MA-4) and Congressman Ted Deutch (FL-21) called on President Obama to hold Iran accountable for violating United Nations Security Council Resolutions prohibiting such tests. Following separate launches on October 11th and November 21st, the lawmakers wrote a letter to the President stating that Iran violated UNSC Resolution 1929, which remains in effect until the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action is implemented, as well as UNSC Resolution 2331, which takes effect after Implementation Day. Any agreement with Iran is not built on trust, but strict and vigilant enforcement, said Congressman Joe Kennedy III. These two missile launches are in clear violation of existing UNSC resolutions, and if the Security Council refuses to hold the Iranian government accountable, the United States must take action unilaterally. As we move towards implementation of the JCPOA, ignoring violations of the agreement will send a troubling signal to not only Iran, but to our allies in the region about our commitment to vigorously enforcing its restrictions. Irans recent long-range ballistic missile launches amount to clear and indisputable violations of existing U.N. Security Council resolutions, said Congressman Ted Deutch, who serves as Ranking Democrat on the House Foreign Affairs Committees Middle East and North Africa Subcommittee. Failure to hold Iran accountable for these violations sends a dangerous message to the regime that it can abandon its obligations under international law and threaten the security of the United States, Israel, and our allies without consequence. Given that the entire framework of the JCPOA rests on strict verification and rigorous enforcement, the United States must make clear to Iran and to the world that such behavior will not be tolerated. To read the full letter, please click here. ### For Immediate Release: December 8, 2015 Contact: … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://kennedy.house.gov/media/press-releases/kennedy-thompson-demand-vote-on-terrorist-gun-loophole | KENNEDY, THOMPSON DEMAND VOTE ON TERRORIST GUN LOOPHOLE | 2015-12-08 | 2015 | 2015-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Joseph Kennedy | K000379 | kennedy.house.gov | legacy | Washington, D.C. After the U.S. Senate failed to pass legislation last week that would deny guns to individuals on the terror watch list, Congressman Joe Kennedy III (MA-4) and Congressman Mike Thompson (CA-5) called on Speaker Paul Ryan to bring up a vote on the Denying Firearms and Explosives to Dangerous Terrorists Act of 2015 (H.R. 1076). The bipartisan legislation, introduced by Republican Congressman Peter King, would give the Attorney General the authority to deny the sale of firearms to any individuals suspected of being engaged in terrorist activities. In a letter signed by 62 of their colleagues, Kennedy and Thompson wrote that recent horrific terrorist attacks underscored the need to address the terror gap. Their letter follows a discharge petition introduced by House Democrats yesterday to compel a vote on Rep. Kings legislation. This is about the security of our families, communities and country, said Congressman Kennedy. In the wake of horrific attacks on American soil, we have a bipartisan piece of legislation that would help make our citizens safer. A failure to act on it this week is a choice to put politics before smart policy. Congress can muster more than another moment of silence in response to this devastating scourge of gun violence. Victims of mass shootings, their families and every American citizen deserve more than our silence. Some people shouldnt be able to buy guns. Suspected terrorists top that list, said Congressman Thompson. But right now, someone on the FBIs terrorists watch list can go into a gun store, pass a background check and walk out with a firearm of their choosing legally. If House Republicans are concerned about the accuracy of the list, lets scrub it. And if they agree that terrorists shouldnt be able to have guns, then they should take a stand and demand this bill be brought up for a vote. Congressman Thompson is the chair of the Gun Violence Prevention Task Force and Congressman Kennedy is a member of the Task Force. To read the full let… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://katherineclark.house.gov/press-releases?ID=B654936E-4F6A-4947-80EC-9543EE7B7E5A | Congresswoman Clark demands vote to close terrorist gun loophole | 2015-12-08 | 2015 | 2015-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Katherine Clark | C001101 | katherineclark.house.gov | legacy | Congresswoman Clark demands vote to close terrorist gun loophole Washington, DC Today, Congresswoman Katherine Clark signed a discharge petition to a force a vote on the Denying Firearms and Explosives to Dangerous Terrorists Act, common sense legislation to close a dangerous loophole that allows suspected terrorists on the FBI's Terrorist Watchlist to legally buy guns. After House Republicans repeatedly blocked debate on the critical legislation, Clark and other Democrats signed a discharge petition that would force Speaker Ryan to bring the bill up for a vote immediately. I won't stand by while Congress abdicates its duty to children and families by refusing to advance common sense gun safety legislation, said Clark. At minimum, we should ensure that deadly weapons are not sold to suspected terrorists. With a mass shooting every week, it is unconscionable that Congress would stand by and do nothing. I would hope that at least some of my Republican colleagues would summon the courage to stand up for the security of American families and force a vote to keep guns out of the hands of suspected terrorists. According to a report by the Government Accountability Office, since 2004, more than 2,000 suspects on the FBI's Terrorist Watchlist have successfully purchased weapons in the United States. More than 90 percent of all suspected terrorists who attempted to purchase guns in the last eleven years walked away with the weapon they wanted. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://mcgovern.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=396809 | McGovern Demands Vote on Legislation to Close Terrorist Gun Loophole | 2015-12-08 | 2015 | 2015-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Jim McGovern | M000312 | mcgovern.house.gov | legacy | With House Republicans continuing to protect suspected terrorists' ability to buy lethal firearms, Congressman Jim McGovern (D-MA) took action yesterday to force a vote on commonsense, life-saving legislation to keep guns out of the hands of terrorists. After House Republicans voted three times last week to block the House from debating H.R. 1076, Republican Congressman Peter King's Denying Firearms and Explosives to Dangerous Terrorists Act, Congressman McGovern signed a discharge petition that would bring this critical legislation immediately up for a vote.The bill would close the dangerous loophole that allows suspected terrorists on the FBI's Terrorist Watchlist to legally buy deadly weapons. It is simply stunning that House Republicans refuse to close the loophole that lets suspected terrorists legally buy guns, McGovern said.As Members of Congress, our first responsibility is to protect and defend the American people and that is why we must take urgent action to keep deadly firearms out of the hands of terrorists. According to a report by the Government Accountability Office, since 2004, more than 2,000 suspects on the FBI's Terrorist Watchlist have successfully purchased weapons in the United States.More than 90 percent of all suspected terrorists who attempted to purchase guns in the last 11 years walked away with the weapon they wanted, with just 190 rejected despite their ominous histories. In the aftermath of the tragic attacks in Paris and San Bernardino, we must continue to strengthen our efforts to protect the American people, McGovern added.Americans are looking to Congress for real leadership and this is a clear opportunity for us to do something that will help to make our country safer. We must close the exceedingly dangerous terrorist gun loophole, and ensure that no suspected terrorist can walk into a gun store and legally purchase a deadly weapon. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://mcgovern.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=396810 | McGovern Applauds White House Hunger Report Highlighting Importance of SNAP in Helping Hungry Families | 2015-12-08 | 2015 | 2015-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Jim McGovern | M000312 | mcgovern.house.gov | legacy | Today, Congressman Jim McGovern (D-MA), one of the leading voices in Congress calling for action to address hunger, applauded the release by the White House of a new report on hunger highlighting how SNAP improves food security and life outcomes for families, with long-term benefits for health, education, and economic well-being. At the same time, far too many families remain food insecure, and strengthening SNAP benefits would help to address this. Today's White House report confirms that SNAP works. It is one of the most effective federal programs in reducing hunger and food insecurity and it has a lasting positive effect on vulnerable populations, especially children. Today's report also confirms what we have heard repeatedly in the House Agriculture Committee this year: The majority of those on SNAP are children, elderly and the disabled. And as the economy continues to recover, more families are working, but there are still far too many who are earning so little that they qualify for SNAP. It's deeply troubling that wages haven't kept up with the cost of meeting basic needs.This report also shows that the current SNAP benefit is too low. It runs out before the end of the month and families are forced to cobble together enough to eat. Ensuring that children have enough healthy food to eat early in their life through SNAP is one of the best investments we can make in future health, well-being and economic self-sufficiency. I am grateful to the White House and USDA Secretary Vilsack for their leadership on hunger, both with this report and their work to strengthen critical programs like school meals that help families in need. As Congress finishes this year and looks to 2016, I urge all of my colleagues to read this report and think twice before cutting SNAP or turning it into a block grant program. These would be harmful policy changes that would significantly undermine the program. Instead we should be focused on strengthening SNAP. Hunger is a solvable problem and we must work together to strengthen crit… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://mcgovern.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=396811 | McGovern Joins New England Delegation In Urging Administration To Continue Work To Address Opioid Epidemic | 2015-12-08 | 2015 | 2015-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Jim McGovern | M000312 | mcgovern.house.gov | legacy | Today, Congressman Jim McGovern (MA-02) and 12 New England members sent a letter to U.S. Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Sylvia Burwell, urging the Administration to continue its work to address the opioid addiction and overdose epidemic in New England. Specifically, the letter calls on the Administration to convene a cross-department working group, develop guidelines on methods of pain management, provide those guidelines to physicians in a Prescriber Pain Relief Toolkit, and support the development of alternative pain management. We are writing because of our shared, collective concern about the continued toll of the opioid addiction and overdose epidemic in our states, the members stated. Across the country, deaths from overdose rates are at crisis levels and continuing to rise. Tragically, deaths have been at a critical level for years and remain so in spite of bold steps taken at the local, state, regional, and national level. The toll has been particularly heavy in our region of New England. We believe one key area in which additional steps can have a strong impact is increasing education about how prescribing practices impact addiction. As you know, the use and misuse of prescription pain relievers are often the initial catalyst to addiction and then overdose. The recommendations outlined in the letter, which also garnered support from Massachusetts Representatives Richard E. Neal and Seth Moulton, reflect the ongoing work and priorities of the informal U.S. House New England Health Task Force. Read the full letter below. The Honorable Sylvia Mathews Burwell Secretary Department of Health and Human Services 200 Independence Ave SW Washington, D.C. 20201 Dear Secretary Burwell: We are writing because of our shared, collective concern about the continued toll of the opioid addiction and overdose epidemic in our states. Across the country, deaths from overdose rates are at crisis levels and continuing to rise. Tragically, deaths have been at a critical level for years and remain so … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.markey.senate.gov/news/press-releases/markey-introduces-clean-energy-jobs-package-with-senator-sanders | Markey Introduces Clean Energy Jobs Package with Senator Sanders | 2015-12-08 | 2015 | 2015-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Edward Markey | M000133 | www.markey.senate.gov | legacy | Markey Introduces Clean Energy Jobs Package with Senator Sanders Tuesday, December 8, 2015 Plan Would More Than Double the Clean Energy Workforce WASHINGTON, Dec. 8 As part of his plan to create a sustainable, clean-energy economy, Sen.Bernie Sanders(I-Vt.) introduced legislation today that would significantly reduce carbon pollution and help put us on a path to more than double the size of the American clean energy workforce to 10 million by 2030. Together, the incentives in the American Clean Energy Investment Act of 2015 and The Clean Energy Worker Just Transition Act would drive over $500 billion in clean energy investments between now and 2030. The bills, both co-sponsored by Sens.Jeff Merkley(D-Ore.) and Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.), would create new sustainable energy jobs and allocate $41 billion to helping oil, gas and coal workers as they transition out of the fossil fuel industry. The costs for these proposals are completely offset by repealing all subsidies for fossil fuels and ending the tax breaks that encourage corporate inversions. We have a moral responsibility to help working families in the fossil fuel industry find new jobs, Sanders said. We must act now to reenergize our manufacturing base, bolster our clean energy economy and protect the livelihoods of these workers and the communities they support. Coal communities have been under pressure for decades as coal-mining jobs have been lost due to more efficient mining practices, competition from cheaper natural gas and the publics desire to move to cleaner sources of energy. The Clean Energy Worker Just Transition Act would help coal miners and other fossil fuel workers and their families by connecting displaced workers with new job opportunities through vocational education and job skills programs. The bills would also provide support so transitioning workers and their families could maintain family-level wages, health care and pensions until they are able to start new jobs. The American Clean Energy Inve… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.markey.senate.gov/news/press-releases/markey-introduces-legislation-to-support-family-of-glen-a-doherty-hero-killed-in-libyan-consulate-attack | Markey Introduces Legislation to Support Family of Glen A. Doherty, Hero Killed in Libyan Consulate Attack | 2015-12-08 | 2015 | 2015-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Edward Markey | M000133 | www.markey.senate.gov | legacy | Markey Introduces Legislation to Support Family of Glen A. Doherty, Hero Killed in Libyan Consulate Attack Tuesday, December 8, 2015 Washington (December 8, 2015) Senator Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.) today introduced legislation that would ensure that full death benefits are extended to the families or designated beneficiaries of federal contractors who have died in service to our country as a result of a war-risk hazard or an act of terrorism. The Glen Anthony Doherty Overseas Security Personnel Fairness Act, named after the former Navy SEAL killed in the Libyan consulate attack in 2012, would remove a significant omission in federal law that currently prohibits the families of overseas contractors who are killed in the line of duty from receiving full death benefits if the deceased employee is unmarried with no children or other dependents. Doherty was unmarried without children at the time of his death. The legislation amends the Defense Base Act of 1941 to allow the payment of death benefits otherwise due a widow, widower, or surviving child of an individual employed at a military, air, or naval base outside of the United Statesto the surviving next of kinwhen there is no person eligible for a death benefit. Doherty was a native of Winchester, Massachusetts. The Glen Anthony Doherty Overseas Security Personnel Fairness Act was first introduced in the House of Representatives in 2014 by Congressman Stephen F. Lynch (D-Boston). No family in the CIA community should be left uncompensated if a family member falls in the line of duty,said Senator Markey.I am committed to continuing to fight for the Doherty family to get the benefits that they deserve. This issue goes to the heart of the United States governments relationship with the families of those who are killed defending our country. Glen Doherty was dedicated to serving his nation, and it is only right that we honor his distinguished heroism and sacrifice for the Doherty family. Diplomatic security contractors, like… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.markey.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senate-dems-urge-congress-to-work-in-bipartisan-fashion-to-address-devastating-impacts-of-climate-change-ahead-of-senator-cruz-led-congressional-hearing-to-continue-denying-climate-change | Senate Dems Urge Congress To Work In Bipartisan Fashion To Address Devastating Impacts Of Climate Change Ahead Of Senator Cruz-Led Congressional Hearing To Continue Denying Climate Change | 2015-12-08 | 2015 | 2015-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Edward Markey | M000133 | www.markey.senate.gov | legacy | Senate Dems Urge Congress To Work In Bipartisan Fashion To Address Devastating Impacts Of Climate Change Ahead Of Senator Cruz-Led Congressional Hearing To Continue Denying Climate Change Tuesday, December 8, 2015 During Historic Meetings In Paris With Leaders From More Than 190 Countries To Address Climate Change, Senator Cruz Holds A Hearing Questioning Its Existence Senate Democrats To GOP: Climate Change Is Real And Its Time To Work In Bipartisan Way To Address Its Devastating Impacts Senate Dems Urge Cruz And Republicans To Join The International Community & 97% Of Scientists Who Agree Its Time To Chart A Path Towards A Clean And Sustainable Future WASHINGTON, D.C. Today, in advance of a controversial hearing designed to question the existence of climate change, U.S. Senators Gary Peters, Bill Nelson, Tom Udall, Brian Schatz and Ed Markey called on Republicans to work with Senate Democrats to take action to mitigate the devastating impacts of climate change. While leaders from over 190 countries are gathered in Paris to negotiate an international plan to address climate change, Senator Ted Cruz is holding a Space, Science and Competitiveness Subcommittee hearing that features controversial witnesses aiming to cast doubt on peer-reviewed data demonstrating the effects of climate change that is overwhelmingly supported by the scientific community. Additionally, 154 companies with operations in all 50 states have signaled their support for acting on climate change. The consequences of climate change are already wreaking havoc on our planet, threatening our food supply, our national security, our economy, and our health and safety. Rather than debating the existence of climate change, which 97% of scientists agree is happening, Congress should be discussing what actions we are going to take to address it,said Senator Gary Peters, Ranking Member of the Science, Space and Competitiveness Subcommittee. Investments in clean energy, enhanced vehicle efficiency and s… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.warren.senate.gov?p=video&id=1032 | Senator Elizabeth Warren at Hearing on the Opioid Epidemic | 2015-12-08 | 2015 | 2015-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Elizabeth Warren | W000817 | www.warren.senate.gov | legacy | Senator Elizabeth Warren's Q&A at a December 8, 2015 Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions (HELP) Committee hearing titled, "Opioid Abuse in America: Facing the Epidemic and Examining Solutions." | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://lynch.house.gov/press-release/lynch-hosts-airplane-noise-forum-faa | Lynch Hosts Airplane Noise Forum with FAA | 2015-12-07 | 2015 | 2015-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Stephen Lynch | L000562 | lynch.house.gov | legacy | BOSTON, MAOn Thursday, December 3,Congressman Stephen F. Lynch(D-Boston) hosted a public forum with officials from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and Massport in order to address growing complaints about the frequency and increased levels of airplane noise for local towns and neighborhoods surrounding Logan International Airport. During the nearly four hour forum at Milton High School, open to all affected communities, residents voiced their concerns with the flight paths under the RNAV procedures of the NextGen, GPS-based navigation system. Extended repeated periods of aircraft noise, negative health and wellness impacts, and a lack of responsiveness from the agencies were common refrains. Officials from the FAA and Massport provided presentations on the NextGen system and air traffic at Logan International Airport. The forum was opened to the audience for questions and, after years of requests, residents finally had a chance to directly ask questions of both FAA and Massport officials. The strong turnout at last nights forum speaks to the significant concerns my constituents and the residents of surrounding cities and towns have with the current flight paths. Many communities are experiencing a disproportionate burden of airplane noise and there are negative health and quality of life implications. We cannot allow this to continue, said Congressman Lynch. We sent a clear message to the FAA and Massport last night and I am committed to holding these agencies accountable. We will work together to develop an action plan in order to more equitably distribute the pain of airplane noise, Lynch added. The forum included remarks from Chair of the Milton Board of Selectmen J. Thomas Hurley, State Representative Walter F. Timilty, Congressman Michael E. Capuano, Congresswoman Katherine Clark, State Senator Brian A. Joyce, Flavio Leo of Massport, and President of the Logan Airport Community Advisory Committee Darryl Pomicter. Todd Freidenburg and Alan Hale of the FAA presented. Congressman Lynch moderated the q… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://lynch.house.gov/2015/12/lynch-hosts-airplane-noise-forum-faa | Lynch Hosts Airplane Noise Forum with FAA | 2015-12-07 | 2015 | 2015-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Stephen F. Lynch | L000562 | lynch.house.gov | lynch | https://lynch.house.gov/press-releases | scraper | BOSTON, MA – On Thursday, December 3, Congressman Stephen F. Lynch (D-Boston) hosted a public forum with officials from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and Massport in order to address growing complaints about the frequency and increased levels of airplane noise for local towns and neighborhoods surrounding Logan International Airport. During the nearly four hour forum at Milton High School, open to all affected communities, residents voiced their concerns with the flight paths under the RNAV procedures of the NextGen, GPS-based navigation system. Extended repeated periods of aircraft noise, negative health and wellness impacts, and a lack of responsiveness from the agencies were common refrains. Officials from the FAA and Massport provided presentations on the NextGen system and air traffic at Logan International Airport. The forum was opened to the audience for questions and, after years of requests, residents finally had a chance to directly ask questions of both FAA and Massport officials. “The strong turnout at last night’s forum speaks to the significant concerns my constituents and the residents of surrounding cities and towns have with the current flight paths. Many communities are experiencing a disproportionate burden of airplane noise and there are negative health and quality of life implications. We cannot allow this to continue,” said Congressman Lynch. “We sent a clear message to the FAA and Massport last night and I am committed to holding these agencies accountable. We will work together to develop an action plan in order to more equitably distribute the pain of airplane noise,” Lynch added. The forum included remarks from Chair of the Milton Board of Selectmen J. Thomas Hurley, State Representative Walter F. Timilty, Congressman Michael E. Capuano, Congresswoman Katherine Clark, State Senator Brian A. Joyce, Flavio Leo of Massport, and President of the Logan Airport Community Advisory Committee Darryl Pomicter. Todd Freidenburg and Alan Hale of the FAA presented. Congressman Lynch m… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T20:33:33Z |
| https://mcgovern.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=396808 | McGovern Statement on Trump Muslim Immigration Policy | 2015-12-07 | 2015 | 2015-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Jim McGovern | M000312 | mcgovern.house.gov | legacy | Congressman Jim McGovern (D-MA) released the following statement in response to the statement by Donald Trump calling for a complete shutdown on entry to the United States for all Muslims. "Our nation was founded on the fundamental belief of freedom of religion and we welcome and respect people of all faiths. "Now more than ever, Americans must stand united. We must reject the dangerous ideas of those who seek to divide us. A policy that stigmatizes and isolates Americans of any faith makes us weaker, not stronger. It is beneath the vision and values of our founding fathers, the country they fought to create, and the Constitution that is the living embodiment of those ideals. "We are better than this and I urge all of our leaders, Democrats and Republicans, to come together to say with one clear voice that this is not who we are as a nation. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.markey.senate.gov/news/press-releases/markey-statement-on-president-obamas-address-to-the-nation | Markey Statement on President Obama’s Address to the Nation | 2015-12-07 | 2015 | 2015-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Edward Markey | M000133 | www.markey.senate.gov | legacy | Markey Statement on President Obamas Address to the Nation Monday, December 7, 2015 Washington (December 6, 2015) Senator Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.) released the following statement after tonights address by President Obama from the Oval Office. We continue to grieve for the victims of Wednesdays attack in San Bernardino, California.Although much remains unknown, it now appears certain that the murderous ideology of ISIS moved the perpetrators to commit this heinous act of terrorism. As the nature of terrorist threats to our nation evolves, we must keep people safe against this kind of mass violence. I applaud President Obamas commitment to intensify efforts to protect our country and to end the ISIS threat. Over the past generation, the same global communications and transportation networks that have drawn people closer together in mutual understanding and prosperity have also allowed groups like ISIS to spread terror. The United States must help lead an international effort to revolutionize global security to keep all people safe and free. Our global and regional security networks must be as expansive as the spaces we share, strong enough to stop transnational threats, and thoroughly dedicated to the rights of the people they are sworn to protect. We must continue to work in concert with an international coalition, especially the Arab nations, to help them establish credible governments in the parts of the Middle East that are being ravaged by civil war.The Middle East requires a regional network of Arab security forces and civil servants ready to deploy and end ISISs rule. The global community must stand ready to support such efforts, including protecting the refugees that are escaping the daily violence and oppression of war. As we work with the international community abroad, we must commit to efforts at home to keep American families safe. We must reform the Visa Waiver Program and close the loophole that allows individuals on the federal Terrorist Watchlis… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.markey.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-markey-releases-new-report-detailing-asbestos-hazards-in-nations-schools | Senator Markey Releases New Report Detailing Asbestos Hazards in Nation’s Schools | 2015-12-07 | 2015 | 2015-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Edward Markey | M000133 | www.markey.senate.gov | legacy | Senator Markey Releases New Report Detailing Asbestos Hazards in Nations Schools Monday, December 7, 2015 Investigation findsextent of asbestos in schools remains largely unknown,unreportedor unaddressed Washington (December6, 2015) It hasbeennearly30 years since passage oftheAsbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act (AHERA),the law that is supposed to protect students, teachers and staff from the hazards of asbestos in school buildings. But in a new report released today by Senator Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.), it is clear that little is known about the extent of asbestos hazards in schools, and monitoring, investigation or remediation of asbestos hazards is woefully insufficient. Senator Markey, top Democrat on the Subcommittee on Superfund, Waste Management and Regulatory Oversight, today released the report, Failing the Grade: Asbestos in Americas Schools based on an investigation he launched with Senator Barbara Boxer (D-Calif.) that queried all 50 states on the management of asbestos hazards in school buildings. The report, based on responses from 20 states, reveals that even basic information such as how many schools continue to contain asbestos-containing materials is often either unknown or unreported. What you dont know can hurt you when it comes to asbestosinAmericas schools,said Senator Markey.We know so little about current asbestos hazards in our schools, and what we do know indicates we have a widespread probleminaddressing this toxic threat.Decades of inactionhaveput students and teachers at risk of asbestos exposure.We need to enact legislation that arms consumers with information about where asbestos can be found so they can avoid exposure, and create a more systemic and dedicated commitment to removing it from schools. A copy of the report,Failing the Grade: Asbestos in Americas Schoolscan be foundHERE. The scope of asbestos hazards in schools in the United States is likely widespread but remains difficult to ascertain. oMore than two-thirds of stat… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.warren.senate.gov?p=video&id=1030 | Senator Warren at Energy Committee Hearing on the Well Control Rule | 2015-12-07 | 2015 | 2015-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Elizabeth Warren | W000817 | www.warren.senate.gov | legacy | Senator Elizabeth Warren's Q&A at a December 1, 2015 Energy and Natural Resources hearing. More information about the hearing is available here. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://kennedy.house.gov/media/press-releases/kennedy-statement-on-president-obama-address | KENNEDY STATEMENT ON PRESIDENT OBAMA ADDRESS | 2015-12-06 | 2015 | 2015-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Joseph Kennedy | K000379 | kennedy.house.gov | legacy | Newton, MA Congressman Joe Kennedy III tonight released the following statement in response to President Obamas address. We must have a comprehensive strategy to defeat violent extremism abroad and ensure the safety and security of the American people at home. Our men and women in uniform have been fighting Daesh for over a year through training local forces, airstrikes and special forces raids. Yet Congress continues to abdicate its sacred responsibility to authorize the use of military force and codify the mission they have been tasked with carrying out. If we are asking our service members and their families to bear the costs of another war, then the very least Congress can do is vote on it. Congress must also act when it comes to the violent attacks plaguing our nation here at home and take long overdue steps to keep deadly weapons out of the hands of suspected terrorists. When individuals who are not allowed to fly are able to legally purchase guns, we are ignoring glaring threats to our homeland. With bipartisan legislation already introduced in the House of Representatives, we can address that loophole today and protect our communities from violent terrorists. ### For Immediate Release: December 6, 2015 Contact: Emily Kaufman (617) 332-3333 Dan Black (202) 225-5931 Follow Congressman Kennedy onInstagram,Facebook,andTwitter. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.markey.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-markey-arrives-in-paris-for-international-climate-talks | Senator Markey Arrives in Paris for International Climate Talks | 2015-12-04 | 2015 | 2015-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Edward Markey | M000133 | www.markey.senate.gov | legacy | Senator Markey Arrives in Paris for International Climate Talks Friday, December 4, 2015 Delegation of Democratic U.S. senators to express their strong support for climate talk negotiations Paris (December 4, 2015) Senator Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.) joined a delegation of ten U.S. Senators in Paris today to attend the COP 21 climate talks currently underway. The Senate delegation, led by Foreign Relations Committee Ranking Member Ben Cardin (D-Md.), will attend the Paris talks and participate in a series of events and bilateral meetings with world leaders in support of achieving solutions to the challenges of climate change. By bringing together all the nations of the world and encouraging them to commit to achievable goals, the Paris talks could succeed where past attempts have failed,said Senator Markey.We now have the opportunity to forge an international climate agreement that includes all countries doing their fair share for a global solution to global warming. An agreement here in Paris can provide a powerful catalyst to bring about the changes in our energy system that we do want to end and the changes to the climate system that we dont. America has always led on great challenges, and climate change is no exception. America must lead help lead the clean energy revolution, and the Clean Power Plan is one of the most important tools we have to do that. America has always been a can do country, and by showing what we can do with the Clean Power Plan, it is a signal to the world that America will lead the global effort for climate action. Participating Senators include: Senator Edward J. Markey (D-Massachusetts), Senator Ben Cardin (D-Maryland), Senator Sheldon Whitehouse (D-Rhode Island), Senator Jeff Merkley (D-Oregon), Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-New Hampshire), Senator Tom Udall (D-New Mexico), Senator Chris Coons (D-Delaware), Senator Al Franken (D-Minnesota), Senator Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii), and Senator Cory Booker (D-New Jersey). The delegation will at… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.markey.senate.gov/news/press-releases/ten-us-senators-arrive-in-paris-to-attend-cop-21-climate-talks | Ten U.S. Senators Arrive in Paris to Attend COP 21 Climate Talks | 2015-12-04 | 2015 | 2015-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Edward Markey | M000133 | www.markey.senate.gov | legacy | Ten U.S. Senators Arrive in Paris to Attend COP 21 Climate Talks Friday, December 4, 2015 PARIS Ten U.S. Senators arrived in Paris on Friday to attend the COP 21 climate talks that are now underway. The Senate delegation, led by U.S. SenatorBen Cardin(D-Maryland), will attend the Paris talks and participate in a series of events and bilateral meetings with world leaders in support of achieving solutions to the challenges of climate change. Participating U.S. Senators include: SenatorBen Cardin(D-Maryland), SenatorSheldon Whitehouse(D-Rhode Island), SenatorEd Markey(D-Massachusetts), SenatorJeff Merkley(D-Oregon), SenatorJeanne Shaheen(D-New Hampshire), SenatorTom Udall(D-New Mexico), SenatorChris Coons(D-Delaware), SenatorAl Franken(D-Minnesota), SenatorBrian Schatz(D-Hawaii), and SenatorCory Booker(D-New Jersey). The delegation will attend the Climate Summit for Local Leaders at Paris City Hall and hold meetings at Le Bourget, site of the climate negotiations. Bilateral meetings are scheduled with U.N. Secretary General Ban Ki Moon, former Vice President Al Gore, Energy Secretary Ernest Moniz, the U.S. delegation participating in the climate talks, as well as contingents from other countries. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.warren.senate.gov?p=video&id=1029 | Senator Elizabeth Warren: No Dodd-Frank rollbacks in must-pass bills | 2015-12-04 | 2015 | 2015-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Elizabeth Warren | W000817 | www.warren.senate.gov | legacy | Senator Elizabeth Warren and Sen. Jeff Merkley spoke on the Senate floor on December 2, 2015 about possible riders to weaken Wall Street regulations in the must-pass government funding bill. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://mcgovern.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=396807 | McGovern on 16th Anniversary of Worcester Cold Storage Fire | 2015-12-03 | 2015 | 2015-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Jim McGovern | M000312 | mcgovern.house.gov | legacy | Today, Congressman Jim McGovern (MA-02) released the following statement marking the 16th anniversary of the Worcester Cold Storage and Warehouse Co. fire and honoring the six Worcester firefighters who lost their lives in the fire. Every day, our families and communities are safer because of the service and sacrifice of our local firefighters. Today, we honor the Worcester Six who lost their lives 16 years ago battling the Worcester Cold Storage and Warehouse Co. fire. They literally walked through fire to save people they had never met. Our thoughts are with the families of these brave firefighters. They exemplified what it means to be a firefighter, and it is their bravery, dedication, and selflessness that we remember. In Worcester, and throughout Massachusetts, firefighters continue to carry on that legacy today. As a community, we reaffirm our commitment to support our local firefighters and ensure that they always have the support that they need to get the job done and come home safe every day. We will never forget the sacrifice of the Worcester Six. The Worcester firefighters who lost their lives in the 1999 Worcester Cold Storage and Warehouse Co. fire were Firefighter Paul Brotherton of Auburn; Lieutenant Timothy Jackson, Sr. of Hopedale; Firefighter Jeremiah Lucey of Leicester; Lieutenant James Lyons III of Worcester; Firefighter Joseph McGuirk of Worcester; and Lieutenant Thomas Spencer of Worcester. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://tsongas.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=49&itemid=1631 | Tsongas applauds Department of Defense announcement opening all combat jobs to women | 2015-12-03 | 2015 | 2015-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Niki Tsongas | T000465 | tsongas.house.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON December 3, 2015 Today, Defense Secretary Ash Carter announced the Department of Defense will open all military combat jobs to women. Congresswoman Niki Tsongas (MA-3), a senior member of the House Armed Services Committee and co-chair of the Military Sexual Assault Prevention Caucus and the Air Force Caucus, has long called for this change and released the following statement. Todays announcement is welcome and long overdue news to the countless servicewomen who have selflessly and courageously served their nation around the globe. This is a milestone on the path to equality in our armed forces and recognizes the significant role women are already playing on the battlefield; fighting and sacrificing on behalf of their country. Todays announcement places everyone on equal footing, whereby future opportunities for advancement are no longer limited. The military has finally realized that a culture of mutual respect is critical to weeding out discrimination, sexual harassment, and sexual assault.No longer is it acceptable for the military to treat women as second-class citizens and ignore the potential talent and skill offered by half of the American population. More women entering into combat means more women rise through the ranks to take on leadership roles, and gain the important status and power to better advocate for important issues that affect all servicemembers. This progress is a proclamation of equality to every member of the armed forces that will open more doors than we have even begun to imagine. But as the doors open to servicewomen and a greater talent pool is tapped, the military must find ways to support all those who wear the uniform. This necessitates addressing womens health matters and developing equipment and policies that increase womens safety and success on and off the battlefield. Supporting military women is essential to building the strongest military possible. From a practical standpoint, the Army spends millions of dollars training women to do a job. Wit… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.markey.senate.gov/news/press-releases/markey-senate-republicans-choose-gun-lobby-over-american-people-in-wake-of-san-bernardino-mass-shooting | Markey: Senate Republicans Choose Gun Lobby Over American People in Wake of San Bernardino Mass Shooting | 2015-12-03 | 2015 | 2015-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Edward Markey | M000133 | www.markey.senate.gov | legacy | Markey: Senate Republicans Choose Gun Lobby Over American People in Wake of San Bernardino Mass Shooting Thursday, December 3, 2015 Washington (December 3, 2015) Senator Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.) released the following statement after Senate Republicans voted against three gun safety amendments today in the wake of the San Bernardino, California mass shooting. Senate Republicans had three opportunities today to help stop the tragic and senseless gun deaths from mass shootings that have now happened 355 times this year so far, and each time they said no. It makes no sense to allow a gun in the hands of an individual we dont allow fly on a plane. And Senate Republicans voted to oppose the ninety percent of Americans who support background checks before someone can buy a gun. When given the choice between voting to invest in the solutions to this public health crisis or protecting the deadly status quo, Senate Republicans once again chose to aid and abet the gun lobby with inaction. In the wake of this most recent tragedy, I call on my colleagues to recommit to stopping the hemorrhaging of lives and spirit that gun violence causes for families in Massachusetts and across the country and support commonsense gun safety measures. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.warren.senate.gov?p=press_release&id=1016 | Cummings and Warren Hold Middle Class Prosperity Project Forum on 'The Effects of Poverty on Children's Opportunities' | 2015-12-03 | 2015 | 2015-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Elizabeth Warren | W000817 | www.warren.senate.gov | legacy | Members Release State-by-State Staff Reports on the Benefits of Extending Tax Credits for Low-Income Families in Every State and Metro Area Panelists Emphasize That Millions of Children and Families Will Be Pushed into Poverty Unless Congress Extends EITC, CTC State-by-state reports on EITC and CTC available here Washington, DC - United States Senator Elizabeth Warren and Representative Elijah E. Cummings, Ranking Member of the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform, held a Middle Class Prosperity Project forum today titled, "The Effects Of Poverty On Children's Opportunities." At the forum, Cummings and Warren were joined by several of America's leading experts on poverty to discuss what it means for children to be poor in America today; the structural, social and economic factors that keep children and families in poverty; the unique and powerful role played by safety net programs in reducing poverty; and the importance of strengthening those programs as our economy recovers from the worst recession in decades. The discussion highlighted the critical roles of the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) and Child Tax Credit (CTC), key parts of which are set to expire soon if Congress does not act. In conjunction with the forum, Warren and Cummings released staff reports detailing the benefits of extending and improving the EITC and CTC in each state and metro area. The state-by-state reports are available here and below. "It is shameful that in 2015, in the richest country on Earth, millions of kids are growing up in abject poverty. ... but we know how to give these children a better start in life," Warren said. "We hand out tax breaks to big corporations nearly every year, because Washington works great for these big corporations. But millions of working Americans will be plunged into poverty if we don't extend their tax breaks too. Congress should make tax breaks for working families permanent - and it should expand them - before committing to any package of corporate tax giveaways." Here is the congressm… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.warren.senate.gov?p=press_release&id=1018 | Senator Warren's Statement on the Fixing America's Surface Transportation Act | 2015-12-03 | 2015 | 2015-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Elizabeth Warren | W000817 | www.warren.senate.gov | legacy | Washington, DC - United States Senator Elizabeth Warren entered the following statement in the Congressional Record following the Senate's vote on the Fixing America's Surface Transportation Act: "Senator Boxer deserves tremendous credit for negotiating a long-term funding bill for our crumbling roads and bridges. The Fixing America's Surface Transportation, FAST, Act is an important turning point in addressing our Nation's infrastructure needs, and the bill will create quality jobs and stimulate economic growth. The FAST Act ends years of short-term congressional extensions and legislative gridlock that prevented our country from making critical investments in our roads, bridges, and mass transit. The bill reauthorizes Amtrak and provides vital funding for positive train control technology and hazmat training programs. This 5-year reauthorization will allow our States and communities to finally plan for the future and address long-overdue maintenance backlogs. Additionally, the FAST Act takes important steps towards addressing the growing problem of violence against our transit operators. These hard-working men and women deserve a safe working environment, and I will continue to work with my colleagues to make sure we do everything we can to achieve that. However, I must oppose the bill because Republicans have used this strong bill as a vehicle to roll back rules that protect consumers and our financial system. This is the third time in the last year that Republicans have used this hostage-taking approach. Last December, Republicans used the government funding bill as a vehicle for a provision written by Citigroup lobbyists that would repeal a critical anti-bailout rule in the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act. Weeks later, Republicans used a broadly popular, bipartisan bill extending the Terrorism Risk Insurance Act to jam through another provision that weakened Dodd-Frank's rules on risky derivatives trading. And now, in the FAST Act, Republicans have handed out more than a dozen goodi… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.warren.senate.gov?p=video&id=1027 | Senator Elizabeth Warren: We will not allow the GOP to turn the clock back on women's rights | 2015-12-03 | 2015 | 2015-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Elizabeth Warren | W000817 | www.warren.senate.gov | legacy | Senator Elizabeth Warren spoke on the Senate floor on December 3, 2015, making clear she will fight against Republican efforts to defund Planned Parenthood. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.warren.senate.gov?p=video&id=1028 | Middle Class Prosperity Project Forum: The Effects Of Poverty On Children's Opportunities | 2015-12-03 | 2015 | 2015-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Elizabeth Warren | W000817 | www.warren.senate.gov | legacy | Congressman Elijah E. Cummings and Senator Elizabeth Warren hold a Middle Class Prosperity Project Forum titled "The Effects Of Poverty On Children's Opportunities." Panelists include: Sister Simone Campbell, SSS, Executive Director, NETWORK Kathryn Edin, Bloomberg Distinguished Professor in Sociology and Public Health, Johns Hopkins University; co-author, $2 a Day: The Art of Living on Virtually Nothing in America Robert Greenstein, President, Center on Budget and Policy Priorities More information about the Middle Class Prosperity Project is available here. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://katherineclark.house.gov/press-releases?ID=5D40D74F-064E-476B-B197-6C78FF4C7029 | Clark: New education reform bill improves failed No Child Left Behind | 2015-12-02 | 2015 | 2015-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Katherine Clark | C001101 | katherineclark.house.gov | legacy | Clark: New education reform bill improves failed No Child Left Behind' Washington, D.C. Today, Congresswoman Katherine Clark offered praise for the Every Student Succeeds Act -- the nation's K-12 education reform bill -- clearing the way to become law. Clark, who serves on the House Committee on Education and the Workforce, was tapped by Democratic leadership to be 1 of 7 House Democratic conferees to negotiate with the U.S. Senate on the final draft of the bill. A former school committee member and state lawmaker known for her focus on public education, Clark has pushed forward her bills and amendments that prioritize closing achievement gaps and expanding early education. The final education reform bill incorporates a number of Clark's proposed reforms, including the Homeless and Foster Youth Achievement Act, Supportive School Climate Act, and the Child Abuse Prevention and Awareness Act. Clark also successfully pushed for investments in early learning through Preschool Development Grants, as well as funding for school psychologists, counselors, and social workers. This bill improves on the deeply flawed No Child Left Behind by empowering teachers and protecting resources for schools in underserved communities. It ensures accountability and equality of access while reducing reliance on high stakes tests. It supports critical trauma-informed education for students living with toxic stress and violence. For the first time, we have a bill that invests in early learning with Preschool Development Grants. While not perfect, this legislation brings us closer to our fundamental promise to every child that every child gets a fair shot at their dream. The previous version of the K-12 bill, known as the No Child Left Behind Act, was passed in 2001, and has since been the subject of criticism for failing to achieve its goals. Text of the Every Student Succeeds Act can be found here. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://mcgovern.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=396804 | McGovern, Markey Announce $63.7 Million for Massachusetts Water Infrastructure Projects | 2015-12-02 | 2015 | 2015-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Jim McGovern | M000312 | mcgovern.house.gov | legacy | Today, Congressman Jim McGovern (D-MA) and Senator Edward J. Markey (D-MA) announced that Massachusetts has been awarded $63.7 million by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to help finance improvements to water projects that are essential to protecting public health and the environment. The funds will be primarily used to upgrade sewage plants and drinking water systems, as well as replacing aging infrastructure, throughout the state. The Clean Water State Revolving Fund (CWSRF) program, administrated by the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP) and Massachusetts Clean Water Trust, received $47.4 million. EPA's funding provides low-interest loans for water quality protection projects to make improvements to wastewater treatment systems, control pollution from stormwater runoff, and protect sensitive water bodies and estuaries. Every family deserves access to clean drinking water and this award is a strong investment that will help communities across Massachusetts, Congressman McGovern said. With this funding, our cities and towns will have access to the low-interest loans they need to invest in water quality protection projects. Clean water is essential to healthy communities and this award will provide a much-needed boost to aging water infrastructure in Massachusetts. I'm grateful to EPA Administrator Gina McCarthy for this important investment and look forward to seeing all the ways this award will help families across the Commonwealth. "As weather, climate change and resource needs increasingly impact Massachusetts, its water infrastructure and pollution control needs continue to grow, said Senator Edward J. Markey. These grants will finance critical updates to the Commonwealth's public water systems to protect drinking water supplies, public health, and the environment, while also sparking innovation and creating jobs in construction and engineering. The Drinking Water State Revolving Fund (DWSRF) program also administered by the MassDEP and MA Clean Water Trust, received $… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://mcgovern.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=396805 | McGovern on U.S. Troop Deployment for Raids in Iraq and Syria | 2015-12-02 | 2015 | 2015-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Jim McGovern | M000312 | mcgovern.house.gov | legacy | Today, Congressman Jim McGovern (MA-02) released the following statement on this week's announcementthat the United States will deploy special operations troops to conduct raids in Iraq and Syria as part of the war against ISIS. In November, Congressman McGovern led a bipartisan group of 35 House lawmakers in a letter to Speaker Paul Ryan calling for a debate and vote on an Authorization for the Use of Military Force (AUMF) for the U.S. military engagement against ISIS. Earlier this year, Congressman McGovern led a bipartisan push to force a vote on an AUMF. With the U.S. deployment of special operations troops to conduct raids in Iraq and Syria, more and more of our brave men and women in uniform are headed to the frontlines of this conflict. Unfortunately, while we put more American soldiers in harm's way, Congress continues to sit on the sidelines. The American people elected us to lead, not to ignore our constitutional responsibility when it comes to matters of war. Yet it has now been nearly 300 days since President Obama sent a draft military authorization to Congress and we are still waiting for House Republican leaders to act. In November, I led a broad bipartisan group of 35 House lawmakers in a call for Speaker Ryan to end the delay and bring an AUMF to the House floor for a debate and vote. Some members of Congress think we need to expand our military presence. Others, like myself, are skeptical about escalating our involvement in the conflict. Where Republicans and Democrats strongly agree is on the need for Congress to have a say. We need to debate and vote on an AUMF that clearly defines the U.S. military campaign against ISIS. We cannot wait any longer. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://mcgovern.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=396806 | McGovern Applauds Bipartisan Passage of Every Student Succeeds Act | 2015-12-02 | 2015 | 2015-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Jim McGovern | M000312 | mcgovern.house.gov | legacy | Congressman Jim McGovern (MA-02) applauded the strong bipartisan House passage today of the Conference Report on S. 1177, the Every Student Succeeds Act, which reauthorizes the Elementary and Secondary Education Act. Congressman McGovern welcomed the inclusion of provisions authorizing through 2020 the Innovative Approaches to Literacy (IAL), an early literacy grant program he has championed. In 2011, Congressman McGovern worked with Representatives Eddie Bernice Johnson (D-TX) and Don Young (R-AK), and Senators Jack Reed (D-RI), Debbie Stabenow (D-MI), Chuck Grassley (R-IA), and Roger Wicker (R-MS) to establish the IAL grant program during the FY12 appropriations process and helped to secure $28.6 million for the program. With the strong bipartisan passage of this bill, Congress has taken an important step to ensure that students in Massachusetts and across the country have access to a quality education and the important resources and opportunities they need to succeed. As the lead sponsor of H.R. 523, the Prescribe a Book Act, I am thrilled that the Every Student Succeeds Act incorporates language from that legislation to authorize federal funding for pediatric early literacy promotion. Reading to children at an early age is essential to giving them the strong start they need to succeed. All across the country, early literacy programs like Reach Out and Read are helping to make that possible and help them achieve their full potential. I am grateful for the strong bipartisan leadership to reauthorize the Elementary and Secondary Education Act and the literacy program that is preparing our students for a brighter future. Congressman McGovern visited a Reach Out and Read program in Webster, Massachusetts in October. Reach Out and Read is an evidence-based non-profit organization that operates through a network of 21,000 medical providers, serving 4.5 million children through 5,500 medical clinics in all 50 states, and distributes 6.5 million books annually. Click here to read more about the program. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://tsongas.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=49&itemid=1629 | Tsongas speaks on House Floor in support of Clean Power Plan | 2015-12-02 | 2015 | 2015-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Niki Tsongas | T000465 | tsongas.house.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON, DC December 1, 2015 Congresswoman Niki Tsongas spoke today on the House Floor in strong opposition to Republican legislation that would undermine Americas efforts to combat climate change. Congresswoman Tsongas is the top Democrat on the Natural Resources Federal Lands Subcommittee. Click for video of the Congresswomans speech on the House Floor on December 1, 2015 Below please find the text of the Congresswomans remarks from the House Floor on December 1, 2015, as prepared for delivery: I rise in strong opposition to the misguided resolutions before the House that seek to block the Clean Power Plan and undermine the United States global leadership on climate change. Climate change is no longer an academic question for scientists to ponder. It is a very real crisis that, if left untouched, will cause irreparable harm to current and future generations. If the resolutions we are considering today became law, our country would be prevented from taking necessary steps to safeguard our future. The Clean Power Plan calls for a 32% reduction in carbon dioxide emissions below 2005 levels by 2030 and sets individual goals for each state in order to meet this national standard. It is a reasonable, commonsense approach that gives states the flexibility to reduce carbon pollution with strategies that work best in their state while bolstering clean energy investments and economic development. Efforts to block the Clean Power Plan not only ignore overwhelming scientific consensus, but they ignore the global consensus that we must take action to address climate change. Right now, leaders from over 190 countries are gathered in Paris to outline long-term strategies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and stave off the worst impacts of climate change. While at the summit, President Obama personally met with other heads of state, including the leaders of China and India, to reaffirm their commitment to reducing carbon emissions. America must be at the forefront and lead by example. We must embrace modern policies that … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://tsongas.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=49&itemid=1634 | Tsongas speaks against bill that would expedite pipelines on public lands | 2015-12-02 | 2015 | 2015-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Niki Tsongas | T000465 | tsongas.house.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON, DC December 2, 2015 Congresswoman Niki Tsongas spoke last night on the House Floor in strong opposition to Republican legislation that would expedite the approval process for natural gas pipelines that cross public lands, including National Parks. In her speech she cited a local pipeline project proposed to cross through the Third District of Massachusetts. Tsongas has consistently called for more public input and a transparent process regarding this local project and others. Congresswoman Tsongas is the top Democrat on the Natural Resources Federal Lands Subcommittee, which oversees National Parks and other public lands. Click for video of the Congresswomans speech on the House Floor on December 1, 2015 Below please find the text of the Congresswomans remarks from the House Floor on December 1, 2015, as prepared for delivery: I rise in strong opposition to this legislation, and in particular, a section of the bill that would create an opening to cause irreparable damage to our National Parks. H.R. 8 would establish National Energy Security Corridors to expedite the approval process for natural gas pipelines that cross our nations public lands. In doing so, it eliminates longstanding protections afforded to our national parks and other historically significant areas that were set aside for the very distinct purpose of preserving our nations cultural and natural heritage. This legislation also blocks the public from providing any input on where these natural gas pipeline corridors should be located. My home state of Massachusetts, like many areas around the country, faces real energy challenges. In my district, a company is proposing to build a new 250-mile natural gas pipeline that crosses three states. I have heard from hundreds of my constituents expressing their concerns with the project, particularly with regard to its route. Thanks to extensive public review and input, the pipeline route has already been adjusted to minimize some of the environmental impacts, but there are still many outstan… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.markey.senate.gov/news/press-releases/markey-bennet-introduce-bill-to-protect-alaskas-arctic-national-wildlife-refuge | Markey, Bennet Introduce Bill to Protect Alaska’s Arctic National Wildlife Refuge | 2015-12-02 | 2015 | 2015-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Edward Markey | M000133 | www.markey.senate.gov | legacy | Markey, Bennet Introduce Bill to Protect Alaskas Arctic National Wildlife Refuge Wednesday, December 2, 2015 Washington, DC U.S. Senators Michael Bennet (D-CO) and Edward J. Markey (D-MA) today introduced a bill with 32 other senators to designate the Coastal Plain of the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge as wilderness and protect the land from future development. The Coastal Plain represents 1.56 million acres of the 19.6 million-acre wildlife refuge. The introduction of the bill comes just days ahead of the 55thanniversary of the establishment of the Arctic National Wildlife Range by President Dwight D. Eisenhower. Coloradans and Westerners take seriously the need to protect our nations pristine landscapes like the Grand Canyon in Arizona, the Yosemite Valley in California, and the Great Sand Dunes in Colorado. Among other benefits, these lands drive a $700 billion outdoor recreation economy, a sector that includes a many Colorado-based companies,Bennet said.The Arctic Refuge in Alaska is one of these pristine landscapes. Sportsmen, birders, and outdoor enthusiasts from across the political spectrum have long supported protections for this iconic area. With this bill, supported by more than one-third of the Senate, we continue the proud bipartisan conservation tradition started over 50 years ago by President Eisenhower. The Arctic National Wildlife Refuge is one of the natural wonders of America, worthy of the highest level of protection as wilderness. Its pristine landscape, ecological integrity, wildlife, recreational opportunities, and Alaska Native cultural and subsistence values are unmatched,Markey said.Action is long overdue to fully realize President Eishenhowers visionary action in first protecting the Arctic Refuge in 1960. The Coastal Plain is the biological heart of the Refuge, and I look forward to working with my Senate colleagues to pass legislation that would ensure full wilderness protection for the Coastal Plain of the Arctic Refuge forever. The Arcti… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.markey.senate.gov/news/press-releases/markey-mcgovern-announce-637-million-for-massachusetts-water-infrastructure-projects | Markey, McGovern Announce $63.7 Million for Massachusetts Water Infrastructure Projects | 2015-12-02 | 2015 | 2015-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Edward Markey | M000133 | www.markey.senate.gov | legacy | Markey, McGovern Announce $63.7 Million for Massachusetts Water Infrastructure Projects Wednesday, December 2, 2015 WASHINGTON, D.C. Today, Congressman Jim McGovern (D-MA) and Senator Edward J. Markey (D-MA) announced thatMassachusetts has been awarded $63.7 millionby the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to help finance improvements to water projects that are essential to protecting public health and the environment. The funds will be primarily used to upgrade sewage plants and drinking water systems, as well as replacing aging infrastructure, throughout the state. The Clean Water State Revolving Fund (CWSRF) program, administrated by the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP) and Massachusetts Clean Water Trust, received $47.4 million. EPAs funding provides low-interest loans for water quality protection projects to make improvements to wastewater treatment systems, control pollution from stormwater runoff, and protect sensitive water bodies and estuaries. Every family deserves access to clean drinking water and this award is a strong investment that will help communities across Massachusetts,Congressman McGovern said. With this funding, our cities and towns will have access to the low-interest loans they need to invest in water quality protection projects. Clean water is essential to healthy communities and this award will provide a much-needed boost to aging water infrastructure in Massachusetts. Im grateful to EPA Administrator Gina McCarthy for this important investment and look forward to seeing all the ways this award will help families across the Commonwealth. "As weather, climate change and resource needs increasingly impact Massachusetts, its water infrastructure and pollution control needs continue to grow,said Senator Edward J. Markey. These grants will finance critical updates to the Commonwealth's public water systems to protect drinking water supplies, public health, and the environment, while also sparking innovation and creat… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.markey.senate.gov/news/press-releases/sen-markey-and-rep-barton-to-vtech-how-do-you-protect-childrens-information | Sen. Markey & Rep. Barton to VTech: How Do You Protect Children’s Information? | 2015-12-02 | 2015 | 2015-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Edward Markey | M000133 | www.markey.senate.gov | legacy | Sen. Markey & Rep. Barton to VTech: How Do You Protect Childrens Information? Wednesday, December 2, 2015 In wake of recent hack, lawmakers query company about privacy protections for children 12 years old and under Washington (December 2, 2015) Senator Edward J. Markey (DMass.) and Congressman Joe Barton (R Tex.), co-founders of the Bi-Partisan Congressional Privacy Caucus, today sent a letter to digital toy producer VTech requesting information on what data it collects on children using its products and how it protects that sensitive information. According to recent reports, a hacker breached VTechs customer database, accessing approximately five million customer accounts and related childrens profiles. The hacker stole profile information including names, email addresses, mailing addresses and download history. The hacker also stole data about children, including names, genders, and birthdates. We write to convey our concerns about the recent cybersecurity attack on your company and the resulting theft of private information on millions of Americans, including children 12 years old and younger,write Senator Markey and Congressman Barton.This breach raises several questions about what information VTech collects on children, how that data is protected, and how VTech complies with the Childrens Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA). A copy of the letter to VTech can be foundHERE. In their letter, Senator Markey and Congressman Barton ask for responses to questions that include what data is the company collecting about children 12 years old and younger, how VTech uses data collected about children, and if VTech shares or sells information about kids. In June, Senator Markey and Rep. Barton, joined by Senator Mark Kirk (R-Ill.) and Rep. Bobby Rush (D-Ill.), introduced theDo Not Track Kids Act, comprehensive children's online privacy legislation that updates COPPA by expanding and enhancing rules for the collection, use and disclosure of children's personal i… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.markey.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-markey-queries-airlines-and-airplane-manufacturers-about-aircraft-cybersecurity-defenses | Senator Markey Queries Airlines and Airplane Manufacturers about Aircraft Cybersecurity Defenses | 2015-12-02 | 2015 | 2015-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Edward Markey | M000133 | www.markey.senate.gov | legacy | Senator Markey Queries Airlines and Airplane Manufacturers about Aircraft Cybersecurity Defenses Wednesday, December 2, 2015 Senator also asks airlines about their practices to protect privacy of passenger information Washington (December 2, 2015) In his ongoing investigation of cybersecurity and privacy vulnerabilities of the transportation sector, Senator Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.) today sent letters to twelve domestic airlines and two airplane manufacturers requesting information on the cybersecurity protections on their aircrafts and computer systems. Much like the automobile industry, the aviation industry in recent years has become increasingly interconnected, and modern aircraft are more often connected to the Internet. Though these technological advancements offer many benefits, they also present possible dangers, such as new avenues for cyberattacks.A passenger earlier this year allegedly hacked into the inflight entertainment system from onboard a plane, potentially gaining access to the critical flight systems that control the movement of the aircraft. The Government Accountability Office (GAO) issued an April 2015 report addressing the increasing connectedness of modern aircraft, raising important concerns about possible unauthorized access to aircraft avionics systems. As technology rapidly continues to advance, we must all work to ensure that the airline industry remains vigilant in protecting its aircraft and systems from cybersecurity breaches and attacks,writes Senator Markey, a member of the Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee, in the letter.With these technological advancements come great benefits, including improved flight navigation, greater communications abilities, and greater operational efficiency. However, as we have witnessed recently in the automobile industry, I am concerned that these technologies may also pose great threats to our security, privacy, and economy. Senator Markey sent letters to American Airlines, Delta Airline… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.markey.senate.gov/news/press-releases/sens-markey-whitehouse-blumenthal-to-obama-reform-coal-leasing-program-to-protect-climate-change-goals | Sens. Markey, Whitehouse, Blumenthal to Obama: Reform Coal Leasing Program to Protect Climate Change Goals | 2015-12-02 | 2015 | 2015-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Edward Markey | M000133 | www.markey.senate.gov | legacy | Sens. Markey, Whitehouse, Blumenthal to Obama: Reform Coal Leasing Program to Protect Climate Change Goals Wednesday, December 2, 2015 Senators introduce legislation that would increase the royalty rate for coal produced on federal lands, prohibit overseas sale of federally-owned coal Washington (December 2, 2015) As President Obama joined with world leaders to help craft an international agreement on climate, Senators Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.) Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.) and Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) called on the President to reform the federal coal leasing program to protect Americas climate change goals. In a letter sent yesterday, the Senators called on President Obama use his executive authority to direct the Secretary of the Interior to significantly increase royalty rates to account for the social cost of carbon pollution from coal production on public lands and use his existing authority to prohibit the export of coal produced from public lands to foreign nations. Additionally, the Senators called on the President to suspend all new coal leasing until these reforms are implemented. Between 400 and 450 million tons of coal are produced from public lands in the United States each year, yet coal companies only pay 12.5 percent of the value of the natural resource, a royalty rate that does nothing to take into account the costs for climate change and human health associated with burning federally-owned coal. We should not take two steps forward reducing carbon pollution with the Clean Power Plan only for our federal coal program to force us to take two steps back,said Senator Markey.It makes no sense to subsidize coal companies to mine coal from federal lands just to export it and increase quantities of it abroad, where it will be burned to worsen climate change. We need to reform a federal coal program that is selling coal at bargain basement prices to the detriment of the American taxpayers economic and public health and properly account for the full cost t… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.warren.senate.gov?p=press_release&id=1013 | Senator Warren Delivers Remarks Urging Congress to Pass the SAVE Benefits Act | 2015-12-02 | 2015 | 2015-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Elizabeth Warren | W000817 | www.warren.senate.gov | legacy | Video of remarks Washington, DC -United States Senator Elizabeth Warren and several of her Democratic colleagues went to the Senate floor this afternoon to call on Congress to pass the Seniors and Veterans Emergency Benefits Act (SAVE Benefits Act). A video of Senator Warren's remarks is here, and the text of the sentator's remarks as prepared for delivery is below. Senator Elizabeth WarrenRemarks on the Senate FloorDecember 1, 2015***As prepared for delivery*** Mr. President, the clock is ticking. Exactly one month from today, on January 1st, about 70 million seniors, veterans, Americans with disabilities, and others who depend on Social Security and other benefits, will get their first check of the New Year. For those 70 million people - one in five Americans - January 1st is supposed to be a day of relief. This is the day when the federal government boosts their checks just a little bit to help with the rising costs of housing, food, and medical care. But unless Congress does something right now, for just the third time since 1975, seniors and veterans won't be receiving any cost of living increase on January 1st. Not one penny more. Look at who gets left out in the cold. Two-thirds of seniors depend on Social Security for the majority of their income. For fifteen million Americans, Social Security is all that stands between them and poverty. But not one of these Americans will see an extra penny next year. And millions of other Americans whose benefits are pegged to Social Security - millions who receive veterans' benefits, disability benefits, and other monthly payments - won't see an extra penny, either. Times are tough - but not for everyone. Last year, CEOs at the biggest 350 American companies received, on average, a 3.9% pay increase. How much money is that? Since the average CEO at one of those top 350 companies made a cool $16.3 million, a 3.9% raise landed them an additional half a million bucks each. So everything is just great for America's top CEOs who got huge raises, while 70 million seniors, v… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://kennedy.house.gov/media/press-releases/kennedy-brooks-launch-congressional-access-to-civil-legal-services-caucus | KENNEDY, BROOKS LAUNCH CONGRESSIONAL ACCESS TO CIVIL LEGAL SERVICES CAUCUS | 2015-12-01 | 2015 | 2015-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Joseph Kennedy | K000379 | kennedy.house.gov | legacy | Washington, DC As Congress continues to debate comprehensive justice reform, Congressman Joe Kennedy III (D-MA4) and Congresswoman Susan Brooks (R-IN5) today launched the Access to Civil Legal Services Caucus which will focus on expanding access to legal representation for low-income families. According to the Legal Services Corporation, half of those that qualify for legal assistance are turned away due to lack of resources. As former prosecutors, Kennedy and Brooks have both made addressing inequities in the justice system a priority of their time in Congress. Our legal system is where our nation makes good on the sacred promise of equal justice under the law, said Congressman Kennedy. But too often that promise is far from guaranteed for low-income families, veterans, victims of domestic violence and thousands of other Americans forced to stand in our courtrooms alone each year with their homes, savings and futures at risk. Through this caucus, we can build a strong coalition in Congress to advocate for civil legal aid programs and ensure access to representation is never limited by income. Unfortunately, some civil disputes require the parties to resolve their differences in court, but many of those who face the toughest legal challenges, including low-income families, veterans, and victims of domestic violence, are forced to navigate the judicial system alone, without any legal help or counsel simply because they cant afford it, said Congresswoman Brooks. Without legal advice to help guide them through the complicated judicial process, and with court personnel and systems often overwhelmed, they can face enormous burdens that devastate families, result in a further descent into poverty, and cause homelessness. This caucus will seek to change that, making sure that when civil disputes are brought to our judicial system, those involved, regardless of financial means, have access to appropriate legal resources and representation. In a letter to colleagues urging them to join the Caucus, th… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://mcgovern.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=396803 | McGovern: House GOP Attack on EPA Aims to Halt Progress on Climate Change | 2015-12-01 | 2015 | 2015-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Jim McGovern | M000312 | mcgovern.house.gov | legacy | Today on the House floor, Congressman Jim McGovern (D-MA) led the push by House Democrats to defeat three House Republican bills which would undermine critical progress made by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Obama administration's continued efforts to address climate change. Click here for video of today's floor speech. Speaking on the rule for consideration of these bills, Congressman McGovern said today's measures are yet another pander to big money, fossil fuels, and special interests. So I urge my colleagues to follow the money because that's what this is all about here today. It's not about serious legislating, it's about fundraising. As we gather here, McGovern added, leaders from all around the world are meeting in Paris to talk about how to deal with the issue of climate change. What we should be doing here is providing some wind at the back of not only our president, but of all the leaders of the world who are gathering to try to figure out how to deal with this challenge. And instead of doing that, we're doing this. It's really sad that this is what we've come to here. In today's floor speech, McGovern said we shouldn't stop commonsense regulations that the EPA has put in place that protect us from the harmful pollution emitted by power plants, adding that We shouldn't be propping up the coal and oil industries with taxpayer subsidies. We shouldn't be using taxpayer money to destroy our environment. When the scientific community reaches a clear consensus on an issue like climate change, Congress shouldn't undermine them with dangerous legislation like this. McGovern called out the Republican bills for allowing big gas companies to choose to build wherever they want, regardless of the consequences for local communities, saying that it would even allow them to build through our treasured national parks. It's an early Christmas gift for big special interests. McGovern continued, When Arctic ice is crashing into the oceans at record rates -- that is not a hoax. When species are going… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.markey.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senators-markey-coons-baldwin-fight-discrimination-against-those-with-hiv/aids | Senators Markey, Coons, Baldwin fight discrimination against those with HIV/AIDS | 2015-12-01 | 2015 | 2015-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Edward Markey | M000133 | www.markey.senate.gov | legacy | Senators Markey, Coons, Baldwin fight discrimination against those with HIV/AIDS Tuesday, December 1, 2015 REPEAL HIV Discrimination Act would encourage states to repeal outdated laws WASHINGTON Today, U.S. SenatorsChris Coons(D-Del.), a member of the Senate Judiciary Committee,Tammy Baldwin(D-Wis.), andEd Markey(D-Mass.) introduced legislation aimed at helping end stigma, discrimination, and stereotypes that negatively impact Americans living with HIV/AIDS. TheRepeal Existing Policies that Encourage and Allow Legal (REPEAL) HIV Discrimination Actwould require an interagency review of federal and state laws that criminalize certain actions by people living with HIV. Its simply not fair that someone with a treatable medical condition should automatically be subjected to a different set of criminal laws,Senator Coonssaid. A disturbing number of state and local criminal laws pertaining to individuals with HIV/AIDS are rooted not in science, but in outdated fear. They run counter to effective public health strategies, discourage HIV testing, and perpetuate unfair stigma and discrimination against people living with HIV/AIDS people who are our friends, family members, and neighbors. Rather than recognizing that HIV/AIDS is a treatable medical condition, these laws perpetuate the idea that HIV is a deadly weapon and people with HIV/AIDS are dangerous criminals. Our laws need to catch up to our science and our morals, and this bill would take an important step in that direction. As we treat those living with HIV/AIDS, our laws should treat them equally,said Senator Markey. We should not have policies or laws on the books that discriminate, perpetrate stereotypes or arent based in sound science. The REPEAL Act will help ensure that individuals with HIV/AIDS are not criminalized for having a treatable medical condition, and that all Americans are subject to the same set of laws. I thank Senator Coons and Baldwin for their leadership on this issue and look forward to working with a… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.warren.senate.gov?p=press_release&id=1011 | Senators Warren, Durbin and Blumenthal Raise Concerns About Federal Settlement with For-Profit College Company EDMC | 2015-12-01 | 2015 | 2015-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Elizabeth Warren | W000817 | www.warren.senate.gov | legacy | Text of the letter (PDF) Washington, DC - In a letter to the Department of Education (ED) and Department of Justice (DOJ), United States Senators Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), and Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) raised concerns about the federal government's recent settlement with Education Management Corporation (EDMC) over illegal recruiting tactics. The senators questioned the settlement's lack of accountability for company executives and inadequate relief for students. "We are profoundly dissatisfied with a settlement in which the government recovered a miniscule fraction of stolen taxpayer funds, held no individuals accountable while failing to even obtain an admission of wrongdoing from EDMC, and now may not even provide relief to thousands of students who owe billions of dollars in student loans because they were illegally recruited by EDMC," the senators wrote. Although ED has broad authority under the law to forgive borrowers' student loans when institutions engage in fraudulent activities, and currently is reviewing thousands of cases where borrowers who attended Corinthian Colleges may be eligible for forgiveness, Education Secretary Arne Duncan has not committed to providing EDMC students with loan relief. "It is clear that EDMC's predatory practices caused material harm to its students, and we urge the Education Department to use its authority and all available evidence of EDMC's fraudulent behavior to provide these students the full, immediate debt relief afforded by the law," wrote the senators. The letter notes that state Attorneys General secured approximately $100 million in debt relief for borrowers of EDMC's private loans in a separate settlement, providing evidence of wrongdoing that appears to be grounds for discharge of federal loans. Read a PDF copy of the letter here. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.warren.senate.gov?p=video&id=1026 | Senator Warren: Congress Should Pass SAVE Benefits Act to Help Seniors and Veterans | 2015-12-01 | 2015 | 2015-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Elizabeth Warren | W000817 | www.warren.senate.gov | legacy | Senator Elizabeth Warren spoke on the Senate floor on December 1, 2015, urging Congress to pass the Seniors and Veterans Emergency Benefits Act (SAVE Benefits Act), with only one month remaining until seniors and veterans face a zero cost-of-living increase in Social Security and other key benefits. More information about the SAVE Benefits Act is available here. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.warren.senate.gov?p=press_release&id=1010 | Warren, Vitter: Fed's New Bailout Rule is a Step in the Right Direction | 2015-11-30 | 2015 | 2015-11 | Democrat | House | MA | Elizabeth Warren | W000817 | www.warren.senate.gov | legacy | (Washington, D.C.) - U.S. Senators Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) and David Vitter (R-La.) members of the Senate Banking Committee, today released the following statements upon the Federal Reserve's adoption of a new rule limiting its ability to lend funds to financial institutions in crisis, also known as a "bailout." "I'm glad the Fed incorporated many of the ideas from the bipartisan Bailout Prevention Act. These changes will help promote market discipline and make the financial system safer - but there are still loopholes that the Fed could exploit to provide another back-door bailout to giant financial institutions. It's up to Congress to close those loopholes and ensure that Fed emergency lending is limited to protecting the economy and not to saving a few favored banks," said Warren. "American taxpayers should never be on the hook to bail out financial institutions who make unwise and risky bets," said Vitter. "I've spent years fighting to limit the emergency lending powers of the Fed, and today's announcement is the first real acknowledgement from the Fed that it needed to do more to curtail its own bailout authority. However, more needs to be done and I'll continue pushing strong responsible reforms protecting the tax dollars of hard-working Americans." During the 2008 financial crisis, the Fed invoked its emergency lending authority to provide over $13 trillion in loans primarily to a select group of large financial institutions. These loans were long-term and offered at below-market rates - a bailout in all but name of institutions regarded as "Too Big to Fail." In May, Vitter and Warren introduced the Bailout Prevention Act, which would halt financial bailouts of megabanks during a financial crisis. Click here to read more. In August 2014, Vitter and Warren led a group of 13 bipartisan legislators in sending a letter to the Fed asking it to strengthen their restrictions. Click here to read more. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://mcgovern.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=396802 | McGovern Joins Bipartisan Push to Restore Federal Funding for Pre-School Programs | 2015-11-25 | 2015 | 2015-11 | Democrat | House | MA | Jim McGovern | M000312 | mcgovern.house.gov | legacy | In a bipartisan letter, Congressman Jim McGovern (D-MA) joined co-leads Representatives Chellie Pingree (D-ME) and Richard Hanna (R-NY), and 60 of their Republican and Democratic colleagues in urging the leadership of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education to restore funding for the federal Preschool Development Grant program. Funding has been eliminated in recent drafts of the House and Senate appropriations bills. Investing in our students is one of the smartest things we can do to support strong communities and help families succeed. Early childhood education programs give students the strong start they need to succeed in school for years to come, Congressman Jim McGovern said. Each year, this program helps states and local communities provide a high-quality preschool education. Without this essential investment, this education might be out of reach for many of our students. I am proud to join this bipartisan coalition calling on Congressional leaders to restore this funding and put our students first. Early childhood education benefits children for years afterward, but it's just too expensive for many families, Congresswoman Chellie Pingree said. This grant program is critical in helping states and local communities offer high-quality preschool education to more students who may not be able to access it otherwise. I've had the chance to visit classrooms that are supported by this program and parents rave that it's made a big difference for their children. I hope funding will be restored so even more students can benefit. I fully support restoring this critical funding for our youngest learners, Congressman Richard Hanna said. Early childhood education helps make our nation become more competitive and ensures that each child has the opportunity to reach his or her full potential. One in four children starts their life in poverty. Through education, we can ensure their lives do not end in poverty. Preschool Development Grants provide funds to build and expa… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://mcgovern.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=396801 | PHOTOS: Kennedy Joins McGovern on Western Mass. Hunger March | 2015-11-24 | 2015 | 2015-11 | Democrat | House | MA | Jim McGovern | M000312 | mcgovern.house.gov | legacy | AMHERST, MA Today, Congressman Jim McGovern (MA-02) was joined by Congressman Joe Kennedy (MA-04) on the 6th annual Monte's March. Aimed at helping local families in need put food on the table this Thanksgiving, this year's march is the longest yet, lasting two days and stretching 43 miles across Western Massachusetts. Kennedy joined McGovern and the march when the group stopped at the Amherst Survival Center this morning. Click here to view photos online. Helping families who have fallen on hard times is what this holiday season is all about. I am proud to have Congressman Joe Kennedy marching with us in this year's Monte's March to help hungry families in Massachusetts, Congressman Jim McGovern said. When it comes to hunger, it's one thing to talk the talk, but today, we walked the walk. The support shown by our communities in Western Massachusetts has been overwhelming. Thank you to all who joined us in our 43-mile march to help families in need this Thanksgiving. No child or family should ever go to bed hungry in our Commonwealth or country. Few have fought harder to eradicate hunger than Congressman McGovern and walking beside him today was a truly humbling experience, Congressman Joe Kennedy said. In addition to Kennedy, Congressman McGovern was joined today by the founder of Monte's March, WRSI The River radio host Monte Belmonte, Andrew Morehouse, the Executive Director of The Food Bank of Western Massachusetts, local mayors, and other community leaders. Since 2010, the march has been an annual tradition and has already helped provide 729,000 meals to families in need in the last five years. This year's march will be the longest yet at 43 miles, starting yesterday with stop in Chicopee, Holyoke and Northampton, and continuing today with stops in Hadley, Amherst and Sunderland before ending today in Greenfield. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://nyti.ms/1NqtRgo | IN WAKE OF DEADLY PARIS ATTACKS, SENATE DEMOCRATS URGE LEADER MCCONNELL & SPEAKER RYAN TO QUICKLY SCHEDULE VOTE ON LEGISLATION TO CLOSE EGREGIOUS LOOPHOLE THAT CURRENTLY ALLOWS THOSE ON TERROR WATCHLIST TO PURCHASE GUNS & EXPLOSIVES | 2015-11-24 | 2015 | 2015-11 | Democrat | House | MA | Edward Markey | M000133 | nyti.ms | legacy | IN WAKE OF DEADLY PARIS ATTACKS, SENATE DEMOCRATS URGE LEADER MCCONNELL & SPEAKER RYAN TO QUICKLY SCHEDULE VOTE ON LEGISLATION TO CLOSE EGREGIOUS LOOPHOLE THAT CURRENTLY ALLOWS THOSE ON TERROR WATCHLIST TO PURCHASE GUNS & EXPLOSIVES Tuesday, November 24, 2015 In New Letter to Leader McConnell & Speaker Ryan, Senate Democrats Urge the Republican Leaders to Immediately Schedule a Vote on Legislation That Would Prevent Suspected Terrorists from Being Able To Purchase Firearms & Explosives; According to the GAO, In Last Decade, Suspected Terrorists Attempted to Purchase Guns from American Dealers At Least 2,233 Times & Were Cleared To Do So In 91 Percent Of These Instances Just Two Days Ago, Donald Trump -- The Republican Frontrunner for President -- Said Anyone On A Terror Watchlist Should Absolutely Not Be Allowed To Buy Guns Senate Dems to GOP: Theres No Reason Someone Whos Too Dangerous to Board An Airplane Should Be Allowed To Buy A Gun Or Explosives WASHINGTON, D.C. Today, Senate Democrats released a new letter to Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell and Speaker Paul Ryan formally urging them to quickly schedule votes on legislation that would close an egregious loophole and prevent individuals on the Federal Terrorist Watchlist from being able to purchase firearms and explosives that may be used in connection with terrorism. Under current law, a member of a terrorist organization is not prohibited possessing firearms or explosives or from being able to purchase handguns or assault-style rifles. The Government Accountability Office (GAO) found that between 2004 and 2014, suspected terrorists attempted to exploit this loophole and purchase guns at least 2,233 times, succeeding in 2,043 of those instances, or 91 percent of the time. The letter supporting the legislation, which is already sponsored in the House of Representatives by leading Republican Representative Peter King, comes after the Republican frontrunner for President, Donald Trump, s… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z |
Advanced export
JSON shape: default, array, newline-delimited, object
CREATE TABLE [releases] (
[url] TEXT PRIMARY KEY,
[title] TEXT,
[date] TEXT,
[year] TEXT,
[month] TEXT,
[party] TEXT,
[chamber] TEXT,
[state] TEXT,
[member_name] TEXT,
[bioguide_id] TEXT,
[domain] TEXT,
[scraper] TEXT,
[source] TEXT,
[date_source] TEXT,
[text] TEXT,
[has_text] INTEGER,
[collected_at] TEXT,
[updated_at] TEXT
);
CREATE INDEX [idx_releases_date]
ON [releases] ([date]);
CREATE INDEX [idx_releases_year]
ON [releases] ([year]);
CREATE INDEX [idx_releases_party]
ON [releases] ([party]);
CREATE INDEX [idx_releases_chamber]
ON [releases] ([chamber]);
CREATE INDEX [idx_releases_state]
ON [releases] ([state]);
CREATE INDEX [idx_releases_bioguide_id]
ON [releases] ([bioguide_id]);
CREATE INDEX [idx_releases_has_text]
ON [releases] ([has_text]);