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

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390 rows where state = "ME" and year = 2026 sorted by date descending

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party 3

  • Republican 154
  • Independent 128
  • Democrat 108

chamber 2

  • Senate 282
  • House 108

year 1

  • 2026 · 390 ✖

state 1

  • ME · 390 ✖
url title date ▲ year month party chamber state member_name bioguide_id domain scraper source date_source text has_text collected_at updated_at
https://golden.house.gov/media/press-releases/golden-bipartisan-colleagues-introduce-smile-for-veterans-act Golden, bipartisan colleagues introduce SMILE for Veterans Act 2026-09-28 2026 2026-09 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), Jack Bergman (MI-01), Don Davis (NC-01) and Jeff Van Drew (NJ-02) introduced the SMILE for Veterans Act, to expand affordable dental care for veterans in rural communities across the country. “VA health care is an essential benefit for our nation’s veterans, but for too long a lack of dental coverage has been a massive gap in care. The mouth is part of the body, and our veterans shouldn’t have to jump through hoops to get basic dental care. I’m proud to work with Reps. Bergman, Davis and Van Drew on the SMILE for Veterans Act, which takes a smart first step toward more comprehensive coverage by focusing on rural areas where barriers to care are the highest and community providers that can help close the gap,” Golden said. Under current law, only about 15 percent of the nearly nine million veterans enrolled in health care through the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) are eligible for VA dental services. Eligibility is generally limited to veterans with a service-connected dental condition, a 100 percent disability rating or former prisoner-of-war status. Efforts to broadly expand dental coverage through the VA have faced significant cost and capacity challenges, including the need for additional personnel, facilities, and community-care infrastructure. The SMILE for Veterans Act takes a targeted approach by creating a pilot program to reimburse existing community-based dental providers to serve rural veterans. By leveraging providers and infrastructure already in place, the legislation would expand access to dental care in underserved communities without requiring the VA to build a new system from the ground up. Research from the CareQuest Institute in 2024 found that more than one-third of veterans surveyed rated their oral health as only fair or poor, while more than 75 percent of respondents reported losing two or more teeth to decay or gum disease. Nearly four in 10 veterans reported having no dental insurance. “For too many Veterans in rural communities, … 1 2026-09-29T11:07:12Z 2026-09-29T11:08:49Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-introduces-bipartisan-bill-to-improve-veterans-access-to-high-cost-prescription-medications King Introduces Bipartisan Bill to Improve Veterans’ Access to High-Cost Prescription Medications 2026-09-28 2026 2026-09 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. Senator Angus King (I-ME) is introducing bipartisan legislation to improve access to high-cost prescription drugs for veterans living in state veterans’ homes. The Providing Veterans Essential Medications Act would require the Department of Veterans’ Affairs (VA) to reimburse State Veterans Homes (SVH) for high-cost medications that exceed 8.5% of their per diem rate, like the arrangement many private contract nursing homes currently have with the VA. Alternatively, it could require the VA to provide these medications directly to the SVHs. Maine has six SVH’s in locations across the state. Currently, the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) does not pay State Veterans Homes for high-cost medications for severely disabled veterans, which are covered for veterans who reside outside the facilities. Senator Jim Banks (R-IN) joins Senator King as a lead co-sponsor of the bill. “Our men and women in uniform didn’t hesitate when it came time to answer the call and serve the nation – we shouldn’t hesitate to make their retirement from service as comfortable as possible,” said Senator King. “If the VA covers veterans’ medications when they are living at a private nursing home, those cost reimbursements should be the same when veterans choose to enter a facility that specializes in taking care of veterans. This bipartisan Providing Veterans Essential Medications Act is a crucial piece of legislation that will ensure our veterans continue to receive the care they have earned, regardless of where they chose to live.” “State veterans’ homes should never have to turn away elderly and disabled veterans because lifesaving medications are too expensive,” said Senator Banks. “This bipartisan bill will help states cover those costs and expedite care for our nation’s heroes.” Since the successful passage of the PACT Act in 2022, there has been a significant increase in the number of veterans adjudicated as being severely disabled. For these veterans, the VA currently pays a per diem but doesn’t pay the Sta… 1 2026-09-29T11:07:12Z 2026-09-29T11:08:49Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-slams-unconstitutional-lawlessness-of-trump-rescissions King Slams “Unconstitutional Lawlessness” of Trump Rescissions 2026-09-26 2026 2026-09 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. Senator Angus King (I-ME) issued the following response to news that the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) rescinded nearly one billion dollars of Congressionally-approved bipartisan spending without warning or Congressional authorization: “This administration’s Office of Management and Budget has just unilaterally taken away 800 million dollars that Congress passed on a bipartisan basis towards key priorities – in blatant defiance of the Constitution and federal law. “This isn’t a vague legal concept they are abusing; it’s grade school-level American government: Article 1 of the United States Constitution. Elected lawmakers make funding decisions to provide for the common defense and support the general welfare - that’s the beating heart of representational democracy. “But this President and his administration no doubt believe they can get away with such an illegal action – because, for over 20 months, they have. Watching the President spend billions on his unauthorized and illegal war that is costing lives and wrecking household budgets; wage economic warfare on our allies through tariffs that hike costs for Americans on everyday goods and spend over a billion dollars on his vanity projects, the Congressional majority has shown no resistance. “Why does he believe he can claw back a nearly billion dollars of bipartisan-approved Congressional spending? Because this Congress has enabled him by declining to stand up for itself and the rule of law – even voting down a Senate attempt to formally ban rescissions like this on party lines. After nearly two years of this explicitly unconstitutional lawlessness, will my colleagues finally say ‘no more?’ I urge my colleagues to come together, reject this unconstitutional pattern of behavior, and reset the balance among the branches of government. “President Trump is having enough difficulty doing his job; Congress should take this opportunity to do ours.” ### 1 2026-09-27T10:23:37Z 2026-09-27T10:25:08Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/collins-king-celebrate-maines-iconic-lobster-industry-on-national-lobster-day Collins, King Celebrate Maine’s Iconic Lobster Industry on ‘National Lobster Day’ 2026-09-25 2026 2026-09 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 and Susan Collins are celebrating Maine’s iconic lobster industry after the Senate unanimously passed their bipartisan resolution recognizing September 25, 2026, as “National Lobster Day.” The resolution recognizes the crustacean as a foundational part of Maine’s economy and culture. The resolution also highlights the environmental and economic impact of this heritage industry. “Fueling the lobster’s iconic status are the hardworking men and women who wake up early every morning in towns up and down our coastline to carry on the proud lobstering tradition,” said Senator King and Collins. “This National Lobster Day, let us highlight their work to ensure the long-term health, resiliency, and sustainability of our waters and the hundreds of millions of dollars they bring to our local economy. Our lobstermen bring immeasurable pride to our great state and this resolution is just one way we can acknowledge and appreciate their service to our communities.” "National Lobster Day comes at peak Maine Lobster season and is the perfect time to enjoy the sweet flavor and tender texture of your favorite lobster dish,” said Marianne LaCroix, Executive Director of the Maine Lobster Marketing Collaborative. “While celebrating this delicious treat, people are also supporting the independent fishermen and coastal communities that have worked for generations to bring lobster to tables everywhere." Lobster is a top economic driver for the state of Maine. The Maine lobster fishery is one of the oldest continually operated industries in North America, with the first documented catch dating back to the 1600s. Today, Maine is the largest lobster-producing state in the nation. Each year, the fishery employs 5,600+ independent lobstermen, harvests 100+ million pounds of lobster, and contributes $1+ billion to the Maine economy. Senator King and Collins have been top advocates for the Maine lobster industry, most recently urging Senate action to extend the current lobster regulatory pause to … 1 2026-09-26T09:43:57Z 2026-09-26T09:44:55Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-introduces-legislation-supporting-fire-departments-and-boosting-community-home-safety-standards King Introduces Legislation Supporting Fire Departments and Boosting Community Home Safety Standards 2026-09-24 2026 2026-09 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. Senator Angus King (I-ME) is introducing a key piece of legislation that would support fire departments responding to in-home emergencies. More specifically, the FASTER Act would fund grants to support fire department safety visits, simple home modifications like grab bars, and connections to lifesaving community resources. The legislation is being introduced during the annual Falls Prevention Awareness Week and would empower local fire departments to initiate a program where seniors could sign up to get lock boxes installed (local FD had the master key) so Emergency Medical Services (EMS) don’t have to knock down their door to get inside to respond to an emergency. While at the senior’s home installing the lock box, the fire department staff could also evaluate the home for fall hazards and suggest minor home modifications. On a percentage basis, Maine leads the nation with the largest 65 and older population. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), falls are the leading cause of injury for adults ages 65 years and older. There are roughly 1 million fall-related hospitalizes and 3 million emergency department visits annually across the country due to falls. “We all know the saying ‘an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure,’ and preventative care is a win-win for Maine patients, families and the taxpayers,” said Senator King. “The FASTER Act is a critical step forward in supporting older Maine people and making sure that fire departments have the tools and resources to respond to in-home emergencies promptly while avoiding costly complications. Tools like lock boxes, grab bars or handrails can be the difference between a simple installation and an avoidable injury, while reducing time-consuming delays for responders. This is just another effort we are making in the Congress to help Maine people—and all older Americans—to stand strong.” Preventing falls is also about enabling adults to age comfortably in their homes, which is where most Americans want to age. At a tim… 1 2026-09-26T09:43:57Z 2026-09-26T09:44:55Z
https://pingree.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=6865 Pingree, Kelly Call Out Reports of Illegal Union-Busting at Prime Healthcare 2026-09-23 2026 2026-09 Democrat House ME Chellie Pingree P000597 pingree.house.gov pingree https://pingree.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper U.S. Representatives Chellie Pingree (D-Maine) and Robin Kelly (D-Ill.) are leading a group of their Democratic colleagues in demanding that Prime Healthcare end alleged intimidation and retaliation against nurses engaged in federally protected union activity at its hospitals in Maine, Illinois, and Nevada. In a letter to Prime Healthcare Chairman and CEO Dr. Prem Reddy, the lawmakers cite reports of dozens of nurses being suspended or fired, police being called on nurses and organizers lawfully distributing information outside a hospital, and hospital-branded materials urging employees to vote against union representation. The letter comes as nurses at Central Maine Medical Center in Lewiston, Maine; Olympia Fields Hospital in Olympia Fields, Illinois; and Saint Francis Hospital in Evanston, Illinois, seek representation through the National Nurses Organizing Committee. At Central Maine Medical Center alone, Prime Healthcare has suspended or fired at least 20 nurses during the organizing campaign—actions the nurses and the union allege are retaliation for advocating for safer staffing, adequate resources, and improved patient care. Olympia Fields Hospital has also reportedly suspended six nurses. “Registered nurses at these Prime facilities are fighting to ensure they can provide the very best care to the communities they serve, including concerns about cuts to vital services that patients rely on. As you are aware, just last year, Senators Duckworth and Durbin contacted you about reversing Prime’s decision to reduce services in several newly acquired hospitals across Illinois,” the lawmakers wrote. “We remain deeply concerned about warnings from these workers that recent changes to services and designations will impact standards and delivery of care in our communities.” The lawmakers also highlight alleged retaliation at other Prime Healthcare facilities, including the firing of six nurses at Saint Mary of Nazareth Hospital in Chicago ahead of a June union election and two nurses at Saint Mary’s Regional Med… 1 2026-09-24T09:44:48Z 2026-09-24T09:45:52Z
https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/senator-collins-talks-affordability-energy-costs-and-propublica-on-all-things-with-kim-strassel Senator Collins Talks Affordability, Energy Costs, and ProPublica on “All Things with Kim Strassel” 2026-09-23 2026 2026-09 Republican Senate ME Susan M. Collins C001035 www.collins.senate.gov collins https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper Full video: Click HERE to watch and HERE to download. On Affordability: Click HERE to watch and HERE to download. On Lowering Energy Costs: Click HERE to watch and HERE to download. On ProPublica Article: Click HERE to watch and HERE to download. WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Susan Collins joined The Wall Street Journal’s “All Things with Kim Strassel” podcast to discuss a variety of topics, including how the Senate should address affordability issues before the October recess, her bipartisan INSULIN Act, lowering energy costs in Maine, and a recent article from ProPublica. On Affordability: Kim Strassel: The Senate was supposed to be in session until October and now looks as if it may close shop early, cut loose members, send them home. There's lots of possibilities being floated in the news: possibility of permitting reform, of a college athletes bill, of a vote on data center costs, a war powers resolution on Iran, maybe some confirmations. What, if anything, do you see actually happening before the Senate leaves? Or is the answer none of the above? Sen. Collins: That's a really hard question to answer. Right now, we're on the college sports bill, the Name, Image, and Likeness bill. Whether we'll be able to complete that, I really don't know. But from my perspective, we should be taking up a permitting bill. We've been talking about that for a long time. That would make such a difference in providing more affordable housing more quickly, more energy more quickly. It would make a difference ultimately in projects that would help lower costs. And I think that's what our focus should be. I've also suggested that we bring up the Military Construction-Veterans Administration bill. That's a funding bill that the Appropriations Committee has some pretty good bipartisan consensus for. The House has passed its version. And I think it would be important to send a signal to those who are serving us in the military, and also to those who have served us, our veterans, that we've taken care of a billion-dollar ga… 1 2026-09-24T09:44:48Z 2026-09-24T09:45:52Z
https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/senators-collins-king-call-on-president-trump-to-release-home-heating-oil-from-northeast-reserve-as-prices-surge Senators Collins, King Call on President Trump to Release Home Heating Oil from Northeast Reserve as Prices Surge 2026-09-22 2026 2026-09 Republican Senate ME Susan M. Collins C001035 www.collins.senate.gov collins https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King sent a letter to President Trump urging him to release supply from the Northeast Home Heating Oil Reserve to help protect Mainers from high costs as the cold weather months approach. According to the Maine Department of Energy Resources’ most recent weekly fuel survey, statewide heating oil prices have increased by 74 percent compared to this time last year. It now costs approximately $675 more to fill a standard heating oil tank than it did last year, imposing a significant hardship on the half of Maine households that heat their homes with fuel oil. “We write to request that you release home heating oil from the Northeast Home Heating Oil Reserve to protect Mainers from the very high prices that are imposing a difficult financial burden,” Senators Collins and King wrote. “You ordered a release from the Strategic Petroleum Reserve earlier this year to help address rising costs, and we believe the same urgency now applies to the Northeast Home Heating Oil Reserve.” “The U.S. Energy Information Administration’s (EIA) latest Short-Term Energy Outlook finds that U.S. distillate fuel inventories, which include home heating oil, fell below the five-year range in April and are expected to remain below the 2021–2025 low through the end of 2026 and most of 2027,” they continued. “According to the EIA, ‘Low inventories may also contribute to higher prices for residential heating oil in the Northeastern United States.’” “Further, the conflict in the Middle East and the Russia-Ukraine War have prevented additional heating oil from reaching the global market. Maine is particularly vulnerable to global supply shocks because our state imports much of our home heating oil. With both domestic and international supplies running low, a release from the Northeast Home Heating Oil Reserve would help ease these prices,” the Senators concluded. Click here to read their letter in full. ### 1 2026-09-23T09:45:16Z 2026-09-23T09:46:14Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senators-collins-king-call-on-president-trump-to-release-home-heating-oil-from-northeast-reserve-as-prices-surge Senators Collins, King Call on President Trump to Release Home Heating Oil from Northeast Reserve as Prices Surge 2026-09-22 2026 2026-09 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. – Today, U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King sent a letter to President Trump urging him to release supply from the Northeast Home Heating Oil Reserve to help protect Mainers from high costs as the cold weather months approach. According to the Maine Department of Energy Resources’ most recent weekly fuel survey, statewide heating oil prices have increased by 74 percent compared to this time last year. It now costs approximately $675 more to fill a standard heating oil tank than it did last year, imposing a significant hardship on the half of Maine households that heat their homes with fuel oil. “We write to request that you release home heating oil from the Northeast Home Heating Oil Reserve to protect Mainers from the very high prices that are imposing a difficult financial burden,” Senators Collins and King wrote. “You ordered a release from the Strategic Petroleum Reserve earlier this year to help address rising costs, and we believe the same urgency now applies to the Northeast Home Heating Oil Reserve.” “The U.S. Energy Information Administration’s (EIA) latest Short-Term Energy Outlook finds that U.S. distillate fuel inventories, which include home heating oil, fell below the five-year range in April and are expected to remain below the 2021–2025 low through the end of 2026 and most of 2027,” they continued. “According to the EIA, ‘Low inventories may also contribute to higher prices for residential heating oil in the Northeastern United States.’” “Further, the conflict in the Middle East and the Russia-Ukraine War have prevented additional heating oil from reaching the global market. Maine is particularly vulnerable to global supply shocks because our state imports much of our home heating oil. With both domestic and international supplies running low, a release from the Northeast Home Heating Oil Reserve would help ease these prices,” the Senators concluded. Click here to read their letter in full. ### 1 2026-09-23T09:45:16Z 2026-09-23T09:46:14Z
https://pingree.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=6862 Pingree Hears Emotional Testimony from Families, Representatives of Slain ICE Victims 2026-09-22 2026 2026-09 Democrat House ME Chellie Pingree P000597 pingree.house.gov pingree https://pingree.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper Today, Congresswoman Chellie Pingree (D-Maine) joined U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Ranking Member of the Senate Permanent Subcommittee on Investigations, and U.S. Representative Robert Garcia (D-Calif.), Ranking Member of the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform, for a bicameral public forum of fatal Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) shootings across the country. Members heard emotional testimony on the killings of Ruben Ray Martinez and Lorenzo Salgado Araujo in Texas, Renée Nicole Macklin Good and Alex Pretti in Minnesota, and Johan Sebastián Durán Guerrero in Maine. Watch Pingree’s portion of questioning here; the full hearing is available to watch here. Click here for photos from the hearing. “Listening to these families today was heartbreaking and infuriating,” said Pingree. “Ruben Ray Martinez was killed by an ICE agent, and DHS refused to even admit it happened for nearly a year, until a public records request forced the truth out. Alex Pretti was shot in the back, and it took a bystander's video to prove the government's own account of his death was a lie. Johan Sebastián Durán Guerrero's family still has no confirmation that any federal agency is investigating his death, months later. How can the government take someone’s life and leave their family without a clear account of what happened or why? These families deserve answers. Congress has a duty to demand a full accounting and hold federal officials accountable for the abuses committed using taxpayer dollars. Republicans should be demanding those answers alongside us, but they have been derelict in their duties—refusing to hold hearings like this one. Democrats and I will keep fighting for the truth and for justice.” Other Members participating in the hearing included Sens. Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), Maggie Hassan (D-N.H.), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), Tina Smith (D-Minn.), Cory Booker (D-N.J.), Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), and Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), and Reps. Emily Randall (D-Wash.), Ilhan Omar (D-Minn.), Jasmine Crocket… 1 2026-09-24T09:44:48Z 2026-09-24T09:45:52Z
https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/senator-collins-visits-nichols-inc-manufacturing-facility-in-portland Senator Collins Visits Nichols Inc. Manufacturing Facility in Portland 2026-09-21 2026 2026-09 Republican Senate ME Susan M. Collins C001035 www.collins.senate.gov collins https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper Click HERE, HERE, HERE, and HERE for individual photos. PORTLAND, ME – Today, U.S. Senator Susan Collins visited Nichols Inc. in Portland to tour the factory floor and speak with employees and company leadership. Nichols’ 200,000-square-foot Portland facility employs approximately 225 people and produces pumps, valves, gears, and other precision components. “I enjoyed touring Nichols’ Portland facility, speaking with its highly skilled employees, and learning more about the innovative manufacturing processes they use to produce precision components. Nichols’ advanced manufacturing operations are supporting hundreds of good jobs in Southern Maine and are an excellent example of the skill and expertise of Maine’s manufacturing workforce,” said Senator Collins. Nichols uses manufacturing processes including additive manufacturing, or 3D printing, sintering, and metal injection molding. The company was founded in 1904 in Waltham, Massachusetts, and opened its Portland operation in 1968. Nichols also operates a manufacturing facility in South Portland. ### 1 2026-09-22T09:42:49Z 2026-09-22T09:44:35Z
https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/senator-collins-attends-blue-mass-in-lewiston Senator Collins Attends Blue Mass in Lewiston 2026-09-20 2026 2026-09 Republican Senate ME Susan M. Collins C001035 www.collins.senate.gov collins https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper Click HERE, HERE, HERE, HERE, HERE, and HERE for individual photos. LEWISTON, ME – This morning, U.S. Senator Susan Collins attended the 2026 Blue Mass at the Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul in Lewiston. Bishop James Ruggieri celebrated the Mass and was joined by priests and deacons from throughout the Diocese. The gathering paid tribute to the unwavering dedication and acts of selflessness exhibited by local, state, and federal law enforcement officers, firefighters, and emergency responders. “When crises or disasters strike, it is our law enforcement officers, firefighters, and EMTs who are the first to arrive, fearlessly rushing into danger to save lives. The annual Blue Mass serves as a special occasion dedicated to honoring these heroes who courageously put their lives on the line every day to protect our communities,” said Senator Collins. “Thank you to Bishop James Ruggieri for celebrating the Mass with those gathered today. And to all the first responders throughout our state, thank you for committing your lives to ensuring the safety of others. It is a debt we can truly never repay.” The Blue Mass, referring to the blue uniforms worn by so many public safety personnel, dates to 1934 and is a venerable tradition in many dioceses. The Mass was planned and organized by diocesan officials and representatives from local, county, and state public safety agencies. The events of Sept. 11, 2001, served as the impetus for the Diocese of Portland to institute the Blue Mass in Maine. Last year, Senator Collins attended the Blue Mass at the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception in Portland. ### 1 2026-09-21T10:25:24Z 2026-09-21T10:26:54Z
https://golden.house.gov/media/press-releases/golden-pushes-stronger-anti-corruption-rules-on-house-earmarks Golden pushes stronger anti-corruption rules on House earmarks 2026-09-18 2026 2026-09 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) is co-leading an effort to strengthen guardrails against Members of Congress using taxpayer-funded earmarks to increase their own net worth. Golden joined Reps. Young Kim (CA-40) and Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-01) to introduce a resolution seeking to change House rules regarding Community Project Funding (CPF), a process that allows Members to direct federal funds to projects undertaken by state, local or tribal governments or certain nonprofits. “Americans deserve certainty that when a member of Congress secures funding for their district, it’s for the good of their constituents — not themselves, their families or any entity in which they have a financial interest,” Golden said. "This resolution will strengthen the anti-corruption guardrails around earmarks to ensure federal dollars are used responsibly. I’m proud to co-sponsor this commonsense change to preserve the integrity of the House.” Under current rules, Members requesting CPF must certify that they and their spouses have no financial conflicts of interest in the request. However, current rules do not explicitly account for indirect financial interests — such as whether an earmark could increase the value of a business asset owned by a Member or their family because of its proximity to the CPF project. The proposal closes this loophole by requiring Members of Congress to certify that neither they, their spouse, their immediate family members, nor any entity in which they hold a material financial interest would directly or indirectly benefit financially from an earmark. “When politicians are busy lining their own pockets, how can they ever understand or focus on the pocketbook issues Americans face every single day? Californians are struggling to afford groceries, gas, healthcare, and housing while paying some of the highest taxes in the nation. The least they deserve is representation focused on making their lives better,” Kim said. “I’m proud to lead this commonsense resolution with Congressmen Jared Golden… 1 2026-09-19T09:11:33Z 2026-09-19T09:12:45Z
https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/senator-collins-announces-new-balance-contract-to-produce-athletic-shoes-in-maine-for-the-us-military Senator Collins Announces New Balance Contract to Produce Athletic Shoes in Maine for the U.S. Military 2026-09-18 2026 2026-09 Republican Senate ME Susan M. Collins C001035 www.collins.senate.gov collins https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Susan Collins announced that New Balance has been awarded a contract by the Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) to provide athletic shoes for members of the U.S. military. The shoes will be produced at the New Balance Central Maine facility in Skowhegan. Under the three-year contract, DLA could purchase up to 540,000 pairs of New Balance athletic shoes, with a minimum purchase of 22,000 pairs annually. “New Balance is a great American company, and it is terrific news that more of our nation’s servicemembers will now be outfitted with high-quality athletic shoes made right here in the United States. Maintaining a strong American footwear supply chain is important to our national security and helps ensure that our servicemembers have access to the best equipment when they need it most. I have worked closely with New Balance for years to support American footwear manufacturing and to strengthen the domestic industrial base that our military depends on. This contract builds on that longstanding partnership and is a major win for New Balance, its hardworking employees in Maine, and for American manufacturing,” said Senator Collins. “New Balance is proud to have been awarded this contract to provide our U.S. service members with our specialized MADE in USA 0430 athletic footwear for basic training,” said Kevin McCoy, Vice President for MADE at New Balance. “Senator Collins’ strong leadership and relentless support for American manufacturing have helped to ensure our country’s military recruits will receive high-quality athletic shoes produced by our skilled associates in Central Maine.” Senator Collins has long worked to support New Balance and American footwear manufacturing. She and other members of the Maine Delegation successfully secured a provision in the Fiscal Year 2017 National Defense Authorization Act requiring the Department of Defense to provide military recruits with American-made athletic footwear in accordance with the Berry Amendment. The provision allowed domestic… 1 2026-09-19T09:11:33Z 2026-09-19T09:12:45Z
https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/signed-into-law-senators-collins-bennet-bipartisan-bill-to-allow-early-childhood-educators-to-deduct-out-of-pocket-purchases-of-classroom-supplies SIGNED INTO LAW: Senators Collins, Bennet Bipartisan Bill to Allow Early Childhood Educators to Deduct Out-of-Pocket Purchases of Classroom Supplies 2026-09-18 2026 2026-09 Republican Senate ME Susan M. Collins C001035 www.collins.senate.gov collins https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Michael Bennet today celebrated their Supporting Early-Childhood Educators’ Deductions (SEED) Act being signed into law. This legislation expands the federal tax deduction for out-of-pocket classroom supply purchases that Senator Collins authored to early childhood educators. “In Maine and across the country, we are fortunate to have so many dedicated educators who work hard to ensure that every child has a learning environment that is safe, welcoming, and enriching. Despite tight personal budgets, it is truly remarkable how often teachers use money out of their own pockets to purchase classroom supplies for their students,” said Senator Collins. “As the author of the original tax credit for K-12 teachers, I am delighted to help expand this benefit to pre-K educators. I thank Senator Bennet for his partnership in this effort to provide early childhood educators with well-deserved tax relief, and I am proud that our bill has now become law.” “Early childhood educators should be able to claim the same tax deduction available to elementary and secondary school teachers,” said Senator Bennet. “I am glad that this legislation has been signed into law because as the former Superintendent of Denver Public Schools, I know firsthand how often educators dip into their own pockets to provide school supplies for their students. This law will end an unfair double standard and ensures that those who teach our youngest kids are supported.” Research shows that educators spend an average of $895 annually on supplies for their students. Yet, early childhood educators previously could not deduct those out-of-pocket expenses. The SEED Act corrects this disparity and extends tax relief to the teachers working with America’s youngest learners. The bill expands the above-the-line $350 educator expense deduction, established for K-12 teachers in 2002 by legislation authored by Senator Collins, to also include pre-K and early childhood educators. This deduction helps offset hundreds … 1 2026-09-19T09:11:33Z 2026-09-19T09:12:45Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-joins-colleagues-demanding-answers-from-hegseth-on-human-economic-cost-of-iran-war King Joins Colleagues Demanding Answers from Hegseth on Human, Economic Cost of Iran War 2026-09-18 2026 2026-09 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. Senator Angus King (I-ME), a senior member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, is calling on the Pentagon to provide basic information on the cost to American taxpayers of the Iran War. In a letter to Department of Defense (DoD) Secretary Pete Hegseth from King and several of his colleagues, the senators demand a full accounting of the costs of the ongoing war with Iran and criticized the DoD for withholding basic budget information from Congress and the American public even as U.S. casualties and costs continue to increase. In their letter, the senators highlight the contrast between the current Pentagon’s transparency record with past wartime practice, noting that Secretary Hegseth has briefed Congress only seven times in six months and held just eight Pentagon press briefings or interviews since the war began, compared to more than 70 press briefings in the first month of the Iraq War alone. The senators also criticized the administration’s public supplemental funding request as a seven-page document offering only vague line items, in contrast to the detailed, hundred-page supplemental requests provided to Congress during the Iraq and Afghanistan wars. The senators wrote, “We write regarding the Department of Defense’s failure to provide the American people with basic information about the war with Iran and its cost to taxpayers, even as the human costs of this war rise. More than six months into a war that the President said would last six weeks, 18 American servicemembers have been killed, 824 have been wounded, and more than 50,000 troops are currently deployed in the Middle East…Meanwhile, at home, American taxpayers have already paid an extra $100 billion out of their pockets for higher gas and diesel prices alone and at least another $60 billion in higher costs for things like groceries, mortgages, and plane tickets as a result of the war. Now you are asking that they pay again to fund a war of choice that Congress never authorized and the President launched with no strategic… 1 2026-09-19T09:11:33Z 2026-09-19T09:12:45Z
https://pingree.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=6851 On Heels of Fashion Week, Pingree Champions First-Of-Its-Kind Bill to Fight Fast Fashion Pollution 2026-09-17 2026 2026-09 Democrat House ME Chellie Pingree P000597 pingree.house.gov pingree https://pingree.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper Today, Congresswoman Chellie Pingree (D-Maine), founder and chair of the Slow Fashion Caucus, introduced the Textile Waste Reduction Act (TWRA), a first-of-its-kind bill to address the harmful impacts of fast fashion-driven waste. Based on recommendations made in the first-ever Government Accountability Office (GAO) report on fast fashion pollution—originally requested by Pingree and Rep. Rosa DeLauro (D-Conn.) in 2023—this landmark legislation establishes the first coordinated federal framework to reduce textile waste, improve data collection, and develop a national strategy to advance circularity in the textile industry. “The GAO report confirmed what we’ve known for years: that textile waste is one of the fastest-growing waste streams in the U.S.; that it’s being driven largely by fast fashion; and that federal action is necessary to confront this crisis in a real, impactful way,” said Congresswoman Pingree. “This bill would help lay the foundation for that effort by creating a coordinated federal strategy to reduce textile waste and build a more circular textile economy. Our country has the resources and know-how to lead this effort on a global scale. It’s well past time we turn that potential into action—and help transform this wasteful industry into one that’s more efficient, more sustainable, and better for people and the planet.” Specifically, the TWRA: Directs the EPA Administrator to take coordinated federal action to advance textile circularity Requires EPA to develop a comprehensive National Textile Circularity Strategy and conduct a needs assessment identifying the actions, investments, and policy priorities necessary to implement the strategy Creates an Interagency Working Group on Textile Circularity to coordinate federal activities Establishes an Advisory Board to provide recommendations to the Interagency Working Group Requires EPA to identify and publish federal funding opportunities available to states, Tribal governments, local governments, and nongovernmental organizations that support… 1 2026-09-18T09:27:43Z 2026-09-18T09:29:09Z
https://pingree.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=6853 Pingree, Congressional Democrats Call Out Trump Admin’s Corrupt Offshore Wind Buyouts 2026-09-17 2026 2026-09 Democrat House ME Chellie Pingree P000597 pingree.house.gov pingree https://pingree.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper Today, Congresswoman Chellie Pingree (D-Maine), joined members of Congress and labor and environmental advocates in front of the U.S. Capitol to speak out against the Trump administration’s continued attacks on offshore wind. Pingree joined Representatives Deborah Ross (D-N.C.), Jared Huffman (D-Calif.), Salud Carbajal (D-Calif.) and Senator Ed Markey (D-Mass.)—along with Kendall Martin, General Vice President of Ironworkers International, and Bob Keefe, Executive Director of E2 | Economy+Environment—to call attention to the lack of accountability around the corrupt, taxpayer-funded offshore wind buyout deals, which now cover 12 offshore wind leases and five developers. Since March, the Department of the Interior has made unprecedented use of the Treasury Department’s Judgment Fund to pay developers nearly $4 billion in taxpayer funds to vacate their offshore wind leases. “The Trump administration is spending nearly $4 billion in taxpayer funds to cancel 12 offshore wind leases at the same time when Americans' utility bills are rising. Their priorities are completely out of whack," said Congresswoman Chellie Pingree (ME-01). “As Ranking Member of the Interior and Environment Appropriations Subcommittee, I take Congress’s power of the purse seriously. Taxpayers deserve to know who authorized these buyouts, how they were valued, and why the Judgment Fund was used. We need transparency, accountability, and more affordable, reliable domestic energy—not dirty deals that force taxpayers to pay for less of it.” President Trump continues to wage his war on offshore wind amid rising electricity demand and skyrocketing energy bills. These cancellations jeopardize clean energy projects that would have delivered affordable, reliable energy to millions of U.S. households and businesses and hobble industries that create thousands of good-paying jobs across the country. To date, the administration has bought out twelve offshore wind leases, including planned projects off the coasts of Maine, New York, New Jersey, California,… 1 2026-09-18T09:27:43Z 2026-09-18T09:29:09Z
https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/as-home-heating-season-approaches-senators-collins-reed-murkowski-lead-bipartisan-call-for-trump-administration-to-swiftly-release-liheap-funding As Home-Heating Season Approaches, Senators Collins, Reed, Murkowski Lead Bipartisan Call for Trump Administration to Swiftly Release LIHEAP Funding 2026-09-17 2026 2026-09 Republican Senate ME Susan M. Collins C001035 www.collins.senate.gov collins https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, DC – With winter fast approaching, U.S. Senators Susan Collins, Jack Reed (D-RI), and Lisa Murkowski (R-AK) are leading a bipartisan push for the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to release funds for the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) swiftly and at the highest level possible once funding becomes available on October 1, 2026. In their letter to HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., they stressed the critical importance of LIHEAP funding. This program is a lifeline that helps keep vulnerable Americans safe and warm during the winter by helping low-income households and seniors on fixed incomes afford their energy bills. Nationwide last year, an estimated 6 million households received assistance with heating and cooling costs through LIHEAP, with Maine households receiving more than $42 million in LIHEAP funds. After the Administration proposed zeroing out funding for LIHEAP in its fiscal year 2027 budget plan, Senators Collins, Reed, and Murkowski led successful bipartisan pushback through their roles on the Senate Appropriations Committee to protect LIHEAP and continue funding for the program at more than $4 billion this year. “As you know, the Continuing Appropriations and Extensions Act for Fiscal Year 2027 (P.L. 119-103) requires the Department of Health and Human Services to distribute no less than 90 percent of its total LIHEAP allotment by November 1, 2026. Given the extraordinary pressure consumers will face this winter, we ask that you make this distribution well before the deadline,” the 31 U.S. Senators wrote. “October marks the start of the heating season for many states, and with temperatures already dropping, low-income families and seniors are feeling additional strains on their household budgets. As the main federal program benefiting these individuals with their energy bills, LIHEAP provides critical assistance to vulnerable families and seniors during the cold winter and hot summer months. State agencies and tribes are already activating their … 1 2026-09-18T09:27:43Z 2026-09-18T09:29:09Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-introduces-bipartisan-bill-to-improve-va-hiring-retention-of-high-skilled-doctors King Introduces Bipartisan Bill to Improve VA Hiring, Retention of High-Skilled Doctors 2026-09-17 2026 2026-09 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. Senator Angus King (I-ME), a senior member of the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee (SVAC), is introducing bipartisan legislation that makes it easier for the Department of Veterans Affairs’ (VA) medical centers to hire and better retain high-skilled doctors. The bipartisan VA Salary Cap Waiver Adjustment Act would allow the VA Secretary to issue waivers to VA medical directors and allow them to exceed existing salary caps if they need to hire or retain highly skilled physicians. The VA system currently faces a serious shortage of doctors, due in part to the higher pay rates available in the private sector. Joining Senator King on the legislation are Senators Deb Fischer (R-NE) and SVAC Ranking Member Richard Blumenthal (D-CT). When the United States Congress passed the bipartisan Elizabeth Dole Act in December of 2024, it allowed the VA to exceed salary caps for a limited number of highly trained physicians and for a limited time. Senator King’s bipartisan bill would allow the VA Secretary to issue as many waivers as necessary and allow this system to remain in place for the next five years after enactment allowing medical facilities a greater degree of certainty when they make hiring decisions. As VA Secretary Doug Collins discussed with Senator King in a recent SVAC hearing, the limitations of the current system created by the Elizabeth Dole Act are not giving the VA the flexibility it needs, resulting in the need for this type of legislation. “Our men and women in uniform served our country with patriotism and without conditions, and they deserve medical attention with a minimum of red tape,” said Senator King. “The VA Salary Cap Waiver Adjustment would allow VA facilities to have a more competitive salary structure that will maintain high levels of care for our veterans and reduce the odds that the VA lose doctors to higher paying opportunities elsewhere.” “Hiring and retaining skilled physicians is a serious challenge within the VA and it needs to be addressed now,” Senator Fische… 1 2026-09-18T09:27:43Z 2026-09-18T09:29:09Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-stresses-importance-of-uschina-engagement-on-ais-shared-risks King Stresses Importance of U.S.–China Engagement on AI’s “Shared Risks” 2026-09-17 2026 2026-09 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. – Ahead of the White House’s historic State Visit with President Xi Jinping of the People’s Republic of China, U.S. Senator Angus King (I-ME) is underlining the crucial importance of productive engagement by Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent with the Chinese Government on the “shared risks” posed by artificial intelligence (AI). In a letter to Bessent, King acknowledges Bessent’s recent public comments on his willingness to discuss critical AI risks with China and states that while the White House should continue to promote American leadership in the artificial intelligence space, continued conversations and dialogue with the Chinese government are critical to AI safety strategy in defense of all humankind. Senator King wrote, “As you are aware, the American people are increasingly concerned that rapid AI development poses risks that simply cannot be ignored. When an Anthropic employee responsible for ensuring that its models work as intended recently wrote that “[w]e really do earnestly believe AI could kill all humans,” many Americans for the first time reckoned with the potentially catastrophic implications of uncontrolled AI development. While thoughtful domestic regulation of the frontier AI labs that are developing the most advanced models is one important aspect of ensuring the safety of the American people, earnest and sustained dialogue with the Chinese government is another critical element of any serious and durable AI safety strategy.” “Chinese and American companies will continue to compete fiercely in the global market for AI products and services, and the U.S. government should continue to work closely with American AI companies to prevent the theft of intellectual property and ensure American leadership in this space,” Senator King continued. “But we also cannot lock ourselves into a race to the bottom with China on AI safety given the stakes.” “According to an expert on China’s AI policy, the Cyberspace Administration of China has within the last year published an updated “AI S… 1 2026-09-18T09:27:43Z 2026-09-18T09:29:09Z
https://golden.house.gov/media/press-releases/golden-statement-in-support-of-russia-sanctions-bill Golden statement in support of Russia sanctions bill 2026-09-16 2026 2026-09 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 the following statement regarding his vote in favor of HR 5334, legislation to impose sanctions against Russia until it ends its war against Ukraine: “Every barrel of Russian oil sold on the global market is funding for Vladimir Putin’s war of aggression against Ukraine. Russia is successfully evading the existing sanctions imposed by the U.S. and our Western partners. This bill provides new tools to cut off the oil revenue that’s greasing Russia’s war machine, including tariffs on the top buyers of Russian energy and those countries helping the federation evade existing sanctions. “Under Putin’s rule, Russia has tested the boundaries of international order and safety at a scale not witnessed in generations. It is waging a war of territorial expansion against our democratic ally in Ukraine. It has made its hostile intent toward the United States and other western democracies clear in its words and actions, including its efforts to undermine U.S. elections. “Passing this bill will weaken Putin’s hand, and will show the Ukrainians fighting to defend their homes that the United States will not abandon them. I’m proud to vote yes.” The bill passed the House in a bipartisan vote of 262-159, having previously passed in the Senate 86-11. It now goes to the president to be signed into law. BACKGROUND: Russia has successfully evaded existing sanctions on its energy products with a “shadow fleet” of tankers conducting ship-to-ship transfers or rerouting to friendly buyers, often using false documents to hide ownership or cargo point-of-origin. According to one estimate, this shadow fleet transported roughly 3.7 billion barrels of oil in 2025. In addition to direct sanctions on Russian officials, including President Vladimir Putin, the bill targets Russian financial institutions and defense and energy actors. It also sidesteps Russia’s evasion strategies by targeting the buyers of Russian energy products, authorizing the president to impose tariffs on the top fiv… 1 2026-09-17T09:52:05Z 2026-09-17T09:53:00Z
https://pingree.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=6848 House Passes Pingree Bill to Cut Diesel Pollution, Protect Maine Families 2026-09-16 2026 2026-09 Democrat House ME Chellie Pingree P000597 pingree.house.gov pingree https://pingree.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper Congresswoman Chellie Pingree (D-Maine) applauded the passage of the Diesel Emissions Reduction Act of 2025, bipartisan legislation aimed at protecting public health and lowering the cost of replacing older, heavily polluting diesel engines. Introduced by Pingree and Reps. Doris Matsui (D-Calif.), Ken Calvert (R-Calif.), and Nick Longworthy (R-N.Y.), the bill reauthorizes the Diesel Emissions Reduction Act program (DERA) through fiscal year 2029 at $100 million annually. First created through the Energy Policy Act of 2005, DERA provides grants and rebates that help schools, local governments, small businesses, and fleet operators replace or upgrade older diesel-powered trucks, buses, construction equipment, and other heavy-duty engines. “Diesel fuel powers Maine’s boats, ferries, buses, construction trucks, agricultural equipment, and more, but emissions from older diesel engines have serious consequences for public health and the environment. Since its passage in 2005, the Diesel Emissions Reduction Act has helped replace or retrofit nearly 100,000 diesel engines, vehicles, and pieces of equipment and deliver cleaner air and billions in public health benefits to communities across the country—including here in Maine,” said Congresswoman Pingree. “With Trump’s reckless war in Iran increasing volatility in global energy markets, and with the threats posed by climate change looming larger every day, Congress took a much-needed step today to reauthorize DERA so that we can continue to pursue solutions that help reduce our dependence on foreign energy and incentivize American consumers and businesses to embrace more efficient technologies. Reauthorizing this proven program will help us make progress on both fronts, while reducing pollution and improving air quality in Maine and across the country.” “For more than two decades, DERA has been a model of effective, bipartisan policymaking,” said Congresswoman Matsui. “Under the program, California has replaced thousands of polluting trucks, tractors, and school buses,… 1 2026-09-17T09:52:05Z 2026-09-17T09:53:00Z
https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/senator-collins-announces-600000-for-emergency-medical-services-in-maine Senator Collins Announces $600,000 for Emergency Medical Services in Maine 2026-09-16 2026 2026-09 Republican Senate ME Susan M. Collins C001035 www.collins.senate.gov collins https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Susan Collins, Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, announced that two emergency medical services (EMS) departments in Maine will receive a total of $600,000 through the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration’s (SAMHSA) Supporting and Improving Rural EMS Needs (SIREN) grant program. In 2024, Senator Collins’ bipartisan SIREN Reauthorization Act, which she co-authored with Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL), was signed into law. This legislation extended funding for SIREN Act grants through Fiscal Year 2028. SIREN grants support rural EMS agencies in training and recruiting staff, conducting certification courses, and purchasing equipment, including naloxone to help address the opioid overdose epidemic. “Emergency medical services are critical to ensuring that Mainers in every part of our state can receive the care they need,” said Senator Collins. “These investments in EMS agencies serving Maine’s rural population will help to improve the quality and accessibility of health care across our state by supporting training for emergency medical personnel.” The funding is allocated as follows: Brooks Ambulance Service - $300,000 to improve EMS training for Advanced Emergency Medical Technicians and paramedics. United Ambulance Service (Lewiston) - $300,000 to improve rural EMS training. ### 1 2026-09-17T09:52:05Z 2026-09-17T09:53:00Z
https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/senator-collins-secures-commitment-from-surgeon-general-nominee-to-address-rural-health-care-deserts-in-maine-during-confirmation-hearing Senator Collins Secures Commitment from Surgeon General Nominee to Address Rural Health Care Deserts in Maine During Confirmation Hearing 2026-09-16 2026 2026-09 Republican Senate ME Susan M. Collins C001035 www.collins.senate.gov collins https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, at a hearing of the Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP) Committee, U.S. Senator Susan Collins questioned Dr. Nicole Saphier, the nominee to serve as U.S. Surgeon General, about rural Americans’ access to breast cancer screenings. During their exchange, Dr. Saphier committed to working with Senator Collins and her staff on identifying and addressing health care deserts in Maine. Senator Collins has long worked to expand access to cancer screenings in rural Maine. In 2022, she secured more than $1 million in Congressionally Directed Spending to establish a mobile mammography unit in Piscataquis and Somerset counties. To date, the unit has screened more than 1,000 women for breast cancer. She also introduced the bipartisan Screening for Communities to Receive Early and Equitable Needed Services (SCREENS) for Cancer Act with Senator Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) to reauthorize the National Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program (NBCCEDP), a lifesaving program that provides breast and cervical cancer screening and diagnostic services for women who are low-income, uninsured, and underinsured and do not qualify for Medicaid. A transcript of their exchange is as follows: Click HERE to watch and HERE to download video of their exchange. Senator Collins: “Dr. Saphier, you've been a strong advocate for women to get early breast cancer screenings in order to better treat and prevent this disease. Just this morning, I met in my office with a group of Mainers who had had cancer. They are big advocates for screening, for research, and it's very difficult in rural states where they may have to travel long distances. That's one reason that I secured funding for a mobile mammography machine to go all over rural areas. And I'm very proud of the fact that they've screened more than 1000 women who most likely would not have been screened, and in some cases, breast cancer has been detected. Senator Baldwin and I have introduced legislation that would reauthorize the National Breast an… 1 2026-09-17T09:52:05Z 2026-09-17T09:53:00Z
https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/senator-collins-statement-on-the-clarity-act Senator Collins’ Statement on the CLARITY Act 2026-09-16 2026 2026-09 Republican Senate ME Susan M. Collins C001035 www.collins.senate.gov collins https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Susan Collins released the following statement regarding her vote against the motion to proceed to consideration of the CLARITY Act: “The CLARITY Act remains a moving target. It’s now grown to more than 600 pages with provisions that need further study, such as whether it would cause community banks and credit unions to lose deposits that are the foundation for loans for mortgages, small businesses, and other family needs.” ### 1 2026-09-17T09:52:05Z 2026-09-17T09:53:00Z
https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/house-unanimously-passes-senator-collins-bill-to-combat-lyme-and-other-tick-borne-diseases House Unanimously Passes Senator Collins’ Bill to Combat Lyme and Other Tick-Borne Diseases 2026-09-15 2026 2026-09 Republican Senate ME Susan M. Collins C001035 www.collins.senate.gov collins https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Susan Collins announced that the House of Representatives unanimously passed the bipartisan Kay Hagan Tick Reauthorization Act. Senator Collins introduced the bill with Senator Tina Smith (D-MN), with Senator Angus King (I-ME) joining them as an original cosponsor. The bill, which passed the Senate unanimously last month, now heads to the President’s desk to be signed into law. Cases of Lyme disease have reached a new record level in Maine every year since 2022, with more than 4,200 cases reported statewide last year. The Kay Hagan Tick Reauthorization Act aims to confront this growing public health threat by reauthorizing federal initiatives and programs to combat tick-borne diseases first established through the original Kay Hagan Tick Act, which Senators Collins and Smith led to passage in 2019. The Senators named their bill in honor of the late Senator Kay Hagan (D-NC), who passed away in October of 2019 due to complications from the tick-borne disease known as the Powassan virus. “With Maine continuing to experience record levels of Lyme disease, we must continue working to address the growing threat posed by tick-borne diseases,” said Senator Collins. “The Kay Hagan Tick Reauthorization Act will build on the progress we have made in combatting these diseases since the original law was enacted and ensure this important work can continue across the country. I am grateful to Senator Smith for her partnership in this effort and to our colleagues in both chambers for working with us to move this important legislation across the finish line, and I look forward to seeing it signed into law.” Using a three-pronged approach, the Kay Hagan Tick Reauthorization Act would: Reauthorize Regional Centers of Excellence in Vector-Borne Diseases through Fiscal Year 2030. These Centers have led the scientific response against tick-borne diseases, which now make up approximately 75 percent of vector-borne diseases in the U.S. There are four centers: at the University of Massachusetts… 1 2026-09-16T09:43:13Z 2026-09-16T09:44:22Z
https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/senators-collins-king-urge-senate-commerce-committee-to-promptly-consider-bill-to-extend-pause-on-right-whale-regulations Senators Collins, King Urge Senate Commerce Committee to Promptly Consider Bill to Extend Pause on Right Whale Regulations 2026-09-15 2026 2026-09 Republican Senate ME Susan M. Collins C001035 www.collins.senate.gov collins https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King wrote to Senators Ted Cruz (R-TX) and Maria Cantwell (D-WA), the Chair and Ranking Member of the Senate Commerce Committee, respectively, urging them to advance the Northeast Lobstermen Protection Act in their committee as soon as possible. The bipartisan legislation, which was introduced by U.S. Representatives Jared Golden (D-ME-02) and Mike Lawler (R-NY-17), recently passed the House of Representatives and would extend the current pause on new North Atlantic right whale regulations through 2035. “This pause is necessary to protect Maine’s lobster fishery, which is essential to the state’s economy and coastal communities. According to the Maine Lobstermen’s Association, the lobster industry supports an estimated $2 billion in annual economic activity and more than 17,500 jobs,” Senators Collins and King wrote. “The Maine Department of Marine Resources has used congressionally appropriated funds to establish a right whale research and monitoring program that is now in its third year of data collection,” they continued. “The program includes aerial, vessel-based, and acoustic whale monitoring. This work is ongoing, and extending the pause would allow it to continue and provide scientists and regulators with better data to inform future management decisions.” “It is critical that any future regulatory actions appropriately balance protecting North Atlantic right whales with the economic and practical realities facing Maine’s lobster industry. We ask that you work to advance H.R. 9436 as soon as possible,” the Senators concluded. Click here to read their letter in full. +++ In 2022, Maine’s lobster fishery faced sweeping new federal regulatory requirements that relied on flawed assumptions and an inadequate scientific record. The requirements threatened severe economic consequences for Maine’s lobster industry without a sufficiently sound scientific basis. The Maine Delegation responded by securing a provision in the 2022 year-end appropriations la… 1 2026-09-16T09:43:13Z 2026-09-16T09:44:22Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-colleagues-army-cutting-vital-ukraine-drone-battalion-another-worrying-signal King, Colleagues: Army Cutting Vital Ukraine Drone Battalion “Another Worrying Signal” 2026-09-15 2026 2026-09 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. Senator Angus King (I-ME), a senior member of the U.S. Senate Armed Services Committee, joined a bipartisan, bicameral group of his colleagues in requesting a formal briefing on the Army’s decision to eliminate a specialized drone battalion critical to U.S. interests in Europe and the defense of Ukraine. In a letter to departing Army Secretary Dan Driscoll and acting Army Chief of Staff General Christopher LaNeve, the lawmakers cited deep concerns about the elimination of the drone battalion of the 173rd Airborne Brigade. Joining King on the letter are Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Thom Tillis (R-NC), and Congressman Mike Turner (R-OH-10). The lawmakers wrote, “We write to request a briefing to better understand your decision to eliminate the drone battalion of the 173rd Airborne Brigade. We are particularly keen to understand the data, analysis and process used to cancel this innovative unit established less than a year ago, and if this decision was based on Department of Defense leadership guidance or was an Army-internal decision.” “We have deep concerns that eliminating this specialized drone unit will limit our ability to learn from allies, particularly the Ukrainian Armed Forces, and hinder our efforts to modernize drone warfare at the speed necessary to compete on the modern battlefield. This specialized unit was a prudent response in a moment when the character of warfare is changing faster than a conventional formation’s ability to adapt. [...] Both the Ukraine-Russia War and the ongoing conflict in Iran have demonstrated our need to make significant improvements in drone warfare—lessons learned from our Ukrainian allies who have proven their ability to innovate and compete in this space,” the lawmakers continued. They further explained, “The DOD’s commitment to Ukraine and European security has been uneven and inconsistent— the reoccurring efforts to cut European force posture, the delayed spend plan of appropriated funds for aid to Ukraine, and the transfer of U.S. Army Eu… 1 2026-09-16T09:43:13Z 2026-09-16T09:44:22Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senators-collins-king-urge-senate-commerce-committee-to-promptly-consider-bill-to-extend-pause-on-right-whale-regulations Senators Collins, King Urge Senate Commerce Committee to Promptly Consider Bill to Extend Pause on Right Whale Regulations 2026-09-15 2026 2026-09 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 Susan Collins and Angus King wrote to Senators Ted Cruz (R-TX) and Maria Cantwell (D-WA), the Chair and Ranking Member of the Senate Commerce Committee, respectively, urging them to advance the Northeast Lobstermen Protection Act in their committee as soon as possible. The bipartisan legislation, which was introduced by U.S. Representatives Jared Golden (D-ME-02) and Mike Lawler (R-NY-17), recently passed the House of Representatives and would extend the current pause on new North Atlantic right whale regulations through 2035. “This pause is necessary to protect Maine’s lobster fishery, which is essential to the state’s economy and coastal communities. According to the Maine Lobstermen’s Association, the lobster industry supports an estimated $2 billion in annual economic activity and more than 17,500 jobs,” Senators Collins and King wrote. “The Maine Department of Marine Resources has used congressionally appropriated funds to establish a right whale research and monitoring program that is now in its third year of data collection,” they continued. “The program includes aerial, vessel-based, and acoustic whale monitoring. This work is ongoing, and extending the pause would allow it to continue and provide scientists and regulators with better data to inform future management decisions.” “It is critical that any future regulatory actions appropriately balance protecting North Atlantic right whales with the economic and practical realities facing Maine’s lobster industry. We ask that you work to advance H.R. 9436 as soon as possible,” the Senators concluded. Click here to read their letter in full. +++ In 2022, Maine’s lobster fishery faced sweeping new federal regulatory requirements that relied on flawed assumptions and an inadequate scientific record. The requirements threatened severe economic consequences for Maine’s lobster industry without a sufficiently sound scientific basis. The Maine Delegation responded by securing a provision in the 2022 year-end appropriations la… 1 2026-09-16T09:43:13Z 2026-09-16T09:44:22Z
https://golden.house.gov/media/press-releases/golden-statement-on-the-25th-anniversary-of-911 Golden statement on the 25th anniversary of 9/11 2026-09-11 2026 2026-09 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 the following statement on the 25th anniversary of the 9/11 terror attacks: “Twenty-five years ago today, our nation endured the deadliest foreign attack on American soil. Today, we hold in our hearts the thousands who lost their lives on September 11, 2001, their families and loved ones. Their memory will not be forgotten. We also honor those who ran toward danger in the wake of the attacks, from the first responders who rushed without question to Lower Manhattan to the generation who answered the call to defend our nation. That day, Americans joined together, resolute in the face of those who brought terror to our shores. As we remember those lost and those forever changed on 9/11, let’s also remember that a united America can never be outmatched and that no shadow of fear or terror can dim our spirit.” ### 1 2026-09-12T09:02:30Z 2026-09-12T09:03:27Z
https://pingree.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=6845 Responding to Pingree Request, GAO Finds USDA Has Done Too Little to Protect Farms and Forests from Climate-Driven Diseases and Pests 2026-09-11 2026 2026-09 Democrat House ME Chellie Pingree P000597 pingree.house.gov pingree https://pingree.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper Independent watchdog’s report prompts Pingree to urge USDA action on nationwide risk assessment and strategy as threats grow and climate capacity shrinks Congresswoman Chellie Pingree (D-Maine), a longtime organic farmer and member of the House Agriculture Committee, is calling on the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to swiftly implement recommendations from a new Government Accountability Office (GAO) report that examines the growing climate-related risks that diseases and pests pose to American farms and forests. In September 2019, Pingree and former Representative Jeff Fortenberry (R-Neb.) asked GAO to undertake a broad examination of USDA’s climate-related work in agriculture, including the status of USDA Climate Hubs and additional actions the department could take. That oversight request previously produced a 2023 GAO report, which outlined 13 options for strengthening agricultural climate resilience. The latest report focuses on climate-related diseases and pests affecting both farms and forests. For its latest review, GAO examined federal laws, regulations, agency guidance, and scientific literature; interviewed 84 government and nongovernment stakeholders; and conducted site visits in eight states, including Maine. The report, “Agricultural Diseases and Pests: Nationwide Assessment and Strategy Needed to Enhance the Climate Resilience of Farms and Forests,” found that USDA has taken “few actions” to address these risks—and that staffing and funding for some of the programs doing this work have declined. “Climate change is rewriting the rulebook for farming and forestry. Pests are moving beyond their typical boundaries, outbreaks are starting earlier and lasting longer, and some of the management methods farmers have relied on for years are becoming less effective. In Maine, where our economy and way of life depend on healthy farms and forests, this is not an abstract warning. It is already happening,” said Pingree. “USDA should be our first line of defense—providing farmers and forest landowner… 1 2026-09-12T09:02:30Z 2026-09-12T09:03:27Z
https://pingree.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=6846 Ranking Member Pingree Slams Interior Plan to Carve Up Yosemite for Private Development 2026-09-11 2026 2026-09 Democrat House ME Chellie Pingree P000597 pingree.house.gov pingree https://pingree.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper Congresswoman Chellie Pingree (D-Maine), the top Democrat on the House Appropriations Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies Subcommittee, is pushing back against the Department of the Interior’s (DOI) proposed land exchange in Yosemite National Park. The project is listed as DOI’s sixth most important priority—even though Interior has acknowledged that it has not identified the parcel it intends to exchange. In a letter to Interior Secretary Doug Burgum, Pingree warns that the Department is seeking approval without identifying the property involved or demonstrating any public benefit. “Given the complete absence of any demonstrated conservation or other public benefit, the unavoidable conclusion is that this project has been deemed a departmental priority to advance a private transaction rather than a public purpose,” Pingree said. “The Land and Water Conservation Fund exists to safeguard land for the American people—not to serve as a federal concierge for a private landowner’s real estate ambitions. Absent compelling evidence to the contrary, which has not been provided by the Department, this project should not move forward.” The full letter is available here and is copied below. Congress established the Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) in 1964 to protect natural areas, water resources, and cultural heritage while expanding outdoor recreation access. At no cost to taxpayers, LWCF provides matching grants to Tribal, state and local governments to support the acquisition and development of land for public parks and other outdoor recreation sites. Congress permanently reauthorized the program in 2019, and the Great American Outdoors Act of 2020 provided it with $900 million in permanent annual funding. The proposed Yosemite exchange involves Kingsbarn Realty Capital, which owns the approximately 83-acre Hazel Green Ranch along the park’s western boundary. The developer has said it is seeking approximately 1.1 acres of federal land to construct a roughly 700-foot road connecting a planned lodging … 1 2026-09-12T09:02:30Z 2026-09-12T09:03:27Z
https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/senator-collins-honors-victims-and-first-responders-at-9/11-memorial-ceremony-in-augusta Senator Collins Honors Victims and First Responders at 9/11 Memorial Ceremony in Augusta 2026-09-11 2026 2026-09 Republican Senate ME Susan M. Collins C001035 www.collins.senate.gov collins https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper Click HERE, HERE, HERE, HERE, and HERE for individual photos. AUGUSTA, ME – U.S. Senator Susan Collins delivered remarks today at the Maine Firefighters Memorial in Augusta during a ceremony marking the 25th anniversary of the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks. The ceremony was hosted by the International Association of Fire Fighters Local 1650 in partnership with the Augusta Fire Honor Guard. “We join together today to remember those whose lives were taken that terrible morning – nearly 3,000 innocent men, women, and children, workers doing their jobs, travelers embarking on trips,” said Senator Collins during her remarks. “Men and women like Robert and Jacqueline Norton of Lubec, Maine, who boarded Flight 11 to celebrate a son’s wedding in California. At about the same time, Flight 175 took off with Robert Jalbert, a Massachusetts businessman and talented woodworker who grew up in Lewiston. Also on board was James Roux of Portland, on the first leg of a dream trip to climb the Himalayas. Stephen Ward of Gorham had just moved to New York City to work for Cantor Fitzgerald. He was among the 658 employees killed in the North Tower. Navy Commander Robert Schlegel of Gray was settling into his new assignment at the Pentagon. His office was believed to be the point of impact for Flight 77,” she continued. “On the evening of that terrible day, members of Congress gathered on the steps of the U.S. Capitol. With tears in our eyes and sorrow in our hearts, together we sang, ‘God Bless America.’ The emotions of shock, anger, and grief were joined by determination. That moment remains my most enduring memory. The passage of 25 years has not dimmed our memory or diminished our gratitude. As long as we keep the meaning of this day of remembrance in our hearts, we shall meet the challenges that lie ahead,” Senator Collins concluded. Following the September 11 attacks, Senator Collins, then Chair of the Senate Governmental Affairs Committee, led the effort with the late Senator Joe Lieberman in authoring theIntelligen… 1 2026-09-12T09:02:30Z 2026-09-12T09:03:27Z
https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/senator-collins-visits-the-town-of-newport Senator Collins Visits the Town of Newport 2026-09-10 2026 2026-09 Republican Senate ME Susan M. Collins C001035 www.collins.senate.gov collins https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper NEWPORT, ME – U.S. Senator Susan Collins was in Newport yesterday to visit the Newport Community Center, the Newport Fire Department, and the Newport branch of the Sebasticook Valley Federal Credit Union. Click HERE and HERE for individual photos. Senator Collins joined Newport Town Manager Dylan Lajoie to see the progress that has been made on renovating the Newport Community Center. Through her role on the Senate Appropriations Committee, Senator Collins secured $935,000 in the Fiscal Year 2023 funding bill to renovate the Center, including making improvements to handicap accessibility and creating new athletic fields. In addition to the Town of Newport, the Center will serve the nearby communities of Plymouth, Etna, Corinna, St. Albans, Palmyra, and Hartland. Click HERE, HERE, and HERE for individual photos. Senator Collins then visited the Newport Fire Department to thank first responders for their work responding to fires and medical emergencies in Newport. During her visit, she toured the facility and spoke with Fire Chief Jeff Chretien, Fire Captain and EMT Amanda Chretien, and other members and supporters of the Department. Click HERE and HERE for individual photos. She also stopped by Sebasticook Valley Credit Union’s Newport branch to meet with staff and discuss issues affecting Maine’s credit unions. Senator Collins’ work with credit unions includes authoring the bipartisan Senior $afe Act, which was signed into law in 2018 and helps credit unions and other financial institutions identify and report suspected financial exploitation of seniors while protecting trained employees from liability for reports made in good faith and on a reasonable basis to the proper authorities. ### 1 2026-09-11T09:25:29Z 2026-09-11T09:27:08Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-demands-education-department-restore-critical-mental-health-funding-that-addresses-youth-needs King Demands Education Department Restore Critical Mental Health Funding That Addresses Youth Needs 2026-09-10 2026 2026-09 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. Senator Angus King (I-ME) is urging the Department of Education to restore funding for critical school-based mental health programs and halt efforts to terminate grants that help schools hire and retain counselors, psychologists, social workers and other mental health professionals. In a letter to Education Secretary Linda McMahon, King and his colleagues warned that the Department’s actions are disrupting student access to care – including those handling difficult psychological issues – and creating uncertainty for schools and educators across the country. The School-Based Mental Health Services (SBMH) and Mental Health Service Professional Demonstration (MHSP) grant programs were funded through the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act to address shortages of mental health professionals in schools, particularly in rural communities. In just one year, grantees reached nearly 775,000 K-12 students nationwide and trained and hired nearly 1,300 mental health professionals. Despite the programs’ demonstrated results, the Department abruptly discontinued more than 200 multi-year grants in April 2025, claiming the programs did not align with the administration’s policy priorities regarding diversity and equity initiatives. The cancellations forced some grantees to pause hiring and training, lay off school counselors, psychologists, and social workers, and stop funding scholarships used to recruit future mental health professionals. “The Department’s recent actions create significant operational uncertainty for local school districts, interrupting student access to care and stalling the recruitment of future school-based mental health care professionals,” King and his colleagues wrote. “We therefore demand that the Department disburse the funds grantees are contractually owed in a timely manner to ensure local school programs face no further disruption.” “Despite these grants’ clear effectiveness, the Department sent boilerplate notices in April 2025 to 70 SBMH and 153 MHSP recipients claiming tha… 1 2026-09-11T09:25:29Z 2026-09-11T09:27:08Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-cosponsors-bipartisan-legislation-to-modernize-noaa-fishery-stock-counts King Cosponsors Bipartisan Legislation to Modernize NOAA Fishery Stock Counts 2026-09-08 2026 2026-09 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. Senator Angus King (I-ME) is cosponsoring legislation to update the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) capacity to track and protect fisheries. The Fisheries Science Modernization Act would incorporate environmental DNA (eDNA) and other biomolecular tools into NOAA's fisheries science programs, bolstering their ability to conduct more accurate and cost-effective stock assessment surveys. Today, NOAA's stock assessment methods are limited due to their high operational costs and limited vessel availability. This in turn results in gaps in survey coverage. The Fisheries Science Modernization Act would integrate eDNA into these assessments, a method that is already widely used in the private sector to close these gaps by enabling sampling in remote or hazardous environments while reducing costs. “Fisheries have long been an essential part of Maine’s economy and culture, and their enduring prominence depends upon their sustainability,” said Senator King. “The Fisheries Science Modernization Act would provide the NOAA with the advanced tools necessary to conduct more comprehensive surveys of our fisheries. By painting a more accurate picture of species health, we can be certain that our fisheries receive the attention they need, improving their sustainability and keeping them healthy for generations to come.” King is joined on the legislation by U.S. Senators Lisa Murkowski (R-AK), Senator Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), Dan Sullivan (R-AK), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Patty Murray (D-WA), and Adam Schiff (D-CA). Senator King has long been a vocal advocate for the protections of Maine’s fisheries and marine ecosystems. Earlier this year, he introduced the American Seafood Competitiveness Act, legislation which would expand access to U.S. Department of Agriculture loan and grant programs for commercial fishermen, seafood processors, and mariculture-related businesses. In 2025, Senator King introduced the Help Our Kelp Act, investing in the protection of the … 1 2026-09-09T09:27:09Z 2026-09-09T09:29:04Z
https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/senator-collins-announces-road-salt-cement-exempt-from-us-tariffs Senator Collins Announces Road Salt, Cement Exempt from U.S. Tariffs 2026-09-08 2026 2026-09 Republican Senate ME Susan M. Collins C001035 www.collins.senate.gov collins https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper BANGOR, ME – U.S. Senator Susan Collins released the following statement on the exemption of road salt and cement from the U.S. tariffs on Canada, following her focus on how crucial these two products are for the state of Maine in an August letter to the Administration: “I appreciate the Administration’s announcement that it will exempt road salt and cement from U.S. tariffs. In my communication with Ambassador Greer and Secretary Lutnick, I focused on road salt and cement as two products crucial to Maine that would be severely affected by these tariffs. “I mentioned in a letter to the Administration that Frenchville, a small Maine town on the Canadian border, would incur $10,000 in extra costs for road salt, threatening the town’s ability to provide municipal services. I also shared that I had heard from Maine ready-mix cement company owners, one of whom told me his company would pay $150,000 each month because of this tariff. “These additional exemptions follow Canada’s announcement that it will carve out American seafood and fish products from its retaliatory tariff list, which would have caused significant harm to Maine’s lobstermen. “However, significant tariffs – including those on forest products – remain in effect and will lead to higher costs for Maine families and uncertainty for businesses. I urge the Administration to continue to work to deescalate this conflict and reach a trade resolution with our Canadian partners.” ### 1 2026-09-10T09:25:58Z 2026-09-10T09:27:09Z
https://pingree.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=6838 Pingree: Trump’s Arch Tests Whether Congress Will Defend Its Own Power 2026-09-08 2026 2026-09 Democrat House ME Chellie Pingree P000597 pingree.house.gov pingree https://pingree.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper Congresswoman Chellie Pingree (D-Maine), Ranking Member of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies, is calling on Speaker of the House Mike Johnson (R-La.) to file a lawsuit on behalf of Congress to block construction of President Trump’s 250-foot arch. Pingree’s letter comes after the Department of the Interior Secretary Doug Burgum announced they’d be breaking ground at Memorial Circle—which sits directly in the sightline between Arlington National Cemetery and the Lincoln Memorial—within two weeks, ignoring a pending lawsuit and bypassing Congressional authorization. Pingree argues that Congress has neither appropriated funding nor granted authority for this project under the Commemorative Works Act. “Congress is the institution whose appropriations power and Commemorative Works Act authority this Administration is bypassing outright. That is a concrete, particularized injury, traceable directly to the Administration's own conduct and redressable by a court order halting construction,” Pingree said. “If the Administration wants to hide behind a standing argument, let it make that case against the body whose laws it is violating.” Three Vietnam War veterans have sued the Trump Administration over the proposed arch, arguing that the arch would “dishonor their military and foreign service.” “Americans are watching this White House pour concrete over the rules of their own government, and they are furious,” Pingree continued. “That fury runs deepest among veterans and Gold Star families. […] Gold Star families who walk through Arlington's gates to visit their loved ones would have to do it in the shadow of a 250-foot tribute to a man who, when asked who the monument was for, reportedly answered, ‘Me.’” On Friday, Trump’s DOJ filed a notice of supplemental authority in the veterans’ lawsuit, Lemmon v. Trump, citing the Supreme Court's August 31 decision concerning the White House ballroom in support of its standing arguments in the pending arch litigation. Pingree, h… 1 2026-09-11T09:25:29Z 2026-09-11T09:27:08Z
https://pingree.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=6840 Ranking Member Pingree Statement on Smithsonian Secretary Lonnie Bunch 2026-09-08 2026 2026-09 Democrat House ME Chellie Pingree P000597 pingree.house.gov pingree https://pingree.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper Congresswoman Chellie Pingree (D-Maine), the top Democrat on the Appropriations Subcommittee that oversees the Smithsonian Institution, released the following statement on Secretary Lonnie Bunch’s resignation: Secretary Lonnie Bunch is a trailblazing historian and dedicated public servant who has devoted nearly four decades to the Smithsonian. From bringing the National Museum of African American History and Culture to life to becoming the institution’s first Black Secretary, his extraordinary leadership has strengthened the Smithsonian and enriched our nation. Secretary Bunch has guided the Smithsonian through a period of unprecedented political interference while remaining committed to scholarship, expertise, and the public trust. Under his leadership, the Smithsonian continued to do what it does best: tell America’s story truthfully and completely—the good and the bad, the tragic and triumphant. I am deeply grateful for Secretary Bunch’s service and wish him well in his next chapter. His departure comes at a consequential moment for this treasured American institution. As Ranking Member of the subcommittee that oversees the Smithsonian, I will continue fighting to ensure the institution has the resources, expertise, and curatorial independence necessary to fulfill its mission free from White House interference. The Smithsonian belongs to the American people, and no president has the right to erase, soften, or rewrite our history. ### 1 2026-09-11T09:25:29Z 2026-09-11T09:27:08Z
https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/-senator-collins-tours-mema-technical-education-center-in-brunswick Senator Collins Tours MEMA Technical Education Center in Brunswick 2026-09-04 2026 2026-09 Republican Senate ME Susan M. Collins C001035 www.collins.senate.gov collins https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper Click HERE, HERE, and HERE for individual photos. BRUNSWICK, ME – U.S. Senator Susan Collins toured the Maine Energy Marketers Association (MEMA) Technical Education Center in Brunswick, where she spoke with students, instructors, and MEMA members. The nonprofit MEMA Technical Education Center is owned and operated by MEMA members and provides heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration training. Its curriculum is continually updated to reflect industry advancements and best practices. The National Oilheat Research Alliance (NORA) helps fund the Center. In 2018, Senator Collins worked with Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) to secure a 10-year reauthorization of NORA as part of the annual Farm Bill. “The hands-on education provided by the MEMA Technical Education Center prepares students for rewarding careers while helping Maine energy companies meet their workforce needs,” said Senator Collins. “It was great speaking with the students and instructors and learning more about the important training offered at the Center. I thank MEMA for its commitment to technical education and for helping prepare the skilled workers who serve Maine homes and businesses.” MEMA represents more than 300 members, including heating oil, propane, biofuel, and motor fuel providers, as well as convenience store owners. ### 1 2026-09-05T08:49:07Z 2026-09-05T08:50:44Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/hollow-promise_king-responds-to-news-that-ice-has-acquired-sufficient-body-worn-cameras “Hollow Promise” – King Responds to News that ICE Has Acquired Sufficient Body-Worn Cameras 2026-09-02 2026 2026-09 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. Senator Angus King (I-ME) today shared the following statement responding to news that the Immigration and Customs Enforcement now says it has acquired enough body-worn cameras to have all officers equipped with: “This update from ICE is a hollow promise since ICE announced weeks ago that they have no intention of making body-worn camera footage public if it does not show them in a favorable light. So unless and until there is a change of policy and leadership, today’s news simply means that there is more expensively equipped lawlessness on our streets rather than responsible, legitimate law enforcement.” Senator King has been outspoken and proactive in his efforts to negotiate necessary guardrails for ICE and Customs and Border Protection (CBP) in the wake of unprofessional and unconstitutional behavior among those agencies. In January, King appeared on Face the Nation where he explained his Constitutional concerns over how ICE was operating in Maine, as well as possible paths forward for the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) funding package. In February, he released a statement on congressional efforts to curtail ICE’s activities in Maine and across the country—again calling for the implementation of guardrails. Weeks ago, he condemned the news that ICE was buying painful “shock gloves” for officers to stun and paralyze suspects they were seeking to detain. Most recently, King called for a comprehensive, transparent, and expedited investigation into the fatal shooting involving U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) personnel in Biddeford. Additionally, when given the chance to vote for a DHS budget that funded TSA, FEMA, CISA and the Coast Guard – holding ICE and CBP funding for bipartisan negotiations to include additional civilian protections – Senator King voted in favor of this approach all eleven times it was considered on the Senate floor. ### 1 2026-09-03T09:29:33Z 2026-09-03T09:31:32Z
https://golden.house.gov/media/press-releases/golden-votes-to-extend-government-funding-through-december-11 Golden votes to extend government funding through December 11 2026-09-01 2026 2026-09 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 today in favor of a Continuing Resolution (CR) to keep the government funded until December 11, preventing the risk of a government shutdown on October 1. The CR maintains current government funding levels until December 11, with limited policy changes. The bill passed the House of Representatives in a bipartisan 370-48 vote. It previously passed the Senate in a vote of 90-6 and now goes to President Donald Trump for his signature. “As the November elections come into view, and we remain without a funding deal, the risk of political gamesmanship is high,” Golden said. “This resolution will remove the incentive for either party to hold the government hostage in an attempt to score political points — and give Congress the time needed to negotiate a sound appropriations deal.” Golden has consistently voted to avoid government shutdowns because of the harm they cause, often to those less fortunate. This past winter, a lapse in appropriations triggered the longest shutdown in the nation’s history. As a result, food assistance benefits for needy families were disrupted, core public health and food safety programs were paused, millions of federal workers missed paychecks and travelers experienced long delays. In Maine alone, a government shutdown would affect the more than 11,000 federal employees and could force Acadia National Park to close. Additionally, a shutdown would likely impact the 169,000 Mainers who rely on Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) to put food on the table and the more than 45,000 Maine households that depend on Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEP) to heat their homes. ### 1 2026-09-02T09:19:58Z 2026-09-02T09:20:51Z
https://golden.house.gov/media/press-releases/house-passes-golden-lawler-bill-to-protect-maine-lobstermen-from-burdensome-new-right-whale-regulations-until-2035 House passes Golden-Lawler bill to protect Maine lobstermen from burdensome new right whale regulations until 2035 2026-09-01 2026 2026-09 Democrat House ME Jared F. Golden G000592 golden.house.gov golden https://golden.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON — Maine’s lobstermen and the communities they support would get an extended reprieve from onerous new regulations related to the North Atlantic right whale until 2035 under a bill spearheaded by Congressmen Jared Golden (ME-02) and Mike Lawler (NY-17), which passed the House of Representatives in bipartisan 219-196 vote on Tuesday. The Golden-Lawler bill, The Northeast Lobstermen Protection Act, now goes to the Senate. “This bill is a big win not only for fishermen in Maine, but for bipartisanship in Congress,” said Golden, whose district hosts the largest lobster fishery in the United States. “While the threat of unnecessary, industry-killing regulations is a matter of survival for lobster harvesters in Maine, the issues at play affect fishermen across the Northeast. Building bridges across party lines is essential for a functional Congress, but unfortunately, it’s a skill that has been lost for far too many members. I’m grateful to Rep. Lawler for recognizing an injustice to working men and women and joining me to correct it.” “While this legislation is particularly important to Maine’s fishing communities, the Northeast lobster industry supports small businesses and hardworking families far beyond the coastline, including restaurants here in New York. Fishermen have spent years adapting to conservation requirements and deserve regulatory certainty instead of constantly shifting rules that threaten their ability to operate and plan for the future. I’m grateful to Congressman Jared Golden for his partnership on this bipartisan effort and to the Natural Resources Committee for their support. We are proud to see this bill pass the House,” Lawler said. The moratorium was originally enacted in 2022 under President Joe Biden, with bipartisan support from the entire Maine delegation and Maine Gov. Janet Mills. It was made necessary after the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) in 2021 issued an opinion using “worst-case scenarios,” assumptions and poor data that led to regulatory proposals for more… 1 2026-09-02T09:19:58Z 2026-09-02T09:20:51Z
https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/senator-collins-visits-american-rheinmetall-in-biddeford Senator Collins Visits American Rheinmetall in Biddeford 2026-08-31 2026 2026-08 Republican Senate ME Susan M. Collins C001035 www.collins.senate.gov collins https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper Click HERE, HERE, HERE, HERE, and HERE for individual photos. BIDDEFORD, ME – Today, U.S. Senator Susan Collins delivered remarks and toured the factory floor at American Rheinmetall, where she spoke with employees and company leadership. The company’s Biddeford facility supports U.S. defense manufacturing and produces weapon-system components, military electronics, fire-control and vision systems, and other technologies. American Rheinmetall recently received a contract from the Department of Defense (DOD) worth more than $20 million to produce MK-93 weapon mounts for the U.S. military. Senator Collins secured the necessary funding increase for DOD to purchase the mounts, allowing American Rheinmetall to compete for the contract and DOD to award it on schedule. The contract will help expand operations at American Rheinmetall’s Biddeford manufacturing facility. “From the founding of our nation to today, Maine manufacturers have been essential to keeping America strong and free. We are fortunate to have companies such as American Rheinmetall strengthening the arsenal of democracy, from advanced materials and precision manufacturing to autonomous systems. Your cutting-edge work provides specialized capabilities critical to military readiness and is an important part of the defense industrial base,” said Senator Collins during her remarks. “The upgraded MK-93 mount you manufacture enhances the Army’s standard mount for heavy machine guns and grenade launchers, boosting accuracy, stability, and ease of use. Just as important, the good example you set through your skill, dedication, and pride sends a powerful message to students seeking rewarding careers. The people of Maine are proud of our state’s role in keeping our nation strong and free. You add to that legacy. Thank you and keep up the great work!” As Chair of the Appropriations Committee, Senator Collins has worked to strengthen Maine’s defense industrial base. She led Senate passage of the 2026 Department of Defense funding bill, which supports defense emp… 1 2026-09-01T09:48:49Z 2026-09-01T09:49:51Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-efforts-to-protect-military-brain-health-making-improvements-identifying-remaining-challenges King Efforts to Protect Military Brain Health Making Improvements, Identifying Remaining Challenges 2026-08-31 2026 2026-08 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-ME), member of the Senate Armed Service Committee (SASC) and the Senate Veteran’s Affairs Committee (SVAC), is continuing to push for research into the traumatic effects of blast overpressure on servicemembers during and after their time in the military. The Government Accountability Office (GAO) released a study that reviews Department of Defense (DOD) actions to assess, monitor, and improve the health risks posed by blast overpressure on troops operating heavy weapons. The report was issued after Senator King worked to include it in the FY25 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) which codified his Blast Overpressure Safety Act. While the study concludes that “DOD has taken critical steps to prevent and mitigate service members’ exposures,” it identifies root causes behind shortfalls in monitoring servicemembers’ brain health – including the shortage of industrial hygienists who can conduct the sophisticated tests that can help unit commanders and medical personnel evaluate and track the injuries. “For years I have said that you cannot fix a problem unless you can measure it,” said Senator King. “Thanks to the Government Accountability Office (GAO) survey, we now have more information and metrics to track progress in addressing this invisible danger that has been lurking for years. We have seen the tragic consequences that result when these blast overpressure symptoms go unnoticed or untreated, and it’s work like this that will make the difference, improve the health of our service members, and likely save lives.” In addition to the specific finding of an insufficient number of medically-trained staff, the report surveyed five factors that are playing a part in addressing and improving the mental health threat posed by blast overpressure. Awareness, military hierarchy, unit culture, access to care, and the nature of interactions with health care providers were all singled out by participants as playing a role in confronting this problem among America’s militar… 1 2026-09-01T09:48:49Z 2026-09-01T09:49:51Z
https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/senator-collins-tours-improvements-at-amhc-crisis-stabilization-unit-in-calais Senator Collins Tours Improvements at AMHC Crisis Stabilization Unit in Calais 2026-08-30 2026 2026-08 Republican Senate ME Susan M. Collins C001035 www.collins.senate.gov collins https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper Click HERE, HERE, HERE, and HERE for individual photos. CALAIS, ME – U.S. Senator Susan Collins visited Aroostook Mental Health Service’s (AMHC) newly renovated Adult Crisis Stabilization Unit in Calais yesterday. The unit provides 24/7 short-term residential crisis care, safety planning, and mental health stabilization. In 2024, Senator Collins secured $4.3 million in Congressionally Directed Spending to support improvements at the facility, including a new four-season sensory space for children, as well as a soon-to-be-completed children’s residential unit. “These improvements, combined with AMHC’s expert and compassionate staff, will help individuals and families in Washington County during their time of need,” said Senator Collins. “That is why I worked hard to secure $4.3 million in federal funding to support these renovations and expand the availability of behavioral health services for children and adults at this location.” AMHC has provided mental health, crisis, substance use treatment, and other behavioral health services to communities in northern and eastern Maine for more than 60 years. ### 1 2026-08-31T11:22:56Z 2026-08-31T11:24:00Z
https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/senator-collins-celebrates-completed-renovation-of-st-croix-apartments-in-calais Senator Collins Celebrates Completed Renovation of St. Croix Apartments in Calais 2026-08-29 2026 2026-08 Republican Senate ME Susan M. Collins C001035 www.collins.senate.gov collins https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper Click HERE, HERE, HERE, HERE, HERE, and HERE for individual photos. CALAIS, ME – Today, U.S. Senator Susan Collins participated in a ribbon-cutting ceremony celebrating the completion of the rehabilitation and renovation of the St. Croix Apartments in Calais. The project restored 26 units of affordable housing for low-income seniors. In 2021, Senator Collins helped secure nearly $3.2 million for this project through the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development’s (HUD) Section 202 Supportive Housing for the Elderly Program. Then, in 2024, she secured an additional $1.2 million in Congressionally Directed Spending to further support the renovations. “Affordable housing is critical to helping Maine seniors live comfortably and securely in their own communities,” said Senator Collins. “I am delighted to celebrate the completion of this project, and I was proud to help secure the federal funding that made it possible. The renovated St. Croix Apartments will provide seniors with safe and affordable homes close to the family, friends, and community they love.” The St. Croix Apartments lost HUD funding in 2016 due to the previous owner’s failure to properly maintain the property, forcing the residents to find new homes. Senator Collins worked to ensure that those residents received relocation and continued rental assistance. Sunrise Opportunities later purchased the property and developed a plan to return it to affordable housing. ### 1 2026-08-30T10:18:21Z 2026-08-30T10:19:31Z
https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/senator-collins-warns-170-million-of-maine-goods-would-be-hit-by-tariffs-in-new-letter-to-administration Senator Collins Warns $170 Million of Maine Goods Would Be Hit by Tariffs in New Letter to Administration 2026-08-28 2026 2026-08 Republican Senate ME Susan M. Collins C001035 www.collins.senate.gov collins https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper BANGOR, ME – Today, U.S. Senator Susan Collins wrote to U.S. Department of Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick and U.S. Trade Representative Jameison Greer urging them to resume negotiations with Canada and to reach a fair trade agreement to prevent damaging tariffs from taking effect in order to protect Maine workers, employers, and communities from unnecessary economic harm. She also shared new details quantifying the damage to Maine businesses if the tariffs continue as planned. “The new 50 percent tariffs imposed by the Administration on certain Canadian imports and the retaliatory tariffs announced by the Canadian government will lead to higher costs, risk, and uncertainty for Maine families, small and large businesses, and our communities,” Senator Collins wrote. “For Mainers, commerce with Canada is a regular occurrence. Maine borders only one state, but shares a 611-mile border with Canada. The consequences of Canada’s retaliatory tariffs are severe for Maine businesses, including our heritage industries.” “Approximately $170 million worth of goods would be subject to the announced Canadian tariffs, with roughly 62 percent coming from the forest products sector. Nearly 90 percent of Maine is covered by forest. This economic sector supports approximately 30,000 jobs and contributes more than $8 billion to the state’s economy,” she continued. “Two of Maine’s paper mills, which are the largest employers in their towns, have already contacted me about the crushing increased costs that they will incur and the potential impact on their employment levels.” “I appreciate that the Canadian government has revised its initial announcement and removed seafood and fish products, including lobster, from its plan. This would have resulted in more than $200 million in tariffs on Maine’s lobster industry, with impacts felt all throughout the supply chain,” she added. “The tariffs will also impose significant hardships on Maine communities. For example, Maine municipalities rely on road salt from Canada to keep roads saf… 1 2026-08-28T17:11:49Z 2026-08-28T17:13:14Z
https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/senator-collins-participates-in-christening-and-launch-of-umaines-3d-printed-vessel Senator Collins Participates in Christening and Launch of UMaine’s 3D-Printed Vessel 2026-08-28 2026 2026-08 Republican Senate ME Susan M. Collins C001035 www.collins.senate.gov collins https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper Click HERE, HERE, and HERE for individual photos. HAMPDEN, ME – Today, U.S. Senator Susan Collins delivered remarks at the christening and launch of 3Dirigo-X, a 30-foot, 3D-printed vessel designed and manufactured by the University of Maine’s Advanced Structures and Composites Center (ASCC). Senator Collins joined University of Maine President Joan Ferrini-Mundy, University of Maine System Chancellor Dannel Malloy, ASCC Executive Director Dr. Habib Dagher, and Keith DeVries, Director of the Department of Defense Manufacturing Technology (MANTECH) Program, for the event at Hampden Marina. Following her remarks, Senator Collins helped christen the vessel and observed an in-water demonstration. 3Dirigo-X is the first large 3D-printed vessel designed to operate at high speeds in the challenging environment of the Atlantic Ocean. Developed through a Department of Defense-funded Accelerated Rapid Prototyping (ARP) program, it is engineered to withstand the static, dynamic, impact, vibration, and hydrodynamic forces associated with operating at speeds approaching 40 knots. The vessel builds on the ASCC’s 2019 production of 3Dirigo, a 25-foot patrol boat that was printed in 72 hours and set Guinness World Records for the world’s largest 3D-printed boat and largest 3D-printed object. “Today, we launch 3Dirigo-X, the first large 3D-printed vessel designed to operate at high speeds in the challenging environment of the Atlantic Ocean. 3Dirigo proved that a boat could be printed. 3Dirigo-X will demonstrate that a vessel produced by this technology can perform in the demanding conditions of the high seas,” said Senator Collins during her remarks. “This significant advancement is the result of the expertise of researchers at UMaine’s Advanced Structures and Composites Center. My first official visit as a new senator in 1997 was to Dr. Dagher’s wood composites lab. Ever since, I have been proud to support the pioneering work done here by securing funding to support and strengthen its advanced manufacturing capabilities.” S… 1 2026-08-29T11:31:28Z 2026-08-29T11:32:37Z
https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/senator-collins-visits-penquis-bright-beginnings-child-development-center Senator Collins Visits Penquis Bright Beginnings Child Development Center 2026-08-28 2026 2026-08 Republican Senate ME Susan M. Collins C001035 www.collins.senate.gov collins https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper Click HERE, HERE, HERE, and HERE for individual photos. BANGOR, ME – Today, U.S. Senator Susan Collins visited Penquis Bright Beginnings Child Development Center in Bangor to join Penquis President and CEO Kara Hay, Head Start and Childcare Director Mary Kay Hallett for a guided tour of the facility. The center opened in May 2025 and includes 16 classrooms for infants, toddlers, and preschool-age children. Once fully operational, the center will serve nearly 200 children through its Head Start, Early Head Start, and child care programs. “Bright Beginnings is helping more children get a strong start in life while giving parents access to the reliable, high-quality child care they need,” said Senator Collins. “I have long been a strong supporter of Head Start, and as Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, I will continue working to protect and strengthen this vital program for children and families in Maine and across the country.” Senator Collins has long supported federal investments in Head Start, which provides early childhood education, health, nutrition, and family support services to children from low-income families. As Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, Senator Collins helped increase funding for Head Start nationally to $12.4 billion in the Fiscal Year 2026 Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies appropriations bill. 1 2026-08-29T11:31:28Z 2026-08-29T11:32:37Z
https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/senator-collins-joins-bridge-dedication-in-honor-of-fallen-maine-state-police-detective Senator Collins Joins Bridge Dedication in Honor of Fallen Maine State Police Detective 2026-08-27 2026 2026-08 Republican Senate ME Susan M. Collins C001035 www.collins.senate.gov collins https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper Click HERE, HERE, HERE, and HERE for individual photos. MILLINOCKET, ME – Today, U.S. Senator Susan Collins participated in a bridge dedication in Millinocket honoring fallen Maine State Police Detective Ben Campbell. Detective Campbell’s widow, Hilary, and son, Everett, attended the ceremony, along with dozens of state, county, and local law enforcement officers and elected officials, local business owners, representatives of community organizations, and other supporters. Detective Campbell, who lived in Millinocket, was killed in 2019 when he stopped to help a stranded driver on I-95 and was struck by a wheel that detached from a passing logging truck. He was 31 years old. “Every law enforcement officer answers a call that sets them apart. Most of us wonder if we would have the courage to risk our lives in a moment of crisis to protect others. The men and women who wear the uniform demonstrate that courage every day,” said Senator Collins during her remarks. “Detective Campbell answered that call, and he served the people of Maine with commitment, compassion, and valor. The dedication of this new bridge in his name ensures that for generations to come, all who pass this way will be reminded of his dedication to others. Hilary and Everett, to you he was a loving husband and a devoted father. To all of us here today, he was a hero—not because of the way his life ended, but because of the way he lived it.” In 2018, Senator Collins helped secure a $10,836,220 U.S. DOT Transportation Investment Generating Economic Recovery (TIGER) grant to replace three structurally deficient bridges in Piscataquis and Penobscot counties, including the bridge dedicated today. Formerly known as the West Branch Bridge, the now Detective Ben Campbell Memorial Bridge carries Route 11 over the West Branch of the Penobscot River approximately four miles southwest of Millinocket. ### 1 2026-08-28T17:11:49Z 2026-08-28T17:13:14Z
https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/senator-collins-statement-on-canada-exempting-american-seafood-from-retaliatory-tariffs Senator Collins’ Statement on Canada Exempting American Seafood from Retaliatory Tariffs 2026-08-27 2026 2026-08 Republican Senate ME Susan M. Collins C001035 www.collins.senate.gov collins https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper BANGOR, ME – U.S. Senator Susan Collins released the following statement after the Canadian government announced its decision to exempt American seafood from its list of planned retaliatory tariffs: “I very much appreciate Canada’s decision to remove seafood and fish products from its retaliatory tariff list. These tariffs would have caused tremendous harm to Maine’s lobstermen, disrupting one of their most important markets during the fall fishing season. “I urge the U.S. to respond to this show of good faith from our Canadian friends by returning to the negotiating table and working to amicably resolve this trade dispute. “Canada is not China. Canada is one of our closest allies and largest trading partners. Our economies are inextricably linked, especially in the border regions. Continuing with these tariffs will harm Maine families, small businesses, municipalities, manufacturers, and farmers. “When I spoke with U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer this week, I stressed the negative impact U.S. tariffs will have on Maine — especially our forest, food, cement, road salt users and producers. Tariffs will also stress municipal budgets, as small towns in Maine rely on Canadian road salt and cannot afford to incur extra costs to keep their roads safe in the winter.” +++ Senator Collins has repeatedly opposed broad tariffs on Canadian goods and worked to protect Maine businesses and communities from their negative effects. Earlier this month, following the proposed 50 percent tariffs on more than 500 categories of Canadian imports, she wrote to the Commerce Secretary and the U.S. Trade Representative urging the Administration to provide Maine businesses with greater clarity and notice regarding the tariffs and to consider their expected negative impact on Maine’s economy before any potential implementation. She also met with Canadian Ambassador Mark Wiseman to discuss the tariffs and the broader economic relationship between the U.S. and Canada. In April 2025, she delivered remarks on the Senate floor i… 1 2026-08-28T17:11:49Z 2026-08-28T17:13:14Z
https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/senator-collins-delivers-remarks-at-kenduskeag-library-truss-signing-ceremony Senator Collins Delivers Remarks at Kenduskeag Library Truss Signing Ceremony 2026-08-26 2026 2026-08 Republican Senate ME Susan M. Collins C001035 www.collins.senate.gov collins https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper Click HERE, HERE, HERE, HERE, and HERE for individual photos. KENDUSKEAG, ME – U.S. Senator Susan Collins delivered remarks today at a truss signing ceremony for the new Kenduskeag Public Library. She joined Kenduskeag Town Selectboard Chairwoman Sheila Doughty, Town Selectmen Mike Bishop and Chris Young, State Senator Stacey Guerin, Town Historian James Smith, library trustees and other project supporters at the event. The town’s current library does not have bathrooms or running water and has limited space for visitors. The new library will offer modern facilities and additional space for hosting community programs and events. Senator Collins secured $1 million in Congressionally Directed Spending in 2024 to support the construction of the new library. This is part of more than $16 million she has secured in the past five years to upgrade nine libraries across the state. “This project holds a special place in my heart. One of my first jobs as a teenager was reading to children during Story Hour at the public library in my hometown of Caribou. I learned at that early age that encouraging children to read is an investment in their education and, ultimately, an investment in our country’s future,” said Senator Collins during her remarks. “I was pleased to secure $1 million to help move this long-awaited project forward, and I congratulate the people of Kenduskeag on your vision and perseverance in seeing this project through. I look forward to our continued work together.” ### 1 2026-08-27T16:10:01Z 2026-08-27T16:10:50Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-and-colleagues-call-for-committee-hearing-on-needless-avoidable-shortages-and-strain-on-troops King and Colleagues Call for Committee Hearing on Needless, Avoidable Shortages and Strain on Troops 2026-08-26 2026 2026-08 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-ME), a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee (SASC), is calling for a public hearing to scrutinize the planning and management of extended military deployments in support of ongoing operations in Iran and the mounting toll on American servicemembers and their families. In a letter to SASC Chairman Roger Wicker (R-MS), King and twelve of his colleagues pointed to recent reports of deteriorating conditions aboard the USS Abraham Lincoln and other ships, as well as extended deployments affecting soldiers, airmen, National Guardsmen, and reservists. The lawmakers are seeking testimony from Department of Defense leadership about how the military is supporting deployed servicemembers, planning relief rotations and addressing the effects of extended deployments on military readiness, recruitment, and retention. The request follows reports that sailors aboard the USS Abraham Lincoln have faced deteriorating living conditions during an extended deployment, including food rationing, shortages of water and other basic supplies, broken facilities and serious mental health concerns. Most recently, Stars and Stripes reported that military families stationed in Bahrain are facing “uncharted territory” when it comes to a lack of planning and communications from the highest levels of government – from reasons for the war to sudden and chaotic evacuations. “The toll this unauthorized, disastrous war is taking on our troops is unconscionable,” King and his colleagues wrote. “Troops are suffering because of this Administration’s inability to end this war or make the environment safe enough for our servicemembers to be delivered the food, medication or supplies they need.” “Military families and the American people deserve answers about when our heroes will come home and how DoD plans to restore military readiness that has been drained by this war,” the lawmakers continued. “Supply shortages and unjustified extended deployments also have a real impact on our ability to recruit … 1 2026-08-27T16:10:01Z 2026-08-27T16:10:50Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-us-canada-trade-war-could-devastate-lobster-industry King: US-Canada Trade War Could “Devastate” Lobster Industry 2026-08-25 2026 2026-08 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-ME) released the following statement after the United States and Canada recently escalated the year-long trade war with retaliatory tariffs that will have major impacts on Maine people and businesses: “Maine’s lobstermen are some of the most determined and resilient members of Maine’s workforce. For months, these hardworking men and women have faced challenges across the board, from the increased cost of living at home to the spike in diesel fuel prices at work. Now this new escalation of the trade war with Canada – ‘the dumbest trade war’ according to the Wall Street Journal – is going to make things even worse’ “The Canadians just announced that they will begin retaliatory tariffs against American products as a response to the White House’s rash actions – including a 25% tariff on lobsters beginning in September. In the fall, almost half of the Maine lobster catch goes to Canada for processing which means that they will be tariffed on their way from the United States to Canada which could cut off the Canadian market with devastating consequences. And if the President’s misguided trade war further escalates, the processed lobsters could be taxed again when they are shipped back from Canada to the United States. If the President doesn’t relent, this hammer blow to hardworking Maine people would devastate the Maine lobster industry and leave many of these hardworking people literally high and dry. “Maine people are not interested in personal, retaliatory politics. They are focused on the high cost of goods here at home. The majority party must listen to the industry leaders here in Maine, put pressure on the President, and move forward with an economic policy that works for us and not against us.” ### 1 2026-08-26T05:33:32Z 2026-08-26T05:34:56Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-pushing-state-department-to-fix-college-student-visa-delays King Pushing State Department to Fix College Student Visa Delays 2026-08-24 2026 2026-08 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-ME) joined 29 of his Senate colleagues in urging the U.S. Department of State to address delays in processing student and exchange visitor visas ahead of the upcoming academic year. In a letter to Secretary of State Marco Rubio, the Senators are calling for the timely processing of F, M, and J visas as well as for answers about the lack of available visa appointments at U.S. embassies and consulates. The Senators highlight the vital contributions international students make to universities and communities nationwide, including expanding opportunities for American students, generating economic activity, strengthening the U.S. workforce, and building international partnerships. “International students are critical to the success of our universities, including contributing nearly $43 billion annually to local communities and supporting more than 355,000 American jobs during the 2024-2025 academic year. Even though international students make up only six percent of the total higher education population, their enrollment creates opportunities for American students,” write the Senators. “International students also improve our national security by fostering global relationships, cross cultural understanding, and long-lasting diplomatic ties. These benefits are at risk if visa processing delays persist.” In addition to King, the letter was signed by U.S. Senators Dick Durbin (D-IL), Angela Alsobrooks (D-MD), Michael Bennet (D-CO), Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-DE), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Chris Coons (D-DE), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Ruben Gallego (D-AZ), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Mark Kelly (D-AZ), Andy Kim (D-NJ), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Ben Ray Lujan (D-NM), Ed Markey (D-MA), Patty Murray (D-WA), Gary Peters (D-MI), Jack Reed (D-RI), Jacky Rosen (D-NV), Adam Schiff (D-CA), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Tina Smith (D-MN), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Reverend Raphael Warnock (D-GA), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Peter Welch (D-VT), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), and Ron Wyden (D-OR). The f… 1 2026-08-25T05:31:37Z 2026-08-25T05:33:09Z
https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/senator-collins-statement-on-the-breakdown-of-us-canada-trade-negotiations Senator Collins’ Statement on the Breakdown of U.S.-Canada Trade Negotiations 2026-08-22 2026 2026-08 Republican Senate ME Susan M. Collins C001035 www.collins.senate.gov collins https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper BANGOR, ME – U.S. Senator Susan Collins released the following statement regarding the breakdown of trade negotiations between the United States and Canada: “The on-again/off-again trade talks between the U.S. and Canada lead to higher costs, risk, and uncertainty for Maine businesses. If the Administration proceeds with these tariffs, they will increase costs for Maine families, as most businesses will have no choice but to pass on the tariffs to their customers through higher prices. “Maine imports approximately $2 billion in non-petroleum products from Canada each year. Ever since the tariffs were first announced, I have heard from many businesses, farmers, and lobstermen concerned about the cost of navigating the tariffs, the lack of domestic supply chains, and the likely imposition of retaliatory tariffs by Canada. “I urge both sides to return to the negotiating table. The Administration must consider the negative impact tariffs would have on Maine businesses, communities, and families and work to reach a fair agreement with our Canadian neighbors.” +++ Senator Collins has repeatedly opposed broad tariffs on Canadian goods and worked to protect Maine businesses and communities from their negative effects. Earlier this month, following the proposed 50 percent tariffs on more than 500 categories of Canadian imports, she wrote to the Commerce Secretary and the U.S. Trade Representative urging the Administration to provide Maine businesses with greater clarity and notice regarding the tariffs and to consider their expected negative impact on Maine’s economy before any potential implementation. She also met with Canadian Ambassador Mark Wiseman to discuss the tariffs and the broader economic relationship between the U.S. and Canada. In April 2025, she delivered remarks on the Senate floor in support of a resolution to end the emergency declaration being used to impose tariffs on Canadian goods; joined a bipartisan group in introducing the Trade Review Act of 2025, which would reassert Congress’ constitutio… 1 2026-08-23T05:27:15Z 2026-08-23T05:29:02Z
https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/senator-collins-walks-in-madison-anson-days-parade Senator Collins Walks in Madison-Anson Days Parade 2026-08-22 2026 2026-08 Republican Senate ME Susan M. Collins C001035 www.collins.senate.gov collins https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper Click HERE, HERE, HERE, HERE, and HERE for individual photos. ANSON, ME – Today, U.S. Senator Susan Collins walked in the Madison-Anson Days Parade. The parade is one of the signature events of Madison-Anson Days, a decades-old summer tradition featuring several days of entertainment, family activities, and community events. “I had so much fun taking part in the Madison-Anson Days Parade today and visiting with so many Mainers who lined the route,” said Senator Collins. “From one side of the Kennebec River to the other, the parade was a wonderful celebration of the shared community pride that connects these two great Maine towns.” ### 1 2026-08-23T05:27:15Z 2026-08-23T05:29:02Z
https://golden.house.gov/media/press-releases/golden-bipartisan-fiscal-forum-react-to-historic-debt-milestone Golden, Bipartisan Fiscal Forum React to Historic Debt Milestone 2026-08-21 2026 2026-08 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) and members of the Bipartisan Fiscal Forum (BFF) released the following statements as our nation’s gross national debt recently surpassed $40 trillion. Annual interest payments on the debt are already approaching $1 trillion, more than the United States is projected to spend this year on defense, Medicare or Medicaid. Absent meaningful action, the debt is only projected to increase, and this has real consequences for hard-working families. The BFF is a group of House members committed to raising awareness of the nation's unsustainable debt and working across the aisle toward a more responsible fiscal future. “Both parties talk a big game on fiscal responsibility — until they’re the ones who have to govern. Reducing our national debt shouldn’t be seen as a threat to one party’s agenda, but as a once-in-a-generation chance to work together for the good of all Americans,” Golden said. “It’s worth remembering: the last time we actually balanced the budget, Republicans controlled Congress and a Democrat sat in the White House. Absent bipartisan legislation, it's only a matter of time before one of the two parties is left holding the bag.” “Our national debt threatens our economy, drives up interest rates, slows wage growth, and leaves us less prepared for the next emergency. We are in this together, regardless of party label. Addressing our looming fiscal challenges will take both parties, and a bipartisan fiscal commission is a practical step toward doing so.” said Congressman Bill Huizenga (MI-04), Co-Chair of the Bipartisan Fiscal Forum “The national debt is now more than $40 trillion and we borrow nearly $2 trillion every year just to pay our expenses. As government borrowing grows, there is less money available in the system to help San Diegans afford homes, invest in their businesses, or take out loans. Congress must help working people keep up with the cost of living. The first step is to pass the Fiscal Commission Act.” said Congressman Scott Peters (CA-50), C… 1 2026-08-22T05:24:59Z 2026-08-22T05:26:16Z
https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/administration-releases-more-than-5-million-for-maine-weatherization-and-energy-aid-following-request-from-senators-collins-and-reed Administration Releases More Than $5 Million for Maine Weatherization and Energy Aid Following Request from Senators Collins and Reed 2026-08-20 2026 2026-08 Republican Senate ME Susan M. Collins C001035 www.collins.senate.gov collins https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Susan Collins announced today that the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has released $5,056,574 for the State of Maine through the Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP), the Weatherization Readiness Fund (WRF), and the State Energy Program (SEP). This action follows a request sent earlier this year by Senators Collins and Jack Reed (D-RI) along with 17 of their Senate colleagues, including Senator Angus King, urging the Administration to release the delayed funding for these programs. At the time, the Department had not issued the annual guidance states needed to apply for the funds, threatening disruptions to these programs. Specifically, the State of Maine will receive $4,094,134 through the WAP, $397,790 through the WRF, and $564,650 through the SEP. Nationwide, DOE released $328 million for the WAP, $30 million for the WRF, and $64 million for the SEP. “These programs enjoy broad bipartisan support and play important roles in lowering energy bills and improving the safety and efficiency of homes in Maine,” said Senator Collins. “Following our bipartisan request, I am pleased that the Administration has released these funds so that state agencies can continue putting them to work in communities throughout our state.” Benefits of the WAP, SEP, and WRF include: Throughout the program’s history, the Weatherization Assistance Program has helped more than 7.4 million low-income households reduce their energy bills, saving each household an average of $372 annually. The program supports 8,500 jobs and provides weatherization services to approximately 32,000 homes nationwide each year. The State Energy Program combines the scientific and economic expertise of the Department of Energy with locally led planning to improve the energy efficiency of hospitals and schools, support energy projects, and encourage private-sector innovation. An Oak Ridge National Laboratory study found that every federal dollar invested in the SEP leverages more than $10 for energy-related economic develo… 1 2026-08-21T05:30:57Z 2026-08-21T05:32:22Z
https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/senator-collins-announces-umaine-will-begin-construction-of-3d-printed-neighborhood-for-homeless-individuals Senator Collins Announces UMaine Will Begin Construction of 3D-Printed Neighborhood for Homeless Individuals 2026-08-19 2026 2026-08 Republican Senate ME Susan M. Collins C001035 www.collins.senate.gov collins https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper BANGOR, ME – U.S. Senator Susan Collins announced today that the University of Maine’s (UMaine) Advanced Structures and Composites Center (ASCC) has received its $4 million Congressionally Directed Spending award. This funding, which Senator Collins secured through fiscal year 2024 appropriations legislation, will support the design and production of a neighborhood of nine 3D-printed homes for homeless individuals in the greater Bangor area, in partnership with Penquis. The housing development will be the first in Maine constructed from wood sawmill waste and could serve as a model for other communities seeking to address homelessness. The homes will be designed to withstand Maine winters, as the 600-square-foot prototype on UMaine’s campus in Orono has done since it was unveiled in 2022 at an event attended by Senator Collins. “This first-of-its-kind neighborhood is an exciting next step for UMaine’s BioHome3D technology and builds on years of groundbreaking research,” said Senator Collins. “I have long been proud to support the pioneering work of Dr. Habib Dagher and his team at the Advanced Structures and Composites Center, including by securing funding for its advanced manufacturing capabilities and for this project. By transforming recycled forest products into durable, energy-efficient homes, this innovative technology could help address our housing shortage, strengthen Maine’s forest products industry, and create new jobs across our state.” “Today marks a major milestone for UMaine’s BioHome3D technology. Thanks to Senator Collins’ support, we received the funding to produce nine 3D-printed homes for the unhoused in Bangor. We are collaborating with Penquis on the world’s first project that uses wood residuals from Maine’s sawmills to print the homes,” said Dr. Habib Dagher, Executive Director of the Advanced Structures and Composites Center at the University of Maine. Senator Collins has supported the ASCC since the beginning of her Senate service, and her first official visit as a senator in 1997 was… 1 2026-08-20T05:28:41Z 2026-08-20T05:29:58Z
https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/senator-collins-tours-historic-wildcat-lobster-pound-in-st-george Senator Collins Tours Historic Wildcat Lobster Pound in St. George 2026-08-19 2026 2026-08 Republican Senate ME Susan M. Collins C001035 www.collins.senate.gov collins https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper Click HERE, HERE, and HERE for individual photos. ST. GEORGE, ME – U.S. Senator Susan Collins toured the historic Wildcat Lobster Pound in St. George and met with leaders of the Maine Coast Fishermen’s Association (MCFA) and local fishermen. During her visit, they discussed plans to restore the property and create new opportunities for Maine’s seafood businesses through fisheries research, workforce training, and educational programs. Senator Collins, Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, submitted a Fiscal Year 2027 Congressionally Directed Spending request for $1 million to support the MCFA’s redevelopment of the Wildcat Lobster Pound. If enacted, the funding would be used to repair the pound’s dam and doors, which regulate water levels, and rebuild the adjacent wharf and gangway. “Maine’s working waterfronts are essential to our state’s economy, heritage, and coastal communities. The Maine Coast Fishermen’s Association has developed an exciting vision to restore the historic Wildcat Lobster Pound and transform it into a hub supporting fishermen and small seafood businesses,” said Senator Collins. “I am working hard to secure $1 million through my role on the Appropriations Committee so that this unique Maine property can once again serve our seafood industry for generations to come.” The property’s dock and wharves were structurally damaged during the severe winter storms of 2024. The MCFA plans to restore the site as a hub where fishermen, researchers, aquaculture producers, and small seafood businesses operators can collaborate to address the evolving needs of Maine’s fishing industry. The property was donated to the MCFA in October 2025 by St. George resident Barbara Wagner in honor of her late husband, John Wagner. ### 1 2026-08-20T05:28:41Z 2026-08-20T05:29:58Z
https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/senator-collins-visits-energy-storage-project-in-lincoln-with-energy-secretary-wright Senator Collins Visits Energy Storage Project in Lincoln with Energy Secretary Wright 2026-08-19 2026 2026-08 Republican Senate ME Susan M. Collins C001035 www.collins.senate.gov collins https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper Click HERE for a full-resolution image. LINCOLN, ME – Today, U.S. Senator Susan Collins joined U.S. Secretary of Energy Chris Wright and local leaders in Lincoln to learn more about Form Energy’s plans for a new energy storage facility at the Lincoln Technology Park. The facility will be located at the site of the former Lincoln Paper & Tissue Mill. The project received a nearly $150 million federal award through the Grid Resilience and Innovation Partnerships (GRIP) Program, which was established by the 2021 bipartisan infrastructure law. Senator Collins was a member of the group of ten senators who negotiated that law. “Revitalizing Maine’s former mill sites is a priority of mine, and this project holds tremendous promise for Lincoln and the surrounding communities,” said Senator Collins. “It will not only breathe new life into a vacant former mill site, but also create new jobs and strengthen energy security and grid reliability throughout central Maine. Once completed, the facility, the first of its kind in New England, will be able to provide enough electricity to power approximately 65,000 homes for 100 hours. As Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, I am committed to advocating for Maine to remain at the forefront of energy innovation and resilience.” Senator Collins secured a total of $7.5 million through her role on the Senate Appropriations Committee for infrastructure improvements and continued redevelopment at the Lincoln Technology Park. This includes $3.5 million in fiscal year 2024 and $4 million in fiscal year 2026. 1 2026-08-20T05:28:41Z 2026-08-20T05:29:58Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-colleagues-demand-answers-from-pentagon-about-safety-and-well-being-of-uss-abraham-lincoln-crew King, Colleagues Demand Answers from Pentagon About “Safety and Well-Being” of USS Abraham Lincoln Crew 2026-08-19 2026 2026-08 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-ME), a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee (SASC), joined several of his colleagues in demanding answers about deteriorating conditions aboard the USS Abraham Lincoln. In a letter to Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, King and his colleagues raised concerns about the Department of Defense’s failure to provide a clear timeline for the crew’s return and pressed the Department for information about the health, safety and well-being of the sailors and Marines aboard the ship. The letter follows reports that the aircraft carrier’s crew has endured food and water shortages, broken plumbing, and serious mental health crises during its record-setting deployment. “We write regarding the deployment of the USS Abraham Lincoln and mounting evidence that conditions aboard the carrier have deteriorated to the point that the safety and wellbeing of its crew could be compromised,” the Senators began. “These are deeply troubling reports, and the American people deserve honest answers. The USS Lincoln departed San Diego on November 21, 2025. The ship has now been deployed for more than 250 days, including over 200 consecutive days without a port call, setting a modern-day record for continuous time at sea for a U.S. aircraft carrier.” “Our sailors and Marines signed up to serve and to be treated with respect. They did not sign up to be kept at sea indefinitely with no announced return date and, by multiple accounts, without reliable food, hot water, or working plumbing. That is not how we treat the men and women we ask to carry out this mission,” the Senators continued. “As the Secretary of Defense, you are accountable to the men and women who serve our nation. It is time for you to demonstrate leadership, rather than peddle excuses. The servicemembers we send into harm’s way deserve nothing less,” the Senators concluded. King is joined on the letter by U.S. Senators Jack Reed (D-RI), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Mazie Hiron… 1 2026-08-20T05:28:41Z 2026-08-20T05:29:58Z
https://pingree.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=6835 Pingree, Homeland Democrats Host Hearing on ICE’s Deadly Use of Force in Biddeford 2026-08-17 2026 2026-08 Democrat House ME Chellie Pingree P000597 pingree.house.gov pingree https://pingree.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper Today, U.S. Reps. Chellie Pingree (D-Maine), Bennie G. Thompson (D-Miss.), Ranking Member of the House Committee on Homeland Security, Democratic Whip Katherine Clark (D-Mass.), and Rep. Troy Carter (D-La.), a member of the House Committee on Homeland Security, hosted a Democratic shadow hearing examining Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s (ICE) use of force and abuse of power following the tragic killing of Johan Sebastián Durán Guerrero in Biddeford. The hearing, titled “Seeking Justice in Biddeford: Oversight of ICE’s Use of Force in the Death of Johan Sebastián Durán Guerrero,” brought Members of Congress to Maine to hear directly from the Durán Guerrero family’s legal representation, local officials, and immigrant rights advocates about the investigation, the need for accountability, and the effects of ICE operations on communities across the state. Click here to watch the full hearing. “Johan Sebastián Durán Guerrero should be alive today. His family deserves answers, and the people of Biddeford deserve to know how an ICE operation in their community ended in an innocent man’s death. Today’s testimony laid bare the devastating human cost of allowing ICE to operate with impunity in our communities and underscored the urgent need for transparency and accountability,” said Pingree. “As demonstrated today by their absence and utter ambivalence to the terror ICE is inflicting across the country, Republicans refuse to hold this Administration accountable for the atrocities committed using Americans’ tax dollars. My Democratic colleagues and I will keep fighting for the truth, for justice for Johan and his loved ones, and for safeguards to ensure no other family has to endure a tragedy like this.” “Today’s hearing made clear that the Durán family deserves accountability and justice for Johan’s Sebastian’s death. ICE cannot continue using reckless and deadly force without consequence,” said Ranking Member Thompson. “Congress must hold this agency accountable before another family is forced to endure this kin… 1 2026-08-19T05:29:02Z 2026-08-19T05:30:24Z
https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/senator-collins-walks-in-acadian-festival-parade Senator Collins Walks in Acadian Festival Parade 2026-08-16 2026 2026-08 Republican Senate ME Susan M. Collins C001035 www.collins.senate.gov collins https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper Click HERE, HERE, HERE, HERE, HERE, and HERE for individual photos. MADAWASKA, ME – Today, U.S. Senator Susan Collins joined local leaders, first responders, and community organizations at the 48th annual Acadian Festival Parade in Madawaska. The parade is a signature event of the Madawaska Acadian Festival, the largest celebration of Acadian culture in the northeastern United States. “The annual Acadian Festival is a wonderful Madawaska tradition celebrating the proud heritage and culture of Maine’s Acadian people,” said Senator Collins. “I had a great time walking in today’s parade through downtown Madawaska and taking part in one of northern Maine’s great summer celebrations.” ### 1 2026-08-18T05:27:41Z 2026-08-18T05:29:06Z
https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/senator-collins-i-oppose-the-administrations-strategy-that-would-allow-the-first-ships-in-new-classes-of-us-navy-vessels-to-be-built-overseas Senator Collins: I Oppose the Administration’s Strategy that Would Allow the First Ships in New Classes of U.S. Navy Vessels to be Built Overseas 2026-08-14 2026 2026-08 Republican Senate ME Susan M. Collins C001035 www.collins.senate.gov collins https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper BANGOR, ME – U.S. Senator Susan Collins released the following statement in opposition to the Administration’s new directive on Navy shipbuilding: “I strongly support the goal of strengthening our Navy and expanding America’s shipbuilding capacity. It is a national security imperative and has been a priority of mine throughout my Senate service. “I oppose, however, the Administration’s strategy that would allow the first ships in new classes of U.S. Navy vessels to be built overseas, placing foreign companies in a leading role in shaping the design, technology, and production of our future fleet. Although subsequent ships would be built in the United States, they would be based on designs and constructed using shipbuilding techniques licensed by foreign companies. “For generations in the great state of Maine, the highly skilled men and women at Bath Iron Works have built some of the finest warships in the world. We should be investing in their experience, expanding the capacity of American shipyards, and ensuring that American workers remain at the center of our efforts to rebuild the Navy. “Cooperation with our allies can bring valuable investment and new technologies to the United States. But those partnerships should result in more ships being built in America by American workers, not fewer. I will continue to fight to secure federal funding for Bath Iron Works, strengthen America’s maritime industrial base, and stand behind the thousands of men and women whose work is essential to our national security.” ### 1 2026-08-15T05:23:20Z 2026-08-15T05:24:50Z
https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/senator-collins-speaks-at-groundbreaking-for-american-steel-and-aluminum-manufacturing-facility-expansion-in-saco Senator Collins Speaks at Groundbreaking for American Steel & Aluminum Manufacturing Facility Expansion in Saco 2026-08-14 2026 2026-08 Republican Senate ME Susan M. Collins C001035 www.collins.senate.gov collins https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper Click HERE, HERE, HERE, HERE, HERE, and HERE for individual photos. SACO, ME – Today, U.S. Senator Susan Collins delivered remarks at a groundbreaking ceremony for American Steel & Aluminum’s (ASA) planned expansion of its manufacturing facility in Saco. Prior to the ceremony, Senator Collins toured the existing facility, spoke with employees, and met with company leadership. “ASA has long been a job-creating engine in southern Maine, and its investment in expanding its Saco facility is welcome news for the city and our state,” said Senator Collins. “This project reflects the company’s confidence in Maine’s skilled workforce and will support good jobs, strengthen our manufacturing sector and defense industrial base, and contribute to continued economic growth in the region. I congratulate the entire ASA team on reaching this exciting milestone.” “This groundbreaking is for a 12,000-square-foot addition. It’s going to bring many new jobs—about 30 new jobs are going to be on board here in the next couple of months. Our cutting capacity will double. [...] It’s a commitment to the Maine workforce, the Maine industrial base, the maritime industrial base. Senator Collins, with your position on Appropriations in Washington—I go down once a year—I will say: You’re one of the only ones that actually comes in and speaks to us. Usually, we’re speaking to one of their underlings. So, we really appreciate that you take this so seriously and really understand the importance,” said Sam Blatchford, CEO of ASA, at the event. “Senator Collins, you’ve been supporting manufacturing and American Steel and Aluminum for the last 30 years. It’s really made a big difference. We used to be a general line steel service center and really didn’t differentiate ourselves from some of the competition. We’ve become an advanced manufacturing facility here. We’re buying specialized equipment, we’re adding value, we’re contributing to national security. These are great jobs and this is just the start,” said Scott Jones, president and CEO of ASA… 1 2026-08-15T05:23:20Z 2026-08-15T05:24:50Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/collins-king-secure-48-million-for-new-downeaster-train-station-in-portland Collins, King Secure $48 Million for New Downeaster Train Station in Portland 2026-08-14 2026 2026-08 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), the Chairman of the Senate Appropriations Committee, and Angus King (I-ME) today announced that they have secured federal funding to support the construction of a new Amtrak Downeaster station in Portland. More specifically, the $48,136,000 investment will help relocate Portland’s existing station, improving the speed and reliability of passenger rail service in Maine. “The Downeaster is an essential transportation link for the people of Maine, connecting communities, supporting our economy, and providing a reliable alternative to getting in the car or boarding an airplane,” said Maine’s Senators. “Relocating Portland’s station to the mainline is a commonsense investment that will mean shorter trips, fewer delays, and better connections for passengers traveling throughout Maine and New England. We’re proud to have helped secure this federal funding to help move this long-awaited project forward and strengthen passenger rail service for generations to come.” The project has been selected to advance through final design, right-of-way acquisition, and construction. The Northern New England Passenger Rail Authority (NNEPRA) will provide a 20 percent non-federal match. Amtrak’s Downeaster provides daily passenger rail service connecting Brunswick and communities throughout southern Maine with Boston, Massachusetts. The service is managed by NNEPRA and serves communities including Freeport, Portland, Old Orchard Beach, Saco, and Wells. ### 1 2026-08-15T05:23:20Z 2026-08-15T05:24:50Z
https://golden.house.gov/media/press-releases/golden-statement-on-trump-s-new-push-to-offshore-navy-shipbuilding Golden statement on Trump’s new push to offshore Navy shipbuilding 2026-08-14 2026 2026-08 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 the following statement in response to President Donald Trump’s latest effort to build American warships in foreign shipyards: “I don’t know how we’re supposed to take any soaring ‘America-first’ language from this administration seriously when it appears to be bound and determined to send American shipbuilding jobs overseas and, now, to sell American shipyards to foreign corporations. Luckily, the House has already given bipartisan support to my language to block this short-sighted offshoring scheme, and the Senate is poised to do the same. Congress must take seriously its job to protect national security and American jobs.” BACKGROUND: Golden successfully amended this year’s National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) to explicitly prohibit the appropriation of federal funds to build American ships overseas. The House passed the NDAA, with Golden’s language to protect American shipbuilding, in July. Golden’s amendment was in response to a Navy Shipbuilding Plan released by the Pentagon earlier this year, which called for offshoring the production of some warships, or parts of warships, in overseas yards. Maine’s 2nd Congressional District is home to scores of shipbuilders employed at Bath Iron Works who build DDG-51 Destroyers, which Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has called the “workhorse” of the US naval fleet. ### 1 2026-08-18T05:27:41Z 2026-08-18T05:29:06Z
https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/senators-collins-king-secure-48-million-for-new-downeaster-train-station-in-portland Senators Collins, King Secure $48 Million for New Downeaster Train Station in Portland 2026-08-14 2026 2026-08 Republican Senate ME Susan M. Collins C001035 www.collins.senate.gov collins https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Susan Collins, Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, and Angus King today announced that they have secured federal funding to support the construction of a new Amtrak Downeaster station in Portland. More specifically, the $48,136,000 investment will help relocate Portland’s existing station, improving the speed and reliability of passenger rail service in Maine. “The Downeaster is an essential transportation link for the people of Maine, connecting communities, supporting our economy, and providing a reliable alternative to getting in the car or boarding an airplane,” said Maine’s Senators. “Relocating Portland’s station to the mainline is a commonsense investment that will mean shorter trips, fewer delays, and better connections for passengers traveling throughout Maine and New England. We’re proud to have helped secure this federal funding to help move this long-awaited project forward and strengthen passenger rail service for generations to come.” The project has been selected to advance through final design, right-of-way acquisition, and construction. The Northern New England Passenger Rail Authority (NNEPRA) will provide a 20 percent non-federal match. Amtrak’s Downeaster provides daily passenger rail service connecting Brunswick and communities throughout southern Maine with Boston, Massachusetts. The service is managed by NNEPRA and serves communities including Freeport, Portland, Old Orchard Beach, Saco, and Wells. ### 1 2026-08-18T05:27:41Z 2026-08-18T05:29:06Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-releases-statement-on-reported-use-of-shock-gloves-by-ice King Releases Statement on Reported Use of Shock Gloves by ICE 2026-08-13 2026 2026-08 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-ME) released the following statement in response to reporting that Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) is spending $20 million dollars on “shock gloves” in its nationwide patrols. “At a time when the majority of Americans believe that Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has been irresponsible in its use of force, the new ICE announcement touting shock gloves begs a crucial question: is ICE genuinely focused on de-escalation or, what appears more likely, intimidation of anyone critical of their often unlawful conduct? “When two separate and entirely partisan funding bills passed Congress in the last year, they directed $75 billion in taxpayer dollars to ICE’s rogue agenda, and even forward-funded the agency into 2029 in order to make congressional oversight all but impossible. “We have already seen the tragic and deadly results of this agency operating without any real accountability. Innocent civilians have been killed, body-worn camera footage – when there are body cameras actually available and activated – is only released when it benefits the agency, and Americans nationwide are feeling more and more like they are living in a police state occupied by masked agents. “And rather than have an open, good-faith conversation over methods and tactics, ICE is now investing millions (through what is reportedly a no-bid contract) in shock gloves that can do serious harm with little or no transparency or accountability. “I urge every single one of my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to stand up, assert our constitutional authority, and demand immediate answers from ICE on their hiring practices, training, and tactics. “I never thought I would see the day when masked and armed men in unmarked cars would be roaming the streets and neighborhoods of America, acting in utter disregard of the legal constraints that are basic to our freedoms. “It’s becoming more and more clear that the stated basis for this gross violation of our rights—that they are ridding … 1 2026-08-14T06:13:05Z 2026-08-14T06:14:08Z
https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/senators-collins-king-announce-more-than-600000-in-innovation-awards-to-support-maines-forest-economy Senators Collins, King Announce More than $600,000 in Innovation Awards to Support Maine’s Forest Economy 2026-08-12 2026 2026-08 Republican Senate ME Susan M. Collins C001035 www.collins.senate.gov collins https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Susan Collins (R-ME) and Angus King (I-ME) applauded a U.S. Forest Service announcement that Avedis Zildjian Co., ND Paper, Inc., and Robbins Lumber East Baldwin, LLC. have been awarded a combined $622,999 through the U.S. Forest Service’s Wood Innovation Grant Program. These grants will support environmentally sustainable innovation and help expand markets for Maine’s forest products. “Maine’s forest products industry is a vital part of our state’s economy, and it is critical that this industry has the tools it needs to adapt to changing markets,” said Senators Collins and King. “This funding will help ND Paper, Robbins Lumber, and Avedis Zildjian as they develop cutting-edge products, creating new opportunities for the forest products industry while supporting the rural communities that rely on it. We remain committed to supporting efforts to help Maine’s forest economy continue to grow and thrive.” Specifically, the funding has been allocated as follows: ND Paper, Inc. – $300,000 to upgrade wood processing equipment to enhance production by 15,000 tons annually while supporting low-value wood markets. Robbins Lumber East Baldwin, LLC. – $235,714 to upgrade sawmill processing technologies to improve operational efficiencies while supporting active forest management. Avedis Zildjian Co. – $87,285 to develop a wood energy system at a manufacturing facility to increase low-value wood markets by 1,500 tons annually. +++ Senators Collins and King have both long been supporters of Maine’s forest economy. Since 2024, Senator Collins, Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, has secured $24 million through appropriations legislation to mitigate the spread of spruce budworm in Northern Maine. She has also ensured the inclusion of a provision recognizing biomass as carbon neutral across federal agencies in appropriations legislation for more than a decade. Last month, she announced a $20 million award to Maine’s Forest Bioproducts Advanced Manufacturing Tech Hub—a fore… 1 2026-08-13T06:17:16Z 2026-08-13T06:18:13Z
https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/icymi-new-mainecare-fraud-reporting-highlights-need-for-senator-collins-medicare-home-health-reform-bill ICYMI: New MaineCare Fraud Reporting Highlights Need for Senator Collins’ Medicare Home Health Reform Bill 2026-08-11 2026 2026-08 Republican Senate ME Susan M. Collins C001035 www.collins.senate.gov collins https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – As troubling new reports detail alleged fraud, abuse, and inadequate oversight involving MaineCare providers, U.S. Senator Susan Collins has introduced the Medicare Home Health Payment Integrity and Protection Act to combat similar vulnerabilities in the Medicare home health program by stopping fraudulent payments before they are made. The legislation would provide the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) with stronger tools to identify high-risk providers, authorize additional funding to investigate and prosecute organized schemes, and protect legitimate home health agencies from the financial consequences of payments made to fraudulent providers. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-TN) has joined the legislation as a cosponsor. “The recent allegations involving MaineCare providers are deeply troubling. While these cases in Maine involve Medicaid providers and my legislation focuses on the Medicare home health care program, they demonstrate the broader problem of unchecked health care fraud,” said Senator Collins. “Fraud harms patients, wastes taxpayer dollars, and can reduce payments to honest providers, jeopardizing care for patients. My legislation would give CMS stronger tools to stop fraud before payments are made, provide additional resources to investigate and prosecute organized schemes, and help ensure that legitimate home health agencies are fairly reimbursed for the important care they provide.” Recent reporting by Maine news outlets has brought renewed attention to fraud and inadequate oversight of MaineCare, Maine’s Medicaid program: Maine Public reported last week that the Maine Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) suspended payments to five MaineCare providers based on “credible allegations of fraud.” The state also terminated two providers because of serious health and safety risks and disenrolled 28 providers that had not submitted a claim within one year of enrollment. DHHS initially did not identify the providers but released their names following a request… 1 2026-08-12T06:18:38Z 2026-08-12T06:20:33Z
https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/senator-collins-announces-more-than-55-million-for-improvements-at-bangor-international-airport Senator Collins Announces More Than $5.5 Million for Improvements at Bangor International Airport 2026-08-11 2026 2026-08 Republican Senate ME Susan M. Collins C001035 www.collins.senate.gov collins https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Susan Collins, Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, announced that Bangor International Airport will receive a total of $5,534,795 to support important infrastructure improvements. The funding comes from the Federal Aviation Administration’s (FAA) Fiscal Year 2026 Airport Infrastructure Grant (AIG) Program, which Senator Collins helped to establish. “Ensuring that transportation needs across the State of Maine are met has been a priority of mine throughout my Senate service,” said Senator Collins. “A key focus of our negotiations over the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law in 2021 was addressing outdated infrastructure at our nation’s airports. That is why we included historic investments in airport grant programs so that municipal, regional, and international airports and jetports across the country can provide safer and more efficient travel. As Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, I will continue working to ensure that federal investments benefit our state’s transportation network.” “The $5.5 million Airport Infrastructure Grant for the rehabilitation of Taxiway A and Taxiway M is an important investment in the long-term safety and reliability of Bangor International Airport's airfield. This project will help ensure the airfield continues to safely and efficiently support commercial, cargo, military, and general aviation operations for years to come. We are grateful to Senator Susan Collins for her continued leadership and support of Bangor International Airport. Her commitment to investing in aviation infrastructure has helped airports across Maine make meaningful improvements that strengthen safety, support economic development, and better serve the traveling public,” said Bangor International Airport Director Jose Saavedra. Specifically, the funding from the AIG has been allocated as follows: Bangor International Airport (BGR) – $5,534,795 to reconstruct 5,724 feet of Taxiway A pavement that has reached the end of its useful life and rehabilitate 900 feet of … 1 2026-08-12T06:18:38Z 2026-08-12T06:20:33Z
https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/senator-collins-bipartisan-bill-to-allow-early-childhood-educators-to-deduct-out-of-pocket-purchases-of-classroom-supplies-passes-senate Senator Collins’ Bipartisan Bill to Allow Early Childhood Educators to Deduct Out-of-Pocket Purchases of Classroom Supplies Passes Senate 2026-08-07 2026 2026-08 Republican Senate ME Susan M. Collins C001035 www.collins.senate.gov collins https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Susan Collins announced today that the Senate passed the Supporting Early-Childhood Educators’ Deductions (SEED) Act by an overwhelming bipartisan vote of 86 to 11. This legislation, which Senator Collins introduced last year with Senator Michael Bennet (D-CO), would ensure that early childhood educators can claim the same federal tax credit for out-of-pocket classroom supply purchases that is currently available to K-12 teachers. The bill now heads to the House of Representatives for consideration. “In Maine and across the country, we are fortunate to have so many dedicated educators who work hard to ensure that every child has a learning environment that is safe, welcoming, and enriching,” said Senator Collins. “Despite tight personal budgets, it is truly remarkable how often teachers use money out of their own pockets to purchase classroom supplies for their students. As the author of the original tax credit for K-12 teachers, I am delighted to help lead this effort to expand this benefit to pre-K educators. The Senate’s passage of this commonsense bill brings us one step closer to providing early childhood educators with tax relief for the resources they invest in our next generation.” Research shows that educators spend an average of $895 annually on supplies for their students. Yet, under current law, early childhood educators cannot deduct those out-of-pocket expenses. The SEED Act would correct this and extend tax relief to the teachers working with America’s youngest learners. The bill would expand the above-the-line $300 educator expense deduction, established for K-12 teachers in 2002, to also include pre-K and early childhood educators. This deduction helps offset hundreds of dollars teachers spend out of their own pockets each year on classroom supplies, books, and other learning materials. The SEED Act is supported by a broad coalition of education and child advocacy organizations, including the Center for American Progress, the American Federation of Teachers, Te… 1 2026-08-08T05:41:38Z 2026-08-08T05:43:24Z
https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/senator-collins-introduces-bill-to-combat-medicare-home-health-fraud Senator Collins Introduces Bill to Combat Medicare Home Health Fraud 2026-08-07 2026 2026-08 Republican Senate ME Susan M. Collins C001035 www.collins.senate.gov collins https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Susan Collins introduced legislation today to protect the Medicare home health program from fraud and strengthen access to these important services for the Americans who need them. The Medicare Home Health Payment Integrity and Protection Act would give the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) additional tools to prevent and detect fraud while helping ensure that legitimate home health agencies are fairly reimbursed for the care they provide. “When billions of dollars are improperly siphoned from the Medicare home health program, this can undermine the integrity of the payment system used to reimburse legitimate providers and threaten care for the seniors who depend on it. I have long been a strong supporter of home health care, which allows millions of Americans to remain in the comfort, security, and privacy of their own homes, while helping to avoid unnecessary hospitalizations and nursing home admissions,” said Senator Collins. “Fraudulent home health providers harm beneficiaries and diminish reimbursements for honest agencies that are already confronting workforce shortages and rising costs. My legislation would give CMS stronger tools to stop fraud before payments are made and prevent fraudulent spending from distorting the data used to reimburse honest agencies for medically necessary care.” “The National Alliance for Care at Home applauds the introduction of the Medicare Home Health Payment Integrity and Protection Act by Senator Susan Collins. This bill corrects longstanding flaws in home health reimbursement and takes a meaningful step toward a home health benefit that is stable and built for how care is delivered today. We strongly support the bill for its payment reforms, as well as measures to protect patients and preserve the integrity of the Medicare home health benefit. Consistent with our community’s commitment to provide the highest-quality, person-centered care in the home, we support the bill’s goal to strengthen access while focusing on targeted o… 1 2026-08-08T05:41:38Z 2026-08-08T05:43:24Z
https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/senator-collins-statement-on-senate-passage-of-bipartisan-russia-and-iran-sanctions-bill Senator Collins’ Statement on Senate Passage of Bipartisan Russia & Iran Sanctions Bill 2026-08-07 2026 2026-08 Republican Senate ME Susan M. Collins C001035 www.collins.senate.gov collins https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Susan Collins issued the following statement today after the Senate passed the Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act by a vote of 86 to 11: “As an original cosponsor of the Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act, I was pleased to see the bill pass the Senate today with overwhelming support from both sides of the aisle. “Vladimir Putin launched an unprovoked war four and a half years ago, and Ukraine has resisted his aggression valiantly and with inspiring resolve. Russia’s energy sales and shadow fleet are the engine of its war machine, and sanctioning them will help bring this brutal conflict to a quicker end. “This bill also extends the Iran Sanctions Act of 1996, which is critical to denying Iran resources for its nuclear and ballistic missile programs and its support for terrorism through its proxies. For nearly 47 years, the Iranian regime and the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps have threatened both the United States and broader stability in the Middle East. “My friend and colleague Lindsey Graham worked tirelessly to advance this bill. The passage of this legislation named in his honor is a fitting tribute to his legacy of leadership on these critical issues. “This bill is important not only for America’s national security, but also for the security of our European and Middle Eastern allies. I applaud my colleagues for joining together to make clear the Senate’s determination to stand with our allies and to hold Russia and Iran accountable.” ### 1 2026-08-08T05:41:38Z 2026-08-08T05:43:24Z
https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/senator-collins-bipartisan-bill-to-expand-federal-worker-access-to-health-care-advances-out-of-committee-by-voice-vote Senator Collins’ Bipartisan Bill to Expand Federal Worker Access to Health Care Advances Out of Committee by Voice Vote 2026-08-06 2026 2026-08 Republican Senate ME Susan M. Collins C001035 www.collins.senate.gov collins https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Susan Collins announced that the bipartisan Improving Access to Workers’ Compensation for Injured Federal Workers Act that she introduced with Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) advanced out of the Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Government Affairs by voice vote. The bill now heads to the Senate floor for consideration by the full body. “In a large, rural state like Maine, finding access to health care close to home can be a challenge. Nurse practitioners and physician assistants help to fill in this gap by providing quality medical services to local communities,” said Senator Collins. “By allowing injured federal workers to be treated by these professionals, our bipartisan bill would help prevent the need for long and difficult travel, reduce wait times for care, and improve employees’ overall health and wellbeing. Today’s committee approval of this bill reflects broad bipartisan agreement that this unnecessary barrier to care should be removed.” Currently, federal employees—including the more than 12,000 working in Maine—can select a Physician Assistant (PA) or a Nurse Practitioner (NP) as their primary health care provider within the Federal Employees Health Benefits Program. However, the Federal Employees Compensation Act (FECA) permits only a physician to make diagnoses, certify injuries and the extent of a disability, and oversee a federal employee’s treatment and care when they are injured on the job. The Improving Access to Workers’ Compensation for Injured Federal Workers Act would amend FECA to allow PAs and NPs to certify injuries and oversee treatment for federal workers with injuries or illnesses that occurred on the job, when doing so is consistent with the scope of their practice under state law. The bill has been endorsed by dozens of organizations, including the American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP), the American Academy of Physician Associates, the American Academy of Nursing, the PA Education Association, the American Association … 1 2026-08-07T06:11:19Z 2026-08-07T06:12:42Z
https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/senator-collins-delivers-floor-remarks-ahead-of-unanimous-senate-passage-of-her-bill-to-combat-lyme-and-other-tick-borne-diseases Senator Collins Delivers Floor Remarks Ahead of Unanimous Senate Passage of Her Bill to Combat Lyme and Other Tick-Borne Diseases 2026-08-06 2026 2026-08 Republican Senate ME Susan M. Collins C001035 www.collins.senate.gov collins https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper Click HERE for a full-resolution image. Click HERE to watch and HERE to download video of her remarks. WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Susan Collins announced that the bipartisan Kay Hagan Tick Reauthorization Act she introduced with Senator Tina Smith (D-MN)—with Senator Angus King (I-ME) joining them as an original cosponsor—passed the Senate unanimously. Senator Collins spoke from the Senate floor prior to passage of the bill. The bill reauthorizes initiatives and programs to combat tick-borne diseases first established through the original Kay Hagan Tick Act, which Senators Collins and Smith led to passage in 2019. The Senators named their bill in honor of former Senator Kay Hagan (D-NC), who passed away in October of 2019 due to complications from the tick-borne disease known as the Powassan virus. “Our bipartisan legislation strengthens federal efforts to confront the alarming public health threat posed by Lyme disease and other tick-borne illnesses,” said Senator Collins during her remarks. “Each year, the state of Maine has hit a new record high in the number of cases for Lyme disease. Current projections show that 2026 will yet again be a record-setting year. This is a record that we do not want to set.” “Nevertheless, I am encouraged that we are making progress. A clinical trial for a Lyme disease vaccine is underway right now at the MaineHealth Institute for Research,” she continued. “Every year my beloved labrador retriever can get a vaccine for tick diseases, and yet we humans cannot. I’m hoping this clinical trial will be successful, and it will make a real difference. Reauthorizing the Kay Hagan Tick Act would allow crucial projects such as that research and public education campaigns to continue.” “The University of Maine has an excellent lab that specializes in testing ticks for pathogens, and it has worked very closely with our game wardens, with foresters, with others who are routinely in the woods of Maine and are exposed to tick bites. It actually has developed a little tick kit … 1 2026-08-07T06:11:19Z 2026-08-07T06:12:42Z
https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/senator-collins-presses-administration-to-review-impact-of-canada-tariffs-meets-with-canadian-ambassador Senator Collins Presses Administration to Review Impact of Canada Tariffs, Meets with Canadian Ambassador 2026-08-06 2026 2026-08 Republican Senate ME Susan M. Collins C001035 www.collins.senate.gov collins https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper Click HERE and HERE for individual photos. WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Susan Collins wrote to Department of Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick and U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer requesting that they provide Maine businesses with greater clarity and notice regarding tariffs on Canadian goods scheduled to take effect on August 19 and consider the tariffs’ expected negative impact on Maine’s economy prior to any potential implementation. The proposed 50 percent tariffs cover more than 500 categories of Canadian imports. Maine imports approximately $2 billion in non-petroleum products from Canada each year, and the new tariffs could apply to 5.5 percent of those goods. Maine businesses in industries including paper and concrete have raised concerns that insufficient domestic supply could leave them with no choice but to pay tariffs that could jeopardize their viability and the jobs they support. Maine manufacturers are also worried that potential retaliatory tariffs could disproportionately harm them because Canadians are among their most loyal customers. This action comes the same day that Senator Collins met with the recently appointed Canadian Ambassador to the United States, Mark Wiseman. During their meeting, Senator Collins discussed her outreach to Secretary Lutnick and Trade Representative Greer as well as her other efforts to help mitigate the harm caused by tariffs on Canadian goods. They also discussed how the ongoing review of the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) presents an opportunity to address trade concerns while preserving the close economic relationship between Maine and Canada. “With only a month of warning, businesses in Maine and across the United States are being asked to avoid Canadian imports or face tariffs of 50 percent on these specific products,” Senator Collins wrote in her letter. “Small businesses, which lack large legal departments, have shared with me how difficult it is to navigate this new list and determine the impact of these tariffs.” “I recognize the need … 1 2026-08-07T06:11:19Z 2026-08-07T06:12:42Z
https://pingree.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=6810 King, Pingree Lead Push to Protect Federal Workforce at Portsmouth Naval Shipyard 2026-08-05 2026 2026-08 Democrat House ME Chellie Pingree P000597 pingree.house.gov pingree https://pingree.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper U.S. Senator Angus King (I-ME), a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee (SASC), and U.S Representative Chellie Pingree (D-ME-01), are urging the administration to withdraw a proposed rule that would weaken longstanding civil service protections for federal employees, including the nearly 8,000 civilian workers at Portsmouth Naval Shipyard (PNSY). In a letter to Office of Personnel Management (OPM) Acting Director Charles Ezell and the Merit Systems Protection Board (MSPB) Chairman Cathy Harris, the lawmakers warned that the proposal would make it more difficult to recruit and retain the skilled civilian workforce responsible for maintaining the Navy's submarine fleet, ultimately threatening national security. "We write in strong opposition to the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) and Merit Systems Protection Board (MSPB)'s proposed rule 'Promoting Employee Accountability,’” the lawmakers began. “This proposed rule would weaken longstanding civil service protections that promote merit-based employment, due process and the recruitment and retention of skilled workers. Moreover, as Members of Congress who represent nearly eight thousand civilian workers at the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard, we are concerned about the proposed rule's impact on workers essential to our national security." "By stripping away the procedures that keep discipline fair for civilian employees doing the work of naval readiness... the proposed rule introduces costly unpredictability in the workforce and needlessly undermines readiness. We are concerned this will increase attrition in the critical and experienced workforce that keeps our submarine fleet ready... We, therefore, ask you to withdraw OPM and MSPB's proposed rule," the lawmakers concluded. Joining King and Pingree on the letter are U.S. Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) and Maggie Hassan (D-NH), and U.S. Representatives Maggie Goodlander (D-NH-02) and Chris Pappas (D-NH-01). The full text of the letter can be found here and below. +++ Director Kupor and Acting Chairman Ke… 1 2026-08-06T07:37:31Z 2026-08-06T07:38:34Z
https://pingree.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=6811 Reps. Pingree, Valadao and Sens. Ernst, Padilla Recognize American Producers During National Farmers Market Week 2026-08-05 2026 2026-08 Democrat House ME Chellie Pingree P000597 pingree.house.gov pingree https://pingree.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper U.S. Representatives Chellie Pingree (D-Maine) and David Valadao (R-Calif.), along with Senators Alex Padilla (D-Calif.) and Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), reintroduced a bipartisan resolution designating August 2–8, 2026, as National Farmers Market Week. This resolution honors the critical role farmers markets play in bridging the gap between urban and rural communities, helping people better understand the realities of farming and ranching. “Farmers markets have been a cherished tradition in communities across America for generations. A quarter of Maine farms sell directly to consumers, with more than 100 farmers markets currently operating in our state,” said Congresswoman Pingree, a longtime organic farmer and co-chair of both the Organic Caucus and the Food Recovery Caucus. “By connecting local growers with their communities, farmers markets not only help put healthy food on the table, but also strengthen local economies and help preserve Maine’s agricultural traditions for future generations. This bipartisan, bicameral resolution reminds us that, in red states and blue states alike, farmers markets can be a force for good—and an important part of building a stronger, more resilient food system for all Americans.” “The Central Valley grows a quarter of our nation’s food on less than one percent of America’s farmland, yet too many people living in urban areas don’t realize what it takes to get food from field to table,” said Congressman Valadao. “Farmers markets provide a valuable opportunity to connect people with the hardworking producers who feed our nation, and they highlight the important role agriculture plays in our communities. I’m proud to join my colleagues in recognizing National Farmers Market Week and honoring the contributions of our CA-22 producers working to support food access, bolster local economies, promote healthy living, and foster sustainable farming.” “California is home to more than 800 farmers markets that nourish our families, bolster the local economy, and cultivate thoughtful relationshi… 1 2026-08-06T07:37:31Z 2026-08-06T07:38:34Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-pingree-lead-push-to-protect-federal-workforce-at-portsmouth-naval-shipyard King, Pingree Lead Push to Protect Federal Workforce at Portsmouth Naval Shipyard 2026-08-05 2026 2026-08 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-ME), a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee (SASC), and U.S Representative Chellie Pingree (D-ME-01), are urging the administration to withdraw a proposed rule that would weaken longstanding civil service protections for federal employees, including the nearly 8,000 civilian workers at Portsmouth Naval Shipyard (PNSY). In a letter to Office of Personnel Management (OPM) Acting Director Charles Ezell and the Merit Systems Protection Board (MSPB) Chairman Cathy Harris, the lawmakers warned that the proposal would make it more difficult to recruit and retain the skilled civilian workforce responsible for maintaining the Navy's submarine fleet, ultimately threatening national security. "We write in strong opposition to the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) and Merit Systems Protection Board (MSPB)'s proposed rule 'Promoting Employee Accountability,’” the lawmakers began. “This proposed rule would weaken longstanding civil service protections that promote merit-based employment, due process and the recruitment and retention of skilled workers. Moreover, as Members of Congress who represent nearly eight thousand civilian workers at the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard, we are concerned about the proposed rule's impact on workers essential to our national security." "By stripping away the procedures that keep discipline fair for civilian employees doing the work of naval readiness... the proposed rule introduces costly unpredictability in the workforce and needlessly undermines readiness. We are concerned this will increase attrition in the critical and experienced workforce that keeps our submarine fleet ready... We, therefore, ask you to withdraw OPM and MSPB's proposed rule," the lawmakers concluded. Joining King and Pingree on the letter are U.S. Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) and Maggie Hassan (D-NH), and U.S. Representatives Maggie Goodlander (D-NH-02) and Chris Pappas (D-NH-01). The full text of the letter can be found here and below. +++ Director Kupor and… 1 2026-08-06T07:37:31Z 2026-08-06T07:38:34Z
https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/senator-collins-statement-on-nomination-of-todd-blanche-to-serve-as-attorney-general Senator Collins’ Statement on Nomination of Todd Blanche to Serve as Attorney General 2026-08-04 2026 2026-08 Republican Senate ME Susan M. Collins C001035 www.collins.senate.gov collins https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Susan Collins issued the following statement on the nomination of Todd Blanche to serve as United States Attorney General: “I have carefully reviewed Todd Blanche’s qualifications to be Attorney General. This includes his record and responses to questions from Senators at the Department of Justice Appropriations hearing, his confirmation hearing, and in the weeks that followed. “While I believe Mr. Blanche is a capable lawyer, the Department of Justice has become increasingly political. “Mr. Blanche has taken several actions that have further eroded the Department’s independence, and that is the basis for my vote to oppose his confirmation: “Mr. Blanche approved an order to shield the President, his sons, and the family business from IRS audits, protections unavailable to other American taxpayers. “He approved the creation of a $1.8 billion anti-weaponization fund. “He promised an anti-abortion organization that he would seek to prohibit the mailing of abortion medication to women nationwide. “Under his leadership, the Department attempted to indict Senators Mark Kelly and Elissa Slotkin over their ill-advised, but constitutionally protected, videos encouraging resistance to unlawful orders. “More than 1,200 former Department of Justice employees have opposed his nomination, arguing that he has undermined the institution. “For these reasons, I will vote against this nomination.” ### 1 2026-08-05T07:37:37Z 2026-08-05T07:38:44Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senator-king-introduces-bipartisan-bill-to-fight-mosquito-borne-diseases Senator King Introduces Bipartisan Bill to Fight Mosquito-Borne Diseases 2026-08-04 2026 2026-08 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-ME) is introducing bipartisan legislation to strengthen the fight against mosquito and other vector-borne diseases (VBD). The Strengthening Mosquito Abatement for Safety and Health (SMASH) 2.0 Act would reauthorize funding for federal mosquito control and public health response efforts as well as improve preparedness and response efforts for VBDs. Vector-borne diseases (VBDs) is the technical term for diseases spread by insects like mosquitoes, ticks, and fleas. For decades, the United States government has successfully controlled VBDs through methods like eliminating standing water breeding grounds and deploying safe pesticides to eliminate the seasonal scourges of malaria and yellow fever. “One of the best parts about living in Maine is being able to spend time outdoors, but the threat of dangerous illnesses from mosquito bites is a real concern,” said Senator King. “Mosquitoes are more than just a nuisance – they have the potential to transmit dangerous diseases which threaten American public health Acting to prevent the spread of such diseases is essential to protect the health of Maine people and Americans nationwide. The SMASH 2.0 Act would provide our communities with further protection from vector-borne diseases and their complications, promoting health and reducing healthcare costs.” More specifically, the SMASH 2.0 Act would: Reauthorize the CDC’s Mosquito Abatement for Safety and Health (MASH) program at $100 million per year; Authorize within the MASH program to expand training, evaluation, and to support education and training for public health staff engaged in mosquito abatement; and Require the CDC to coordinate with the Assistant Secretary for Preparedness and Response (ASPR) on stockpiling vector-borne disease control products. “Mosquitoes and the diseases they transmit are continual threats to all Americans,” said American Mosquito Control Association (AMCA) Technical Advisor Daniel Markowski. “The reauthorization of the SMASH Act is imperativ… 1 2026-08-05T07:37:37Z 2026-08-05T07:38:44Z
https://pingree.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=6809 Pingree Urges MaineHealth to Preserve Labor and Delivery Services at Lincoln Hospital in Damariscotta 2026-08-03 2026 2026-08 Democrat House ME Chellie Pingree P000597 pingree.house.gov pingree https://pingree.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper Congresswoman Chellie Pingree (D-Maine) is urging MaineHealth to preserve labor and delivery services at Lincoln Hospital in Damariscotta, warning that closing the unit would have far-reaching consequences for families, health care workers, and communities throughout the Midcoast. In a letter to MaineHealth President and CEO Dr. Andy Mueller and MaineHealth Chair of the Board of Trustees Marie McCarthy, Pingree acknowledged the challenges facing rural hospitals, while encouraging them to do everything in their power to keep the unit open. "Lincoln Hospital has a long history of providing safe and quality care to maternity patients," Pingree wrote. "I sincerely appreciate that there are structural challenges to the continued delivery of that care, but the consequences of a closure—on patients, hospital staff, and the surrounding towns—could be devastating. I urge you to explore every possible avenue to preserve access to labor and delivery services in Damariscotta." She also raised broader concerns about the steady decline of maternity care across Maine, noting that the state has lost 10 birthing units over the past decade, while warning that continued closures could jeopardize the ability of families to live and raise children in rural Maine. Maine has lost 10 of its 23 hospital-based labor and delivery units over the past decade. Nationally, a 2024 study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association found that 52.4% of rural hospitals no longer offered obstetric care in 2022, contributing to growing maternity care deserts across the country. In the U.S., maternal mortality remains far higher than in most other high-income countries, with persistent racial and geographic disparities in outcomes. Pingree acknowledged that addressing the crisis will require stronger federal support for rural health care—including protecting Medicaid, expanding the rural health care workforce, and improving reimbursement rates. She pledged to continue advocating for those priorities in Congress, while working wi… 1 2026-08-04T07:35:49Z 2026-08-04T07:37:27Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-colleagues-introduce-bipartisan-legislation-to-protect-medicare-patients-physicians King, Colleagues Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Protect Medicare Patients, Physicians 2026-08-03 2026 2026-08 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-ME) is introducing bipartisan legislation to support physicians and preserve their ability to care for Medicare patients. The Provider Reimbursement Stability Act would modernize the Medicare’s Physician Fee Schedule (MFPS) – how much medical professionals are reimbursed for providing care – and preserve patient access to care by adjusting payments to cover more of the actual cost of delivering medical services. As reported by the American Medical Association (AMA), the average Medicare reimbursement for physician services has declined roughly 33 percent since 2001 when adjusted for inflation. This reduction can be largely attributed to the Medicare budget neutrality threshold last updated in 1992, which has failed to keep pace with the rising cost of care. The Provider Reimbursement Stability Act reforms key structural elements of MPFS, supporting physicians and preserving their ability to care for Medicare patients. “Accessible, reliable health care is essential for seniors across Maine, particularly in our rural communities where providers are already stretched thin,” said Senator King. “The Provider Reimbursement Stability Act would help ensure that Medicare providers are fairly reimbursed so they can continue delivering the full range of care that Maine seniors depend on for their healthcare needs. I’m proud to join my colleagues in supporting this commonsense bipartisan legislation to strengthen access to quality care for older Americans.” King is joined on the legislation by U.S. Senators John Boozman (R-AR), Peter Welch (D-VT), Roger Marshall (R-KS), Thom Tillis (R-NC), and Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH). Senator King has long been an outspoken advocate for the provision of affordable, accessible healthcare for all Americans. In June of 2026, Senator King introduced the Primary and Behavioral Healthcare Access Act, requiring private insurance plans to cover three annual primary care visits and three annual outpatient mental health or outpatient substance use disord… 1 2026-08-04T07:35:49Z 2026-08-04T07:37:27Z
https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/senator-collins-speaks-at-christening-of-future-uss-william-charette-at-biw Senator Collins Speaks at Christening of Future USS William Charette at BIW 2026-08-01 2026 2026-08 Republican Senate ME Susan M. Collins C001035 www.collins.senate.gov collins https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper Click HERE, HERE, HERE, HERE, and HERE for individual photos. BATH, ME – U.S. Senator Susan Collins delivered remarks today at the christening ceremony for the future USS William Charette (DDG-130) at Bath Iron Works (BIW). Senator Collins was joined at the event by Governor Janet Mills, Senator Angus King, Acting Secretary of the Navy Hung Cao, BIW President Chuck Krugh, and members of the Charette family. The future USS William Charette, built at Bath Iron Works, was christened in honor of Master Chief Hospital Corpsman William Charette. During the Korean War, then-Hospital Corpsman Third Class Charette repeatedly braved enemy fire to treat wounded Marines. When an enemy grenade landed near a Marine he was aiding, Charette shielded him with his own body, and despite suffering his own wounds, continued treating casualties. His actions, which were directly responsible for saving the lives of many American service members, earned him the Medal of Honor. “Today we christen the DDG-130 with the name of a Medal of Honor recipient who exemplified the highest ideals of America and the United States Navy. Through this ship, his courage, humility, and devotion to others will continue to inspire generations of sailors,” said Senator Collins during her remarks. “Arleigh Burke-class destroyers form the backbone of the Navy’s surface fleet. To the men and women of Bath Iron Works, you make ‘Bath Built is Best Built’ not just a slogan, but a way of life. As global threats continue to grow and our adversaries continue to expand their naval fleets, investing in a strong and capable United States Navy and a robust defense manufacturing base here at home is essential.” Senator Collins has long championed Bath Iron Works and its skilled shipbuilders. Since 2020, she has secured more than $10.9 billion in Navy contract obligations related to DDG-51 destroyers and advocated for more than $3 billion in advance procurement funding to support long-lead materials and future production. These efforts build on the $16 billion she secu… 1 2026-08-02T07:31:21Z 2026-08-02T07:32:50Z
https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/senator-collins-announces-jetblue-to-continue-providing-essential-air-service-to-presque-isle Senator Collins Announces JetBlue to Continue Providing Essential Air Service to Presque Isle 2026-07-31 2026 2026-07 Republican Senate ME Susan M. Collins C001035 www.collins.senate.gov collins https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Susan Collins, Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, announced today that the U.S. Department of Transportation has selected JetBlue to continue providing Essential Air Service (EAS) to Presque Isle. Under the agreement, which covers a two-year term from September 1, 2026, through August 31, 2028, JetBlue will provide seven round trips per week from Presque Isle International Airport (PQI) to Boston Logan International Airport (BOS) using a 140-passenger Airbus A220-300. “Reliable access to commercial air service is critical to the residents and businesses of Aroostook County, connecting them to destinations across the country and supporting economic growth throughout the region,” said Senator Collins. “I welcome the selection of JetBlue to continue providing service between Presque Isle and Boston. As Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, I will continue to support robust funding for the Essential Air Service program, which helps sustain commercial air service in rural communities that might otherwise lack access to the national air transportation network.” Senator Collins secured $20,462,000 in Congressionally Directed Spending in 2024 to construct a new passenger terminal at PQI. The new passenger terminal will fully replace the airport’s outdated existing terminal that was built in 1954, be fully ADA compliant to ensure accessibility for all passengers, incorporate modern features, and meet updated Federal Aviation Administration design standards. Senator Collins took part in the groundbreaking for the new terminal last year. ### 1 2026-08-01T07:27:26Z 2026-08-01T07:28:22Z
https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/senator-collins-bipartisan-group-introduce-legislation-to-strengthen-cftc-whistleblower-program Senator Collins, Bipartisan Group Introduce Legislation to Strengthen CFTC Whistleblower Program 2026-07-31 2026 2026-07 Republican Senate ME Susan M. Collins C001035 www.collins.senate.gov collins https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Susan Collins joined Senators Chuck Grassley (R-IA) and John Fetterman (D-PA) to introduce the CFTC Whistleblower Protection and Program Improvement Act. This bill would help provide long-term stability to the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) whistleblower program, strengthen protections for whistleblowers, and speed up the processing of whistleblower claims. “The Commodity Futures Trading Commission plays a crucial role in protecting American commodity markets, and safeguarding its whistleblower program helps maintain public trust in the integrity of those markets,” said Senator Collins. “This bipartisan bill would provide long-term stability for the CFTC whistleblower program by strengthening protections for whistleblowers, promoting the timely processing of claims, and eliminating a loophole that can prevent whistleblowers from receiving awards.” “Since I helped get the CFTC whistleblower program up and running, I’m pleased to see it’s been a big success. This program roots out waste, fraud and abuse in the commodities trading industry and operates at no charge to the taxpayer. Now, it’s time for Congress to act so its success can continue. Our bipartisan legislation strengthens protections for patriotic whistleblowers, prevents unnecessary delays in the disbursement of whistleblower awards and ensures the CFTC whistleblower program can operate smoothly,” said Senator Grassley. “Whistleblowers put their jobs and often their lives on the line to call out the most serious offenses in the workplace. Zero doubt that they should be protected,” said Senator Fetterman. “As a member of the Agriculture Committee, I’m proud to introduce this bipartisan bill with Senator Grassley to protect whistleblowers and improve the CFTC whistleblower program.” The CFTC Whistleblower Program and Customer Protection Fund (CPF) were founded in 2010. The CPF, which is funded through penalties and fines resulting from enforcement actions, pays awards to whistleblowers who report wrongdoing … 1 2026-08-01T07:27:26Z 2026-08-01T07:28:22Z
https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/senator-collins-legislation-to-block-transfer-of-offices-from-the-department-of-education-clears-committee Senator Collins’ Legislation to Block Transfer of Offices from the Department of Education Clears Committee 2026-07-30 2026 2026-07 Republican Senate ME Susan M. Collins C001035 www.collins.senate.gov collins https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper Click HERE to watch and HERE to download video of Senator Collins discussing the bill during the HELP Committee markup. WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Susan Collins joined with Senators Tim Kaine (D-VA) and Lisa Murkowski (R-AK) in introducing legislation that would prevent the Department of Education from transferring critical offices to other federal agencies that lack the staff and expertise needed to execute their missions. The bill was considered at a Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP) Committee markup today, where the bill advanced by a bipartisan vote of 13 to 9. Specifically, the senators’ legislation would prevent the Department from transferring the Offices of Special Education and Rehabilitative Services (OSERS), Postsecondary Education (OPE), Elementary and Secondary Education (OESE), and Indian Education to any other federal agency. The legislation has been endorsed by the Bipartisan Policy Center, the National Education Association, and the American Federation of Teachers. “This bill is straightforward. It keeps the administration of important landmark education programs at the Department of Education where Congress specifically put them and where they belong,” said Senator Collins during the markup. “These transfers are misaligned with their program purposes. For example, the Administration has an agreement with the Department of Health and Human Services to administer the education office that manages the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, known as IDEA. That change fundamentally misunderstands the history and intent of the Special Education program, which was created in 1975 to ensure that children with disabilities receive a free and appropriate public education. Today, this office helps meet the education needs of more than 8 million children with disabilities. It’s primarily focused on the student’s education needs, not on their health care needs. Prior to IDEA, far too many children with disabilities did not receive an education.” “America’s students and econo… 1 2026-07-31T07:49:23Z 2026-07-31T07:50:48Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-cosponsors-legislation-to-protect-polling-stations-from-federal-intervention-armed-troops King Cosponsors Legislation to Protect Polling Stations from Federal Intervention, Armed Troops 2026-07-30 2026 2026-07 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-ME) is cosponsoring legislation to protect against the use of federal troops or armed federal agents at polling places. The Protect Our Polls Act would require congressional approval prior to any deployment of armed federal law enforcement or uniformed military personnel at polling stations across the country. Existing federal law explicitly prohibits the federal government from sending federal troops or law enforcement to polling places with only a minor exception should they be used to repel “armed enemies of the United States.” The Protect Our Polls Act aims to close that loophole and create additional barriers to prevent the President from interfering in elections and utilizing law enforcement and the military to intimidate voters. “Free and fair elections serve as the foundation of American democracy, and its strength rests upon the assurance that elections remain accessible for all Americans,” said Senator King. “The Protect Our Polls Act would strengthen protections against tactics designed to intimidate voters at polling stations, ensuring that Americans are confident in their safety when exercising their right to vote. Our democracy remains healthy only when those who constitute it have their voices heard, and this bill will protect their ability to do so.” King is joined on the legislation by Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Reverend Raphael Warnock (D-GA), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), John Hickenlooper (D-CO), Ruben Gallego (D-AZ), Mark Kelly (D-AZ), Jackie Rosen (D-NV), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), and Alex Padilla (D-CA). Senator King has long been an outspoken advocate for the protection of democratic freedoms. After President Trump gave a national address threatening increased federal interference with elections, King published an op-ed outlining his concerns surrounding the Trump administration’s aims to nationalize elections. Earlier this week, King introduced the Stop Harassment and Intimidation in Elections through Legal Defenses (SHIELD) Our El… 1 2026-07-31T07:49:23Z 2026-07-31T07:50:48Z
https://pingree.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=6806 Pingree Backs Scarborough Town Council's Call for Federal Review of ICE Facility 2026-07-29 2026 2026-07 Democrat House ME Chellie Pingree P000597 pingree.house.gov pingree https://pingree.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper Ahead of the Scarborough Town Council's special meeting Wednesday evening, Congresswoman Chellie Pingree (D-Maine) sent the Council a letter supporting their proclamation calling for a federal review of the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) facility at 40 Manson Libby Road. In the letter, Pingree urged the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to seriously reconsider whether the facility should continue operating in Scarborough if its presence is undermining public trust and making residents feel less safe. “The facility at 40 Manson Libby Road has become a symbol of fear, uncertainty, and intimidation for many immigrant families and their neighbors,” Pingree said. “That should concern every one of us.” In her letter, Pingree emphasized that the Town of Scarborough has every right to question whether continuing to host the ICE facility serves the interests of the community. She called on DHS and ICE to conduct a serious review of the facility's continued operation and to give meaningful weight to the concerns raised by local residents and elected officials. “When a federal facility reaches the point where its very presence undermines the public confidence and leaves residents feeling less safe, the federal government has a responsibility to reconsider if that facility belongs there at all,” she said. Pingree also reiterated that her office has been conducting aggressive oversight of ICE's activities in Maine following the fatal shooting of her constituent, Johan Sebastián Durán Guerrero, in Biddeford. She has demanded answers from DHS, called for a transparent investigation, pursued legislative and appropriations oversight, and remains committed to holding the agency accountable to the communities it serves. “Federal agencies must carry out their responsibilities in a manner that respects human dignity, civil rights, due process, and the communities in which they operate. When they fail to do so, local communities have not only the right but the responsibility to speak out,” Pingree said. The f… 1 2026-07-30T07:32:48Z 2026-07-30T07:34:08Z
https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/maine-delegation-calls-on-dea-to-clarify-rule-threatening-maine-ems-providers-with-new-costs Maine Delegation Calls on DEA to Clarify Rule Threatening Maine EMS Providers with New Costs 2026-07-29 2026 2026-07 Republican Senate ME Susan M. Collins C001035 www.collins.senate.gov collins https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King (I-ME) and Representatives Chellie Pingree (D-ME-01) and Jared Golden (D-ME-02) are calling on the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) to quickly clarify federal guidance that is threatening Maine emergency medical services (EMS) agencies with new costs. In a letter to DEA Administrator Terrance Cole, the lawmakers explained that uncertainty surrounding the DEA's implementation of a 2017 law has led several Maine hospital systems to end longstanding agreements that allowed local EMS agencies to obtain certain emergency supplies and medications through their hospital partners. Without these agreements, EMS agencies have begun to spend thousands of their own dollars on these expenses, likely resulting in increased costs for patients as providers seek to recoup the additional expenses. The Controlled Substances Act (CSA), along with related DEA regulations, requires registration for any practice that dispenses controlled substances. Prior to 2017, the CSA did not directly mention EMS, and thus EMS departments historically were not required to register to procure or dispense controlled substances – allowing EMS to acquire medications and supplies from hospital partners to do their critical work. “We write today to request that the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) issue clarifying guidance regarding implementation of the Protecting Patient Access to Emergency Medicines Act of 2017 (PPAEMA),” the lawmakers began. “As you know, PPAEMA amended the Controlled Substances Act (CSA) to allow Emergency Medical Services (EMS) agencies to obtain independent registrations to administer controlled substances. This statutory change was intended to codify existing law and ensure EMS responders operate seamlessly under the supervision of a licensed physician. Unfortunately, the DEA’s subsequent final rule has created disruption and confusion for Maine’s healthcare system.” “The conflicting interpretations of this rule have led our state’s largest hospital … 1 2026-07-30T07:32:48Z 2026-07-30T07:34:08Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/maine-delegation-calls-on-dea-to-clarify-rule-threatening-maine-ems-providers-with-new-costs Maine Delegation Calls on DEA to Clarify Rule Threatening Maine EMS Providers with New Costs 2026-07-29 2026 2026-07 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-ME) and Susan Collins (R-ME) and Representatives Chellie Pingree (D-ME) and Jared Golden (D-ME) are calling on the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) to quickly clarify federal guidance that is threatening Maine emergency medical service (EMS) agencies with new costs. In a letter to DEA Administrator Terrance Cole, the lawmakers explained that uncertainty surrounding the DEA's implementation of a 2017 law has led several Maine hospital systems to end longstanding agreements that allowed local EMS agencies to obtain certain emergency supplies and medications through their hospital partners. Without these agreements, EMS agencies have already begun to spend thousands of their own dollars on these expenses, likely resulting in cost increases to patients to recoup the additional charges. The Controlled Substances Act (CSA), along with related DEA regulations, requires registration for any practice that dispenses controlled substances. Prior to 2017, the CSA did not directly mention EMS, and thus EMS departments historically were not required to register to procure or dispense controlled substances – allowing EMS to acquire medications and supplies from hospital partners to do their critical work. “We write today to request that the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) issue clarifying guidance regarding implementation of the Protecting Patient Access to Emergency Medicines Act of 2017 (PPAEMA),” the lawmakers began. “As you know, PPAEMA amended the Controlled Substances Act (CSA) to allow Emergency Medical Services (EMS) agencies to obtain independent registrations to administer controlled substances. This statutory change was intended to codify existing law and ensure EMS responders operate seamlessly under the supervision of a licensed physician. Unfortunately, the DEA’s subsequent final rule has created disruption and confusion for Maine’s healthcare system.” “The conflicting interpretations of this rule have led our state’s largest hospital networks to ab… 1 2026-07-30T07:32:48Z 2026-07-30T07:34:08Z
https://golden.house.gov/media/press-releases/golden-democratic-veterans-demand-transparency-on-iran-war-casualties Golden, Democratic veterans demand transparency on Iran war casualties 2026-07-28 2026 2026-07 Democrat House ME Jared F. Golden G000592 golden.house.gov golden https://golden.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON — Following reports that the Department of Defense removed the names of four American troops from the official Iran War death toll, Congressman Jared Golden (ME-02) and 14 fellow Democratic veterans are urging the Trump Administration to accurately and transparently account for U.S. servicemembers killed and wounded in the Iran war. “As veterans of America’s wars, we have serious concerns about reports that the Department of War is delaying, removing or otherwise mischaracterizing the release of information about wounded and killed U.S. servicemembers,” the lawmakers wrote in a letter to President Trump. “The U.S. government owes U.S. servicemembers, their families, and every American the truth about all U.S. casualties in the War with Iran. It is imperative that these reports are timely, accurate and adequately explain the reason for amended or delayed reports,” they continued. “We urge you to commit to releasing timely and accurate information on all injuries and deaths of U.S. servicemembers.” The letter was led by Congressman Mike Thompson (CA-14). Golden was joined on the letter by Reps. Pat Ryan (NY-18), Seth Moulton (MA-06), Chris Deluzio (PA-17), Derek Tran (CA-45), Jimmy Panetta (CA-19), Ted Lieu (CA-36), Maggie Goodlander (NH-02), Eugene Vindman (VA-07), Chrissy Houlahan (PA-06), Jason Crow (CO-06), Bobby Scott (VA-03), Salud Carbajal (CA-24) and Gil Cisneros (CA-31). The full text of the letter can be found here and below. Dear President Trump, As veterans of America’s wars, we have serious concerns about reports that the Department of War is delaying, removing or otherwise mischaracterizing the release of information about wounded and killed U.S. servicemembers. The U.S. government owes U.S. servicemembers, their families, and every American the truth about all U.S. casualties in the War with Iran. It is imperative that these reports are timely, accurate and adequately explain the reason for amended or delayed reports. Inaccurate and delayed reports from the Department of War about U… 1 2026-07-29T07:41:48Z 2026-07-29T07:42:57Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-leads-bill-to-expand-mental-health-care-access-in-rural-maine-communities King Leads Bill to Expand Mental Health Care Access in Rural Maine Communities 2026-07-28 2026 2026-07 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 introducing legislation to help people in rural Maine communities maintain reliable access to mental health care. The Compacts, Access, and Responsible Expansion (CARE) for Mental Health Professionals Act would incentivize interstate medical health provider networks with federally funded grant opportunities. Interstate networks allow providers to practice across state lines while avoiding duplicative registration processes, thus reaching more rural communities with mental health resources. Rural communities are disproportionately affected by the country’s mental health crisis. According to the National Institutes of Health, over 60% of rural Americans live in designated mental health provider shortage areas “The expansion of telehealth has been a game changer, especially for rural Maine communities, older adults, and those who might otherwise forgo care due to their inability to pay for or drive to their appointments. Telehealth has improved access to mental health services, eased burdens on providers, and helped patients receive the care they need when they need it,” said Senator King. “The CARE for Mental Health Professionals Act adapts care with the times, and reduces unnecessary red tape that makes it harder for qualified providers to deliver telehealth services across state lines, ensuring more Maine people can access quality mental health care for years to come.” "NAMI Maine remains committed to advancing policies that improve access to mental health care and strengthen the behavioral health workforce, said Jennifer Thompson, Executive Director of National Alliance on Mental Illness Maine. “We support bipartisan solutions, such as Sen. King's CARE for Mental Health Professionals Act, that ensure individuals, families, and communities can find qualified professionals when and where they need them,". Senator King is a long-time advocate for the availability and accessibility of telemedicine. King co-sponsored the bipartisan CONNECT for Health Act and the Teleh… 1 2026-07-29T07:41:48Z 2026-07-29T07:42:57Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-colleagues-introduce-legislation-to-protect-elections-from-interference-and-tampering King, Colleagues Introduce Legislation to Protect Elections from Interference and Tampering 2026-07-27 2026 2026-07 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-ME) is introducing legislation to protect elections from interference and tampering – from both outside actors and unconstitutional orders from the federal government. The Stop Harassment and Intimidation in Elections through Legal Defenses (SHIELD) Our Elections Act would authorize state attorneys general and individual voters to bring civil actions against those who violate federal laws protecting elections, extend the statute of limitations for federal criminal prosecutions involving election interference from five to nine years, and establish additional protections to prevent the unlawful seizure of ballots before election results are finalized. "Article 1, Section 4 of the Constitution makes it clear that the oversight and administration of elections is left to the states; recent remarks and proposals from the White House seem to threaten the firewall our founders made a priority – and also contradicts the principle of states’ rights," said Senator King. "The SHIELD Our Elections Act reinforces those fundamental principles and sustaining public faith in elections that are conducted fairly, impartially, and constitutionally – while strengthening accountability for those who attempt to undermine our electoral system." More specifically, the SHIELD Our Elections Act would: Allow State Attorneys General and impacted voters to sue when federal officials unlawfully interfere with or intimidate them at polling places; Strengthen accountability by extending the statute of limitations from five to nine years for key federal election crimes, including interference by armed forces and voter intimidation, to enable them to be brought by future administrations for past actions; Protect ballots from improper seizure by limiting when state or federal law enforcement may seize ballots or election equipment and requiring court-authorized election officials to maintain joint custody whenever materials must be seized, especially before the resolution of an election. In additi… 1 2026-07-28T07:37:32Z 2026-07-28T07:38:50Z

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