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247 rows where state = "ME" and year = 2022 sorted by date descending

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  • 2022 · 247 ✖

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  • ME · 247 ✖
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https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/in-holiday-podcast-senator-king-discusses-the-virtues-of-community-service In Holiday Podcast, Senator King Discusses the Virtues of Community Service 2022-12-31 2022 2022-12 Independent Senate ME Angus S. King, Jr. K000383 www.king.senate.gov angusking https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table scraper Listen to the November edition of Senator King’s podcast here or on Apple Podcasts. WASHINGTON, D.C. – The Office of U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine) today released the December episode of Senator King’s “Inside Maine” podcast – a special holiday season edition that features a timely discussion about community service, volunteerism, and how Maine people can give back to their communities this holiday season. Senator King was joined by Charley Martin-Berry, the Director of Community Caring Collaborative (CCC); Vassie Fowler, the Executive Director of Seeds of Hope; David Patch, the Commander of American Legion Post 36, Veterans Resource Center and Mid-Coast Veterans Council; and Sarah Duncan, the Executive Director of United Way Aroostook. During the conversation, Senator King and his guests share how volunteerism has helped Maine communities weather the economic and social challenges that unfolded over the past year. Specifically, his guests highlighted the affordable housing crisis and the need for organizations to cut through red tape and bureaucracy to connect Maine people in need with food banks, shelters, and other nonprofits. Senator King and his guests also discussed the role Congress can play in promoting more community service across the country. “Maine’s nonprofits and volunteers have always stepped up to support our neighbors and communities in need,” said Senator King. “In the face of daunting obstacles, these leaders have responded with energy, joy, and compassion – bringing light in dark moments. Their work has been critical to Maine people. During this holiday season, I hope everyone will continue to build on this work by finding a local volunteer opportunity near them. Each of us can do something to make someone’s day a little brighter. I’m deeply thankful for everything that my guests this month do for our communities, it was a pleasure to learn more about their organizations and what volunteer opportunities they offer.” Charley Martin-Berry is the director of the Community Caring Collaborat… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T03:32:05Z
https://golden.house.gov/media/press-releases/additional-1-billion-for-liheap-signed-into-law-following-advocacy-by-collins-golden Additional $1 Billion for LIHEAP Signed into Law Following Advocacy by Collins, Golden 2022-12-30 2022 2022-12 Democrat House ME Jared F. Golden G000592 golden.house.gov golden https://golden.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Susan Collins and Congressman Jared Golden announced that the government funding bill that was signed into law last night included $1 billion in supplemental appropriations for the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), which provides funding to help low-income households pay their energy bills. In total, the government funding bill included $5 billion for LIHEAP, which brings the total FY23 funding to $6.1 billion. Maine will receive an estimated $6.5 million in additional LIHEAP funding, on top of the $42.5 million the state was allocated in November through prior funding bills. Senator Collins and Congressman Golden led a push to increase funding for LIHEAP during the negotiations over the omnibus appropriations bill that funded the federal government for fiscal year 2023. The omnibus passed the Senate by a vote of 68-29 and the House by a vote of 225-201. “This additional funding for LIHEAP comes at a critical time for Maine families,” said Senator Collins and Congressman Golden. “We strongly advocated for this increase for LIHEAP to help compensate for the record high fuel prices that are straining households’ budgets. This much-needed funding will help to ensure that seniors on fixed incomes and other Mainers in need have the resources necessary to keep their homes warm this winter.” Many Northeast residents have seen a significant increase in their utility bills this winter, with residential electricity prices in some states forecast to rise over 60 percent, propane up 40 percent, and natural gas prices up nearly 30 percent, resulting in higher home heating bills. Senator Collins and Congressman Golden already delivered $1 billion in emergency funding for LIHEAP in the short-term “continuing resolution” (CR) funding package that President Biden signed into law in September. LIHEAP is administered by states and accessed through local Community Action Agencies. Eligibility for LIHEAP is based on income, family size, and the availability of resources. Senior c… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T03:32:05Z
https://golden.house.gov/media/press-releases/golden-secures-maine-priorities-in-omnibus-spending-bill Golden Secures Maine Priorities in Omnibus Spending Bill 2022-12-26 2022 2022-12 Democrat House ME Jared F. Golden G000592 golden.house.gov golden https://golden.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON — Congressman Jared Golden (ME-02) successfully secured the inclusion of a wide range of priorities for Maine’s Second District in the omnibus spending bill that passed Congress Friday. “Working across the aisle and with my colleagues in the Maine delegation, I’ve been pushing for months to ensure that this end-of-year spending bill makes responsible investments and delivers for my constituents,” said Golden. “I’m proud to have helped ensure our lobstermen can keep fishing, protect good jobs at Bath Iron Works, and help Mainers keep their families warm. Importantly, we are also bringing federal funds to bear in small towns across the state, improving local infrastructure and services, strengthening Maine’s heritage industries, and supporting economic growth in rural Maine.” The provisions Golden worked to secure in the final bill include: Regulatory Pause for Maine Lobstermen: Working with his colleagues in the Maine delegation, the congressman helped secure a six year pause before new regulations are imposed on the lobster fishery, providing the time necessary to collect data and determine the best policy to protect both right whales and Maine lobstering communities. Without the provision, the regulations slated to go into effect would likely have decimated the state’s lobster fishery. Protecting National Security and Shipbuilding Jobs at Bath As a member of the House Armed Services Committee, Golden worked to authorize the construction of three DDG-51 destroyers in the upcoming fiscal year and a multi-year contract to produce up to 15 of the ships over the next five years. The omnibus spending bill appropriates money for the three DDG-51 destroyers, a significant win to protect shipbuilding jobs at Bath Iron Works over the next several years and bolster American naval power. Investing in Small Towns and Maine’s Heritage Industries The congressman secured funding for each of the fifteen Community Project Funding requests he sought. Those include: $726,000 to improve health care and STEM caree… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T03:32:05Z
https://golden.house.gov/media/press-releases/3-million-for-maine-veterans-homes-secured-by-collins-and-golden-in-funding-bill $3 Million for Maine Veterans’ Homes Secured by Collins and Golden in Funding Bill 2022-12-24 2022 2022-12 Democrat House ME Jared F. Golden G000592 golden.house.gov golden https://golden.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper Washington, D.C. -- U.S. Senator Susan Collins and Congressman Jared Golden (ME-02) announced that they secured $3 million for renovations and upgrades at Maine Veterans’ Homes (MVH) in the Fiscal Year 2023 Health & Human Services appropriations bill. The omnibus funding package passed the Senate by a vote of 68-29 and passed the House today by a vote of 225-201-1. It will now head to the President’s desk to be signed into law. “Maine Veterans’ Homes provides compassionate, quality long-term care to the brave men and women who served our country,” said Senator Collins and Congressman Golden. “At a time when there is already a severe shortage of nursing home beds, MVH’s facilities in rural parts of our state fill a critical need and allow Maine veterans to remain close to their loved ones. These investments will help MVH perform necessary maintenance and upgrades to ensure that these homes remain safe for residents.” The funding will support needed renovations and life-safety upgrades at Maine Veterans Homes, such as HVAC improvements, sewer pipe installation, and fire alarm system replacements. 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T03:32:05Z
https://golden.house.gov/media/press-releases/golden-announces-3-million-for-downeast-historic-preservation-efforts Golden Announces $3 Million for Downeast Historic Preservation Efforts 2022-12-23 2022 2022-12 Democrat House ME Jared F. Golden G000592 golden.house.gov golden https://golden.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON — Congressman Jared Golden (ME-02) announced today that he has secured $3 million in dedicated funding as part of the 2023 appropriations government funding package for historic preservation projects in Wayne and East Machias. The funding, which passed the Senate yesterday and is expected to head to the president’s desk for his signature this week, will be used for the restoration of the Wayne Masonic Hall and the First Congregational Church of East Machias. “I’m proud to help these rural communities in Maine preserve their history and important gathering places,” said Congressman Golden.“For small towns like Wayne and East Machias, it’s impossible to overstate how important these buildings are to the families that live there. Delivering this investment is about maintaining the quality of life, connectedness, and the sense of community that is so important in small towns.” Built in 1867, the Mason Hall was a key part of industry in Wayne. In the recent decades, it has fallen into disrepair. This funding will be used to make much needed repairs to the building and reoutfit it for use as a community gathering space giving a boost to Wayne’s economy and available social opportunities. “We are grateful to our Congressman Golden for providing catalytic investment in the adaptive re-use of two buildings listed on our annual Most Endangered Historic Places list in 2021--the First Congregational Church of East Machias and Wayne Masonic Hall,” said Tara Kelly, executive director of Maine Preservation. “When stabilized and rehabilitated, these critically imperiled structures are slated to become economic and cultural stimulators in their rural communities, providing much-needed gathering spaces, public programs, and employment opportunities.” “As Washington County charts a course toward economic revival through amenity-based development, it is essential that the region’s cultural heritage is preserved through thoughtful community planning and the preservation of our historic architecture,” said Erica Famous,… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T03:32:05Z
https://golden.house.gov/media/press-releases/golden-delivers-1-million-for-blue-hill-wastewater-treatment-facility Golden Delivers $1 Million for Blue Hill Wastewater Treatment Facility 2022-12-23 2022 2022-12 Democrat House ME Jared F. Golden G000592 golden.house.gov golden https://golden.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON — Congressman Jared Golden (ME-02) announced today that he has secured $1 million in dedicated funding as part of the 2023 appropriations government funding package for the Town of Blue Hill. The funding, which passed the Senate yesterday and is expected to head to the president’s desk for his signature this week, will be used to cover the cost of immediate improvement needs for the Blue Hill Wastewater Treatment Facility that is located on Blue Hill Bay, a tidal arm of the Gulf of Maine. “When I visited Blue Hill earlier this year, I saw firsthand the need for repairs to the wastewater treatment plant.” said Congressman Golden. “I’m proud to secure this funding to help ensure that families and small businesses in Blue Hill can continue to rely on clean water and strong local infrastructure for decades to come.” “The Town of Blue Hill greatly appreciates the consideration for this substantial funding for its upcoming Wastewater Treatment Plant upgrade,” said Travis Jones, the Assistant Operations Manager Olver Associates. “The facility has had several upgrades over the years, but is now needing substantial additional investments in order to improve climate resiliency and make updates to equipment that is now over twenty years in service. This funding is instrumental in assisting the Town in implementing improvements that were identified recently, when the Town’s Engineer completed an evaluation of the facility identifying significant improvements that need to be made to protect the facility from rising tides and other aging infrastructure concerns.” “Blue Hill’s Wastewater Treatment Plant is in need of some very significant upgrades to combat both outdated equipment and current sea level rise,” said Dr. Nicholas Nadeau, the Town Administrator of Blue Hill. “Funding for this project is crucial in order to keep our wastewater plant operating so any consideration aimed at assisting is greatly appreciated. The short timeframe that these upgrades have to be made, coupled with the high cost of the project… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T03:32:05Z
https://golden.house.gov/media/press-releases/golden-delivers-1-million-for-loring-development-authority-wastewater-treatment Golden Delivers $1 Million for Loring Development Authority Wastewater Treatment 2022-12-23 2022 2022-12 Democrat House ME Jared F. Golden G000592 golden.house.gov golden https://golden.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON — Congressman Jared Golden (ME-02) announced today that he has secured $1 million in dedicated funding as part of the 2023 appropriations government funding package for the Loring Development Authority Wastewater Treatment. The funding, which passed the Senate yesterday and is expected to head to the president’s desk for his signature this week, will be used to rehabilitate wastewater collect system components on the Loring Commerce Centre to help alleviate problems with the Limestone Water and Sewer District’s ability to sufficiently treat wastewater at their treatment facility and address associated operation costs. “The sewer system at Loring safely treated wastewater coming from the Commerce Centre for almost a century, but it is in need of some critical repairs,” said Congressman Golden. “I’m proud to have secured funding to make these much-needed improvements to the wastewater treatment system. This funding will help protect jobs at Loring by ensuring the Mainers who work there can count on safe, reliable water and the surrounding environment is protected from damage.” “A Flow Study of the sewer collection system at Loring Commerce Centre has guided a multiphase plan to update the 70-year old system,” said Carl Flora, President and CEO of the Loring Development Authority (LDA) in Limestone. “To date four phases have been completed. Congressional funding will allow the completion of an additional six phases, addressing areas of greatest impact. The project is critical to the environment and to new economic activity at Loring. LDA appreciates Congressman Golden’s support in bringing the project closer to achieving its overall purpose in protecting the environment, and promoting jobs at Loring. One such project is a new biorefinery project to be located at Loring. An investment in sewer infrastructure will facilitate new jobs and additional investments in this new multi-billion dollar project.” The Loring Commerce Centre, where the rehabilitation project will take place, is an industrial and avia… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T03:32:05Z
https://golden.house.gov/media/press-releases/golden-delivers-17-million-for-ellsworth-pump-station Golden Delivers $1.7 Million for Ellsworth Pump Station 2022-12-23 2022 2022-12 Democrat House ME Jared F. Golden G000592 golden.house.gov golden https://golden.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON — Congressman Jared Golden (ME-02) announced today that he has secured $1.7 million in dedicated funding as part of the 2023 appropriations government funding package for the town of Ellsworth. The funding, which passed the Senate yesterday and is expected to head to the president’s desk for his signature this week, will be used for upgrades to the High Street Pump Station to mitigate the adverse impacts of heavy rainfall events and ensure that the sanitary sewer system can support economic growth in Ellsworth and the surrounding communities. “Maine’s cities and towns can’t support their families and small businesses without local infrastructure like pump stations, but replacing or repairing these facilities is often prohibitively expensive,” said Congressman Golden. “This investment will help make sure the facility runs smoothly for decades to come, benefitting generations of taxpayers and businesses in Ellsworth and the surrounding area.” After decades of use, the wastewater pump station on High Street is in need of total replacement. The improvements funded through this project will reduce the amount of infiltration/inflow into the sanitary sewer collection system that lead to sanitary sewer overflows at the Water Street Pump Station. Replacing the station without federal resources would strain local budgets and place a severe burden on Ellsworth taxpayers. “The City of Ellsworth is very thankful for the congressional support for our High Street Pump Station project – without it, this critical work would not be possible,” said Glenn Moshier, Ellsworth’s City Manager. “The work will not only help protect the natural resources along Card Brook and increase the City’s resiliency of its vulnerable infrastructure but will continue to stimulate the growth the City is experiencing as an economic engine for the region. We very much appreciate the support of Congressman Golden for this project.” Golden met with local leaders to discuss the repair project in May. Congressman Golden was the only member of … 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T03:32:05Z
https://golden.house.gov/media/press-releases/golden-delivers-750000-for-university-of-maine-sawing-operations-training-facility Golden Delivers $750,000 for University of Maine Sawing Operations Training Facility 2022-12-23 2022 2022-12 Democrat House ME Jared F. Golden G000592 golden.house.gov golden https://golden.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON — In a significant win for the next generation of Maine loggers, Congressman Jared Golden (ME-02) announced today that he has secured $750,000 in dedicated funding as part of the 2023 appropriations government funding package for the University of Maine School of Forest Resources. The funding, which passed the Senate yesterday and is expected to head to the president’s desk for his signature this week, will be used to construct a sawmill operations training facility at the Dwight B. Demeritt Forest, just north of the University of Maine campus. “This federal funding will expand the sawmill operations facility to serve hundreds of Mainers every year with a new building and equipment,” said Congressman Golden. “As I’ve heard consistently in meetings with loggers across the state, providing quality training on the latest logging technology and equipment is essential for the future of the forest products industry in Maine. I’m proud to partner with the forest products industry and the University of Maine to secure this funding for the next generation of Maine loggers.” “By 2030, one-quarter of Maine’s current forest products workforce will reach retirement age,” said Keith Kanoti, manager of the University of Maine Forest. “As this industry innovates for the future through technology and processes that add value to our timber, thefederal funding secured by Rep. Golden with the support of Sens. Collins and King will allow the university to better prepare the next generation of skilled forest resource professionals who are necessary to maintain and grow Maine’s leading role in the global forest economy.” The new sawmill operations training facility project will provide hands-on workforce development training and professional development of Maine’s forest products industry. The congressman’s funding will help build this new facility where at least 200 students and forest professionals would train each year in support of in-demand industry workforce needs. Forestry is one of Maine’s oldest and largest indu… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T03:32:05Z
https://golden.house.gov/media/press-releases/golden-delivers-over-500000-for-dixfield-wastewater-treatment Golden Delivers Over $500,000 for Dixfield Wastewater Treatment 2022-12-23 2022 2022-12 Democrat House ME Jared F. Golden G000592 golden.house.gov golden https://golden.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON — Congressman Jared Golden (ME-02) announced today that he has secured $514,400 as part of the 2023 appropriations government funding package for the Town of Dixfield. The funding, which passed the Senate yesterday and is expected to head to the president’s desk for his signature this week, will be used to upgrade the only wastewater pumping station in the area, which is currently experiencing severe age-related deterioration issues that could result in increased sewage treatment costs for residents and businesses in the area if unaddressed. “After decades of serving the water and waste treatment needs of its communities, the Hall Hill Pump Station is in need of critical repairs and upgrades,” said Golden. “I’m proud to secure this funding to get these improvements underway and reduce the cost burden on local families and businesses. This funding will go a long way towards ensuring that Dixfield residents can continue to count on strong, reliable infrastructure.” “I’m grateful to Rep. Golden for helping Dixfield keep its waste water infrastructure in operation with this federal investment,” said Dixfield Town Manager Alicia Conn. “The funds for the Hall Hill Pump Station that Rep. Golden's bringing back to Dixfield will have a positive impact on the community. Thank you, Rep. Golden!” Dixfield’s current wastewater treatment infrastructure, designed for a lifespan of 25 years, is now over 40 years old. The request on behalf of the town of Dixfield was one of the congressman’sCommunity Project Funding requests. Congressman Golden was the only member of the delegation whose request for funding was included in the year-end omnibus spending bill. Golden met with local leaders and toured the sewer pump in June. Dixfield’s wastewater pumping station is experiencing severe age-related problems including leakages and nonfunctional equipment and is in need of urgent repairs and upgrades. The congressman’s funding will help fund the necessary upgrades to the system that will help keep wastewater treatment co… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T03:32:05Z
https://golden.house.gov/media/press-releases/golden-secures-16-million-for-auburn-lewiston-airport-expansion Golden Secures $1.6 Million for Auburn-Lewiston Airport Expansion 2022-12-23 2022 2022-12 Democrat House ME Jared F. Golden G000592 golden.house.gov golden https://golden.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON — Congressman Jared Golden (ME-02) announced today that he has secured $1.6 million in dedicated funding as part of the 2023 appropriations government funding package for the Auburn-Lewiston Municipal Airport. The funding, which passed the Senate yesterday and is expected to head to the president’s desk for his signature this week, will go towards construction of a new airplane hangar at the airport. “The Auburn-Lewiston Municipal Airport is an economic pillar for the entire region. Investing in the airport’s growth and success benefits businesses and local economies all over Lewiston-Auburn and Androscoggin County, and could set the stage for passenger service down the road” said Rep. Golden. “I was lucky to have a great partner in this request in Mayor Jason Levesque and I’m glad we were able to deliver.” “I’m extremely thankful for Representative Golden’s advocacy for the Auburn Airport, and the incredible economic impact this project will have for the entire region,” said Auburn Mayor Jason Levesque. “This type of transportation infrastructure investment will have an immediate and quantifiable impact on thousands of our residents and businesses.” Opened in 1935, the Auburn-Lewiston Airport has been a hub for charter airlines for nearly a century. Construction of a new hangar would allow for bigger, company flights to land at the airport, boosting the local and regional economy. The request on behalf of the City of Auburn was one of the congressman’sCommunity Project Funding requests. Congressman Golden was the only member of the delegation whose request for funding was included in the year-end omnibus spending bill. Golden met with local leaders and toured the proposed site for the hangar in July. 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T03:32:05Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-celebrates-approval-of-over-250-million-in-congressional-funding-for-140-projects-across-maine King Celebrates Approval of Over $250 Million in Congressional Funding for 140 Projects Across Maine 2022-12-23 2022 2022-12 Independent Senate ME Angus S. King, Jr. K000383 www.king.senate.gov angusking https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table scraper Download an Excel spreadsheet of the 140 projects HERE and view a map of projects HERE WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine) today celebrated the final Congressional approval of 140 Maine projects that will be receiving $250,083,018 from his Congressionally-Directed Spending (CDS) requests included in the bipartisan Fiscal Year 2023 Omnibus Appropriations Package. The funding will be used by a broad range of state, local, and nonprofit organizations to strengthen Maine communities. “From food banks and hospitals to job training programs and infrastructure upgrades, Maine’s 2023 Congressionally-Directed Spending supports important projects across the state that will improve the lives of Maine people and invest in the future of our communities. These historic investments are going directly to the local organizations who need them the most and can effectively provide economic opportunities, personal enrichment, and other vital public services,” said Senator King. “Maine people have always looked out for each other, and the 140 nonprofits and local governments receiving these funds are no different – they have proven track records of success in our communities and will use this support to expand and improve their efforts. I’m grateful that Congress approved so many of my CDS requests, and deeply appreciate all of the Maine organizations who submitted projects for consideration. I look forward to seeing these investments support people across our state for years to come.” CDS funding is included in annual federal appropriations legislation and provides a specific amount of discretionary funding to a state, locality, or nonprofit organization for projects with demonstrated civic and community value. Last year, Senator King secured over $137 million in Congressionally-Directed Spending for 93 Maine projects. Senator King will begin accepting preliminary requests for FY24 Maine-based Congressionally-Directed Spending projects in upcoming months. 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T03:32:05Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-golden-led-downeast-national-heritage-area-legislation-passes-congress-heads-to-presidents-desk King, Golden Led Downeast National Heritage Area Legislation Passes Congress, Heads to President’s Desk 2022-12-23 2022 2022-12 Independent Senate ME Angus S. King, Jr. K000383 www.king.senate.gov angusking https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Angus King, Chairman of the Senate National Parks Subcommittee, and Representative Jared Golden announced that their bipartisan, bicameral bill to designate a Downeast Maine National Heritage Area has passed Congress and now heads to the President’s desk to be signed into law. The legislation, which is cosponsored by Senator Susan Collins and Representative Chellie Pingree, will designate all of Hancock and Washington counties as an area with national importance, qualifying the counties for additional federal investment and helping to drive economic activity to the rural Maine region. The bill specifically recognizes the contributions of Downeast Maine’s agriculture industry – including wild blueberry growers – as well as the impacts of heritage fishing and forestry. “For much of the year, the rocky coasts of Downeast Maine greet the first rays of sunshine to reach the United States,” said Senators King and Collins and Representatives Golden and Pingree. “The region literally starts America’s day, and its rugged coastline, rolling mountains and lush forests are a fundamental part of the American identity. There is nowhere more deserving of a heritage area designation. Making Hancock and Washington counties a National Heritage Area will open the door for critical federal funding, and drive important economic activity and investments to support Downeast communities and the hardworking, resilient people who call these counties home. We are deeply grateful to our colleagues in both chambers who helped us get this bill past the finish line and we look forward to seeing the positive impacts of this new designation.” “The people of Downeast Maine are fiercely proud of their heritage and are motivated to develop quality opportunities that carry us into the future while being rooted in our historic values,” said Crystal Hitchings, Director of Community Infrastructure at Sunrise County Economic Council. “Designation as a National Heritage Area provides Downeast communities with more… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T03:32:05Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/annual-spending-bill-passes-senate-with-king-backed-initiatives-to-support-maine-jobs-bolster-national-defense Annual Spending Bill Passes Senate with King-Backed Initiatives to Support Maine Jobs, Bolster National Defense 2022-12-22 2022 2022-12 Independent Senate ME Angus S. King, Jr. K000383 www.king.senate.gov angusking https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine) today voted along with sixty-seven of his Senate colleagues to pass the 2023 Omnibus Appropriations Bill, which funds government programs through next September and advances a number of Senator King’s policy priorities. The annual funding bill will support Maine jobs, increase affordability for working families, and invest in our national security. The bill is expected to pass the House by the end of the week. “The 2023 Omnibus Appropriations Bill includes a wide range of provisions to strengthen Maine communities, protect our economy, and improve life for people across the state,” said Senator King. “This forward-thinking legislation supports high-paying jobs for Maine people, whether it be at Bath Iron Works or one of our craft breweries, and will help working Maine families afford essential needs, like housing and child care. The bill also takes important steps to enhance our national security by funding shipbuilding priorities, stopping illegal drug imports, and bolstering America’s leadership in global public health. Finally, it invests in Maine’s greatest outdoor natural resources by designating the York River as ‘wild and scenic,’ expanding affordable worker housing on Mount Desert Island, and increasing the amount of staff at National Parks. There is so much worth celebrating in the bill, and all told, I’m grateful to see this bipartisan product pass the Senate. I am eager to continue working across the aisle with my colleagues in the coming year on more policies that help Maine people.” Provisions supported by Senator King included in the legislative package include: Defending Democracy and Securing Elections. Nearly two years after insurrectionists on January 6th tried to use the 1887 Electoral Count Act to overturn a free and fair election, the spending bill modernizes the outdated law to protect the will of voters by updating procedures for the counting and certification of electoral votes for the presidency. This effort incorporates many proposa… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T03:32:05Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-celebrates-passage-of-electoral-count-act-reforms-to-protect-democracy King Celebrates Passage of Electoral Count Act Reforms to Protect Democracy 2022-12-22 2022 2022-12 Independent Senate ME Angus S. King, Jr. K000383 www.king.senate.gov angusking https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine), a member of the Senate Committee on Rules and Administration with oversight of federal elections, today celebrated the Senate passing a package of democracy protections to ensure election results can’t be exploited by bad-actors and prevent another January 6th, 2021. The bipartisan Electoral Count Reform and Presidential Transition Improvement Act – which contains several policy recommendations from Senator King’s ECA discussion draft released in February – clarifies ambiguities in the outdated 1887 Electoral Count Act (ECA) to protect the will of voters and updates procedures for the counting and certification of electoral votes for the presidency. The ECA Reform Act passed the Senate in a bipartisan 68-29 vote as part of the 2023 Omnibus Appropriations Package. “Today, the Senate took a necessary, historic, and commonsense step to remove dangerous ambiguities from the process governing presidential elections and protect our fragile American democracy. The Electoral Count Reform Act is the most important piece of legislation we’ve passed this Congress because it protects the foundation of our entire democratic system,” said Senator King. “After attempts to overturn a free and fair election in 2021 exposed dangerous vulnerabilities in the antiquated Electoral Count Act, this bill was essential to defuse the ticking timebomb at the heart of our system of government. Now, as some continue to raise doubts about our electoral system, the bill ensures the ECA can never again be used as a weapon by disappointed candidates. The bipartisan Electoral Count Reform Act we passed today prevents abuse of the 1887 law by making the process for certifying a presidential election clearer and more resistant to manipulation and mischief. “Make no mistake, this bill is no substitute for the comprehensive voting rights and process reforms we need to confront the wider challenges facing our democracy,” Senator King continued. “While I continue to look for ways to better protect… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T03:32:05Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/an-economic-death-sentence-averted-king-champions-provision-to-pause-lobster-gear-regulations-on-senate-floor “An Economic Death Sentence” Averted, King Champions Provision To Pause Lobster Gear Regulations on Senate Floor 2022-12-21 2022 2022-12 Independent Senate ME Angus S. King, Jr. K000383 www.king.senate.gov angusking https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table scraper Watch Senator King’s full floor speech HERE and download broadcast quality HERE. WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Angus King today delivered remarks from the Senate Floor on the importance of Maine’s lobster fishery to the state’s communities and the devastating implications that proposed lobster gear regulations would have on thousands of Maine families and small businesses. In his speech, King lays out the lack of evidence backing the arbitrary regulations and explains how the six-year regulatory pause secured by Maine Congressional Delegation and Governor Mills in the annual omnibus spending bill will avert an “economic death sentence” for the state. Earlier today, the Maine Congressional Delegation and Governor Mills released a joint statement HERE announcing the successful inclusion of the regulatory pause into the annual spending bill. The bill is expected to be passed and signed into law later this week. King began his remarks by laying out the serious crisis facing the Maine lobstering community and the state’s economy. “My state is facing its most serious crisis, in my view, in my 18 years of public service on behalf of Maine. There is a provision in the bill that we'll be voting on tomorrow that is of vital, critical importance to Maine and I believe the country,” began Senator King. “In November, a federal court here in Washington issued a ruling under the Endangered Species and Marine Mammal Protection Acts that effectively shuts down the entire Maine lobster fishery in two years. It issues requirements that simply can't be met in that time frame. The only choice will be to shut down the fishery.” “What does that mean? What is the fishery? What is the lobster industry? The lobster industry is this guy right here – thousands of small, independent businesses. These boats aren't owned by Amazon or Walmart or Whole Foods. They're owned by individual people, families, generations in a town like this. That's what we're talking about. We're talking about the livelihoods of thousands of Maine people that … 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T03:32:05Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senator-king-urges-passage-of-most-important-bill-this-congress-protections-for-the-peaceful-transfer-of-power Senator King Urges Passage of “Most Important” Bill this Congress: Protections for the Peaceful Transfer of Power 2022-12-21 2022 2022-12 Independent Senate ME Angus S. King, Jr. K000383 www.king.senate.gov angusking https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table scraper Watch Senator King’s full floor speech HERE. WASHINGTON, D.C.— U.S. Senator Angus King, a member of the Senate Committee on Rules and Administration with oversight over federal elections, gave a speech on the Senate floor to highlight what he considers the most important bill under Senate consideration: the Electoral Count Reform and Presidential Transition Improvement Act which provides democratic protections for the peaceful transfer of power. During his speech, King explained why his top priority for the remainder of this Congress is this bill and why it is needed to clarify the ambiguous 19th century law that spurred the January 6th insurrection. Senator King underscored that while other policies are important, all of them are negligible without serious protections for our democratic system. “The bill that we have before us now is, I believe, one of the most important pieces of legislation in this Congress. Because it deals with the structure of democracy itself. All of our policy issues, whether it's the Defense Department, Ukraine, all of the policy issues, health care, all of those things are critically important, but the infrastructure that underlies the system is even more important. We can't do good policy if we don't have a solid underpinning of a structure of our democracy,” Senator King said. Senator King also highlighted the bipartisan nature of the bill and of the desire for electoral protections. “And that's why the bill that is now part of the budget bill, the omnibus bill, is so important. The bill is bipartisan. I think that's critically important. I sat in the Rules Committee. It passed 14-1. Supported by Leader McConnell, supported by Leader Schumer. 14-1. I rarely see votes like that in that committee,” Senator King continued, “But because there was universal realization that we needed to do something about this, we had a hearing on it and I remember Senator Blunt speaking at the end of that hearing and saying this is something we need to take care of before the end of this Congress. An… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T03:32:05Z
https://golden.house.gov/media/press-releases/maine-delegation-governor-mills-announce-lifeline-for-maine-s-lobster-industry-secured-in-government-funding-package Maine Delegation, Governor Mills Announce Lifeline for Maine’s Lobster Industry Secured in Government Funding Package 2022-12-20 2022 2022-12 Democrat House ME Jared F. Golden G000592 golden.house.gov golden https://golden.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper Washington, D.C.—Today, U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King, Representatives Chellie Pingree and Jared Golden, and Governor Janet Mills announced that they were successful in securing a regulatory pause for Maine’s lobster industry in the omnibus appropriations bill that is expected to pass the Senate and House this week. “Maine’s lobstermen and women have long demonstrated their commitment to maintaining and protecting a sustainable fishery in the Gulf of Maine. They have invested in countless precautionary measures to protect right whales, including removing more than 30,000 miles of line from the water and switching to weaker rope to prevent whales from being entangled. And the fact is— there has never been a right whale death attributed to Maine lobster gear,” said the Maine Delegation and Governor Mills. “Despite our industry’s good stewardship and compliance with NMFS’ most recent regulations to protect right whales, our lobstermen and women are now faced with further punitive regulations that will not meaningfully protect the right whale, but will threaten the livelihoods of thousands of Maine families and small businesses. “We have always said that we will pursue any and all policy solutions to protect our hardworking lobstermen and women along Maine’s coast,” they continued. “Our provision, which relies upon the expertise of the professionals at the Maine Department of Marine Resources, was included in the government funding bill released this morning. It will enable our lobster fishery to continue to operate while still complying with NMFS’ most recent right whale rule. Without our provision, Maine’s iconic industry could be facing a complete shutdown—and the ripple effects across our state would have been widespread.” Although there has never been a right whale death attributed to Maine lobster gear, misguided environmental groups have been seeking actions that would end lobstering in Maine, all based on the theoretical possibility that a right whale could be killed. The provision is a simpl… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T03:32:05Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/maine-delegation-governor-mills-announce-lifeline-for-maines-lobster-industry-secured-in-government-funding-package Maine Delegation, Governor Mills Announce Lifeline for Maine’s Lobster Industry Secured in Government Funding Package 2022-12-20 2022 2022-12 Independent Senate ME Angus S. King, Jr. K000383 www.king.senate.gov angusking https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table scraper Washington, D.C.—Today, U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King, Representatives Chellie Pingree and Jared Golden, and Governor Janet Mills announced that they were successful in securing a regulatory pause for Maine’s lobster industry in the omnibus appropriations bill that is expected to pass the Senate and House this week. “Maine’s lobstermen and women have long demonstrated their commitment to maintaining and protecting a sustainable fishery in the Gulf of Maine. They have invested in countless precautionary measures to protect right whales, including removing more than 30,000 miles of line from the water and switching to weaker rope to prevent whales from being entangled. And the fact is — there has never been a right whale death attributed to Maine lobster gear. We know the right whale population can be protected along with a thriving fishery because Maine lobstermen are already doing it,” said the Maine Delegation and Governor Mills. “Despite our industry’s good stewardship and compliance with NMFS’ most recent regulations to protect right whales, our lobstermen and women are now faced with further punitive regulations that will not meaningfully protect the right whale, but will threaten the livelihoods of thousands of Maine families and small businesses. “We have always said that we will pursue any and all policy solutions to protect our hardworking lobstermen and women along Maine’s coast,” they continued. “Our provision, which relies upon the expertise of the professionals at the Maine Department of Marine Resources, was included in the government funding bill released this morning. It will enable our lobster fishery to continue to operate while still complying with NMFS’ most recent right whale rule. Without our provision, Maine’s iconic industry could be facing a complete shutdown—and the ripple effects across our state would have been widespread.” Although there has never been a right whale death attributed to Maine lobster gear, misguided environmental groups have been seeking actions that wou… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T03:32:05Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/icymi-senate-passes-2023-defense-bill-with-king-backed-provisions-to-invest-in-maine-shipbuilding-strengthen-national-security-and-support-jobs ICYMI: Senate Passes 2023 Defense Bill with King-Backed Provisions to Invest in Maine Shipbuilding, Strengthen National Security and Support Jobs 2022-12-16 2022 2022-12 Independent Senate ME Angus S. King, Jr. K000383 www.king.senate.gov angusking https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine), a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee and co-chair of the Cyberspace Solarium Commission (CSC), celebrated the Senate’s passage of the Fiscal Year 2023 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), yearly legislation which has now passed 62 times on a bipartisan basis, and which focuses on strengthening American national security and improving the lives of servicemembers and their families. The 2023 legislation authorizes 3 DDG-51 destroyers that Bath Iron Works can compete to build, bolsters America’s nuclear defenses, and supports other key defense technologies that protect the nation. Also included are significant pay raises for servicemembers and steps to improve mental healthcare for America’s armed forces. “This year’s National Defense Authorization Act – named after my friend and colleague Senator Jim Inhofe – is a bipartisan bill that will address the pressing national security challenges facing our country and strengthen Maine’s role in contributing to our national defense,” said Senator King. “The bill authorizes one of the largest-ever multi-year procurement of DDG-51 destroyers, which Bath Iron Works can compete to build, bringing important stability to the Maine shipyard’s planning, and allowing them to scale up their production in the years to come. These ships – known as the workhorse of the Navy – are absolutely critical to our national security, and are an important economic driver for Maine communities. “This year’s legislation provides the backbone of our national defense, including key provisions to ensure our nation can counter growing and rapidly changing threats. It also contains new authorizations to address Russia’s unprovoked invasion of Ukraine, and supporting the brave Ukrainians fighting for their sovereignty. This bill improves our defensive and offensive hypersonic capabilities, bolsters key cyber defenses, and will help modernize how we assess the capabilities of our enemies and allies alike,” continued Senator King. “… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T03:32:05Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/collins-king-announce-more-than-22-million-in-funding-to-ease-fish-migration-patterns Collins, King Announce More Than $22 Million in Funding to Ease Fish Migration Patterns 2022-12-15 2022 2022-12 Independent Senate ME Angus S. King, Jr. K000383 www.king.senate.gov angusking https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King today announced that two Maine organizations will receive a total of $22,381,297 in funding from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) to improve fish migration in Maine rivers. The Atlantic Salmon Federation and the Maine Department of Marine Resources will use this funding to remove two dams that are no longer in use and install fish ladders at two additional dams in the Penobscot and St. Croix Rivers, allowing the endangered Atlantic salmon, along with other fish species and wildlife, to move along migrations routes with ease. “Allowing unimpeded fish migration along Maine’s rivers will help to preserve species that have long held cultural and economic significance to our state. Rivers like the St. Croix and the Penobscot – which is home to the largest Atlantic salmon run in the United States — have proven to be invaluable to the health of Maine’s environment and our tribal communities,” said Senators Collins and King. “This funding, along with the hard work of both the Atlantic Salmon Federation and the Maine Department of Marine Resources, will help strengthen Maine’s long conservation legacy and preserve sea-run habitats. We remain committed to protecting these species and look forward to our continued work with Maine organizations that dedicate themselves to protecting the culture and economy of our state.” The funding will be allocated as follows: The Atlantic Salmon Federation will receive $7,554,797 The Maine Department of Marine Resources will receive up to $14,826,500 over three years The removal of the dams will reconnect more than 9,700 suitable habitat units towards the delisting criteria of 30,000 units for the Penobscot Basin Salmon Habitat Recovery Unit. Additionally, the projects will provide access to 600 miles for all migratory fish species and 60,000 acres of habitat for alewife. This is a top priority for the State of Maine and the Passamaquoddy people to significantly improve fish populations in the reg… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T03:32:05Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/essential-to-ensure-america-does-not-fall-behind-king-lauds-bipartisan-passage-of-ndaa-with-key-nuclear-and-cyber-provisions “Essential to Ensure America Does Not Fall Behind,” King Lauds Bipartisan Passage of NDAA With Key Nuclear and Cyber Provisions 2022-12-15 2022 2022-12 Independent Senate ME Angus S. King, Jr. K000383 www.king.senate.gov angusking https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine), a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee and Co-Chair of the Cyberspace Solarium Commission, today praised the Senate’s 83-11 passage of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2023. With rising threats from Russia, China, and other adversaries, the annual bipartisan defense bill contains King-led provisions to modernize America’s nuclear defenses, better assess the “will to fight” of allies and enemies, and improve international cyberdefenses. The bill also includes increased support for Ukraine as it fights Russia’s illegal, unprovoked invasion along with improvements to ensure the aid receives proper oversight and does not dangerously deplete America’s own stockpiles. King also worked to secure provisions to better support the wellbeing of America’s servicemembers. With military suicide rates at an all-time high, the bill requires the Department of Defense to study and release data on suicides by military occupation, and the Government Accountability Office to study how to improve the transition from military to civilian life. “This year’s National Defense Authorization Act – named after my friend and colleague Senator Jim Inhofe – is a bipartisan bill that will meet the pressing 21st century national security challenges facing our country,” said Senator King. “As threats from adversaries like Russia and China grow, the legislation is absolutely essential to ensure America does not fall behind. Along with new authorizations to address Russia’s unprovoked invasion of Ukraine, this bill improves our defensive and offensive hypersonic capabilities, bolsters key cyberdefenses, and will help modernize how we assess the capabilities of our enemies and allies alike. Without these provisions, the credibility of America’s bedrock principle of peace through deterrence would have been put at risk. “All told, Congress and the Armed Services Committees have once again produced an important, strong, and bipartisan bill,” continued Senator … 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T03:32:05Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-statement-on-failed-permitting-reform-vote King Statement on Failed Permitting Reform Vote 2022-12-15 2022 2022-12 Independent Senate ME Angus S. King, Jr. K000383 www.king.senate.gov angusking https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table scraper WASHINGTON, D.C.— Today, U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine), a member of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee – and an advocate for pragmatic, realistic, and rapid permitting reform to reach America’s clean energy goals – released the following statement after he supported permitting reform as an amendment to the FY2023 National Defense Authorization Act: “The world is literally in a race with climate change. We cannot afford to waste valuable time — time which we really don’t have — to implement viable, efficient solutions in our transition to renewable energy,” said Senator King. “For example, it takes fifteen years just to permit a mine producing the minerals needed for batteries of electric vehicles given all the red tape and bureaucracy – and that’s just one project of hundreds that are needed. By failing to pass commonsense permitting reform, the Senate has sent the country’s clean energy future back to the drawing board and potentially put us years behind where we should be. I have always advocated for strict environmental standards, but also for a timely and predicable environmental process – that is exactly what this bill was all about. “I think that we’ve reached a point where most Americans realize that climate change is real. The fishermen, farmers, and loggers in Maine know the urgency of this threat, and it’s deeply disappointing that some of my Senate colleagues do not share this understanding,” continued Senator King. “This bill should not be controversial. It would have made simple changes that both sides of the aisle have long called for to expedite energy projects without diluting environmental standards in the slightest. Despite the frustrating partisan games today, I will keep working on a bipartisan basis with my colleagues to find a path forward so that we can make our clean energy future a reality.” Senator King recently spoke from the Senate floor on the need for permitting reform, and the tradeoffs that will be required in the transition to renewable energy, which can be w… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T03:32:05Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/65000-additional-h-2b-visas-to-be-issued-following-push-from-senators-collins-king 65,000 Additional H-2B Visas to be Issued Following Push from Senators Collins, King 2022-12-13 2022 2022-12 Independent Senate ME Angus S. King, Jr. K000383 www.king.senate.gov angusking https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table scraper Washington, D.C. —Following a push led by U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the Department of Labor (DOL) announced that they are issuing a temporary final rule that makes available 64,716 additional H-2B temporary nonagricultural worker visas for fiscal year (FY) 2023. This rule implements the supplemental H-2B visa allocations announced on October 12, 2022. This is the first time that the Departments have issued a single rule making available H-2B supplemental visas for several allocations throughout the entire fiscal year. Senator Collins and Senator King had previously called on the agencies to increase the number of H-2B visas for Fiscal Year 2023 to the maximum number, approximately 65,000 visas, to help small businesses hire workers. These visas are on top of the 66,000 H-2B visas that are normally available each fiscal year. Notably, the rule reserves a portion of the additional visas to help meet the demand for workers during the peak summer season. “These 65,000 additional H-2B visas will provide much-needed relief for small businesses that are continuing to face extreme difficulty finding workers in a tight labor market,” said Senators Collins and King. “Without these visas, many small businesses, particularly hotels and restaurants in our hospitality industry, would be unable to open or would have to curtail their operations, hurting local communities and Maine employees. We must improve the H-2B program to ensure Maine small businesses do not continue to suffer from a lack of workers.” Senators Collins and King have long led efforts to address workforce shortages. Following a push in May, DHS and DOL announced that a temporary rule had been finalized that provided an additional 35,000 H-2B visas to help small businesses fill seasonal job openings during the busy summer season. These visas supplemented the previous supply of 33,000 H-2B visas for the second half of Fiscal Year 2022. 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T03:32:05Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/collins-king-announce-more-than-500000-in-funding-to-support-small-businesses-in-rural-maine Collins, King Announce More Than $500,000 in Funding to Support Small Businesses in Rural Maine 2022-12-13 2022 2022-12 Independent Senate ME Angus S. King, Jr. K000383 www.king.senate.gov angusking https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King today announced a total of $528,563 in new funding from the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) that will expand development and training opportunities for small businesses in rural areas of Maine. The Androscoggin Valley Council of Governments, Eastern Maine Development Corporation, and Sunrise County Economic Council will use this funding to provide business training, technical help, and loan assistance to small businesses in Androscoggin, Franklin, Oxford, Hancock, Penobscot, Piscataquis, Waldo, and Washington counties. “Small businesses are vital to our rural communities – it means something more when the shopkeeper or the vendor is your neighbor, friend or fellow PTA member – this funding will help dozens of small businesses throughout the state continue to operate and contribute to Maine’s economy,” said Senators Collins and King. “The incredible staff at the Androscoggin Valley Council of Governments, Eastern Maine Development Corporation, and Sunrise County Economic Council are a driving force in providing economic development, business financing, job creation, and many other services. This investment will pay off in the form of meaningful jobs and technical training, and it will improve the livelihoods of families across rural Maine.” The funding will be allocated as follows: Androscoggin Valley Council of Governments will receive $12,884 Eastern Maine Development Corporation will receive $500,000 Sunrise County Economic Council will receive $15,679 The United States Department of Agriculture works to provide leadership on issues related to food, agriculture, natural resources, rural development, nutrition, and related issues. USDA consists of 29 agencies and offices and employs nearly 100,000 people. 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T03:32:05Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/parks-chairman-king-presses-biden-administration-on-inadequate-parks-maintenance-budget-and-staffing-shortages Parks Chairman King Presses Biden Administration on “Inadequate” Parks Maintenance Budget, and Staffing Shortages 2022-12-13 2022 2022-12 Independent Senate ME Angus S. King, Jr. K000383 www.king.senate.gov angusking https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table scraper Senator cites Acadia visitor surge as example of hiring necessary; view questioning HERE WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S Senator Angus King (I-Maine), Chair of the Senate National Parks Subcommittee, today pressed a top Biden administration official on two of his top priorities for the National Park Service (NPS): securing enough funding for necessary park maintenance and ensuring sufficient staffing of America’s greatest treasures. In a hearing of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, King questioned Department of Interior Deputy Secretary Tommy Beaudreau on the Department’s plans to address both of these issues as it processes the NPS funding of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Bill and the Inflation Reduction Act. The Deputy Secretary agreed that more needs to be done to support the Parks System. This builds on the Chairman’s recent pushes to expand maintenance funding and increase NPS staffing in the forthcoming fiscal year 2023 budget bill. Beginning his remarks, Chairman King highlighted the administration’s recent budget requests and the need for additional funding to ensure maintenance and upkeep of our National Parks “What bothered me is the administration's budget for maintenance in the national parks was inadequate. The general rule of thumb is 2 to 4% of capital value for maintenance every year. I think the budget this year is about 1%. That's not an indictment of this administration. That's been the pattern for the past 25 or 30 years. That's how we got into this hole,” said Senator King. “This committee and the Congress worked very hard on the Great American Outdoors Act to tackle the maintenance backlog. But it's pretty frustrating to see that we're still digging the hole. So I hope you'll take back to the department the point that we can't expect Congress to come to the rescue of the maintenance backlog every four or five years, if indeed the budget is inadequate and makes the hole deeper every four or five years.” “Thank you. And thank you for your leadership and partnership on these issues… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T03:32:05Z
https://golden.house.gov/media/press-releases/as-congressional-negotiators-seek-to-finalize-fy23-funding-bill-collins-golden-reed-lead-call-for-additional-500m-for-liheap As Congressional Negotiators Seek to Finalize FY23 Funding Bill Collins, Golden, & Reed Lead Call for Additional $500M for LIHEAP 2022-12-12 2022 2022-12 Democrat House ME Jared F. Golden G000592 golden.house.gov golden https://golden.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper Washington, DC – As congressional negotiators seek to finalize a bipartisan agreement on funding the federal government for fiscal year 2023, Senator Susan Collins (R-ME), Congressman Jared Golden (D-ME), and Senator Jack Reed (D-RI) are leading efforts in Congress to include an extra $500 million in supplemental funds for the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP). LIHEAP is a federally funded program that helps low-income households with their home energy bills by providing payment and/or energy crisis assistance. Many Northeast residents are projected to see a significant increase in their utility bills this winter, with residential electricity prices in some states forecast to rise over 60 percent, propane up 40 percent, and natural gas prices up nearly 30 percent, resulting in higher home heating bills. According to the National Energy Assistance Directors’ Association, the average cost to heat a home is expected to increase by 17.2 percent this winterto $1,208, up from $1,031 last season. Given elevated energy prices forecast for this winter, the lawmakers say the emergency federal LIHEAP funding is needed to assists low-income households and seniors on fixed incomes pay their energy bills and stay safe during the winter. Senators Collins and Reed and Congressman Golden, who are leading efforts to include $4 billion for LIHEAP in the fiscal year 2023 appropriations package making its way through Congress, already delivered $1 billion in emergency funding for LIHEAP in the short-term “continuing resolution” (CR) funding package that President Biden signed into law. But with many families – particularly those in the Northeast -- facing a winter heating crisis, they are working with the Biden Administration on a bipartisan effort to deliver another $500 million for LIHEAP recipients. “While we recognize the competing priorities you must balance, the number of households eligible for LIHEAP assistance continues to exceed available funding. Meanwhile, the average cost of heating oil is nearly 70… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T03:32:05Z
https://golden.house.gov/media/press-releases/golden-nominates-16-mainers-to-the-us-service-academies Golden Nominates 16 Mainers to the U.S. Service Academies 2022-12-12 2022 2022-12 Democrat House ME Jared F. Golden G000592 golden.house.gov golden https://golden.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON - Congressman Jared Golden (ME-02) announced today his office’s nominees to the United States Service Academies—the U.S. Naval Academy at Annapolis, the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, the U.S. Air Force Academy at Colorado Springs and the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy at Kings Point. To be considered for an appointment to a service academy, applicants must be nominated by an authorized nominating source, which includes Members of Congress. “This group represents some of Maine’s most talented, skilled and accomplished students. They have all demonstrated exceptional leadership, high academic standards, and a selfless ambition to help others,” said Golden. “Whatever happens from here, they should all be proud of themselves. We are lucky that they have chosen to offer their talents in service to the country, and it’s an honor to nominate them to our nation’s service academies.” The nominees were interviewed by a panel on their academic record, test scores, leadership ability, involvement in extracurricular activities, and exemplified commitment to serving their country. The full list of nominations is below. Contact information is available upon request. United States Naval Academy – Annapolis Austin Sellinger: Auburn, Edward Little High School Benjamin Cloutier: Lewiston, Lewiston High School George Ferland: Stockholm, Caribou High School Jameson Buck: Hampden, Hampden Academy Judson Nash: Hampden, Norwich University/Hampden Academy Leonardo Mlynski: Hampden, Hampden Academy Malachi Cummings: Presque Isle, Presque Isle High School Nora Spratt: Castine, George Stevens Academy Sarah Neal: East Machias, Washington Academy William Price: Anson, Carrabec High School United States Military Academy – West Point Jameson Buck: Hampden, Hampden Academy Nicholas Biberstein: Bangor, Bangor High School Nolan Garey: Minot, Poland Regional High School Sarah Neal: East Machias, Washington Academy William Price: Anson, Carrabec High School United States Air Force Academy – Colorado Springs Kate… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T03:32:05Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/healthcare-provisions-in-the-inflation-reduction-act Healthcare Provisions in the Inflation Reduction Act 2022-12-12 2022 2022-12 Independent Senate ME Angus S. King, Jr. K000383 www.king.senate.gov angusking https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table scraper Overview The Inflation Reduction Act has laid the groundwork for—and in some cases already implemented—long-term changes in federal policy that will keep people healthier and deliver higher quality care at lower cost to patients. Even better, these benefits are delivered while simultaneously reducing the deficit by finally allowing Medicare to negotiating bulk discounts on the price it pays for prescription drugs. This will save taxpayers hundreds-of-billions. It’s a well named bill. The IRA will provide lasting relief and protection from inflation for years to come, especially with regards to healthcare. It was a long process to get the bill passed—taking more than a year—but the final product is something to be proud of. Immediate Impact Extend Affordable Care Act premium subsides. The Inflation Reduction Act makes a three year extension of premium subsidies for American’s who receive their healthcare through the Affordable Care Act – more than 100,000 Maine people – Congress extended enhanced premium assistance for ACA marketplace plans through 2025; 80 percent of Maine ACA enrollees saved on insurance, and average savings per enrollee were more than $600 in 2022. Beginning in 2023 Provide free vaccines for seniors. The Inflation Reduction Act makes all vaccines free in Medicare for seniors, the only population for which vaccines were not already free. Institute a new “inflation rebate” under Medicare. Drug companies should not be allowed to make arbitrary and rapid price increases on products that are not changing year-to-year. The Inflation Reduction Act requires drug companies rebate back the difference to Medicare if they raise prices higher than inflation. Limits insulin copays to $35/month. For too long, Maine seniors have faced uncertainty when paying for insulin which could costs hundreds of dollars out of pocket. The Inflation Reduction Act ensures no senior will pay more than $35/month for this life-sustaining medication. Beginning in 2024 Caps Medicare Part D Premium Growth. For seniors o… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T03:32:05Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senators-collins-king-announce-maine-2023-nominees-to-the-united-states-military-service-academies Senators Collins, King Announce Maine 2023 Nominees to the United States Military Service Academies 2022-12-12 2022 2022-12 Independent Senate ME Angus S. King, Jr. K000383 www.king.senate.gov angusking https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table scraper Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King today announced their nominees to the United States Military Academies. To be considered for an appointment to a service academy, applicants must be nominated by an authorized nominating source, which includes Members of Congress. Admission to the United States Coast Guard Academy, also a federal service academy, does not require a congressional nomination. “We are proud to have the honor to nominate such an impressive group of Maine students to our nation’s distinguished service academies,” said Senators Collins and King in a joint statement. “The young people we have nominated have earned this honor through a commitment to strong scholarship, leadership, and character.” The following students from Maine have received nominations as candidates to the military academies from Senators Collins and King: United States Air Force Academy – Colorado Springs Name Home Town High School Jarek Fryzlewicz Alfred Massabesic High School Austin Sellinger Auburn Edward Little High School Avery Theriault Augusta Cony High School Benjamin Beckerman Bethel Burke Mountain Academy Nora Spratt Castine George Stevens Academy Thomas Brearly East Baldwin Sacopee Valley High School Sarah Neal East Machias Washington Academy Camden Hamilton Falmouth Falmouth High School Matthew Bellatoni Gorham Cheverus High School Leonardo Mlynski Hampden Hampden Academy Emma Richard North Yarmouth Greely High School James Jones Oakland Messalonskee High School Katelynn Kinney Sebec Bangor Christian Schools Roman Thomas Windham Windham High School Ryan Cole Woodland Washburn District High School Jonathan “Jack” Curtis Woolwich North Yarmouth Academy Joseph Neal York York High School United States Merchant Marine Academy - Kings Point Name Home Town High School Addison “Tadd” Nelson Bath Cheverus High School Julian Henderson Camden Camden Hills Regional High School Jameson Buck Hampden Hampden Academy Benjamin Cloutier Lewiston Lewiston High School Nicholas Biberstei… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T03:32:05Z
https://golden.house.gov/media/press-releases/with-authorization-for-3rd-ddg-51-destroyer-golden-secures-wins-for-bath-shipbuilders-umaine-servicemembers-and-families-in-final-defense-bill With Authorization for 3rd DDG-51 Destroyer, Golden Secures Wins for Bath Shipbuilders, UMaine, Servicemembers and Families in Final Defense Bill 2022-12-09 2022 2022-12 Democrat House ME Jared F. Golden G000592 golden.house.gov golden https://golden.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON — The conference report of the Fiscal Year 2023 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) — the final version of the legislation — passed the House yesterday. The legislation contains a number of priorities fought for and secured by Congressman Jared Golden (ME-02), including much of an amendment he proposed and guided through the House to authorize a $37 billion increase in defense spending on investments in our national security, our servicemembers, and shipbuilders at Bath Iron Works. “I am proud to have supported a bill that fortifies our nation’s security, ensures our men and women in uniform have the pay they deserve, and provides consistent work for our Navy’s skilled shipbuilding workforce,” said Golden. “This bill delivers authorization for a third DDG-51 destroyer, in addition to a contract for the construction of up to 15 DDGs over the next five years. The DDG is in a class of its own and so are the men and women at Bath Iron Works who make these ships.” In June, Golden introduced an amendment to increase defense spending at the NDAA markup for the House Armed Services Committee. The amendment passed out of the committee with bipartisan support and was included in the version of the NDAA the House passed in July. The final House FY2023 NDAA contains many of the provisions Congressman Golden worked to secure on a number of priorities, including: Shipbuilding: Establishing a new multi-year contract for up to 15 DDG-51 destroyers over the next five years, many of which will be built at BIW; $250 million for infrastructure investments at large surface combatant shipyards (such as BIW); Advanced procurement funding beyond the Administration’s request for a potential, additional DDG next year; Funding to support the DDG(X) development program. The DDG(X) is the planned successor large surface combatant to the DDG-51 destroyer. Research and Innovation in Maine: Authorizing over $25 million for defense research programs including the University of Maine’s large scale manufacturing program;… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T03:32:05Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-collins-introduce-legislation-lowering-costs-of-home-heating-options King, Collins Introduce Legislation Lowering Costs of Home Heating Options 2022-12-09 2022 2022-12 Independent Senate ME Angus S. King, Jr. K000383 www.king.senate.gov angusking https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Angus King and Susan Collins introduced a bipartisan bill to help more Maine families afford residential home heating technologies that can save them thousands a year. The BTU Tax Credit Expansion Act incentivizes the purchase of these innovative heating sources by increasing the maximum rebate for biomass stoves and boilers from $2,000 to $8,000. Once purchased, the stoves only cost a few hundred dollars a year to fuel and maintain – significantly lower than other heating options. “With heating costs on the rise, and global temperature norms changing due to climate change, it is vital that we make home heating options like pellet stoves more affordable for Maine families,” Senator King said. “The BTU Tax Credit Expansion Act will add financial benefits for families trying to find less expensive alternatives to traditional home heating systems – helping them to enjoy significant long-term savings. This tax credit is a win-win for Maine families that will cut utility costs, reduce fossil fuel emissions, and prevent tough choices like paying for heating, or putting food on the table.” “Wood biomass is a cost-effective, renewable, and environmentally friendly source of energy that helps individuals heat their homes in the winter months, supports our forest products industry, and creates jobs here in Maine,” said Senator Collins. “By increasing the credits available for biomass stoves and boilers to more closely align with incentives provided for other energy systems, this legislation would encourage the use of this proven and highly efficient heating technology.” The bill was also cosponsored by Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Maggie Hassan (D-NH), and Lisa Murkowski (R-AK). The initial clean energy rebates were included in the Inflation Reduction Act which passed the Senate in August 2022. 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T03:32:05Z
https://golden.house.gov/media/press-releases/golden-bipartisan-bill-to-improve-natural-disaster-relief-for-rural-small-businesses-passes-house Golden Bipartisan Bill to Improve Natural Disaster Relief for Rural Small Businesses Passes House 2022-12-08 2022 2022-12 Democrat House ME Jared F. Golden G000592 golden.house.gov golden https://golden.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON — Congressman Jared Golden (ME-02) voted to pass the Disaster Assistance for Rural Communities Act today. Golden introduced the bill alongside the late Representative Jim Hagedorn (MN-01) in May 2021. Senator Jim Risch (R-ID) and Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) introduced companion legislation in the U.S. Senate. The Disaster Assistance for Rural Communities Act would help ensure that small businesses in rural parts of the country, including those in Maine, can more easily access relief from the Small Business Administration (SBA) following a natural disaster. The legislation would waive burdensome restrictions that keep businesses in rural areas with low population densities from applying for federal disaster relief. “When a natural disaster strikes, making sure small businesses can get back up and running is essential for a community to recover,” said Congressman Golden. “For the rural communities that are especially vulnerable in these times of emergency, federal assistance plays a big role in helping our friends and neighbors get back on their feet. I am pleased to see Congress move in a bipartisan way on our bill to eliminate unnecessary red tape and get disaster relief and resources into the hands of those that really need it.” Maine has had multiple federal disaster declarations in the past two decades, including declarations for floods, winter storms, and Tropical Storm Irene. The legislation would remove a potential roadblock for small businesses in rural Maine to access emergency relief the next time there is a natural disaster. The second district has more than 14,000 small businesses, according to the SBA’s 2021 Small Business Profile, which employ more than 125,000 people. You can read the bill text here. 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T03:32:05Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/collins-king-announce-nearly-3-million-in-funding-for-head-start-in-maine-1222 Collins, King Announce Nearly $3 Million in Funding for Head Start in Maine 2022-12-08 2022 2022-12 Independent Senate ME Angus S. King, Jr. K000383 www.king.senate.gov angusking https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King today announced that two Maine organizations will receive a total of $2,913,484 from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to strengthen Head Start programs and promote early childhood development opportunities for children in poverty. Androscoggin Head Start and Child Care in Lewiston and Downeast Community Partners in Ellsworth will use the funding to develop new approaches to learning, strengthen social and emotional development programs, and expand physical health education. “Maine’s Head Start programs empower both parents and their children. From kickstarting educations to promoting positive parent-child relationships, Head Start’s opportunities are invaluable to Maine students’ success,” said Senators Collins and King. “The dedicated teachers and staff at Androscoggin Head Start and Downeast Community Partners work hard to support Maine families and help our children grow. This significant new investment will improve access to critical development resources in Maine communities.” “Down East Community Partners’ Head Start program is a critical flagship service in Hancock and Washington Counties. This funding provides the foundation of DCP’s efforts and partnerships with parents, local public schools, and community organizations,” said Rebecca Palmer, Executive Director of Downeast Community Partners. “It has never been more critical to serve the families and children in our respective counties living in poverty needing school readiness supports of physical and health development, language and literacy development, social and emotional development, and cognition of literacy and approaches to learning.” The funding will be allocated as follows: Androscoggin Head Start and Child Care will receive $1,704,790 for its Early Education Center Downeast Community Partners will receive $1,208,694 for its quality of life and poverty reduction programs 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T03:32:05Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/cyberspace-solarium-co-chairs-applaud-critical-timely-cybersecurity-provisions-in-annual-defense-bill Cyberspace Solarium Co-Chairs Applaud “Critical, Timely” Cybersecurity Provisions in Annual Defense Bill 2022-12-08 2022 2022-12 Independent Senate ME Angus S. King, Jr. K000383 www.king.senate.gov angusking https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine) and Representative Mike Gallagher (R-Wisc.), Co-Chairs of the Cyberspace Solarium Commission (CSC), today applauded the inclusion of several key cybersecurity provisions in the final version of the 2023 National Defense Authorization Act. The joint House and Senate version of the annual defense bill released this week includes legislation to establish a Bureau of International Cyberspace Policy to coordinate international cyber affairs at the U.S. Department of State – a top recommendation of the CSC. The released text also requires U.S. Cyber Command (CYBERCOM) to research its methods for responding and deterring cyberattacks and recommends that the Navy create a cyber officer position. As Co-Chairs of the commission, King and Gallagher pushed for these provisions to be included in the final version of the bill. “As threats from Russia, China, and other adversaries grow, the United States must continue to invest in strong cyberdefenses. That’s why the 2023 National Defense Authorization Act includes critical, timely provisions to improve the Pentagon’s cyber coordination and ensure that CYBERCOM has the tools it needs to successfully deter any foe,” said Senator King. “The bill’s creation of a Bureau of International Cyberspace Policy is another important step towards the Cyberspace Solarium Commission’s goal of giving cyber a voice at the table both in our government and on the world stage. When the Solarium released our list of recommendations, we made it clear this was an action document, not a report designed to collect dust. I’m proud of the significant progress we’ve made over the last few years and look forward to getting this bill across the finish line.” “This NDAA takes another important step towards better securing our country in cyberspace,” said Rep. Gallagher. “From the inclusion of the Cyber Diplomacy Act, which ensures the State Department is structured to promote our values in cyberspace, to continued guidance on CYBERCOM on force generatio… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T03:32:05Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senate-unanimously-passes-collins-king-resolution-recognizing-december-17-2022-as-wreaths-across-america-day Senate Unanimously Passes Collins, King Resolution Recognizing December 17, 2022, as “Wreaths Across America Day” 2022-12-07 2022 2022-12 Independent Senate ME Angus S. King, Jr. K000383 www.king.senate.gov angusking https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table scraper Washington, D.C. – The Senate unanimously passed a resolution introduced by U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King designating Saturday, December 17, 2022, as “Wreaths Across America Day.” A convoy of volunteers will travel from Maine to Arlington National Cemetery to lay Maine-made balsam wreaths at the headstones of fallen American soldiers. Over the past 31 years, Wreaths Across America has sent more than 14.4 million wreaths to various locations, including national cemeteries and veterans’ memorials in all 50 states and overseas. “From Arlington National Cemetery that overlooks our nation’s capital, to Normandy American Cemetery above the beaches that Allied troops stormed on D-Day, the wreath laying ceremonies on December 17th are a powerful demonstration of respect and appreciation for our veterans,” said Senators Collins and King. “For more than thirty years, the fields of Maine-made wreaths have served as a solemn reminder of the sacrifices of America’s veterans. The longevity of this event is a testament to the spirit of Maine people, our overwhelming gratitude to our nation’s servicemembers, and the extraordinary dedication of all those who have made the tribute possible. This resolution remembers and honors America’s veterans this holiday season, while also teaching younger generations of the sacrifices that have been made to secure our freedoms and to defend our liberty.” The general public can register to participate in Wreaths Across America at Arlington National Cemetery HERE. Thousands of volunteers are expected to lay the wreaths at the graves of each American veteran. In addition to Arlington National Cemetery, volunteers will place wreaths at 3,100 locations nationwide. 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T03:32:05Z
https://golden.house.gov/media/press-releases/golden-turner-press-congressional-negotiators-to-make-health-coverage-tax-credit-permanent-0 Golden, Turner Press Congressional Negotiators to Make Health Coverage Tax Credit Permanent 2022-12-06 2022 2022-12 Democrat House ME Jared F. Golden G000592 golden.house.gov golden https://golden.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON — Congressmen Jared Golden (ME-02) and Mike Turner (OH-10) sent a bipartisan letter this week to urge congressional leadership to include a reauthorization of the Health Coverage Tax Credit (HCTC) in any end of year tax extenders legislation. A Golden-backed provision to make the program permanent was included in the House-passed version of America COMPETES Act, but was stripped during conference negotiations with the Senate. Reps. Dan Kildee (MI-05) and Victoria Spartz (IL-05) joined Golden and Turner to send the letter. The HCTC helps dozens of Maine retirees, including retired millworkers from Twin Rivers Paper in Madawaska, afford health insurance. Golden secured one-year extensions of the HCTC for 2020 and 2021, but the credit lapsed at the end of 2021 as congressional leaders’ negotiations over omnibus appropriations and tax legislation stalled. “We represent working people who have been left without affordable health insurance since Congress allowed the program to expire at the beginning of the year,” the lawmakers wrote. “The HCTC provides refundable tax credits to retirees whose pensions have been taken over by the Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation (PBGC) as a result of their previous employer’s financial instability. It also assists workers who have lost their jobs due to outsourcing, as well as their families. Especially in a time of record inflation and economic uncertainty, these constituents deserve access to affordable health care through this credit.” The HCTC provides refundable tax credits to cover more than 70 percent of the cost of health insurance premiums for two kinds of workers: those who have been certified to have lost their jobs due to outsourcing, and eligible retirees whose pensions have been taken over by the Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation as a result of the financial instability of a previous employer. “Since its inception in 2002, this program has been reauthorized seven times – providing much-needed benefits to workers in such positions,” the lawmakers cont… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T03:32:05Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/icymi-king-joins-checks-and-balance-podcast-to-discuss-need-for-electoral-count-act-reform ICYMI: King Joins “Checks and Balance” Podcast to Discuss Need for Electoral Count Act Reform 2022-12-05 2022 2022-12 Independent Senate ME Angus S. King, Jr. K000383 www.king.senate.gov angusking https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table scraper Listen to the Checks and Balances podcast on Spotify or Apple Podcasts WASHINGTON D.C. – U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine), a member of the Senate Committee on Rules and Administration with oversight over federal elections, joined The Economist’s weekly “Check and Balances” podcast to discuss democratic protections that must be passed in the last month of the congressional session. During the episode, King explains why his top priority for the remainder of this Congress is the Electoral Count Reform and Presidential Transition Improvement Act – informed by his February reform proposal – to clarify ambiguous 19th century laws that spurred the January 6th insurrection. King also highlights the 2023 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) and annual omnibus appropriations package as two other key priorities. Speaking about his priorities in the last month of the Congressional session, King lays out why “the infrastructure of democracy” is his top priority. “I list[ed] the Electoral Count Act first because that goes to the infrastructure of democracy itself. And everything else in terms of budgets and marriage equality, all of those things are basically policy questions that are important. But if the structure of the system isn't working, nothing else works. So that's why I put Electoral Count Act at the top of the list.” King continued by explaining the historical need for the proposed reforms in the Electoral Count Reform and Presidential Transition Improvement Act. “I hope you'll allow me a bit of historical digression. It rests in the provision of the Constitution that establishes the Electoral College. And if you go back and read the Federalist 68 – which is Hamilton's justification for the Electoral College – I don't often disagree with Hamilton, but he got it wrong. The framers were of two minds. They liked the idea of public participation and democracy with a small d, but only so far. They were very concerned about what they called the mob. The only body in the US Constitution at the time of its adopti… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T03:32:05Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senators-collins-king-announce-over-1-million-for-upgrades-to-maine-recreation-facilities Senators Collins, King Announce Over $1 Million for Upgrades to Maine Recreation Facilities 2022-12-05 2022 2022-12 Independent Senate ME Angus S. King, Jr. K000383 www.king.senate.gov angusking https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table scraper Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King announced that the Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry has received $1,077,257 to support four projects across Maine. Each of the projects will use the funding to repair, renovate, or improve existing recreational facilities. This funding was awarded through the National Park Service’s Land and Water Conservation Fund State and Local Assistance Program. “Increasing access to outdoor recreational opportunities helps people stay active and healthy, and it benefits the entire region,” said Senators Collins and King in a joint statement. “This investment through the Land and Water Conservation Fund will repair and upgrade existing facilities for tennis, basketball, football, and baseball as well as other community resources that will be used by current residents as well as by future generations.” The funding was allocated as follows: Cherryfield received $40,000 to renovate existing town-owned tennis and basketball courts. The parking area will be updated with gravel, barriers, and a handicap accessible ramp. The project also includes installing raised vegetable beds for a community garden as well as a picnic area. Jay received $206,624 to demolish existing, obsolete tennis courts and construct three new, ADA-compliant courts in their place. Jay also will install new LED lighting and ADA-compliant walkways leading to the courts. Skowhegan received $330,633 to upgrade infrastructure at an existing football field complex, install new dugouts at the Carl Wright Baseball Complex, and increase ADA accessibility at the Skowhegan Recreation Complex. The Maine Bureau of Parks and Lands received $500,000 to make improvements to Recreation Hall, an existing building at the Lake George Regional Park in Canaan. The updates include roof and flooring renovations, general maintenance, safety feature installations, and increased ADA access. A new road with tiered parking and handicap spaces will also be installed. 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T03:32:05Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/icymi-on-fox-news-sunday-king-says-putin-growing-more-dangerous-to-ukraine-and-nato-speaks-of-chinese-threat ICYMI: On Fox News Sunday, King Says Putin Growing “More Dangerous” to Ukraine and NATO, Speaks of Chinese Threat 2022-12-04 2022 2022-12 Independent Senate ME Angus S. King, Jr. K000383 www.king.senate.gov angusking https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table scraper Watch the interview here WASHINGTON D.C. – U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine), Co-Chair of the Cyberspace Solarium Commission and a member of the Senate Armed Services and Intelligence Committees, today joined Fox News Sunday for a bipartisan interview with Senator Joni Ernst (R-Iowa) on some of the most pressing national security issues facing the United States, including growing threats from adversaries like Russia and China. During the interview, conducted by Shannon Bream at the annual Reagan National Defense Forum, King stressed the urgency of confronting Vladimir Putin, explained why the Free World must continue to support Ukraine’s fight for freedom, and laid out the dangers of Chinese-controlled tech products like TikTok. During the interview, Bream asked Senator King about President Vladimir Putin’s next steps in his illegal and unprovoked invasion of Ukraine. “Let’s talk about Ukraine, that is another hot topic. You will receive I understand a briefing on Wednesday that will update you where we are,” said Shannon Bream. ”The President said he would being willing to talk with Mr. Putin, but that they would have to leave Russia. Kremlin says that is no-go, they can't have that kind of conversation, how does this end?" “I think Putin is extremely dangerous right now. The ironic situation that we’re in is that the better the Ukrainians do, the more dangerous Putin becomes – because he is running out of options. And what we’re seeing now is actually his go-to option in Syria, in Grozny, where he is just bombing the hell out of the civilian population and the problem is that is just below the level where he knows we'll get into it in a more serious way. So we're in a very difficult situation,” said Senator King. “I think what we've supplied to Ukrainians has been enormously important and we need to continue to do so. Putin number one priority is to divide the West in terms of our support for Ukraine, we can't fall for it.” Bream continued by asking about America’s commitment to the conflict, and why we ne… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T03:32:05Z
https://golden.house.gov/media/press-releases/maine-delegation-welcomes-5-million-to-aid-passamaquoddy-impacted-by-climate-change Maine Delegation Welcomes $5 Million to Aid Passamaquoddy Impacted by Climate Change 2022-12-02 2022 2022-12 Democrat House ME Jared F. Golden G000592 golden.house.gov golden https://golden.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper Washington, D.C.—U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King and U.S. Representatives Chellie Pingree and Jared Golden welcomed a $5 million planning grant for the Passamaquoddy Tribe to respond to climate-related environmental threats. The grant was awarded through the U.S. Department of the Interior’s newly announced Voluntary Community-Driven Relocation program and funded by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. “From rising sea levels to warming waters, the impacts of climate change are already threatening communities across Maine. This federal program, one of the first of its kind, will help the Passamaquoddy Tribe prepare for climate change with long-term resilience measures,” the Maine Delegation said. “As proud supporters of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, we’re thrilled to see its investments are working to protect tribal communities in Maine and across the nation.” The Passamaquoddy Tribe is one of eight Tribal communities nationwide receiving a total of $40 million for planning grants. The Administration’s funding announcement was made during the 2022 White House Tribal Nations Summit, which provides an opportunity for the Administration and Tribal leaders from the 574 federally recognized Tribes to discuss ways the federal government can invest in and strengthen nation-to-nation relationships as well as ensure that progress in Indian Country endures for years to come. Alaska Native villages and Tribal communities in the contiguous 48 states are at risk of severe infrastructure damage due to climate-related environmental impacts, including sea-level rise, coastal erosion, extreme weather events threats, and threats from flooding, drought, and wildland fire. A 2020 Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) study estimated that up to $5 billion will be needed over the next 50 years to address Tribal relocation infrastructure needs in response to climate change impacts. The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law provides a total of $466 million to the BIA over five years, including $216 million for climate resilience pro… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T03:32:05Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/collins-king-warn-chinese-government-against-violent-crackdown-on-protesters Collins, King Warn Chinese Government Against Violent Crackdown on Protesters 2022-12-02 2022 2022-12 Independent Senate ME Angus S. King, Jr. K000383 www.king.senate.gov angusking https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King, members of the Senate Intelligence Committee, are warning the Chinese Communist Party against a violent crackdown on the country’s growing pro-freedom protests. In a bipartisan letter with nearly half of their Senate colleagues, Collins and King tell the Chinese ambassador to the United States that violence by the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) against the peaceful protesters will cause extraordinary damage to the US-China relationship. “The protests in China, and the subsequent crackdowns, are clear evidence that the Chinese Communist Party is not listening to the will of its people. The United States Senate understands the importance of democratic principles—like freedom of expression and freedom of speech—and will always stand up for those values,” said Senators Collins and King. “We applaud the Chinese people for their bravery and urge the Chinese Communist Party to refrain from violent crackdowns on peaceful protesters as we have seen in the past.” The letter is signed by a bipartisan group of forty-two Senators. The full text of the letter can be read HERE and below. ### Ambassador Qin Gang Embassy of the People’s Republic of China 3505 International Place NW Washington, D.C. 20008-3025 Dear Ambassador Qin: We are following the current peaceful protests in China over your government’s policies very carefully. We are also closely watching the Chinese Communist Party’s (CCP) reaction to them. In 1989, the Chinese Communist Party and People’s Liberation Army undertook a violent crackdown on peacefully protesting Chinese students, killing hundreds, if not thousands. We caution the CCP in the strongest possible terms not to once again undertake a violent crackdown on peaceful Chinese protesters who simply want more freedom. If that happens, we believe there will be grave consequences for the US-China relationship, causing extraordinary damage to it. Sincerely, 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T03:32:05Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/maine-delegation-welcomes-5-million-to-aid-passamaquoddy-impacted-by-climate-change Maine Delegation Welcomes $5 Million to Aid Passamaquoddy Impacted by Climate Change 2022-12-02 2022 2022-12 Independent Senate ME Angus S. King, Jr. K000383 www.king.senate.gov angusking https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table scraper U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King and U.S. Representatives Chellie Pingree and Jared Golden welcomed a $5 million planning grant for the Passamaquoddy Tribe to respond to climate-related environmental threats. The grant was awarded through the U.S. Department of the Interior’s newly announced Voluntary Community-Driven Relocation program and funded by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. “From rising sea levels to warming waters, the impacts of climate change are already threatening communities across Maine. This federal program, one of the first of its kind, will help the Passamaquoddy Tribe prepare for climate change with long-term resilience measures,” the Maine Delegation said. “As proud supporters of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, we’re thrilled to see its investments are working to protect tribal communities in Maine and across the nation.” The Passamaquoddy Tribe is one of eight Tribal communities nationwide receiving a total of $40 million for planning grants. The Administration’s funding announcement was made during the 2022 White House Tribal Nations Summit, which provides an opportunity for the Administration and Tribal leaders from the 574 federally recognized Tribes to discuss ways the federal government can invest in and strengthen nation-to-nation relationships as well as ensure that progress in Indian Country endures for years to come. Alaska Native villages and Tribal communities in the contiguous 48 states are at risk of severe infrastructure damage due to climate-related environmental impacts, including sea-level rise, coastal erosion, extreme weather events threats, and threats from flooding, drought, and wildland fire. A 2020 Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) study estimated that up to $5 billion will be needed over the next 50 years to address Tribal relocation infrastructure needs in response to climate change impacts. The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law provides a total of $466 million to the BIA over five years, including $216 million for climate resilience programs, provided a… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T03:32:05Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senators-collins-king-announce-800000-to-support-refugee-mental-health-services-in-maine Senators Collins, King Announce $800,000 to Support Refugee Mental Health Services in Maine 2022-12-02 2022 2022-12 Independent Senate ME Angus S. King, Jr. K000383 www.king.senate.gov angusking https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table scraper Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King announced that Spurwink has received $800,000 to support their ShifaME Trauma Systems Therapy for refugees. The funding was allocated through the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ (HHS) Center for Mental Health Services. This federal funding will help to expand the trauma therapy capabilities of ShifaME, Spurwink’s refugee service provider. The organization currently offers case management and counseling services to refugees across the state. “No community is immune from mental health crises, but refugees who fled violence, disasters, or persecution in their home countries often experience unique traumas in addition to the challenges of adjusting to a new life in the United States,” said Senators Collins and King in a joint statement. “Spurwink provides vital support to Maine’s refugee population, and this funding will help the dedicated staff expand access to mental health services for youth and families.” “Spurwink is grateful for the ongoing commitment of Senators Collins and King, and SAMHSA, to support our critical work with refugees in Portland,” said Eric Meyer, President & CEO of Spurwink. “Refugees contribute to a thriving economy in Maine and add a richness to our community, and our team is committed to working with them on a path to better health.” The Spurwink Refugee Mental Health Project is a multi-tiered mental health promotion model used to improve access to trauma-informed mental health services for refugee children and adolescents in Maine. The project is based on work with the Refugee Trauma and Resiliency Center at Boston Children’s Hospital and multiple partners in Maine including schools, community providers and immigrant and refugee-led organizations. The initiative includes broad-based prevention and community resilience building, community-based skill-building groups for youth, and intensive home-based family therapy for those with significant mental health needs. Spurwink’s project will increase access to effec… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T03:32:05Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/strategic-forces-chair-king-ranking-member-fischer-celebrate-launch-of-next-generation-bomber Strategic Forces Chair King, Ranking Member Fischer Celebrate Launch of Next-Generation Bomber 2022-12-02 2022 2022-12 Independent Senate ME Angus S. King, Jr. K000383 www.king.senate.gov angusking https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senators Angus King (I-Maine) and Deb Fischer (R-Nebraska), the Chair and Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on Strategic Forces, today celebrated the launch of America’s new nuclear-capable B-21 bomber. The next-generation stealth plane, unveiled by the Air Force and Northrop Grumman, will replace parts of the nation’s aging bomber fleet and help modernize the United States’ nuclear defense against growing aggression from Russia and China. For the last several years, Chairman King and Ranking Member Fischer have worked to modernize America’s land, air, and sea nuclear defenses – known as the Triad. Currently, only 10 percent of America’s bomber force is capable of penetrating advanced air defenses. As enemies continue investing in sophisticated technologies and weapons platforms like hypersonics, the capabilities of the new B-21 aircraft will be a critical deterrent for potential adversaries. “As history has shown time and again, the cost of defense can be high, but the cost of war is much higher. To prevent war, we must invest in modern defense systems, like the B-21, that can meet the rapidly growing threats of our adversaries,” said Senator King. “This new next-generation aircraft sends a clear signal of deterrence to our adversaries and is a significant step in the critical process of updating our nation’s ability to address, prepare, and respond to potential threats. As Russia continues its unprovoked assault on Ukraine and China rapidly grows its nuclear arsenal, it is vitally important that the United States is not left relying on our current Cold War-era deterrents. I’m grateful for all the hard work done by the Air Force and Northrop Grumman to develop this aircraft, and will continue to conduct the oversight necessary to make this project and the rest of the triad modernization a success.” “Earlier this week, a public report from the Dept. of Defense stated China will at least triple its nuclear arsenal by 2035. This is just the latest example of how the global threat environ… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T03:32:05Z
https://golden.house.gov/media/press-releases/golden-continues-to-push-biden-administration-for-concrete-plan-to-keep-maine-homes-heated Golden Continues to Push Biden Administration for Concrete Plan to Keep Maine Homes Heated 2022-12-01 2022 2022-12 Democrat House ME Jared F. Golden G000592 golden.house.gov golden https://golden.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON - Today Congressman Jared Golden (ME-01) joined Reps. Nicole Malliotakis (NY-11), Andrew Garbarino (NY-02), and Chris Pappas (NH-01) in sending a letter to President Biden and the U.S. Department of Energy urging them to work with Congress to proactively address natural gas and diesel supply shortages in the Northeast and rising energy costs and develop a plan to prevent rolling blackouts should the region experience frigid temperatures this winter. "Widespread reporting indicates that the Northeast may not have sufficient fuel supply in the event of severe cold weather this winter, and if last week’s frigid temperatures and major snowstorms are any indication, it will be a long, cold winter resulting in rolling blackouts across the region, leaving millions of families in the dark and cold," the Members wrote."It is imperative that your Administration is working proactively with Congress to ensure that winter electricity reliability in the most densely populated area of the United States is available to meet the power demand necessary to avoid devastating consequences for the people and businesses across the region." Heating oil prices across the Northeast are at historical highs, exceeding $5 per gallon in Maine. Additionally, the lack of pipeline infrastructure in the Northeast region, limited shipments of foreign sourced LNG resulting from the war in Ukraine, the closure of coal, oil, and natural gas refineries, and the looming rail strike could lead to dire circumstances in the event of extreme weather. The Members continued: "We are requesting that your Administration, led by the Secretary of Energy, present Congress with a comprehensive plan so we may ensure our constituents that concrete solutions are in place, and they will not be left in the dark this winter...To be effective, these actions will require complex planning and far-reaching communication efforts involving all relevant federal agencies and state and local parties should they be put into place… At a minimum, we ask that you and t… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T03:32:05Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/collins-king-announce-nearly-750000-to-increase-mental-health-resources-alleviate-pressure-on-law-enforcement-services Collins, King Announce Nearly $750,000 to Increase Mental Health Resources, Alleviate Pressure on Law Enforcement Services 2022-12-01 2022 2022-12 Independent Senate ME Angus S. King, Jr. K000383 www.king.senate.gov angusking https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table scraper Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King announced that $746,562 has been awarded to emergency service providers in Cumberland, Knox, and Waldo counties to enhance their ability to safely respond to mental health crises. The funding will also help to divert more mental health calls to the appropriate service providers. This funding was awarded through the Fiscal Year (FY) 2022 Connect and Protect: Law Enforcement Behavioral Health Response Program. “When Mainers experience a mental health crisis, it’s important they can get quality and efficient assistance. Too often the only option available is to call 911 – this creates a missed opportunity to connect these individuals with long-term treatment services, and it puts unnecessary strain on law enforcement officers who are overwhelmed with calls and may not have the appropriate training for these types of situations,” said Senators Collins and King in a joint statement. “We welcome this important funding, which will help local law enforcement agencies to do their jobs more effectively, strengthen resources for individuals with mental health or substance use disorders, and promote public safety.” $203,319 will help the Cumberland County Sheriff’s Office address a dramatic increase in mental health-related services, which have risen from 220 calls in 2019 to 648 calls in 2021. A significant number of these calls are for repeat subjects, thus putting a significant strain on the resources of the agency to answer routine calls for service. The Cumberland County Sheriff’s Office believes that an embedded mental health professional would provide targeted assistance to persons with mental health disorders by directing the individuals to local resources. $543,243 will help support ongoing efforts in Knox and Waldo counties to reduce encounters between law enforcement officers and those suffering with behavioral health issues. The funding will be used to expand the Co-occurring Community Connection (CCC) Project, which promotes effective strategies to… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T03:32:05Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-cosponsors-bipartisan-bill-to-reduce-global-hunger King Cosponsors Bipartisan Bill to Reduce Global Hunger 2022-12-01 2022 2022-12 Independent Senate ME Angus S. King, Jr. K000383 www.king.senate.gov angusking https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Angus King is cosponsoring bipartisan legislation to reduce global hunger and continue the United States’ worldwide leadership in combatting food insecurity as Russia’s war on Ukraine imperils global food supply chains. The Global Food Security Reauthorization Act would reauthorize the nation’s Feed the Future hunger and agriculture initiative through 2028, improve food aid oversight, and require the Biden administration to develop a whole-of-government strategy to address global food challenges. Feed the Future is an initiative led by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) to combat global food insecurity. The program addresses the root causes of hunger and poverty by boosting agriculture-led growth and nutrition in countries with great need and opportunity for improvement. “As dictators like Vladimir Putin seek to use hunger as a weapon, we must make sure that people have access to basic food and nutrition, regardless of the country or continent they live in,” said Senator King. “It’s imperative the United States helps people around the world access nutritious meals. The Global Food Security Reauthorization Act would strengthen our international leadership and global stability by building on the successful Feed the Future program that provides critical support for countries to develop agriculture and improve nutrition. I’m grateful for the broad bipartisan support the bill has already received, and hope we can get it passed for the sake of all the world’s most vulnerable communities.” The Global Food Security Act was first passed into law in 2016 and is set to expire in 2023. The bipartisan legislation cosponsored by Senator King is currently expected to be included as an amendment in the FY23 National Defense Authorization Act, and would extend the law for another five years. The bill also: Requires the Administration to develop a whole-of-government strategy to address global food insecurity and hunger. The strategy would emphasize agricultural develo… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T03:32:05Z
https://golden.house.gov/media/press-releases/golden-statement-on-house-votes-regarding-rail-labor-dispute Golden Statement on House Votes Regarding Rail Labor Dispute 2022-11-30 2022 2022-11 Democrat House ME Jared F. Golden G000592 golden.house.gov golden https://golden.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON – Congressman Jared Golden (ME-02) released a statement today following his vote against H. Res. 100 and his vote for H. Con. Res. 119. H. Res. 100 would force a labor agreement on rail unions that have not yet ratified it. H. Con. Res. 119, would provide for seven paid sick days for affected rail workers. “In prematurely rushing this legislation through the House, Congress undermines the fundamental bargaining power of workers and unions across the country. The right to bargain for fair wages and humane working conditions is a bright red line for me. While the stakes are high with these particular negotiations, in the end, nothing is better for our long-term economic security than a strong and resilient workforce. “A congressional intervention of this scale has not taken place in 30 years. Rather than weigh the gravity of such a move and pursue other viable steps that would have continued to respect the bargaining process, today the House opted for the option of last resort. I was glad to vote to support the unions’ efforts to make sure workers have seven sick days per year, and I will continue to stand up for their right to push for a better deal for workers and their families.” - Congressman Jared Golden (ME-02) 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T03:24:37Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/with-winter-looming-king-and-new-england-colleagues-urge-biden-administration-to-develop-energy-and-heating-plan With Winter Looming, King and New England Colleagues Urge Biden Administration to Develop Energy and Heating Plan 2022-11-30 2022 2022-11 Independent Senate ME Angus S. King, Jr. K000383 www.king.senate.gov angusking https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Angus King and a group of his New England Senate colleagues are urging the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) to develop a plan that will prevent blackouts or price hikes for New England households this winter; a serious concern given Russia’s continued disruptions to global energy markets. In a letter to Energy Secretary Jennifer Granholm, the Senators ask the Secretary to work with key stakeholders and local governments to mitigate the risk of price hikes and shortages of natural gas, liquefied natural gas (LNG), and heating oil. “With the upcoming winter season comes a real threat to energy reliability for residents and businesses in New England. Global events caused by Russia’s invasion of Ukraine are exacerbating the risk that the region will not have the fuel supplies needed to maintain heat and power during an extended cold snap,” wrote King and his New England colleagues. “We write to ask that you work with federal, regional, state, and local stakeholders to identify actions available to prevent energy disruption during the coldest months of the year.” “ISO New England, the region’s grid operator, has warned that colder-than-usual conditions could put the reliability of the grid at risk - perhaps even leading to extreme measures like rolling blackouts,” the Senators continued. “This could be devastating, particularly during the coldest days of winter. While the region’s overreliance on natural gas has long been an issue, the continued global disruption caused by the Russian invasion of Ukraine means the risk is more urgent than ever,” “Given the gravity of these concerns, we urge you to convene key stakeholders, including the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC), ISO New England, New England governors, public utility officials, generators, suppliers, and utilities to mitigate these risks. Additionally, we ask that you leverage resources within the Department of Energy to identify barriers to bringing non-fossil fuel energy online as quickly as possible. Lastly, we as… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T03:24:37Z
https://golden.house.gov/media/press-releases/golden-announces-4-million-in-usda-loans-and-grants-for-blue-hill-treatment-plant Golden Announces $4 Million in USDA Loans and Grants for Blue Hill Treatment Plant 2022-11-29 2022 2022-11 Democrat House ME Jared F. Golden G000592 golden.house.gov golden https://golden.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON — Congressman Jared Golden (ME-02) today shared that USDA Rural Development awarded a loan of $2,750,000 and a grant of $1,250,000 million to the town of Blue Hill for upgrades and repairs to their wastewater treatment plant. The funding would go towards much-needed repairs to the facility that the congressman has been working with local leaders to secure for the past year. The total budget for upgrades at the 47-year-old facility exceeds $5 million. “As I saw in my visit to the plant in August, the last few years of rising tides in Blue Hill Harbor have left the plant in need of some upgrades and repairs,” said Congressman Golden. “Today’s USDA funding will go a long way to ensuring that the families and businesses in Blue Hill can continue to count on safe water.” Golden met with local leaders and toured the Blue Hill facility in August. Open since 1975 and last upgraded in 2000, Blue Hill’s Wastewater Treatment Facility is showing its age and has been impacted by rising tide levels from the surrounding waters. Earlier this year, Golden passed $1 million in Community Project Funding (CPF) for the facility through the House, although it remains unclear whether the Senate will act on the House-passed legislation. Read more about the USDA’s grant and loan announcement here. Read more about the Community Project Funding request Rep. Golden passed through the House here. 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T03:24:37Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-statement-after-senate-passes-protections-for-marriage-equality King Statement After Senate Passes Protections for Marriage Equality 2022-11-29 2022 2022-11 Independent Senate ME Angus S. King, Jr. K000383 www.king.senate.gov angusking https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Angus King released the following statement after the United States Senate passed the Respect For Marriage Act on a bipartisan 61-36 vote. The bill, cosponsored by Senator King, expands federal protections for same-sex and interracial marriages by requiring federal recognition of valid state marriages. The bill also guarantees that all marriages are given full legal status regardless of the couple’s sex, race, ethnicity, or national origin. “Marriage is one of life’s great gifts; it brings companionship, support, love, and joy. The decision to get married is a deeply personal choice between two people who love each other, it’s not an easy decision, and it’s not one where the government should have a say,” said Senator King. “The Respect For Marriage Act is a historic, long-overdue step to ensure Americans can marry the person they love without government interference while receiving significant tax and other benefits that come from the legally-recognized partnerships. “My decades-long marriage to my wife has been among the greatest privileges of my life. We were lucky that our marriage did not face legal barriers, and there shouldn’t be for others who share the same love. Maine has long understood this fundamental right – it’s why we were the first state in the nation to legalize same-sex civil marriage by popular vote, and it’s why I was a proud cosponsor of this bipartisan legislation. “It’s unfortunate that a law protecting the right to marry the person you love is even necessary. But with an activist Supreme Court that has repeatedly imposed their own religious views on the country and indicated it was open to reconsidering marriage equality rights, I feel this effort was critical to defend current and future loving couples. I’m deeply grateful that the Senate was able to come together and pass a commonsense, bipartisan law that carefully enshrines the right to same-sex and interracial marriage while respecting religious freedoms.” The Respect for Marriage Act, cosponsored … 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T03:24:37Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/collins-king-announce-5-million-to-restore-fish-habitat-on-the-st-croix-river Collins, King Announce $5 Million to Restore Fish Habitat on the St. Croix River 2022-11-28 2022 2022-11 Independent Senate ME Angus S. King, Jr. K000383 www.king.senate.gov angusking https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table scraper Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King announced that Maine is receiving $5,000,000 to improve fish migration at the Milltown and Woodland dams on the St. Croix River. The funding was allocated under the bipartisan infrastructure law through the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation’s America the Beautiful Challenge (ATBC). The Maine Department of Marine Resources’ project will expand aquatic connectivity for river herring and other at-risk species. The project will also help to enhance watershed health and local economic vitality in the St. Croix River and the Bay of Fundy. The project will significantly improve fish passage in historic spawning habitat and continue collaboration between U.S. federal agencies, Canadian agencies, Tribal Nations, the State of Maine and other conservation partners. “The St. Croix River and its watershed play a key role in sustaining the health of the ecosystem and the economy in Eastern Maine,” said Senators Collins and King in a joint statement. “By improving fish passages along the river, this project will help restore critical habitat to protect native fish populations, while also supporting migratory birds and other wildlife. We welcome this investment to preserve the environment and benefit current and future generations of anglers.” ATBC grants support projects that conserve, restore, and connect habitats for wildlife while improving community resilience and access to nature. These grants are highly competitive. This year, applicants submitted 527 proposals requesting a total of $1.1 billion, and 55 were selected. 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T03:24:37Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/nov-22-pod Arctic Caucus Co-Chair King Discusses Challenges and Opportunities of the High North in November Podcast 2022-11-28 2022 2022-11 Independent Senate ME Angus S. King, Jr. K000383 www.king.senate.gov angusking https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table scraper Listen to the November edition of Senator King’s podcast here or on Apple Podcasts. WASHINGTON D.C. – The Office of U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine) today released the November episode of the Senator’s “Inside Maine” podcast, in which he and his guests discuss the opportunities and challenges of a warming Arctic. King, Co-Chair of the Senate Arctic Caucus, was joined by President of the Maine International Trade Center, Wade Merritt, and former Alaska Lieutenant Governor and US Arctic Research Commission Chair, Fran Ulmer. Together, the Senator and his guests lay out the local and global implications of the shifting region; including the changing environment, better shipping routes and trade opportunities, and expanded competition with Russia and China. “It’s an unfortunate reality that the Arctic is warming, but it’s critical we realize that the region’s rapid changes are creating historic opportunities and challenges,” said Senator King. “From new trade routes to military instillations, the United States, Maine, and our global partners must be ready for this growing area of competition and collaboration – countries like China and India are already making major moves to gain leverage in the High North. It was great to be joined by Wade Merritt and Fran Ulmer to discuss the implications of the newly accessible region. I’m grateful for the work they are doing to study and seize Arctic opportunities and look forward to our continued efforts together to ensure Maine is well positioned in our Arctic future.” The Arctic is one of the world’s most rapidly changing bodies of water – warming 5° Fahrenheit since the mid-1960s, three times faster than the global average. The melting sea ice opens northern shipping lanes for northern ports in Alaska and Maine, while also increasing the potential for territorial disputes and greater militarization in the region. Currently, Russia is far outpacing the U.S. in the region, having already invested billions of dollars in military infrastructure along its northern Arctic coast… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T03:24:37Z
https://golden.house.gov/media/press-releases/maine-delegation-and-governor-mills-voice-disappointment-urge-national-retailers-to-continue-selling-maine-lobster Maine Delegation and Governor Mills Voice Disappointment, Urge National Retailers to Continue Selling Maine Lobster 2022-11-22 2022 2022-11 Democrat House ME Jared F. Golden G000592 golden.house.gov golden https://golden.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper PORTLAND, MAINE—Maine Senators Susan Collins and Angus King, Representatives Chellie Pingree and Jared Golden, and Governor Janet Mills today released the following statement after Whole Foods Market said it would stop selling Maine lobster nationwide: “We are disappointed by Whole Foods’ decision and deeply frustrated that the Marine Stewardship Council’s suspension of the lobster industry’s certificate of sustainability continues to harm the livelihoods of hardworking men and women up and down Maine’s coast. In an appeal to retailers just weeks ago, we outlined the facts: there has never been a right whale death attributed to Maine lobster gear; Maine lobstermen have a 150-year history of sustainability; and Maine’s lobstering community has consistently demonstrated their commitment to protecting right whales. Despite this, the Marine Stewardship Council, with retailers following suit, wrongly and blindly decided to follow the recommendations of misguided environmental groups rather than science. We strongly urge the Marine Stewardship Council and retailers to reconsider their potentially devastating decisions.” 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T03:24:37Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-introduces-bipartisan-bill-to-ensure-students-arent-forced-to-choose-between-housing-and-education King Introduces Bipartisan Bill to Ensure Students Aren’t Forced to Choose Between Housing and Education 2022-11-22 2022 2022-11 Independent Senate ME Angus S. King, Jr. K000383 www.king.senate.gov angusking https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table scraper BRUNSWICK, ME – U.S. Senators Angus King (I-Maine), Sherrod Brown (D-Ohio), and Rob Portman (R-Ohio) have introduced bipartisan legislation to ensure students are not forced to choose between housing or pursuing an education. The Housing for Homeless Students Act would update current law to ensure students, including veterans, who have experienced homelessness or are currently homeless, can access affordable housing while pursuing their education. The legislation would also benefit youth who age out of foster care who experience higher rates of homelessness and unemployment. Currently, individuals pursuing full-time education are not eligible for the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) program and can lose access to scholarships and grants if they switch to part-time education in order to retain access to affordable housing. “It should go without saying – no one should have to choose between getting an education or keeping a roof above their head,” said Senator King. “Our youth and veterans pursuing higher education are there to improve their lives and invest in their future and it’s completely unfair for them to lose federal housing support because they are investing their time and energy in seeking a college degree. The Housing for Homeless Students Act is a necessary, commonsense, and bipartisan step to right this wrong and ensure America’s youth and veterans have equal opportunities to grow, learn, and succeed.” “Students and veterans who have experienced homelessness shouldn’t be forced to choose between pursuing an education and access to affordable housing,” said Senator Brown. “I’m proud to work with Sens. King and Portman on the Housing for Homeless Students Act to ensure the housing tax credit works for students investing in their futures.” “Students shouldn’t have to choose between stable housing and going to school full-time,” said Senator Portman. “This legislation will provide low-income students access to affordable housing while they attend school. With secure housing we can help to ensure t… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T03:24:37Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/collins-king-join-celebration-of-waterville-downtown-revitalization-project Collins, King Join Celebration of Waterville Downtown Revitalization Project 2022-11-18 2022 2022-11 Independent Senate ME Angus S. King, Jr. K000383 www.king.senate.gov angusking https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table scraper Waterville, ME – Today, U.S. Senators Susan Collins (R-ME) and Angus King (I-ME) joined representatives from the Maine Department of Transportation, the City of Waterville, and Colby College to celebrate the completion of the Downtown Waterville Revitalization Project. The project improved roadways, sidewalks, intersections, and public green spaces. In addition, traffic was reconfigured from one-way to two-way, and intersections and gateways were reconstructed to be safer for pedestrians and motorists. Colby College is also making significant downtown investments that will help the town draw more visitors. Senators Collins and King both strongly supported a $7.4 million federal grant for the project, and Senator Collins secured the funding through this highly competitive grant program as a leader of the Transportation Appropriations Subcommittee. “This transformational project will contribute to the ongoing revitalization of downtown Waterville, expand access to the arts and education, create jobs, and bring the community together. The improvements to roadways, sidewalks, and public spaces we are celebrating are the result of the strong partnerships that have been forged among the city, Colby, and MaineDOT,” said Senator Collins. “As a leader of the Transportation Appropriations Subcommittee, I was delighted to secure a $7.4 million BUILD grant to help move this remarkable project forward.” “Waterville has historically been the center of activity in northern Kennebec County and neighboring communities in Somerset; it’s a cornerstone of the economy for the region,” said Senator King. “The new two way-traffic on Main Street will bring more customers to small businesses, improve traffic flow, and make foot traffic better for pedestrians. Today’s ribbon cutting is a testament to the hard work of the city and to the value of the partnerships they’ve formed with Colby College and the MaineDOT. I’m proud to have supported funding for this significant project and look forward to seeing its impacts for years to come.” … 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T03:24:37Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-bipartisan-group-of-colleagues-urge-biden-administration-to-address-winter-season-worker-shortage King, Bipartisan Group of Colleagues Urge Biden Administration to Address Winter Season Worker Shortage 2022-11-18 2022 2022-11 Independent Senate ME Angus S. King, Jr. K000383 www.king.senate.gov angusking https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine) today joined a bipartisan group of colleagues to call on the Biden administration to expedite H-2B work visas as many of Maine’s businesses prepare for the approaching winter ski and tourism season in Maine. In a letter to Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas and Department of Labor (DOL) Marty Walsh, the Senators highlight the urgent need for workers across the nation’s ski and winter tourism industry and stress that failure to quickly provide H-2Bs will cause harm to Maine skiing communities. Over the last several years, the seasonal tourism industry has struggled to hire enough American workers to meet demand. The H2-B work visa program allows U.S. employers to fill these open roles with foreign nationals in temporary nonagricultural jobs when the local workforce is not applying for them. “H-2B workers are especially vital to the ski and winter tourism industry nationwide, which is anticipating severe workforce shortages ahead of hiring for its busiest season,” the Senators wrote. “According to the National Ski Areas Association, 81% of all ski areas in the U.S. had unfilled winter jobs in the 2022 ski season. Additionally, the average number of winter positions that went unfilled at ski areas was 76 – a steep increase from an average of 55 unfilled positions in 2021.” “The urgency of addressing these workforce shortages cannot be overstated. In addition to ski and winter tourism businesses themselves, the rural mountain communities who host them depend heavily on winter tourism and recreation visitors for their overall economic health and growth. Because employment start dates for ski area employees typically occur in early December, the statutory H-2B cap has been met too early for the industry to effectively utilize the program every year since 2018,” the Senators continued. “Given the lengthy timelines involved in securing H-2B visa slots and hiring and onboarding recipients, each day that passes without action contribut… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T03:24:37Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-cosponsors-bipartisan-bill-to-protect-veterans-from-benefits-fraud King Cosponsors Bipartisan Bill to Protect Veterans from Benefits Fraud 2022-11-17 2022 2022-11 Independent Senate ME Angus S. King, Jr. K000383 www.king.senate.gov angusking https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. –– U.S. Senator Angus King, a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, is cosponsoring bipartisan legislation to protect veterans from benefits fraud. The Governing Unaccredited Representatives Defrauding (GUARD) VA Benefits Act would reinstate criminal penalties for unaccredited scam benefit representatives who charge unauthorized fees while helping veterans file a disability claim – something prohibited under current law, but without criminal charges in the statutes. “America’s veterans have served, sacrificed, and fought for their benefits and it is reprehensible that scammers would take advantage of servicemembers during their time of need,” said Senator King. “Unfortunately, while the shameful act of charging veterans fake ‘fees’ to file a disability claim is illegal, there are currently no legal penalties to deter bad actors. The GUARD VA Benefits Act would fix this oversight and ensure that scammers and unauthorized organizations are held responsible for exploiting our heroes. This is a commonsense bill to protect out veterans and I hope it can continue to receive bipartisan support across Congress.” The bipartisan measure has the support of numerous veterans advocacy organizations including the American Legion and the Veterans of Foreign Wars. “The Department of Maine Veterans of Foreign Wars and it Auxiliary are very happy that Senator Angus King has signed on as a Cosponsor to the GUARD Act,” said Steven Sanpedro, VFW Department of Maine Legislative Chairman. “These predatory unaccredited companies have taken advantage of our Veterans and their families way too long. This law will create penalties on these business that over charge our Veterans. More importantly this will put them on notice that they are being watched and will no longer be allowed to take advantage of our Veterans and their families. Thank you Senator King for signing on to this very important bill!” "The American Legion Department of Maine is proud hear Senator King is supporting and cosponsoring the Governin… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T03:24:37Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senators-collins-king-announce-nearly-182-million-contract-awarded-to-bath-iron-works Senators Collins, King Announce Nearly $182 Million Contract Awarded to Bath Iron Works 2022-11-17 2022 2022-11 Independent Senate ME Angus S. King, Jr. K000383 www.king.senate.gov angusking https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table scraper Washington, D.C.—U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King announced today that the U.S. Navy has awarded Bath Iron Works (BIW) a $181,983,583 contract modification to a previously awarded contract for Planning Yard Services for the DDG-51 Class Guided Missile Destroyer program. “Time and time again, the hardworking, highly-skilled men and women at Bath Iron Works demonstrate that Bath built is best built. This new funding is a testament to the shipyard’s expertise that will strengthen Maine’s economy and allow BIW’s engineers, designers, and planners to continue producing their world-class ships,” said Senators Collins and King in a joint statement. “Arleigh Burke-class destroyers are the workhorses of the Navy. We will continue our efforts to ensure that the shipyard has the resources it needs to construct these critical elements of our national security that protect our interests around the globe.” This funding is a cost-plus-award-fee modification to a previously awarded contract for planning yard services. The work will be performed in Bath and is expected to be completed by January 2024. Senator Collins is a senior member of the Appropriations Committee and the Defense Appropriations Subcommittee. Senator King is a member of the Armed Services Committee and Chairman of the Strategic Forces Subcommittee. 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T03:24:37Z
https://golden.house.gov/media/press-releases/maine-delegation-and-governor-mills-respond-to-suspension-of-lobster-fishery-certification-by-marine-stewardship-council Maine Delegation and Governor Mills Respond to Suspension of Lobster Fishery Certification by Marine Stewardship Council 2022-11-16 2022 2022-11 Democrat House ME Jared F. Golden G000592 golden.house.gov golden https://golden.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper PORTLAND, ME – Maine Senators Susan Collins and Angus King, Representatives Chellie Pingree and Jared Golden, and Governor Janet Mills today released the following statement after the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) announced plans to temporarily suspend their certification of Maine’s lobster fishery. In their decision, MSC acknowledges that while the Maine fishery meets standards for sustainability and environmental impact and is unlikely to cause harm to right whales, it is unable to certify any fishery that is not in compliance with federal regulations – a standard MSC believes the fishery does not meet due to the ongoing litigation in CBD v. Ross. “Today’s decision by the Marine Stewardship Council to temporarily suspend certification of Maine’s lobster fishery is the result of a years-long campaign from misguided environmentalist groups who seem to be hellbent on putting a proud, sustainable industry out of business without regard to the consequences of their actions. While the Maine industry met the highest standards for environmental sustainability and impact, the current pending CBD v. Ross court case led by the Center for Biological Diversity, Conservation Law Foundation, Defenders of Wildlife, and the Humane Society of the United States made certification impossible. This litigation is based more on activism than evidence and is putting livelihoods in jeopardy. “To be clear, this decision is not a reflection on the Maine lobster industry. As the MSC clearly states, ‘there is no recent evidence that the Maine lobster fishery is responsible for entanglements or interactions with right whales.’ The temporary suspension is purely because activists with an axe to grind have weaponized the court system and the Endangered Species Act to target the livelihoods of thousands of Maine lobstermen, their families, and the communities who work responsibly to maintain the delicate balance in Maine’s waters. The Maine lobster fishery has always complied with National Marine Fisheries Service regulations, and had the… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T03:24:37Z
https://golden.house.gov/media/press-releases/maine-delegation-blasts-inconsistencies-of-noaa-s-vessel-strike-rule-that-treats-lobster-industry-unequally Maine Delegation Blasts Inconsistencies of NOAA’s Vessel Strike Rule that Treats Lobster Industry Unequally 2022-11-16 2022 2022-11 Democrat House ME Jared F. Golden G000592 golden.house.gov golden https://golden.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper Washington, D.C.—In response to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Agency (NOAA) favoring the shipping industry over the lobster industry in its attempts to reduce the risk of right whale deaths, U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King and Representatives Chellie Pingree and Jared Golden wrote to Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo to express their opposition to imposing stricter regulations on fishermen compared to other groups. Since 2019, there were six documented right whale deaths due to vessel strikes. NOAA recently proposed expanding the current mandatory seasonal vessel speed restrictions of 10 knots or fewer in designated ocean areas, which would reduce the risk of vessel strikes by only 27.5 percent. By contrast, NOAA is moving forward with implementing an onerous and unnecessary lobster gear rule that would purportedly reduce the risk of right whale mortalities by nearly 90 percent, even though there has never been a single right whale death or serious injury attributed to Maine’s lobster industry. “[T]this rule imposes different requirements on vessel traffic than it does commercial fisheries,” the Maine Delegation wrote. “Through this proposed rule, it is clear that the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) is holding Maine’s lobster industry to a much more stringent standard than other sectors…We encourage NMFS to take a hard look at the disparate regulatory treatment of vessel traffic and commercial fisheries before moving forward with additional rules for both sectors.” In their letter, the Maine Delegation outlined the numerous steps that Maine lobstermen have taken to reduce risks to right whales, and they renewed their push for NOAA to work with its Canadian counterpart to protect this fragile population. They also pointed out a number of contradictions of the new rule. For instance, unlike the lobster gear rule, which is based on estimated rather than confirmed deaths caused by entanglements, the vessel speed rule is confined to documented mortalities caused by ship strikes. Moreove… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T03:24:37Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/collins-king-announce-5-million-to-help-expand-broadband-in-rural-maine-communities Collins, King Announce $5 Million to Help Expand Broadband in Rural Maine Communities 2022-11-16 2022 2022-11 Independent Senate ME Angus S. King, Jr. K000383 www.king.senate.gov angusking https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table scraper Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Susan Collins (R-ME) and Angus King (I-ME) announced that the Maine Connectivity Authority will receive a total of $5,000,000 to support the development of a Five-Year action plan to close the broadband gap in rural Maine. This funding was authorized through the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act and provided through the Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) Program that was created and funded by the bipartisan infrastructure law. Senator Collins, the Ranking Member of the Transportation Appropriations Subcommittee, was part of the core group of 10 Senators who negotiated the text of the bipartisan infrastructure law. Senators Collins and King both worked to negotiate and pass this historic legislation, which will deliver billions of dollars to Maine for investments in broadband, roads, bridges, and more. “Access to high-speed Internet is critical to the vitality of rural communities, which is why I have long championed expanding access to broadband across Maine,” said Senator Collins. “From spurring job creation to supporting telemedicine and education, the Internet unlocks almost endless benefits and possibilities. I co-authored the broadband section of the law to help bridge the digital divide between rural and urban areas, and I am pleased that this funding will help Maine to take another step forward to extend its high-speed network to ensure that families have a reliable connection to their loved ones, co-workers, schools, and medical services.” “High-speed, affordable broadband access is essential for small businesses, telehealth patients, families, and students across rural and urban Maine,” said Senator King. “This investment from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law will improve internet speeds and bring important new opportunities to communities that need it most. I’m proud to see the continued impact of this bipartisan bill, and will continue working with my colleagues on programs that close the digital divide and help rural Maine thrive.” The BEAD Progr… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T03:24:37Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/delegation-msc-response Maine Delegation and Governor Mills Respond to Suspension of Lobster Fishery Certification by Marine Stewardship Council 2022-11-16 2022 2022-11 Independent Senate ME Angus S. King, Jr. K000383 www.king.senate.gov angusking https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table scraper PORTLAND, ME – Maine Senators Susan Collins and Angus King, Representatives Chellie Pingree and Jared Golden, and Governor Janet Mills today released the following statement after the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) announced plans to temporarily suspend their certification of Maine’s lobster fishery. In their decision, MSC acknowledges that while the Maine fishery meets standards for sustainability and environmental impact and is unlikely to cause harm to right whales, it is unable to certify any fishery that is not in compliance with federal regulations – a standard MSC believes the fishery does not meet due to the ongoing litigation in CBD v. Ross. “Today’s decision by the Marine Stewardship Council to temporarily suspend certification of Maine’s lobster fishery is the result of a years-long campaign from misguided environmentalist groups who seem to be hellbent on putting a proud, sustainable industry out of business without regard to the consequences of their actions. While the Maine industry met the highest standards for environmental sustainability and impact, the current pending CBD v. Ross court case led by the Center for Biological Diversity, Conservation Law Foundation, Defenders of Wildlife, and the Humane Society of the United States made certification impossible. This litigation is based more on activism than evidence and is putting livelihoods in jeopardy. “To be clear, this decision is not a reflection on the Maine lobster industry. As the MSC clearly states, ‘there is no recent evidence that the Maine lobster fishery is responsible for entanglements or interactions with right whales.’ The temporary suspension is purely because activists with an axe to grind have weaponized the court system and the Endangered Species Act to target the livelihoods of thousands of Maine lobstermen, their families, and the communities who work responsibly to maintain the delicate balance in Maine’s waters. The Maine lobster fishery has always complied with National Marine Fisheries Service regulations, and had the… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T03:24:37Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-cosponsors-bipartisan-legislation-to-ensure-federal-broadband-grants-are-delivered-in-full-not-taxed King Cosponsors Bipartisan Legislation to Ensure Federal Broadband Grants Are Delivered in Full, Not Taxed 2022-11-16 2022 2022-11 Independent Senate ME Angus S. King, Jr. K000383 www.king.senate.gov angusking https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Angus King, has cosponsored a bipartisan bill to maximize the historic broadband funding for residents across Maine. The Broadband Grant Tax Treatment Act (BGTTA) would classify broadband funding from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and the American Rescue Plan (ARP) as non-taxable income, ensuring that the entirety of federal dollars awarded to companies for the purpose of deploying broadband in Maine can be used wholly for that purpose, rather than going back to the government through taxes. Currently, grants awarded to industry for broadband deployment are factored into a company’s income unless Congress acts to address the problem. This new bipartisan legislation moves to exclude broadband deployment grants awarded through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and ARP from an organization’s income. “The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and American Rescue Plan made once-in-a-generation investments to help every Maine household get an affordable, reliable broadband connection. Now, we have to ensure the funding is delivered in full to accomplish our connectivity goals,” said Senator King. “Taxing federal broadband grants as income undermines the purpose of these historic internet connectivity programs and creates unnecessary hurdles for companies looking to invest in Maine. The Broadband Grant Tax Treatment Act (BGTTA) is a commonsense step to make the most of the new broadband funding. As we approach the one-year anniversary of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law’s signing, I hope Congress will pass this bipartisan effort to further improve legislation that is providing game changing opportunities for Maine communities.” "This is smart and focused legislation that will amplify the impact of both the BIL and ARP directly benefiting small businesses, communities, and consumers,” said Andrew Butcher, President of the Maine Connectivity Authority. “Maine's Internet Service Providers, contractors, and consumers have a huge job to build modern, world class high speed internet infrastruct… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T03:24:37Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-statement-after-senate-votes-to-advance-protections-for-marriage-equality King Statement after Senate Votes to Advance Protections for Marriage Equality 2022-11-16 2022 2022-11 Independent Senate ME Angus S. King, Jr. K000383 www.king.senate.gov angusking https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Angus King released the following statement after the United States Senate advanced the Respect For Marriage Act on a bipartisan 62-37 vote. The bill, cosponsored by Senator King, expands federal protections for same-sex and interracial marriages by requiring federal recognition of valid state marriages. The bill also guarantees that all marriages are given full legal status regardless of the couple’s sex, race, ethnicity, or national origin. “Marriage is one of life’s great gifts; it brings companionship, support, love, and joy. The decision to get married is a deeply personal choice between two people who love each other, it’s not an easy decision, and it’s not one where the government should have a say,” said Senator King. “The Respect For Marriage Act is a historic, long-overdue step to ensure Americans can marry the person they love without government interference while receiving significant tax and other benefits that come from the legally-recognized partnerships. “My decades-long marriage to my wife has been among the greatest privileges of my life. We were lucky that that our marriage did not face legal barriers, and there shouldn’t be for others who share the same love. Maine has long understood this fundamental right – it’s why we were the first state in the nation to legalize same-sex civil marriage by popular vote, and it’s why I’m a proud cosponsor of this bipartisan legislation. “It’s unfortunate that a law protecting the right to marry the person you love is even necessary. But with an activist Supreme Court that has repeatedly imposed their own religious views on the country and indicated it was open to reconsidering marriage equality rights, I feel this effort was critical to defend current and future loving couples. I’m deeply grateful that the Senate was able to come together and craft a commonsense, bipartisan law that carefully enshrines the right to same-sex and interracial marriage while respecting religious freedoms.” The Respect for Marriage Act, cospon… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T03:24:37Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/maine-delegation-blasts-inconsistencies-of-noaas-vessel-strike-rule-that-treats-lobster-industry-unequally Maine Delegation Blasts Inconsistencies of NOAA’s Vessel Strike Rule that Treats Lobster Industry Unequally 2022-11-16 2022 2022-11 Independent Senate ME Angus S. King, Jr. K000383 www.king.senate.gov angusking https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table scraper Washington, D.C.—In response to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Agency (NOAA) favoring the shipping industry over the lobster industry in its attempts to reduce the risk of right whale deaths, U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King and Representatives Chellie Pingree and Jared Golden wrote to Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo to express their opposition to imposing stricter regulations on fishermen compared to other groups. Since 2019, there were six documented right whale deaths due to vessel strikes. NOAA recently proposed expanding the current mandatory seasonal vessel speed restrictions of 10 knots or fewer in designated ocean areas, which would reduce the risk of vessel strikes by only 27.5 percent. By contrast, NOAA is moving forward with implementing an onerous and unnecessary lobster gear rule that would purportedly reduce the risk of right whale mortalities by nearly 90 percent, even though there has never been a single right whale death or serious injury attributed to Maine’s lobster industry. “[T]this rule imposes different requirements on vessel traffic than it does commercial fisheries,” the Maine Delegation wrote. “Through this proposed rule, it is clear that the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) is holding Maine’s lobster industry to a much more stringent standard than other sectors…We encourage NMFS to take a hard look at the disparate regulatory treatment of vessel traffic and commercial fisheries before moving forward with additional rules for both sectors.” In their letter, the Maine Delegation outlined the numerous steps that Maine lobstermen have taken to reduce risks to right whales, and they renewed their push for NOAA to work with its Canadian counterpart to protect this fragile population. They also pointed out a number of contradictions of the new rule. For instance, unlike the lobster gear rule, which is based on estimated rather than confirmed deaths caused by entanglements, the vessel speed rule is confined to documented mortalities caused by ship strikes. Moreove… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T03:24:37Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/on-senate-floor-king-touts-historic-urgency-of-2023-defense-bill On Senate Floor, King Touts Historic Urgency of 2023 Defense Bill 2022-11-15 2022 2022-11 Independent Senate ME Angus S. King, Jr. K000383 www.king.senate.gov angusking https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table scraper Watch Senator King’s full floor speech HERE and download broadcast quality HERE. WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine), a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee and Chairman of the Strategic Forces Subcommittee, today delivered remarks from the Senate Floor on the importance of protecting peace through strong military deterrence and passing the bipartisan 2023 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). In his speech, King explained the need to modernize the nation’s nuclear arsenal, support Ukraine as it fights for freedom, and improve resources for America’s servicemembers with pay raises and mental health care. Beginning his speech, Senator King explained the historic importance of preserving peace through strong military deterrence: “[The National Defense Authorization Act] is important because the essence of our defense policy since World War II has been deterrence. Deterrence means maintaining the capacity to inflict unacceptable costs on any potential adversary and the will to impose those costs if necessary,” began Senator King. “What we're really talking about in the National Defense Authorization Act is the capacity that we have at our disposal that can impose costs on our potential adversaries such that they will refrain from aggression and initiating a conflict, a conflict which in this day and age would be catastrophic.” “I would urge anyone who questions this assumption to Google Rhineland, 1936, Sudetenland, 1938, those were places Hitler could have been stopped, not with an enormous expenditure or enormous investment of troops or material, but by almost token resistance from the Western European powers that they utterly failed to do,” Senator King continued. “Had Hitler been confronted earlier before he completely rebuilt the Nazi war machine, World War II could have been avoided and all of those losses – tremendous losses in this country and around the world would have never happened… the only way to avoid war is to be prepared.” King, who chairs the Senate Armed Service… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T03:24:37Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/congressionally-directed-funding-secured-by-king-pingree-awarded-to-create-4-h-club-foundations-innovation-lab-in-bridgton Congressionally-Directed Funding Secured by King, Pingree Awarded to Create 4-H Club Foundation’s Innovation Lab in Bridgton 2022-11-14 2022 2022-11 Independent Senate ME Angus S. King, Jr. K000383 www.king.senate.gov angusking https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table scraper WASHINGTON, DC—U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine) and Representative Chellie Pingree (D-Maine) today announced that $450,000 in Congressionally-Directed Spending secured by the Maine leaders is headed to the Maine 4-H Club Foundation. The Maine 4-H Club Foundation intends to use the investment to leverage the purchase of Bridgton’s historic Magic Lantern Theater and operate an Innovation Lab and Learning Center. Run by the University of Maine Cooperative Extension, the Innovation Lab and Learning Center is the most recent addition to the 4-H Foundation’s family of learning centers across Maine and will serve as a hub of creative activity for rural youth in the Maine Lakes Region. The center will engage 3,000-4,000 students annually in activities encompassing STEAM, theater, engineering, small business management, marketing and culinary arts, raising student performance in Bridgton and the surrounding Cumberland and Oxford County communities. This is the first award of Congressionally-Directed Spending to be announced in Maine since the signing of the FY 2022 Appropriations Bill by President Biden. “Maine 4-H Club Foundation’s Innovation Lab and Learning Center will transform an underused historic Bridgton landmark into a place for young people to be creative and engaged outside of the classroom. This community hub will createnew enrichment opportunities for local youth, catalyze economic development in the region by providing workforce development opportunities, and provide resources to parents and teachers,” King and Pingree said. “This project showshow beneficial Congressionally-Directed Spending has been to Maine. We’re proud to have fought for and secured federal funding to support this rural youth initiative and hundreds of other vital projects across Maine.” In 2021, the House and Senate Appropriations Committees brought back Congressionally-Directed Spending after a decade-long hiatus. A study by the House Select Committee on the Modernization of Congress found that congressionally directed spending boos… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T03:24:37Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senators-collins-king-announce-more-than-15-million-for-atlantic-salmon-habitat-restoration-projects Senators Collins, King Announce More Than $1.5 Million for Atlantic Salmon Habitat Restoration Projects 2022-11-14 2022 2022-11 Independent Senate ME Angus S. King, Jr. K000383 www.king.senate.gov angusking https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table scraper Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King announced that four conservation organizations will receive a total of $1,569,333 to restore habitats for coastal and marine species in Maine, help support our nation’s fisheries, contribute to the recovery of threatened and endangered species, and build resilient coastal ecosystems and communities. The funding was awarded through the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). “We welcome this funding, which will help to conserve and restore marine habitats and ecosystems for endangered Atlantic Salmon in waterways across Maine,” said Senators Collins and King in a joint statement. “In addition to making substantial ecological improvements, these projects will also produce significant benefits to private landowners and local communities, improve public safety, enhance opportunities for recreational and commercial fisheries, and create jobs in rural areas of the state.” The funding was allocated as follows: The Nature Conservancy received $570,000 to complete the final designs to remove Guilford Dam and restore the adjacent floodplain, which will reconnect habitat for Atlantic salmon in the Piscataquis River watershed. The Nature Conservancy will also restore access to high-quality habitat by improving fish passage at three high-priority road crossings over streams. Project SHARE received $444,237 to replace undersized culverts at 13 sites, connecting habitat for Atlantic salmon across multiple watersheds. Project SHARE will also conduct fish passage feasibility studies at the Great Works Dam and Marion Falls fishway, as well as perform freshwater habitat restoration work in the Narraguagus River watershed. The Atlantic Salmon Federation received $401,514 to implement five projects to restore access to Atlantic salmon spawning and rearing habitats in the Kennebec River watershed. They will also conduct a fish passage feasibility study at the Chesterville Wildlife Management Area Dam on Little Norridgewock Stream. 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T03:24:37Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-statement-honoring-veterans-day-2022 King Statement Honoring Veterans Day 2022-11-11 2022 2022-11 Independent Senate ME Angus S. King, Jr. K000383 www.king.senate.gov angusking https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table scraper Watch Senator King’s Veterans Day video message and download broadcast quality HERE BRUNSWICK, ME – Today, U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine), a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, released the following statement in honor of Veterans Day. “In 1954, President Dwight D. Eisenhower issued the first Veterans Day Proclamation declaring November 11th as a day of ‘common purpose’ for all Americans to ‘remember the sacrifices of those who fought so valiantly to preserve our freedoms.’ Nearly 70 years later, we are still bound by this common purpose — to honor our servicemembers and to care for those who have shouldered the burden of our nation’s defense. “This sacrifice has resonated in our state from the nation’s earliest days as Maine people have embodied the Dirigo motto and proudly fought for the United States. With one of the nation’s highest rates of veterans per capita, those who served are woven into the fabric of every town and city across our state. So today at the dinner table, the grocery store, or the local veterans memorial, be sure to stop and thank a veteran – for their service and for their continued commitment to our communities. “While thanks are important and well deserved, that’s just the start. We also must commit to supporting our veterans in deeds as well as words. That means delivering stronger benefits, better healthcare, and improved educational and economic opportunity for those who served. These are all areas where, historically, the country has not done enough. We’ve made a lot of progress over the last few years, including with the passage of the PACT Act to support veterans exposed to burn pits and toxic hazards; but there is more work to be done. Today and every day, we must recommit ourselves to improving the lives of American veterans. “On this Veterans Day, it is my privilege to thank the Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, Marines, Guardians, and Coast Guardsmen who served and those that continue to serve our nation. I hope all Americans can join together in common purpose to h… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T03:24:37Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/on-veterans-day-senator-king-interviews-librarian-of-congress-on-importance-of-preserving-veterans-history On Veterans Day, Senator King Interviews Librarian of Congress on Importance of Preserving Veterans History 2022-11-11 2022 2022-11 Independent Senate ME Angus S. King, Jr. K000383 www.king.senate.gov angusking https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table scraper Watch the interview and download broadcast quality HERE BRUNSWICK, ME – Today, on Veterans Day, U.S. Senator Angus King, a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, released a conversation with Librarian of Congress Dr. Carla Hayden on the importance of preserving veteran history. In the interview, King and Dr. Hayden discussed Senator King’s ongoing contributions to the Library’s Veterans History Project (VHP) and the urgent need to save the stories of veterans for future generations. The conversation was recorded after King submitted nine of his Answering the Call Maine veteran interviews to the VHP. The project is an effort by the Library to collect, preserve, and distribute the personal accounts of American war veterans so that future generations may hear directly from veterans and better understand the realities of what it means to serve our country. “The first interview I did for our Veterans History Project in Maine was with a fellow named Carmine Pecorelli,” said Senator King. “Carmine enlisted at 17 in the Navy and World War Two. He then came back into service in the Air Force in Korea and came back into service in the Army in Vietnam. Three wars, three different services. We just lost him a few months ago – so that's a piece of history that would have been lost but is preserved because of this project.” “That's the whole point, really – capturing those stories while you can and having them for future generations. There are so many veterans that will say, ‘well, I didn't do that much.’ Well, everyone did something,” replied Dr. Hayden. “That’s the difference with the Veterans History Project from a lot of the other histories written about wars: we tell the individual story.” “Usually history is about generals and presidents and dictators, but the history, as seen through the eyes of the people who actually had to execute those policies, was very powerful,” added Senator King. Continuing their conversation, Senator King explained to Dr. Hayden how lessons from his Answering the Call interviews … 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T03:24:37Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senators-collins-king-applaud-sappi-north-americas-investment-in-skowhegan-paper-mill-2022 Senators Collins, King Applaud Sappi North America’s Investment in Skowhegan Paper Mill 2022-11-10 2022 2022-11 Independent Senate ME Angus S. King, Jr. K000383 www.king.senate.gov angusking https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Susan Collins (R-Maine) and Angus King (I-Maine) applauded the announcement of a $418 million investment from Sappi North America, Inc. at the Somerset Mill in Skowhegan. The significant investment will help the mill convert?Paper Machine No. 2 to diversify its specialty product line and double its production capacity. Construction of the expansion is expected to support 1,000 contractor jobs across Maine. “The forest products industry is a vital part of our state’s economy and identity, particularly in rural communities,” said Senators Collins and King. “As the industry embraces new opportunities, it’s essential that companies make the necessary investments to evolve with the market and secure long-term success. Sappi has done just that with their recent upgrades at the Somerset Mill in Skowhegan, which supports hundreds of Maine jobs. This investment will help Sappi reach new customers, support their hard-working employees, and keep the local economy strong. We are excited about this upcoming project and look forward to working alongside Sappi and other state leaders to find new opportunities and markets for Maine’s forest products industry.” “This move complements our long-term Thrive25 strategy, which focuses on growing our portfolio in packaging and specialty papers, pulp and biomaterials,” said Mike Haws, President and CEO of Sappi North America. “By investing in our business to pursue growing areas of demand, we can remain profitable and competitive in the global marketplace” With this investment, Sappi will convert?its Paper Machine No. 2 from a mix of coated wood-free graphics paper and coated one-sided label papers to solid bleached sulphate (SBS) board. The machine capacity will increase from 235,000 metric tons to 470,000 metric tons per year. The project will be phased in and is expected to be completed in early 2025. Currently, the Somerset Mill supports approximately 800 jobs in Skowhegan and 1,300 jobs in Maine. Senators Collins and King are strong suppo… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T03:24:37Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/collins-king-pingree-announce-12-million-to-strengthen-maines-lobster-industry-hold-noaa-accountable Collins, King, Pingree Announce $1.2 Million to Strengthen Maine’s Lobster Industry, Hold NOAA Accountable 2022-11-04 2022 2022-11 Independent Senate ME Angus S. King, Jr. K000383 www.king.senate.gov angusking https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King, and Representative Chellie Pingree, announced today that two Maine organizations will be receiving a total of $1.2 million from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) Sea Grant American Lobster Initiative to support the health of Maine’s lobster industry and help lobstermen adapt to any potential regulatory changes. The funding will be used by the Maine Department of Marine Resources (DMR) to research new, innovative gear technology, and by the Gulf of Maine Lobster Foundation to improve information and communications systems for lobstermen. These grants come after the Maine Delegation included language in the 2022 appropriations package that required Sea Grant to utilize this funding to support gear modernization. “The lobster industry is an integral part of Maine’s economy, plays a central role in our communities, and represents our state around the world. It is more than a fishery – it’s part of our identity,” said Senators Collins and King and Representative Pingree. “With the industry facing new regulatory challenges from NOAA, these funds are a critical step to give our lobstermen the resources and gear options they need to stay in business. It is simply unacceptable for NOAA to demand changes of the Maine lobster industry without providing them the resources to do so – that is why we secured this funding in last year’s appropriations bill, and why we will continue to do everything in our power to protect the country’s most valuable and iconic fishery. There’s more to be done to secure the long-term health and success of our coastal communities, but this is real progress.” “Testing of new gear technology is critically important since it is currently far from a viable option for industry and managers,” said Maine Department of Marine Resource Commissioner Patrick Keliher. “This award will support the evaluation of different gear retrieval and location systems, all of which must work for this technology to be a feasible pa… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T03:24:37Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senators-collins-king-announce-more-than-2-million-to-assist-native-american-crime-victims Senators Collins, King Announce More Than $2 Million to Assist Native American Crime Victims 2022-11-03 2022 2022-11 Independent Senate ME Angus S. King, Jr. K000383 www.king.senate.gov angusking https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table scraper Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King announced that Maine tribes will receive a total of $2,074,901 from the U.S. Department of Justice’s Office for Victims of Crime and Office on Violence Against Women to fund victim assistance programs and to help compensate Native American victims for crime-related losses. “We all have a responsibility to ensure that survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault receive the resources they need for their safety, wellbeing and recovery,” said Senators Collins and King in a joint statement. “This important investment will provide greater access to necessary services for Native American victims of domestic abuse and sexual assault, who are disproportionately affected by these crimes. In addition, this funding will help Maine Tribes to strengthen their response to these crimes and protect vulnerable members of their communities.” The funding was allocated as follows: Mi'kmaq Nation received $410,246 to implement services for victims of crime that meet needs identified by the community and reflect tribal community values and traditions. The Houlton Band of Maliseet Indians received $408,408 to implement services for victims of crime that meet needs identified by the community and reflect tribal community values and traditions. The Passamaquoddy Tribe of Indian Township received $410,246 to implement services for victims of crime that meet needs identified by the community and reflect tribal community values and traditions. Penobscot Nation received $410,246 to implement services for victims of crime that meet needs identified by the community and reflect tribal community values and traditions and $100,000 to expand Back to Traditional Values. The goal of this youth program is to provide purpose and meaning for Penobscot youth by building a learning community grounded in cultural traditions, environmental stewardship, and creative expression that fosters mentorship, peer-to-peer support, intergenerational exchange, and leadership that results in bet… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T03:24:37Z
https://golden.house.gov/media/press-releases/golden-gimenez-introduce-bipartisan-legislation-to-reauthorize-essential-firefighter-programs Golden, Giménez Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Reauthorize Essential Firefighter Programs 2022-11-02 2022 2022-11 Democrat House ME Jared F. Golden G000592 golden.house.gov golden https://golden.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON — Congressmen Jared Golden (D-ME), Carlos Giménez (R-FL), Dan Kildee (D-MI), and Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA) announced last Friday the introduction of the Fire Grants and Safety Act, bipartisan legislation to reauthorize and increase federal resources for local fire departments across the nation. The legislation would boost critical federal funds for local fire departments to address staffing shortages, purchase new equipment, and improve training and emergency services. Fire departments across Maine, particularly in rural areas, are experiencing significant losses in staffing and slowing interest in the volunteer fire fighting work that is critical to smaller communities [source, source]. “The Mainers who make up our fire departments put their lives on the line to protect their neighbors,” said Congressman Golden.“The federal government has a responsibility to ensure they have what they need to do their job and do it well. Increasing access to these resources – especially at a time of staff shortages throughout Maine – is just common sense. I’m proud to work with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to help advance this funding for departments in the Second District and across the country.” The Fire Grants and Safety Act would reauthorize funding for three key initiatives: the United States Fire Administration (USFA), the Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) program, and the Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) grant program. Since 2021, Maine fire departments have been awarded over $4 million in SAFER grants to assist in hiring new staff and more than $14 million in AFG grants. Without Congressional intervention, all three programs are set to expire starting in 2023 – endangering future recruitment, training, retention, and outfitting efforts. The bill is companion legislation to a bipartisan bill introduced in the Senate by Senators Gary Peters (D-MI) and Rob Portman (R-OH). “As a former fire fighter and Chief of the City of Miami Fire Rescue Department, I know firsthand h… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T03:24:37Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/collins-king-golden-celebrate-announcement-of-new-lp-houlton-mill-production-line Collins, King, Golden Celebrate Announcement of New LP Houlton Mill Production Line 2022-11-02 2022 2022-11 Independent Senate ME Angus S. King, Jr. K000383 www.king.senate.gov angusking https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table scraper Houlton, ME – U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King and Representative Jared Golden today celebrated Louisiana Pacific Building Solutions’ (LP) announcement that a new siding production line will be constructed at their Houlton facility. The $400 million investment will increase LP Houlton’s capacity by 340 million square feet of SmartSide siding a year and is expected to create approximately 100 jobs at the plant. This significant investment is in addition to the $150 million SmartSide facility LP Houlton announced earlier this summer. “LP Houlton’s new siding production line is a huge investment in the future of Northern Maine and its people. The $400 million expansion will create an estimated 100 additional jobs at LP and increase opportunities across the forest products industry – benefiting loggers, haulers, and everyone else in between who relies on Maine forests,” said Senators Collins and King and Representative Golden. “For over a generation, LP Houlton workers have embodied The County’s work ethic and spirit as they’ve manufactured modern wood products used around the globe. The new line will build on this proud legacy of excellence, grow the region’s economy, and help LP reach emerging markets with their world-class products. We’re grateful for this vote of confidence in the skill and dedication of LP’s workers and look forward to seeing the positive effect it will have across Aroostook communities.” 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T03:24:37Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senator-king-discusses-challenges-facing-maine-lobster-industry-in-october-podcast Senator King Discusses Challenges Facing Maine Lobster Industry in October Podcast 2022-10-31 2022 2022-10 Independent Senate ME Angus S. King, Jr. K000383 www.king.senate.gov angusking https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table scraper WASHINGTON D.C. – The Office of U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine) today released the October episode of Senator King’s “Inside Maine” podcast, in which Senator King and his guests discuss the current regulatory challenges facing Maine lobstermen and what the state and Congressional delegation are doing to support the industry. Senator King was joined by Pat Keliher, Commissioner of the Maine Department of Marine Resources (DMR), and Curt Brown, a second-generation lobsterman and marine biologist. Together, King and his guests lay out the implications of new proposed lobster regulations from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) to protect right whales and explain how the regulations completely miss the facts on the ground – including sustainability measures already taken by lobstermen and the lack of any whale entanglements since 2004 or deaths attributed to the fishery. The Maine leaders also react to the harmful decision by Monterey Bay Aquarium’s Seafood Watch to “Red List” Maine lobster without any real scientific evidence. “Maine lobstermen are fighting for their livelihoods. Between the possibility of harmful new federal regulations and baseless attacks from Seafood Watch, the iconic industry that supports countless coastal communities and contributes over $1 billion to our economy is facing serious challenges,” said Senator King. “As NOAA continues to move forward with its unreasonable lobster regulations, Maine leaders like Commissioner Pat Keliher and lobsterman Curt Brown are doing vital work to debunk the faulty science behind the proposed restrictions. Together, the state and Congressional Delegation will continue to oppose unfair and unwarranted burdens on the fishery and protect Maine’s future. There are no professionals more committed to the sustainability of Maine’s fisheries than Pat and his team, nor those who work the water and want to hand off a thriving future to children. It was a privilege to have these knowledgeable leaders join Inside Maine – I’m deeply thankful for… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T03:20:33Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/collins-king-announce-more-than-33-million-for-23-maine-fire-departments Collins, King Announce More Than $3.3 Million for 23 Maine Fire Departments 2022-10-27 2022 2022-10 Independent Senate ME Angus S. King, Jr. K000383 www.king.senate.gov angusking https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table scraper Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King announced that 23 fire departments and organizations in Maine have received a total of $3,311,791 to upgrade equipment and support personnel. This funding was awarded through the Fiscal Year (FY) 2021 Assistance to Firefighters Grants (AFG) and the FY 2021 Staffing for Adequate Fire Emergency Response (SAFER) Grants. As a senior member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, Senator Collins champions annual funding for these grant programs within the budget of the Federal Emergency Management Agency. “Firefighters put their lives on the line every day to protect Maine residents, homes, and businesses,” said Senators Collins and King in a joint statement. “This funding will allow Maine firefighters to acquire updated equipment so they have the best tools available to protect themselves as they serve our families and communities.” The funding was allocated as follows: Bangor Fire Department received $273,021 for paramedic training Belgrade Fire Department received $104,905 to purchase firefighter breathing apparatus Boothbay Harbor Fire Department received $30,000 to purchase a vehicle exhaust removal system Casco Fire Rescue Department received $14,362 to purchase fit testers for firefighter breathing apparatus facepieces Clinton Fire Department received $62,527 to purchase a breathing air compressor and fill station Eddington Fire Department received $26,948 to purchase firefighting hose and equipment Falmouth Fire-EMS received $165,713 for firefighter training Gorham Fire Department received $84,000 to purchase vehicle exhaust removal systems Gray Fire Rescue received $18,321 to purchase a firefighter breathing air cylinder fill station. Maine Fire Service Institute in South Portland received $108,609 for firefighter turnout gear, portable radios, training props and equipment. Med-Care Ambulance Service in Mexico received $82,739 to purchase portable radios and mobile repeaters. Oakland Fire and Rescue received $47,159 to purchase firefi… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T03:20:33Z
https://golden.house.gov/media/press-releases/golden-joins-maine-state-chamber-and-us-chamber-of-commerce-at-lewiston-manufacturing-facility Golden Joins Maine State Chamber and U.S. Chamber of Commerce at Lewiston Manufacturing Facility 2022-10-26 2022 2022-10 Democrat House ME Jared F. Golden G000592 golden.house.gov golden https://golden.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper LEWISTON — Congressman Jared Golden (ME-02) joined leaders from the Lewiston Auburn Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce, the Maine State Chamber of Commerce, and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce at Elmet Technologies, a local metal manufacturing facility in Lewiston yesterday. During the visit, the group toured Elmet’s facilities and spoke with Elmet employees, and the U.S. Chamber recognized the congressman for his work on behalf of Maine small businesses with the “Advocate for American Business” award. “I’ve been proud to join my colleagues on both sides of the aisle and the Chamber of Commerce at the local, state, and national level to put party labels aside, work together, and get things done for small businesses in Maine,” said Golden. “I’ve valued working with the chamber to get the bipartisan infrastructure bill passed, to help bring manufacturing back to America, and to help small businesses in our state grow and hire. I’m honored to receive the U.S. Chamber’s Advocate for American Business Award and look forward to continuing to work together on behalf of small businesses throughout the Second District.” The Advocate for American Business award is given to honor those who work on a bipartisan basis to support pro-growth and pro-business legislation aimed to strengthen businesses across the country. Presenting the award, U.S. Chamber of Commerce Eastern Region Vice President Stephen McCallister noted Golden’s work to push the bipartisan infrastructure law over the finish line last year and highlighted that legislation’s benefits for businesses large and small. Representatives at yesterday’s event include Stephen McCallister from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, Dana Connors from the Maine State Chamber, Shanna Cox from the Lewiston Auburn Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce, and Lewiston Mayor Carl Sheline. The group was hosted at Elmet Technologies by Peter Anania, the company’s Chief Executive Officer. Congressman Golden has worked to promote Maine manufacturing and jobs, including those at Elmet, during his tim… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:34:28Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senators-collins-king-announce-over-725000-to-support-law-enforcement-officers-in-five-communities-across-maine Senators Collins, King Announce Over $725,000 to Support Law Enforcement Officers in Five Communities Across Maine 2022-10-26 2022 2022-10 Independent Senate ME Angus S. King, Jr. K000383 www.king.senate.gov angusking https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table scraper Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King announced that four Maine municipalities and Penobscot County have received a total of $726,492 to hire law enforcement officers. This funding was awarded through the U.S. Department of Justice’s Office of Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS) Hiring Program. “In Maine and throughout the country, the dedicated men and women of our nation’s law enforcement community put their lives on the line every day to keep our communities safe,” said Senators Collins and King in a joint statement. “We welcome this important funding, which will help provide our local law enforcement agencies with the necessary resources and officers to protect families and promote public safety.” The funding was allocated as follows: The City of Biddeford received $125,000 The Town of Brunswick received $125,000 The City of Caribou received $125,000 The Town of Mexico received $101,492 Penobscot County received $250,000 The COPS Hiring Program is a competitive award program intended to reduce crime and advance public safety through community policing by providing direct funding for the hiring of career law enforcement officers. The program provides funds directly to law enforcement agencies to hire new or rehire additional career law enforcement officers, thereby increasing their community policing capacity and crime prevention efforts. 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T03:20:33Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senators-collins-king-announce-nearly-350000-to-increase-school-safety-in-franklin-county Senators Collins, King Announce Nearly $350,000 to Increase School Safety in Franklin County 2022-10-25 2022 2022-10 Independent Senate ME Angus S. King, Jr. K000383 www.king.senate.gov angusking https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table scraper Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King announced that $347,495 has been awarded to the Franklin County Sheriff’s Office to increase school safety across western Maine. The funding will be used to improve coordination with local law enforcement, train local law enforcement officers to prevent school violence, upgrade infrastructure such as lighting, acquire technology for expedited notification of local law enforcement during an emergency, and other measures. The Franklin County Sheriff’s Office collaborated on the grant application process with the Jay, Farmington, Rangeley, Wilton, and Carrabasset Valley Police Departments. The school districts that will receive funding include: RSU 73, RSU 9, RSU 58, Rangeley Schools, and Stratton Schools. “Protecting students and ensuring that Maine schools remain safe learning environments are of paramount importance,” said Senators Collins and King in a joint statement. “We welcome this investment, which will increase school safety by assisting communities with installing security measures and enhancing connections between schools and law enforcement to ensure that potential threats can be rapidly addressed. This funding is provided through the Department of Justice’s Students, Teachers, and Officers Preventing (STOP): School Violence Prevention Program (SVPP), a competitive grant program that assists schools in purchasing and installing technology to increase safety in schools throughout the country through evidence-based school safety programs. The nearly $72 million in grants awarded during 2022 will fund 235 projects. 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T03:20:33Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senators-collins-king-announce-maine-locations-for-2022-drug-take-back-day Senators Collins, King Announce Maine Locations for 2022 Drug Take-Back Day 2022-10-24 2022 2022-10 Independent Senate ME Angus S. King, Jr. K000383 www.king.senate.gov angusking https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table scraper Washington, D.C. – Ahead of the U.S. Drug Enforcement Agency’s (DEA) National Prescription Drug Take-Back Day on Saturday, October 29, U.S. Senators Susan Collins (R-ME) and Angus King (I-ME) announced the locations of the Maine collection sites. “Unused prescription drugs that collect in our homes can accidentally fall into the wrong hands, creating unintended gateways to opioid addiction,” said Senators Collins and King in a joint statement. “Maine is one of the top 10 states disposing prescription drugs through the DEA’s Drug Take-Back Program, and we are confident that our state will continue to lead efforts to stop the misuse of unused drugs that pose a serious threat to our children, our homes, and our environment.” National Prescription Drug Take-Back Day aims to provide a safe, convenient, and responsible means of disposing of prescription drugs, while also educating the general public about the potential for abuse of medications. In 2020, the collection sites began accepting vaping devices and associated substances. At a previous Take-Back Event in April 2022, federal, state, and local government entities took back more than 721,000 pounds of unused, expired, or unwanted drugs at more than 5,100 locations across the United States. Over the course of the program, more than 15.9 million pounds of prescription drugs have been safely collected across the country, including over 525,000 pounds of medication in Maine alone. Federal regulations allow pharmacies, hospitals, clinics, and other authorized collectors to serve as collection points for unused prescription medication. In 2014, following a bipartisan effort led by Senators Collins and Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), the Department of Justice granted the Departments of Defense (DoD) and Veterans Affairs (VA) the ability to participate in prescription drug take-back programs at DoD and VA facilities. This initiative has helped to address the role of prescription drug abuse in many military and veteran suicides. In 2018, a sweeping opioids package known a… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T03:20:33Z
https://golden.house.gov/media/press-releases/maine-delegation-introduces-bill-to-support-farmers-affected-by-pfas Maine Delegation Introduces Bill to Support Farmers Affected by PFAS 2022-10-21 2022 2022-10 Democrat House ME Jared F. Golden G000592 golden.house.gov golden https://golden.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper Washington, D.C.—In a bipartisan, bicameral effort to provide vital assistance to farmers affected by PFAS, U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King and Representatives Chellie Pingree and Jared Golden introduced the Relief for Farmers Hit with PFAS Act. The legislation, which was also co-sponsored by Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), would authorize grants for states to provide financial assistance to affected farmers, expand monitoring and testing, remediate PFAS, or even help farmers relocate. PFAS are man-made “forever” chemicals that are used in industry and consumer products and can lead to serious health effects. PFAS contamination has prevented some Maine farms from selling their products, creating financial hardship for many family farmers. In 2016, a dairy farmer in Arundel discovered that the milk produced on his farm contained some of the highest levels ever reported for a PFAS contaminant. In 2020, a dairy farm in Fairfield found PFAS levels in its milk were 153 times higher than the Maine standard. An organic vegetable farm in Unity uncovered PFAS contamination last year, and the couple who farmed the land have higher PFAS levels in their blood than chemical plant workers who manufactured PFAS for decades. Numerous other Maine farmers have had their livelihoods disrupted due to PFAS contamination, which originated in wastewater sludge that was spread as fertilizer by farmers who were told by the government that it was safe to use. “USDA needs to step up and provide support to farmers, who at no fault of their own, are at risk of losing their livelihoods,” said Senator Collins. “This is not just a problem in Maine—PFAS contamination has been discovered on farms in New Mexico and Michigan, and this problem will only become more evident as testing becomes more readily available. Thus far, the federal government’s response has failed to keep pace with this growing problem. I have repeatedly urged USDA Secretary Vilsack to come to the aid of these affected farmers, and the Relief for Farmers Hit with PF… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:34:28Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/collins-king-announce-45-million-to-rehabilitate-and-replace-maine-bridges Collins, King Announce $45 Million to Rehabilitate and Replace Maine Bridges 2022-10-19 2022 2022-10 Independent Senate ME Angus S. King, Jr. K000383 www.king.senate.gov angusking https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table scraper Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Susan Collins (R-ME) and Angus King (I-ME) announced that Maine will receive a total of $45,000,000 to maintain and reconstruct bridges across the state. This funding was authorized through the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act and provided through the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Highway Administration (FHWA). Senator Collins, the Ranking Member of the Transportation Appropriations Subcommittee, was part of the core group of 10 Senators who negotiated the text of the bipartisan infrastructure law. Senators Collins and King both worked to negotiate and pass this historic legislation, which will deliver billions of dollars to Maine for investments in roads, bridges, broadband, and more. This funding will help to address the backlog of repairs needed for Maine’s transportation network. Maine currently has more than 300 bridges considered to be “structurally deficient.” “Improving Maine’s infrastructure is one of my top priorities as Ranking Member of the Transportation Appropriations Subcommittee,” said Senator Collins. “This $45 million investment to replace and rehabilitate deteriorated bridges will benefit residents and local economies across the state, particularly in rural communities. Without adequate funding for maintenance, bridges that fall into disrepair become unsafe and subject to eventual closure, resulting in substantial detours and economic harm. By supporting projects that will strengthen bridge reconstruction programs, this funding through the bipartisan infrastructure law will help ensure that Mainers can reach their homes and jobs quickly and safely.” “Go for a drive basically anywhere in the State of Maine, and you’ll see the need for investments in roads and bridges. Whether it’s potholes, erosion damage, or rust, these vital arteries of our communities are aging – creating unsafe conditions, hampering our economy, and inflicting an average of more than $500 in annual repair costs for Maine drivers. Fortunately, thanks to funding from the… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T03:20:33Z
https://golden.house.gov/media/press-releases/golden-leads-bipartisan-veterans-calling-for-timely-construction-of-global-war-on-terrorism-memorial Golden Leads Bipartisan Veterans Calling for Timely Construction of Global War on Terrorism Memorial 2022-10-17 2022 2022-10 Democrat House ME Jared F. Golden G000592 golden.house.gov golden https://golden.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Representative Jared Golden (ME-02) led a bipartisan group of military veterans in calling for the thoughtful and timely construction of a Global War on Terrorism (GWOT) Memorial located on the National Mall. The letter comes ahead of the GWOT Memorial Foundation’s site selection review tomorrow, Tuesday, October 18th before the National Capital Memorial Advisory Commission (NCMAC). The review is a crucial step in determining the specific location of the GWOT Memorial on the National Mall. The Memorial will honor the veterans and their families who served and sacrificed during America’s Global War on Terror. “For many Americans, the wounds of war – literal and otherwise – are still fresh,” the bipartisan group of members wrote. “Many Gold Star families, veterans, and others who supported America’s post-9/11 counterterrorism efforts need a national place of healing, empowerment, and unity. All Americans deserve a place to honor those who have served our country in different capacities. The Memorial will also help educate a generation of Americans too young to remember the 9/11 attacks and subsequent valorous efforts to keep our country safe." “Perhaps most importantly, the Memorial must be built while the generation of warfighters who gave so much in places like Afghanistan and Iraq are still alive. Our veterans and others should not be forced to repeat the experience of our World War II veterans, who waited nearly 59 years from the end of World War II to see the inauguration of a Memorial in 2004.” As co-Chair of the For Country Caucus, Representative Golden helped lead the effort to secure the passage of the Global War on Terrorism Memorial Location Act as part of the Fiscal Year 2022 National Defense Authorization Act in December 2021. The legislation was the final step needed to authorize the GWOT Memorial on the National Mall. The GWOT Memorial Foundation is now working to secure approval on specific location and design for a Memorial on the Reserve Area of the National Mall. The … 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T03:20:33Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/65000-additional-h-2b-visas-to-be-issued-to-support-small-businesses-and-address-worker-shortage 65,000 Additional H-2B Visas to be Issued to Support Small Businesses & Address Worker Shortage 2022-10-17 2022 2022-10 Independent Senate ME Angus S. King, Jr. K000383 www.king.senate.gov angusking https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table scraper Washington, D.C. —Following a push led by U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the Department of Labor (DOL) announced today that they will increase the number of H-2B visas for Fiscal Year 2023 to the maximum number, approximately 65,000 additional visas, to help small businesses hire workers. These visas are on top of the 66,000 H-2B visas that are normally available each fiscal year. Notably, the announcement made clear that a portion of these additional visas will be “reserved to meet the demand for workers during the peak summer season.” DHS Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas called Senator Collins and Senator King to inform them of the additional visas. “As small businesses in Maine and America continue to face severe workforce shortages, these 65,000 additional H-2B visas will help our employers find the help they urgently need, ” said Senators Collins and King. “Although this relief is welcome news to many Maine small businesses, there is still an overwhelming need given the current tight labor market and record low unemployment. We must improve the H-2B program to ensure Maine small businesses do not continue to suffer from a lack of workers.” Senators Collins and King have long led efforts to address workforce shortages. Following a push in May, DHS and DOL announced that a temporary rule had been finalized that provided an additional 35,000 H-2B visas to help small businesses fill seasonal job openings during the busy summer season. These visas supplemented the previous supply of 33,000 H-2B visas for the second half of Fiscal Year 2022. 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T03:20:33Z
https://golden.house.gov/media/press-releases/golden-joins-local-law-enforcement-leaders-and-veterans-at-operation-reboot-outdoors-in-byron Golden Joins Local Law Enforcement Leaders and Veterans at Operation Reboot Outdoors in Byron 2022-10-07 2022 2022-10 Democrat House ME Jared F. Golden G000592 golden.house.gov golden https://golden.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper BYRON— Congressman Jared Golden (ME-02) was in Byron yesterday to tour the site of Operation Reboot Outdoors, a camp dedicated to giving veterans the opportunity to get into nature. The congressman was joined for the tour by camp founders Dan and Nicole Waite, Oxford County Sheriff Chris Wainwright, and Androscoggin County Deputy Attorney General Neil McLain. Following the tour, the group discussed opportunities to expand the group's operations, including building an ADA-compliant cabin and facilities on the site. “I know firsthand how important it is to have a support system when veterans return to civilian life,” said Golden. “The work being done at Operation Reboot Outdoors offers a safe, healing environment for veterans making the transition back to life at home. It was great to hear from the Waites about the program and from some of our veteran leaders on the ground in Oxford county about ways our office can help them support veterans during their adjustment period.” Operation Reboot Outdoors is an organization that provides local veterans, regardless of ability, with the opportunity to reset in nature through hunting, fishing, and other outdoor recreational activities. 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T03:20:33Z
https://golden.house.gov/media/press-releases/maine-delegation-governor-call-on-noaa-to-hold-additional-scoping-meetings-for-lobstermen-in-downeast-maine Maine Delegation, Governor Call on NOAA to Hold Additional Scoping Meetings for Lobstermen in Downeast Maine 2022-10-07 2022 2022-10 Democrat House ME Jared F. Golden G000592 golden.house.gov golden https://golden.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON — U.S. Senators Susan Collins (R-ME), Angus King (I-ME), Representatives Jared Golden (ME-02), Chellie Pingree (ME-01), and Governor Janet Mills sent a letter today to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) urging them to hold at least one additional in-person scoping hearing in Downeast Maine as the agency initiates Phase 2 of its heavily criticized Atlantic Large Whale Take Reduction Plan (ALWTRP) and corresponding regulations. The letter was sent following Wednesday evening’s widely attended public scoping meeting held by NOAA in Portland to gather community input to develop modifications to the ALWTRP. “As we have previously expressed to you, if implemented, the 90 percent risk reduction target NOAA Fisheries is pursuing in just two years would be a death knell for our nation’s lobster industry,” wrote the lawmakers.“It would close off thousands of miles of prime fishing areas and require lobstermen and women to make significant changes to how they harvest the resource, including the use of ‘ropeless’ fishing gear when it is not technologically or economically viable. Given these possible outcomes, it is unacceptable that your agency is only holding one in-person meeting hours away from some of our state’s largest lobster ports, forcing lobstermen to spend time off the water, which is their primary if not only source of income. This decision to knowingly limit opportunities to directly engage with the lobstermen and our coastal communities speaks volumes about your concern for their future.” As the lawmakers wrote in their letter, the site of Wednesday evening’s scoping meeting was hours away from some of the state’s most heavily trafficked lobster ports, the largest of which is in Stonington, a community over three hours away. The meeting was so highly attended that many of those present were not afforded the opportunity to speak in the time allotted for the meeting. “There is still time for NOAA officials to demonstrate their commitment to engaging with the people they are … 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T03:20:33Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/maine-delegation-governor-call-on-noaa-to-hold-additional-scoping-meetings-for-lobstermen-in-downeast-maine Maine Delegation, Governor Call on NOAA to Hold Additional Scoping Meetings for Lobstermen in Downeast Maine 2022-10-07 2022 2022-10 Independent Senate ME Angus S. King, Jr. K000383 www.king.senate.gov angusking https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table scraper WASHINGTON — U.S. Senators Susan Collins (R-ME), Angus King (I-ME), Representatives Jared Golden (ME-02), Chellie Pingree (ME-01), and Governor Janet Mills sent a letter today to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) urging them to hold at least one additional in-person scoping hearing in Downeast Maine as the agency initiates Phase 2 of its heavily criticized Atlantic Large Whale Take Reduction Plan (ALWTRP) and corresponding regulations. The letter was sent following Wednesday evening’s widely attended public scoping meeting held by NOAA in Portland to gather community input to develop modifications to the ALWTRP. “As we have previously expressed to you, if implemented, the 90 percent risk reduction target NOAA Fisheries is pursuing in just two years would be a death knell for our nation’s lobster industry,” wrote the lawmakers. “It would close off thousands of miles of prime fishing areas and require lobstermen and women to make significant changes to how they harvest the resource, including the use of ‘ropeless’ fishing gear when it is not technologically or economically viable. Given these possible outcomes, it is unacceptable that your agency is only holding one in-person meeting hours away from some of our state’s largest lobster ports, forcing lobstermen to spend time off the water, which is their primary if not only source of income. This decision to knowingly limit opportunities to directly engage with the lobstermen and our coastal communities speaks volumes about your concern for their future.” As the lawmakers wrote in their letter, the site of Wednesday evening’s scoping meeting was hours away from some of the state’s most heavily trafficked lobster ports, the largest of which is in Stonington, a community over three hours away. The meeting was so highly attended that many of those present were not afforded the opportunity to speak in the time allotted for the meeting. “There is still time for NOAA officials to demonstrate their commitment to engaging with the people they are… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T03:20:33Z
https://golden.house.gov/media/press-releases/ahead-of-attending-noaa-scoping-meeting-golden-calls-on-biden-to-uphold-promise-to-protect-maine-lobster-fishery Ahead of Attending NOAA Scoping Meeting, Golden Calls on Biden to Uphold Promise to Protect Maine Lobster Fishery 2022-10-05 2022 2022-10 Democrat House ME Jared F. Golden G000592 golden.house.gov golden https://golden.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON — Congressman Jared Golden (ME-02) sent a letter today to President Biden detailing the repercussions of his failure to protect Maine lobsterman as promised and urging him to oppose the right whale conservation measures currently proposed by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA). The letter was sent in advance of Golden attending this evening’s public scoping meeting held by NOAA in Portland to gather community input to develop modifications to their heavily criticized Atlantic Large Whale Take Reduction Plan (ALWTRP) and its corresponding regulations. “Given what we know — and what the data clearly demonstrates — about the low risk of Maine’s lobster fishery relative to other activities in right whale habitat, I cannot comprehend how you can stand idly by and not oppose in the strongest terms a proposal that has the potential to destroy thousands of livelihoods, hundreds of coastal communities, and the economic backbone of our state and the New England region,” wrote Golden in the letter. “Your complicity thus far is a slap in the face to thousands of working people who are confronting the uncertainty of whether or not they can continue to provide for their families, that their communities will survive, and that their children will be able to continue Maine’s long-standing lobstering heritage.” In 2020, while running for president, Biden pledged “I will work to protect the livelihood and safety of the fishing community” in reference to lobstermen. He has yet to take a single action to make good on that pledge. “You cannot espouse being a president for working people while simultaneously overseeing the destruction of an entire blue-collar fishery and its community’s heritage and way of life,” Golden continued. “I implore you to recognize and oppose these proposed right whale conservation measures and to meet with Maine’s congressional delegation as well as leaders of the lobster community to find common sense solutions to ensure that Maine’s lobster and fishing industries and … 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T03:20:33Z
https://golden.house.gov/media/press-releases/golden-king-to-introduce-bill-that-blocks-federal-funding-for-monterey-bay-aquarium-seafood-watch Golden, King to Introduce Bill that Blocks Federal Funding for Monterey Bay Aquarium, Seafood Watch 2022-10-05 2022 2022-10 Democrat House ME Jared F. Golden G000592 golden.house.gov golden https://golden.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON— Following the unsubstantiated and speculative decision by Monterey Bay Aquarium's Seafood Watch to place Maine lobster on their seafood “Red List,” Congressman Jared Golden (ME-02) and Senator Angus King (I-ME) today announced that they will be introducing the Red Listing Monterey Bay Aquarium Act in the House and Senate. This bill would prohibit federal taxpayer funds from going to the Monterey Bay Aquarium, which has received nearly $197 million in federal taxpayer dollars since 2001, and demonstrated a lack of adherence to transparency and basic scientific methods [source, source]. Senator Susan Collins (R-ME) and Congresswoman Chellie Pingree (ME-01) will sign on as cosponsors of the legislation. “Institutions like Monterey Bay Aquarium that claim to be scientific but openly flout available evidence and data should not receive taxpayer funds. It’s that simple,” said Congressman Golden. “This organization’s red list designation of American lobster could have a serious impact on the livelihoods of thousands of hard-working lobstermen, and I believe Congress must do something about it. There has never been a serious injury or death of the endangered North Atlantic right whale attributed to the Maine lobster fishery and to make recommendations or regulations in spite of that fact is a slap in the face to lobstermen and their families.” “The Monterey Bay Aquarium’s ‘Red Listing’ of Maine lobster is a baseless attack on a proud, sustainable fishery and a clear attempt to put thousands of Maine people out of work. By refusing to provide any evidence supporting their harmful decision and ignoring facts that undercut their conclusion, the Aquarium has made it clear that they are not a serious scientific organization, and certainly not one that deserves taxpayer funding,” said Senator King. “The Red Listing Monterey Bay Aquarium Act would ensure that Maine people’s hard-earned tax dollars aren’t funding the Aquarium’s pseudoscientific assault on our lobstering communities. It sends a clear message that w… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T03:20:33Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/golden-king-to-introduce-bill-that-blocks-federal-funding-for-monterey-bay-aquarium-seafood-watch Golden, King to Introduce Bill that Blocks Federal Funding for Monterey Bay Aquarium, Seafood Watch 2022-10-05 2022 2022-10 Independent Senate ME Angus S. King, Jr. K000383 www.king.senate.gov angusking https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table scraper WASHINGTON— Following the unsubstantiated and speculative decision by Monterey Bay Aquarium's Seafood Watch to place Maine lobster on their seafood “Red List,” Congressman Jared Golden (ME-02) and Senator Angus King (I-ME) today announced that they will be introducing the Red Listing Monterey Bay Aquarium Act in the House and Senate. This bill would prohibit federal taxpayer funds from going to the Monterey Bay Aquarium, which has received nearly $197 million in federal taxpayer dollars since 2001, and demonstrated a lack of adherence to transparency and basic scientific methods [source, source]. Senator Susan Collins (R-ME) and Congresswoman Chellie Pingree (ME-01) will sign on as cosponsors of the legislation. “Institutions like Monterey Bay Aquarium that claim to be scientific but openly flout available evidence and data should not receive taxpayer funds. It’s that simple,” said Congressman Golden. “This organization’s red list designation of American lobster could have a serious impact on the livelihoods of thousands of hard-working lobstermen, and I believe Congress must do something about it. There has never been a serious injury or death of the endangered North Atlantic right whale attributed to the Maine lobster fishery and to make recommendations or regulations in spite of that fact is a slap in the face to lobstermen and their families.” “The Monterey Bay Aquarium’s ‘Red Listing’ of Maine lobster is a baseless attack on a proud, sustainable fishery and a clear attempt to put thousands of Maine people out of work. By refusing to provide any evidence supporting their harmful decision and ignoring facts that undercut their conclusion, the Aquarium has made it clear that they are not a serious scientific organization, and certainly not one that deserves taxpayer funding,” said Senator King. “The Red Listing Monterey Bay Aquarium Act would ensure that Maine people’s hard-earned tax dollars aren’t funding the Aquarium’s pseudoscientific assault on our lobstering communities. It sends a clear message that w… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T03:20:33Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senator-kings-remarks-as-prepared-for-delivery-at-noaa-lobster-regulation-meeting Senator King’s Remarks as Prepared for Delivery at NOAA Lobster Regulation Meeting 2022-10-05 2022 2022-10 Independent Senate ME Angus S. King, Jr. K000383 www.king.senate.gov angusking https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – The Office of U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine) today released a copy of Senator King’s remarks that will be delivered by a staff member at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) 6:00 PM, Wednesday, October 5th, Portland scoping meeting where the agency will receive feedback on their Atlantic Large Whale Take Reduction Plan and the impacts it would have on Maine lobstermen. In his remarks, Senator King directly addresses NOAA Atlantic Large Whale Take Reduction Coordinator Marisa Trego and urges her to better engage with lobstermen to prevent significant harm from the proposed regulations. Senator King’s remarks begin by laying out the importance of the scoping meeting, the potential harm of the 90% risk reduction proposed by NOAA, and the need for better engagement with the Maine lobstering community. “I appreciate NOAA hosting this in-person meeting tonight to discuss modifications to the Atlantic Large Whale Take Reduction Plan. The 90% risk reduction that NOAA has proposed will have a devastating impact on our fishing industry, working waterfronts, and coastal communities—it is critical that NOAA receive input from all of the impacted communities,” begins Senator King. “One additional in-person meeting, however, is simply not enough. Tonight’s meeting in Portland is hours away from our coastal communities like Stonington where the majority of lobster is landed.” The Senator’s remarks continue by highlighting the longstanding commitment to sustainability shared by Maine lobstermen. “For decades, [Maine] lobstermen have committed themselves to the sustainability and long-term health of our waters—because they know that one day, just like those who came before them, it will be the turn of future generations to take to these tides. NOAA’s proposed 90% risk reduction clouds that future though,” Senator King’s remarks continue. “As part of ongoing collaboration with NOAA, lobstermen have already spearheaded a number of efforts—at cost to their bottom-line—to reduce the r… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T03:20:33Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/continuing-their-advocacy-for-maines-small-dairy-farmers-collins-king-call-for-review-of-federal-milk-pricing-system Continuing Their Advocacy for Maine’s Small Dairy Farmers, Collins, King Call for Review of Federal Milk Pricing System 2022-10-03 2022 2022-10 Independent Senate ME Angus S. King, Jr. K000383 www.king.senate.gov angusking https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table scraper Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King called on the U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO) to evaluate the federal milk pricing system’s effectiveness, as it currently leaves many of Maine’s small and mid-sized dairy farmers at risk of inadequate pay. The requested GAO report would provide important information to help modernize the Federal Milk Marketing Order system (FMMO) and ensure that it is working in the best interests of all farms, regardless of the size of its operations. “We would like to ensure that the FMMO Program is being administered in a manner that accounts for the interests of smaller-scale operations, particularly in the regions of the country that are dependent on smaller-scale farms to provide stable and adequate supplies of milk,” the Senators wrote. “We would also like to ensure that the FMMO Program is being administered in a manner that does not cause undue burden and cost for state dairy regulatory and support programs that maintain the viability of small-scale farms.” Senators Collins and King are longstanding advocates for dairy farmers and have consistently worked to reform the FMMO system, which is one of the most complicated economic systems in the country and, in its current form, forces farmers to contend with potentially volatile milk prices and the risk of inadequate pay. These challenges, in addition to rising costs and intensifying competition, have forced many small dairy farmers to leave the industry. The U.S. has lost nearly 60% of its licensed dairy operations since 2003. The letter is a follow-up to a bill Senator Collins introduced and Senator King co-sponsored, the Dairy Pricing Opportunity Act, which would pave the way for reforming and modernizing federal milk pricing. The bill would require the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to initiate the process of holding FMMO hearings within six months, allowing producers and industry to consider and review proposals that could change Class I skim milk pricing and other topics deemed necess… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T03:20:33Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-calls-for-strong-implementation-of-corporate-minimum-tax-in-inflation-reduction-act King Calls For Strong Implementation of Corporate Minimum Tax in Inflation Reduction Act 2022-10-03 2022 2022-10 Independent Senate ME Angus S. King, Jr. K000383 www.king.senate.gov angusking https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table scraper WASHINGTON D.C. – The Office of U.S. Senator Angus King today announced that Senator King is urging the United States Department of the Treasury to strongly implement the 15 percent corporate minimum tax on billion-dollar corporations included in the Inflation Reduction Act. In a letter to U.S Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen with Senators Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass), Michael Bennet (D-Colo.), and Representative Donald Beyer (D-Virginia), King lays out the deficit-cutting need for strong corporate minimum tax enforcement, and highlights how the important new tax-fairness provision prevents companies like Amazon from paying less in federal taxes than a welder at BIW. The provision was based on King’s Real Corporate Profits Minimum Tax Act that he introduced in October 2021. “We write to urge you to pursue strong implementation of the 15 percent corporate minimum tax on billion-dollar corporations in the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022,” the lawmakers write. “After nearly three decades of corporate tax cuts, this historic legislation will prevent the largest, most profitable corporations from paying less in taxes than small businesses and middle-class families, while helping to pay down the deficit, lower energy and healthcare costs, and fight inflation.” “For years, many of America’s largest and most profitable corporations have paid far less than the statutory federal tax rate, or even nothing at all,” the lawmakers continue. “The Inflation Reduction Act will put a floor on this tax avoidance and limit the ability of these corporations that report at least $1 billion in profits to their shareholders to pay less than a minimum 15 percent federal tax rate, still well below the statutory rate of 21 percent. The Congressional Joint Committee on Taxation projected that the tax would raise more than $222 billion over the next ten years and impact only approximately 150 taxpayers annually.” “This corporate minimum tax on billion-dollar corporations has the strong support of hardworking Americans and businesses that do p… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T03:20:33Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/with-cyberthreats-on-the-rise-king-joins-bipartisan-bill-to-improve-healthcare-cybersecurity With Cyberthreats on the Rise, King Joins Bipartisan Bill to Improve Healthcare Cybersecurity 2022-10-03 2022 2022-10 Independent Senate ME Angus S. King, Jr. K000383 www.king.senate.gov angusking https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – The Office of U.S. Senator Angus King today announced that Senator King, Co-Chair of the Cyberspace Solarium Commission, has joined bipartisan legislation to strengthen cybersecurity in the healthcare and public health sectors. As cyberthreats from Russia, China, and other bad actors increase, the Healthcare Cybersecurity Act would direct the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) to collaborate with the Department of Health and Human Services on improving cybersecurity and combatting risks across public health infrastructure. Cyberattacks on healthcare systems – like the attacks on MaineHealth and Central Maine Medical Center – have become increasingly frequent; they pose serious risks to Americans’ health and sensitive personal medical information. “In just the last years alone, two of Maine’s major healthcare providers have been the victims of cyberattacks. This new threat to America’s critical infrastructure is real, and could literally mean the difference between life and death – we must take proactive steps to enhance the cybersecurity of our healthcare and public health sectors,” said Senator King. “The bipartisan Healthcare Cybersecurity Act would create a coordinated federal program to help healthcare systems across the country better understand and respond to the cyberthreats they face. This would mean less breaches, a better organized government response, and a greater peace of mind for Maine people seeking healthcare. As cyberthreats from our adversaries grow, this is a commonsense effort to keep our critical health infrastructure safe and I hope it can continue to get broad, bipartisan support.” “The protection of patient health information is essential to meeting MaineHealth's vision of supporting healthy communities,” said Daniel Nigrin, Chief Information Officer for MaineHealth. “We are grateful to Senator King and his co-sponsors for taking action through this bill to leverage existing federal resources in training and planning to protect our critical health … 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T03:20:33Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-cornyn-kaine-introduce-legislation-to-create-a-china-grand-strategy-commission-to-navigate-growing-competition King, Cornyn, Kaine Introduce Legislation to Create a China Grand Strategy Commission to Navigate Growing Competition 2022-09-30 2022 2022-09 Independent Senate ME Angus S. King, Jr. K000383 www.king.senate.gov angusking https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Angus King (I-Maine), John Cornyn (R-Texas), and Tim Kaine (D-Virginia) are introducing bipartisan legislation to establish a China Grand Strategy Commission tasked with developing a comprehensive whole-of-government approach for how the United States should address the economic, security, and diplomatic challenges posed by China. The proposed 2-year commission is modeled after the recent, successful Cyberspace Solarium Commission and President Eisenhower’s Solarium Commission that addressed the significant shift in global affairs at the end of World War II. The idea has already been praised by top military leaders. The bill is also cosponsored by Senators Kevin Cramer (R-N.D.), Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), Mike Rounds (R-S.D.), Jackie Rosen (D-Nevada), Tom Carper (D-Del.), Joe Manchin (D-W.V.), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Thom Tillis (R-N.C.), Tom Young (R-Indiana), Susan Collins (R-Maine), Ben Sasse (R-Nebr.), and Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.). The bipartisan group intends to add the bill as an amendment to the 2023 National Defense Authorization Act. “The world is undergoing a period of significant change: economies are shifting, alliances are changing, and national security threats are rapidly evolving. At almost every turn, the United States is facing new challenges from an increasingly aggressive China. If we want to maintain our global status we must be able to answer the question I’ve been asking witnesses in the Armed Services Committee for years: ‘What Does China Want?” said Senator King, Co-Chair of the Cyberspace Solarium Commission. “Much like the successful Cyberspace Solarium Commission, it would harness the smartest public and private sector minds to study, and evaluate on how our nations interact – striking the balance between avoiding conflict and fully pursuing our national interest. Most vitally, this commission isn’t putting a report on a shelf to collect dust; it will make actionable recommendations to develop a grand strategy across the entire government; this com… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T03:08:33Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-introduces-bill-to-promote-electric-school-buses-improve-grid-stability King Introduces Bill to Promote Electric School Buses, Improve Grid Stability 2022-09-30 2022 2022-09 Independent Senate ME Angus S. King, Jr. K000383 www.king.senate.gov angusking https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table scraper BRUNSWICK, ME – U.S. Senator Angus King, a member of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, has introduced legislation to promote electric school buses and improve electrical grid stability and reliability for Maine towns. The BIDIRECTIONAL Act would create a Department of Energy program dedicated to deploying electric school buses with “bidirectional vehicle-to-grid (V2G) flow capability,” or the ability to use the bus batteries to power the electrical grid when they’re not in use. Electric school buses work well for vehicle-to-grid because they have large batteries, sit idle for long, predictable periods, and operate in fleets. If properly deployed, the technologies have the possibility to discount the upfront cost of an electric school bus by returning energy to a school district or town. “Vehicle-to-grid school buses are another common sense tool that can help to create a reliable grid, promote clean energy, and cut costs for local towns and school districts,” said Senator King. “The BIDIRECTIONAL Act will assist school districts across Maine and America transition to electric buses and make sure these vehicles provide greater stability to their communities. Combined with electric bus investments in the Inflation Reduction Act, this will be an important step towards unlocking America’s clean energy future. It’s a simple, win-win bill and I hope it can get bipartisan support across Congress.” The BIDIRECTIONAL Act is supported by Advanced Energy Economy, Blue Bird, bp Pulse Fleet (formerly Amply), Community Organization for Resource Efficiency (CORE), EDF, Electrification Coalition, Environment America, Highland Electric, Lion Electric, La Plata Electric Association, NRECA, Nuvve, PIRG, Proterra, and Xcel Energy. For quotes from supporting organizations, CLICK HERE. The BIDIRECTIONAL Act would: Create a Department of Energy program dedicated to deploying electric school buses with bidirectional energy flow capability with priority given to applications that demonstrate economic viability and se… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T03:08:33Z
https://golden.house.gov/media/press-releases/1-billion-for-liheap-advances-following-advocacy-by-collins-golden-reed-welch-and-garbarino $1 Billion for LIHEAP Advances Following Advocacy by Collins, Golden, Reed, Welch and Garbarino 2022-09-29 2022 2022-09 Democrat House ME Jared F. Golden G000592 golden.house.gov golden https://golden.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper Washington, D.C. – Today, by a vote of 72-25, the Senate passed a short-term government spending bill to fund the federal government through December 16th and provide emergency funding for critical needs—including $1 billion in supplemental appropriations for LIHEAP. Maine will receive an estimated $8 million in additional LIHEAP funding, a roughly 20 percent increase above the state’s allotment in a typical year. The bill is expected to be voted on by the House of Representatives shortly before it is sent to the President’s desk to be signed into law. Senator Susan Collins (R-ME), Congressman Jared Golden (D-ME), Senator Jack Reed (D-RI), Congressman Peter Welch (D-VT), and Congressman Andrew Garbarino (R-NY) secured this historic increase in funding for the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program LIHEAP, a vital source of financial support for families struggling with high utility bills. LIHEAP helps low-income families meet their home energy needs by providing energy bill assistance. “In Maine, the average cost of home heating is expected to surge by more than 17 percent compared to last winter, and households will be paying the highest prices in more than a decade to keep their homes warm,” said Senator Collins. “To help alleviate this tremendous hardship, I strongly advocated for this substantial increase for LIHEAP to help compensate for record high fuel prices. These additional funds will help prevent low-income families and seniors from having to make the impossible choice between paying for heat and paying for food or medicine. Congress should pass and the Administration should distribute this relief expeditiously as the cold winter months approach.” “With home heating costs still way too high across the country and temperatures dropping, we cannot leave our most vulnerable community members out in the cold,” said Congressman Golden. “This much-needed funding will help to ensure that our seniors, friends and neighbors on fixed incomes, and other Mainers in need have the resources necessary to keep … 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T03:08:33Z

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