press: releases: 398 rows where state = "NH" and year = 2013 sorted by date descending

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398 rows where state = "NH" and year = 2013 sorted by date descending

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url	title	date ▲	year	month	party	chamber	state	member_name	bioguide_id	domain	date_source	text	has_text	collected_at	updated_at
https://web.archive.org/web/20140412132123/http://shea-porter.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/defense-bill-includes-provision-to-transfer-doble-center-to-city-of	Defense Bill Includes Provision To Transfer Doble Center To City of Portsmouth	2013-12-20	2013	2013-12	Democrat	House	NH	Carol Shea-Porter	S001170	web.archive.org	legacy	PORTSMOUTH, NH – U.S. Senators Jeanne Shaheen and Kelly Ayotte and Congresswoman Carol Shea-Porter today announced that the final version of the fiscal year 2014 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) authorizes the U.S. Army Reserves to successfully complete the transfer of the Paul A. Doble Army Reserve Center to the City of Portsmouth. Shaheen, Ayotte and Shea-Porter have worked to secure a legislative fix to prevent a redundant Government Services Administration (GSA) disposal process and transfer the facility to Portsmouth – where officials are pursuing a planned redevelopment of the Doble Center as a senior center. “With the Doble Center having been replaced by a new facility, we’re pleased that this land will be transferred to the city of Portsmouth for the use and enjoyment of local residents,” said Shaheen, Ayotte and Shea-Porter. The final version of the NDAA resolves years-long issue by authorizing the U.S. Army Reserve to finalize the transfer of the Doble Center to the City of Portsmouth. This summer, the Army Reserves originally introduced a plan to transfer the Doble Center to GSA, not the City of Portsmouth. Following this news, Shaheen and Shea-Porter worked with Portsmouth and the House and Senate Armed Services Committees to urge the Army Reserves to reconsider its decision and allow the Doble Center to be redeveloped as a senior center, which the Portsmouth City Council had approved years before. Shaheen and Ayotte, members of the Senate Armed Services Committee and chair and ranking member, respectively, of the Armed Services Subcommittee on Readiness and Management Support, together introduced language to the Senate defense authorization bill to remove the redundant process and allow the successful transfer of the Doble Center to Portsmouth. The FY 2014 NDAA builds on the FY 2010 NDAA language that Shea-Porter, a member of the House Armed Services Committee, secured to allow for an Army Reserve Center to be built in the vicinity of Pease, which paved the way for the Doble Center to be tra…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://kuster.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/fda-will-re-propose-rules-in-response-to-concerns-from-bipartisan	FDA Will Re-Propose Rules in Response to Concerns from Bipartisan Coalition of Lawmakers	2013-12-19	2013	2013-12	Democrat	House	NH	Ann Kuster	K000382	kuster.house.gov	legacy	WASHINGTON, D.C. – A successful bipartisan effort led by U.S. Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Roy Blunt (R-MO) and Representatives Joe Courtney (D-CT), Chris Gibson (R-NY) and Annie Kuster (D-NH), has resulted in the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) planning to revise regulations and seek additional comments from the public before finalizing the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) rules. The FDA’s announcement comes less than a month after the lawmakers led a bipartisan coalition of 75 Republicans, Democrats and Independents expressing concern about the impact of proposed FDA rules on farmers and businesses, which re-proposing the regulations for public comment could help alleviate. “The FDA is making the right call,” Senator Shaheen said. “There are serious concerns that have been raised by farmers and consumers in my state and across the country that the FDA must consider before finalizing rules. Submitting a second draft of key aspects of these rules for public comment will allow farmers and other stakeholders to further inform the rulemaking process, which I hope will better protect our national food supply while preventing the issuance of overly burdensome or ambiguous regulations.” “I’m pleased the FDA has agreed to issue a second draft of proposed rules and give farmers and businesses the opportunity to provide additional input,” Senator Blunt said. “I thank Senator Shaheen and my colleagues in the House and Senate for their work to alleviate the impact of these burdensome regulations on farm families in Missouri and nationwide.” “I am pleased to see that FDA is being responsive to the bipartisan feedback from lawmakers about the need to reexamine the proposed FSMA rules,” Congressman Gibson said. “FDA’s goal of guaranteeing produce safety is certainly admirable, but as the Representative of a district that relies on an agriculture-based economy, I am also concerned with ensuring flexibility and practical implementation for our family farmers. It is encouraging to see FDA recognize this as well.” “I …	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://kuster.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/kuster-we-should-help-hunters-feed-the-hungry	Kuster: We Should Help Hunters Feed the Hungry	2013-12-19	2013	2013-12	Democrat	House	NH	Ann Kuster	K000382	kuster.house.gov	legacy	Introduces legislation that would make hunters who donate game to food charities eligible for a tax deduction to cover the costs of processing; bill would also provide a deduction to meat processors in NH and across the country In 2012, NH hunters donated 1,700 lbs. of game that was distributed to food charities all across NH through the “Hunt for the Hungry” program Kuster: This bill is a win-win: rewards hunters who support charity and helps feed hungry families WASHINGTON, D.C. – With millions of children and families across the country facing hunger, Congresswoman Annie Kuster (NH-02) and Congressman Don Young (AK-AL) have introduced bipartisan legislation that would reward hunters who donate wild game to food banks that help feed the hungry. The Wild Game Donation Act would make hunters who donate game to food charities eligible for a tax deduction to cover the costs of processing. The legislation would also provide tax credits for processors who take part in charitable donation programs, and protect against the use of spoiled meat for charitable contributions. Senator Schumer (D-NY) introduced companion legislation in the Senate earlier this year. “Thanks to the generosity of Granite Staters, many New Hampshire hunters already have the option of donating meat for free,” Kuster said. “I want to make sure that hunters all across the country have that same option.” “This common sense bill is a win-win: it rewards hunters who donate to food charities while helping feed hungry families. I was proud to partner with Rep. Don Young to introduce this bill, and I hope it will encourage even more hunters to consider donating game to help feed hungry families across the country,” Kuster added. Currently, New Hampshire hunters who donate wild game to the New Hampshire Food Bank can have their meat processed for free due to the generosity of Lemay & Sons Beef in Goffstown. However, hunters who can’t travel all the way to Goffstown – like some of those who live in the North Country – or have their meat processed out o…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://kuster.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/shea-porter-kuster-introduce-continuous-coverage-fix-to-aca	Shea-Porter, Kuster Introduce Continuous Coverage Fix to ACA	2013-12-19	2013	2013-12	Democrat	House	NH	Ann Kuster	K000382	kuster.house.gov	legacy	WASHINGTON, DC – New Hampshire Congresswomen Carol Shea-Porter (NH-01) and Annie Kuster (NH-02) have introduced legislation to extend the payment deadline for people who were unable to complete the health insurance sign-up process because of website difficulties and processing delays. The Coverage Protection Act of 2013 would ensure that Granite Staters who encountered difficulties signing up for insurance through Healthcare.gov receive retroactive insurance coverage during the month of January. “It’s inexcusable that Healthcare.gov wasn’t up and running properly on October 1,” Shea-Porter said. “But this bill will correct some issues by permitting retroactive coverage for individuals who could not complete the application process online.” “There is no question that the problems with Healthcare.gov have been completely unacceptable. But instead of undermining efforts to solve problems, we should focus on moving forward and finding common sense solutions,” Kuster said. “This bill would ensure that Granite Staters who were unable to sign up for coverage because of problems with Healthcare.gov will have access to the health insurance plans they need by the beginning of next year. I’ll keep fighting to make sure that New Hampshire families get the care they deserve.” The announcement of the Coverage Protection Act of 2013 comes following news that most insurers, including Anthem in New Hampshire, will accept payments through January 10th for health coverage that starts January 1. Shea-Porter and Kuster’s legislation would provide retroactive insurance coverage to Jan. 1, 2014, for individuals who attempt to enroll and who pay their premium by Jan. 31, 2014. In doing so, the bill ensures that people who encountered technical difficulties are not discriminated against because they don’t yet have their insurance card. This bill is not a free ride. It offers accountability on all sides by requiring enrollees to have made an effort to enroll in an exchange plan in time to receive coverage on January 1 and pay their premi…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140912202124/http://shea-porter.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/shea-porter-kuster-introduce-continuous-coverage-fix-to-aca	Shea-Porter, Kuster Introduce Continuous Coverage Fix to ACA	2013-12-19	2013	2013-12	Democrat	House	NH	Carol Shea-Porter	S001170	web.archive.org	legacy	FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contacts: Ben Wakana – 202-225-5456 WASHINGTON, DC – New Hampshire Congresswomen Carol Shea-Porter (NH-01) and Annie Kuster (NH-02) have introduced legislation to extend the payment deadline for people who were unable to complete the health insurance sign-up process because of website difficulties and processing delays. The Coverage Protection Act of 2013 would ensure that Granite Staters who encountered difficulties signing up for insurance through Healthcare.gov receive retroactive insurance coverage during the month of January. “It’s inexcusable that Healthcare.gov wasn’t up and running properly on October 1,” Shea-Porter said. “But this bill will correct some issues by permitting retroactive coverage for individuals who could not complete the application process online.” “There is no question that the problems with Healthcare.gov have been completely unacceptable. But instead of undermining efforts to solve problems, we should focus on moving forward and finding common sense solutions,” Kuster said. “This bill would ensure that Granite Staters who were unable to sign up for coverage because of problems with Healthcare.gov will have access to the health insurance plans they need by the beginning of next year. I’ll keep fighting to make sure that New Hampshire families get the care they deserve.” The announcement of the Coverage Protection Act of 2013 comes following news that most insurers, including Anthem in New Hampshire, will accept payments through January 10th for health coverage that starts January 1. Shea-Porter and Kuster’s legislation would provide retroactive insurance coverage to Jan. 1, 2014, for individuals who attempt to enroll and who pay their premium by Jan. 31, 2014. In doing so, the bill ensures that people who encountered technical difficulties are not discriminated against because they don’t yet have their insurance card. This bill is not a free ride. It offers accountability on all sides by requiring enrollees to have made an effort to enroll in an exchange plan …	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140912202153/http://shea-porter.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/bipartisan-group-of-reps-agree-do-not-import-unsafe-chinese-chicken	Bipartisan Group of Reps. Agree: Do Not Import Unsafe Chinese Chicken	2013-12-19	2013	2013-12	Democrat	House	NH	Carol Shea-Porter	S001170	web.archive.org	legacy	FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE WASHINGTON, DC —Fourteen bipartisan members of the House of Representatives called on their colleagues to ensure unsafe chicken from China does not make its way to US shelves. Their letter asks that the 2014 Agriculture Department (USDA) funding bill ensure Chinese-processed chicken is kept out of the school lunch and other child nutrition programs. It also asks that the bill prevent poultry slaughtered in China from being exported to the US. “Consider the impact of China’s weak enforcement of food safety laws and regulations…” they wrote to the Chairmen and senior Democrats of the subcommittees responsible for funding the USDA. “More than 300,000 Chinese children fell seriously ill, with some dying, from melamine-tainted milk powder; dangerously high levels of mercury found in Chinese baby formula; the sale of more than $1 million worth of rat and other small mammal meat passed off to consumers as lamb; and more than 16,000 diseased pig carcasses dumped in a river to rot. “Last year China Central Television revealed that a Chinese poultry supplier provided Kentucky Fried Chicken restaurants with chicken fattened by large quantities of illegal drugs. In addition, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration recently announced that, since 2007, pet treats imported from China containing contaminated chicken have killed 600 dogs and cats in the United States, and sickened 3,600 more. According to the World Health Organization, so far 45 of the 136 people who contracted the H7N9 bird flu in China this year have died.” The letter can be read in its entirety here. Numerous advocacy and consumer safety groups support the representatives’ letter, including: Food and Water Watch, Consumer Federation of America, National Farmers Union, Consumers Union and the Center for Foodborne Illness. ###	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://kuster.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/kuster-to-help-launch-effort-to-reverse-military-retiree-cola-changes	Kuster to Help Launch Effort to Reverse Military Retiree COLA Changes Included In Bipartisan Budget Agreement	2013-12-18	2013	2013-12	Democrat	House	NH	Ann Kuster	K000382	kuster.house.gov	legacy	WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congresswoman Annie Kuster (NH-02) announced that she will help introduce legislation tomorrow that would protect military retirees from changes to cost-of-living adjustments (COLAs) that were included in the bipartisan budget agreement that passed the House last week. This legislation, the Military Retirement Restoration Act, is completely paid for by closing corporate tax loopholes companies abuse to avoid paying U.S. taxes. “As I’ve said all along, the bipartisan budget agreement will help end the cycle of manufactured crises that has slowed our economy and harmed middle class families, but it’s far from perfect,” Kuster said. “Congress should work to replace the cost of living adjustment changes included in this deal – and that’s exactly what this common sense legislation will do. I urge my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to support this common sense fix.” U.S. Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) and Mark R. Warner (D-VA) have introduced companion legislation in the Senate. ###	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140330181402/http://shea-porter.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/shea-porter-to-introduce-military-retirement-restoration-act-in-us-house	Shea-Porter to Introduce Military Retirement Restoration Act in U.S. House	2013-12-18	2013	2013-12	Democrat	House	NH	Carol Shea-Porter	S001170	web.archive.org	legacy	WASHINGTON, DC – Congresswoman Carol Shea-Porter today announced that she will join with Rep. Dan Maffei (NY-24) to introduce the Military Retirement Restoration Act, legislation that would repeal cuts to military retiree cost-of-living adjustments (COLAs) included in the Bipartisan Budget Act. This legislation will be fully paid for by closing tax loopholes for offshore corporations. Companion legislation has been introduced in the Senate by Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) and Mark R. Warner (D-VA). “The Bipartisan Budget Act would prevent another government shutdown, create jobs, and reduce the deficit, but it is not perfect,” Shea-Porter said. “I’m introducing a bill to cancel the reduction in the cost-of-living adjustment for military retirees under the age of 62, which is scheduled to start in 2015. The bill is fully paid for by eliminating a tax loophole for offshore corporations.” The Bipartisan Budget Act, which was coauthored by House Republican Budget Chairman Paul Ryan, reduces by 1% the annual cost-of-living adjustment increase for military pensions for those military retirees who are under the age of 62. The bill then restores the full COLA at age 62. The Military Retirement Restoration Act, which will be introduced tomorrow, December 19th, would replace the cuts to military retiree benefits included in the budget deal by preventing companies from avoiding U.S. taxes by abusing overseas tax havens. Specifically, the Military Retirement Restoration Act: Repeals the provision in the Bipartisan Budget Act (Section 403) that modifies the annual cost-of-living adjustment for working-age military retirees by making the adjustments equal to inflation minus one percent. This provision, which is scheduled to go into effect in 2015, would result in a benefit cut for working-age military retirees who are not disabled. The Bipartisan Budget Act modifies the annual cost-of-living adjustment for working-age military retirees by making the adjustments equal to inflation minus one percent. At age 62, the retired…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://kuster.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/kuster-derides-liheap-cuts-that-leave-low-income-new-hampshire-familie-0	Kuster Derides LIHEAP Cuts that Leave Low-Income New Hampshire Families Out In the Cold	2013-12-17	2013	2013-12	Democrat	House	NH	Ann Kuster	K000382	kuster.house.gov	legacy	LIHEAP provides low-income households – including those with young children, individuals with disabilities, and seniors – with heating assistance to help pay energy bills during the winter In New Hampshire, funding for this program has declined every year since 2008, yet sequestration cut more than $1.6 million from LIHEAP in 2013; Kuster reiterates her call for Congress to restore LIHEAP funding for NH families Kuster: It’s unconscionable to cut LIHEAP for Granite Staters who could go cold without it KEENE, N.H. – As the cold winter months get underway in New Hampshire and across the country, Congresswoman Annie Kuster (NH-02) today derided cuts to the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) that have resulted from across-the-board budget cuts known as sequestration. During a visit to Southwestern Community Services (SCS) in Keene, Kuster underscored the harmful impacts of cutting LIHEAP for New Hampshire families and called on Congress to replace the sequester with a more responsible budget that restores vital funding for heating assistance. Kuster was joined during the visit by Keith Thibault, Development Director of SCS; Beth Daniels, SCS’ Energy Services Director; John Rider, Vice Chairman of the N.H. Oil Heat Council; and Elizabeth Sayre, Human Services Manager for the City of Keene, among others. “LIHEAP helps some of New Hampshire’s most vulnerable children, seniors, and families make it through the winter,” Kuster said. “It’s unconscionable to cut this vital program for Granite Staters who could go cold without it. With a long and cold winter ahead, we to restore vital LIHEAP funding to help low-income families stay warm this winter.” Despite the fact that LIHEAP funding in New Hampshire has fallen every year since 2008, sequestration cut more than $1.6 million from the program in FY 2013, eliminating heating assistance for more than 1,200 low-income New Hampshire households – including those with young children, individuals with disabilities, and seniors. Last week, Kuster voted in favor of…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140912201806/http://shea-porter.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/shea-porter-leads-push-to-expand-small-business-health-care-tax-credit	Shea-Porter Leads Push to Expand Small Business Health Care Tax Credit	2013-12-17	2013	2013-12	Democrat	House	NH	Carol Shea-Porter	S001170	web.archive.org	legacy	FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Ben Wakana, 202-225-5456 WASHINGTON, DC – Congresswoman Carol Shea-Porter (NH-01) is leading a push to help New Hampshire small businesses provide quality health insurance for their employees. Shea-Porter has sent a letter to President Obama requesting that the Affordable Care Act’s (ACA’s) small business tax credit be expanded to help more small employers purchase insurance policies in 2014. As part of its goal of making health insurance more affordable for small businesses, the ACA created the Small Business Health Insurance Tax Credit. Beginning in 2014, the tax credit will increase in value (worth up to 50% of a business’s premium costs), but will only be available to employers who purchase plans through the Small Business Health Options Program, or SHOP Exchange. The SHOP was planned as an online marketplace where small businesses could shop for health insurance. However, it has faced setbacks and delays, and will not be fully operational for the next year. Therefore, Shea-Porter led a letter to President Obama requesting a regulatory change to ensure that small employers can apply the tax credit to any ACA-compliant group plan, whether or not it is offered on a SHOP Exchange. “Given the unfortunate news that the federally facilitated SHOP Exchange website will not be operational for the duration of 2014 enrollment, I urge you to expand small business owners’ options for next year,” Shea-Porter wrote. “Small employers should be able to apply the tax credit to any ACA-compliant group plan, whether or not it was intended to be offered for sale on a SHOP exchange, in states with Federally Facilitated Marketplaces.” In November, the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) announced that the SHOP Exchange will not offer online enrollment until 2014, a one-year delay from a launch that was initially planned for this past October. Prior to that announcement, HHS released a rule that would postpone employee choice and the premium aggregator in the SHOP Exchange until 2015. The…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://kuster.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/kuster-stresses-need-to-eliminate-va-claims-backlog-during-veterans	Kuster Stresses Need to Eliminate VA Claims Backlog During Veterans Roundtable	2013-12-16	2013	2013-12	Democrat	House	NH	Ann Kuster	K000382	kuster.house.gov	legacy	With more than 700 disability claims backlogged at the Manchester VA Medical Center, Kuster met with local veteran and advocates to discuss improvements to health care and benefits delivery Earlier this year, the House passed Kuster’s legislation that would help encourage greater use of automation in claims processing; legislation was part of comprehensive legislative package to help eliminate the backlog Kuster: I will keep fighting to end the backlog until we finish the job CONCORD, N.H. – As part of her commitment to improving health care services for Granite State veterans, Congresswoman Annie Kuster (NH-02) today stressed the need to eliminate the growing backlog of disability compensation claims at the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). During a roundtable discussion at New Hampshire Technical Institute (NHTI) in Concord, Kuster addressed her ongoing efforts in Congress to eliminate the claims backlog with state and federal officials. “It is unacceptable that so many of our heroic veterans do not have timely access to the care and benefits they have earned,” Kuster said. “They have given so much to this country, and I will not stop fighting until we end this backlog and get our veterans access to the benefits they deserve.” Earlier this year, Kuster introduced legislation that encourages the VA to make greater use of automation in claims processing to help boost efficiency and free up resources to provide more timely services for veterans in New Hampshire and across the country. Kuster’s bill, the Claims Efficiency Through Automation Act, recently passed the House as part of a comprehensive legislative package designed to help get veterans’ claims settled faster and more efficiently. “I am pleased to report dramatic improvement in meeting the needs of New Hampshire’s Veterans this past year as evidenced by a 30 percent decrease in our inventory and an improvement of 38 percent in our average wait time for a decision on a disability compensation claim, which is currently 136 days – we are well on our way …	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://kuster.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/shaheen-ayotte-kuster-call-on-epa-to-connect-all-homes-showing-water	Shaheen, Ayotte, Kuster Call on EPA to Connect All Homes Showing Water Contamination to Public Water System	2013-12-16	2013	2013-12	Democrat	House	NH	Ann Kuster	K000382	kuster.house.gov	legacy	WASHINGTON, D.C. -- New Hampshire lawmakers are calling on the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to connect additional households in Atkinson showing chemical contamination in their water supply to a new water main to help ensure reliable access to safe drinking water. In a letter sent today to EPA Administrator Gina McCarthy, U.S. Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) and Kelly Ayotte (R-NH) and Congresswoman Annie Kuster (NH-02) are requesting homes in the town of Atkinson that are showing any level of 1,4 Dioxane contamination be provided access to a new water main. The town of Atkinson has been struggling for the last several years with the contamination of 1,4 Dioxane – a chemical solvent with hazardous effects – in the drinking wells of 44 homes. “It has come to our attention that only some households facing contamination will be provided access to a new water main,” Shaheen, Ayotte and Kuster wrote in the letter. “Given the importance of providing reliable access to safe drinking water, we request that all homes showing 1,4-Dioxane contamination be connected to the water main.” They added, “Given the small additional cost that is within the current budget, we believe that it would be both proper and prudent that all homes testing for 1,4-Dioxane contamination be connected to the water main.” The letter from Shaheen, Ayotte and Kuster follows a recent EPA meeting in Atkinson, where residents were informed that only households where contamination levels were at or above 3.0 micrograms per liter (ug/L) would be connected to the local public water system, which will be extended under the EPA’s Emergency Response and Removal program. Many of the homes where the contaminant has been found to be present at concentrations below the 3.0 ug/L level, however, are located next door to, or very near to, homes that are above the standard. There is concern that when households in Atkinson currently testing over the determined contamination standard are connected to the local public water system, homes testing below the…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://kuster.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/kuster-helps-pass-bipartisan-national-defense-authorization-act-0	Kuster Helps Pass Bipartisan National Defense Authorization Act	2013-12-13	2013	2013-12	Democrat	House	NH	Ann Kuster	K000382	kuster.house.gov	legacy	Legislation includes amendment Kuster pushed that would enhance whistleblower protections for service members who report sexual assaults; for weeks, Kuster helped drum up bipartisan support for the amendment in the House Measure also includes important provisions to improve military readiness and support our troops WASHINGTON, D.C. – Yesterday, Congresswoman Annie Kuster (NH-02) joined a bipartisan majority of her colleagues in voting to approve the FY 2014 National Defense Authorization Act. This legislation contains important measures to address the growing epidemic of sexual assault in the military – including an amendment pushed by Kuster – as well as other important provisions to improve military readiness and support our troops. “I am grateful that members of both parties came together to advance this critical legislation, which will help ensure that our servicemen and women have the funding and resources they need to do their jobs and keep our county safe,” Kuster said. “While this is not a perfect bill, I am also pleased that this legislation includes key reforms to combat military sexual assault, including an amendment I pushed for that would strengthen whistleblower protections for service members who report sexual assaults.” Kuster, a member of the House Veterans’ Affairs Committee and the bipartisan Military Sexual Assault Prevention Caucus, has been outspoken about the need to address the epidemic of sexual assault in the military. Yesterday, she took to the House floor to speak about the importance of passing reforms to help prevent military sexual assaults. Earlier this year, Kuster hosted a roundtable focused on military sexual assault with key experts and stakeholders from around the Granite State. Kuster has toured the new women’s center at the White River Junction VA Medical Center and spoken with staff about the need for improved services for survivors of military sexual trauma. In April, she wrote an op-ed focused on the need for bipartisan action to better prevent and respond to sexual assau…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://kuster.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/weekly-roundup-protecting-liheap-funding-preventing-another-government	WEEKLY ROUNDUP: Protecting LIHEAP Funding, Preventing Another Government Shutdown, and More	2013-12-13	2013	2013-12	Democrat	House	NH	Ann Kuster	K000382	kuster.house.gov	legacy	This week, Congresswoman Kuster spoke out against cuts to the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) that have resulted from across-the-board budget cuts known as sequestration. During a visit to Southern New Hampshire Services (SNHS) in Nashua, Kuster underscored the harmful impacts of cutting LIHEAP for low-income New Hampshire families and urged Congress to restore vital LIHEAP funding. Later in the week, Kuster helped pass a bipartisan budget agreement that would reverse some of the indiscriminate budget cuts that have hurt families and small businesses, while helping prevent another costly government shutdown. Kuster emphasized that while the deal was far from perfect, it would help restore some normalcy to our budget process and clear the way for Congress to focus on helping create jobs and opportunity for middle class New Hampshire families. For more on these updates and others, please continue reading below. Kuster calls for heating funds to be restored U.S. Rep. Annie Kuster says across-the-board budget cuts are slashing funds for heating assistance, and that is hurting New Hampshire families. Funding for the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program has declined in New Hampshire every year since 2008. This year, the automatic budget cuts known as sequestration has cut more than $1.6 million in funding from the program. Kuster visited Southern New Hampshire Services in Nashua on Monday. She called on Congress to pass a responsible budget that restores vital funding for heating assistance. Kuster says the cuts eliminate heating assistance for more than 1,200 low-income New Hampshire households. (Associated Press, 12/10/2013) Heating fuel assistance funding cuts draw ire of Rep. Kuster Since registration began earlier this month, about 30,000 households in New Hampshire have applied for fuel assistance…On Monday, Lovett met with Congresswoman Annie Kuster and representatives from Southern New Hampshire Services in Nashua to discuss funding cuts to the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Pr…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140912155828/http://shea-porter.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/house-passes-national-defense-authorization-act	House Passes National Defense Authorization Act	2013-12-13	2013	2013-12	Democrat	House	NH	Carol Shea-Porter	S001170	web.archive.org	legacy	FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Ben Wakana, 202-225-5456 WASHINGTON, DC – Yesterday, the House of Representatives passed the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2014. The bill, which passed with strong bipartisan support, includes multiple provisions written by Congresswoman Carol Shea-Porter to help provide for a strong national defense, save taxpayers money, and strengthen services for America’s troops and military families. “Congress’ solemn responsibility is to ensure the safety of our nation and the strength of our Armed Services,” Shea-Porter said. “While this bill is not perfect, it contains initiatives to help protect our troops and serve military families, address the problem of sexual assault in our Armed Forces, and provide for a strong military.” The bill also includes a provision barring additional rounds of Base Realignment and Closure (BRAC), which protects the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard. The legislation states: “nothing in this Act shall be construed to authorize an additional Base Realignment and Closure (BRAC) round, and none of the funds appropriated pursuant to the authorization of appropriations contained in this Act may be used to propose, plan for, or execute an additional BRAC round.” “I’m also pleased that the bill includes priorities I’ve focused on such as the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard continuing its vital work on behalf of our national defense, addressing PTSD, protecting soldiers’ health, and saving taxpayers money,” Shea-Porter noted. As a member of the House Armed Services Committee, Congresswoman Shea-Porter worked to secure multiple key provisions and amendments that are included in the final bill and detailed below. PROTECTING TROOPS AND SUPPORTING MILITARY FAMILIES Protecting Troops from Toxic Burn Pits: Shea-Porter’s amendment, which was introduced as the Save Our Soldiers’ Lungs Act earlier this year, would expand the list of prohibited waste in open-air burn pits to include toxic material such as munitions, asbestos, tires, mercury, batteries, aerosol c…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://kuster.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/kuster-statement-on-addition-of-minuteman-health-inc-to-nh-aca	Kuster Statement on Addition of Minuteman Health Inc. to NH ACA Marketplace	2013-12-12	2013	2013-12	Democrat	House	NH	Ann Kuster	K000382	kuster.house.gov	legacy	WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congresswoman Annie Kuster (NH-02) released the following statement today after it was announced that Minuteman Health Inc. of Massachusetts will offer health care plans through the New Hampshire Affordable Care Act Marketplace beginning in 2015. “I’m pleased that beginning in 2015, Granite Staters will have an additional insurer competing for their business. Increasing competition in the health insurance market will help drive down costs and expand options for consumers in New Hampshire. I hope that moving forward, additional insurers will participate in New Hampshire’s marketplace to help spur competition and reduce costs.” ###	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://kuster.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/kuster-supports-bipartisan-budget-agreement	Kuster Supports Bipartisan Budget Agreement	2013-12-12	2013	2013-12	Democrat	House	NH	Ann Kuster	K000382	kuster.house.gov	legacy	WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congresswoman Annie Kuster (NH-02) released the following statement today after voting for a bipartisan budget agreement that would reverse some of the indiscriminate budget cuts that have hurt families and small businesses while helping prevent another costly government shutdown. The agreement passed the House by a vote of 332 to 94. “After months of brinksmanship and bitter partisanship, it’s encouraging to see both parties engaged in good-faith budget negotiations. This proposal is far from perfect, but it’s a modest first step that will help move us beyond the cycle of manufactured crises and short-term decision-making that has put a drag on our economy and hurt middle class families. “This agreement would reverse some of the indiscriminate budget cuts that have hurt New Hampshire families and small businesses, while helping prevent another government shutdown that costs jobs and damages our economy. With that said, I am gravely disappointed that this agreement does not include an extension of unemployment insurance benefits, and I will keep pushing for a vote on legislation to protect this vital economic lifeline for Granite Staters who are looking for work. “No budget proposal is perfect, and this plan is no exception. But it will prevent another devastating government shutdown, restore some normalcy to our budget process, and clear the way for Congress to focus on helping create jobs and opportunity for middle class families.” ###	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140110010513/http://shea-porter.house.gov:80/media-center/press-releases/hea-porter-announces-additional-health-insurer-to-enter-new-hampshire	Shea-Porter Announces Additional Health Insurer to Enter New Hampshire ACA Marketplace for 2015 Coverage	2013-12-12	2013	2013-12	Democrat	House	NH	Carol Shea-Porter	S001170	web.archive.org	legacy	FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Ben Wakana, 202-225-5456 MANCHESTER, NH – Today, Congresswoman Carol Shea-Porter (NH-01) announced that New Hampshire consumers will have health insurance options on the Affordable Care Act’s Marketplace beginning in 2015. Minuteman Health Inc. of Massachusetts has been approved by the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to expand into New Hampshire and form a new health insurance CO-OP (Consumer Operated and Oriented Plan) that will offer affordable health care plans to Granite State families. “Today’s announcement means that current Anthem individual market consumers will be able to keep their hospitals and doctors until next year’s open enrollment, when they will have at least two insurers competing for their business,” Shea-Porter said. “I am pleased that New Hampshire families and individuals will have more choices for coverage, and I will continue working to increase competition and drive down health care costs.” The announcement comes after the Department of Health and Human Services notified Shea-Porter that the agency has approved a loan application by Minuteman Health Inc. to expand into New Hampshire and form a new CO-OP. The CO-OP program will help non-profit health insurance issuers enter the individual and small group Marketplaces and offer competitive health insurance plans alongside Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield. Granite Staters will be able to sign up for plans through the CO-OP during 2014 open enrollment, with coverage beginning as early as January 1, 2015. In October 2013, Shea-Porter wrote to HHS urging the agency to approve Minuteman’s application as part of her efforts to increase competition and choice for Granite Staters. New Hampshire’s insurance market has historically been dominated by one insurer and higher-than-average prices. The new insurance CO-OP will be the second insurance provider offering plans on New Hampshire’s ACA Marketplace, and the first nonprofit, member-governed health insurance company. The CO-OP has expressed interest in off…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140413010812/http://shea-porter.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/statement-and-video-shea-porter-on-hjres-59-the-bipartisan-budget-act-of	STATEMENT and VIDEO: Shea-Porter on H.J.Res 59, the Bipartisan Budget Act of 2013	2013-12-12	2013	2013-12	Democrat	House	NH	Carol Shea-Porter	S001170	web.archive.org	legacy	FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Ben Wakana, 202-225-5456 WASHINGTON, DC – Congresswoman Carol Shea-Porter issued the following statement after voting for H.J.Res 59, the Bipartisan Budget Act of 2013. After the vote, Shea-Porter spoke on the House floor, highlighting the story of one Granite Stater set to lose unemployment benefits as a result of Congressional inaction. “This was not a vote I took lightly. The notion that the only compromise our country can strike is one that leaves 1.3 million Americans without emergency unemployment insurance is deeply flawed, and it is outrageous that Republicans would not consider extending emergency unemployment insurance. “Traditionally, extending unemployment benefits has enjoyed bipartisan support. Republicans never failed to extend unemployment benefits under President George W Bush. President Reagan so firmly believed in the importance of unemployment insurance that he announced his support in his 1983 State of the Union Address. “In today’s sluggish economy, there are three job applicants for every job opening. Americans who benefit from emergency unemployment insurance are not moochers, nor are they lazy. They are workers who ran into hard luck and lost their job through no fault of their own. Many of them rely on emergency unemployment compensation to keep their families out of poverty and a roof over their heads. “But ultimately, the people of New Hampshire sent me here to make hard compromises, and this was one of them. This budget deal wasn’t what I wanted, but as the Wall Street Journal said, it is ‘the least bad budget deal’. It will reduce the irresponsible cuts to programs that help seniors, children, and families in New Hampshire, and it will alleviate some of the pain sequestration is causing at Portsmouth Naval Shipyard, at the New Hampshire National Guard, and other places across New Hampshire. But it still hurts some groups, and it fails to ask for a dime from profitable corporations who pay zero in federal income taxes. “In 2014, the challenge…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://kuster.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/kuster-announces-holiday-cards-for-heroes-drive-to-honor-new-hampshire	Kuster Announces "Holiday Cards for Heroes" Drive to Honor New Hampshire Veterans	2013-12-11	2013	2013-12	Democrat	House	NH	Ann Kuster	K000382	kuster.house.gov	legacy	Elementary students in Nashua and Concord will make holiday cards for NH veterans; later this month, Kuster will personally deliver cards to veterans at the New Hampshire Veterans Home in Tilton Kuster: This is a great chance to teach students about NH’s proud tradition of honoring those who serve CONCORD, N.H. – Congresswoman Annie Kuster (NH-02) today announced that she has launched a “Holiday Cards for Heroes” drive at schools in the Second District to help honor New Hampshire’s veterans this holiday season. Elementary students at participating schools in Nashua and Concord – as well as other interested schools throughout the second district – will make holiday cards for Granite State veterans to thank them for their service to our country. “Our veterans, service members, and their families have sacrificed so much to protect and serve our state and country,” Kuster said. “The ‘Holiday Cards for Heroes’ drive is a great opportunity for young students to learn about New Hampshire’s proud tradition of honoring those who serve and to thank those who have worn the uniform. I encourage schools across the second district to participate and help send a message of thanks to New Hampshire’s veterans this holiday season.” Members of Kuster’s staff will pick up cards from participating schools. Kuster, who is a member of the House Veterans Affairs Committee, will personally deliver the cards to veterans at the New Hampshire Veterans Home in Tilton later this month. School districts interested in participating in the “Holiday Cards for Heroes” drive should call Mike Ollen at (603) 226-1002 for more information. ###	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140413005625/http://shea-porter.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/shea-porter-calls-for-increased-liheap-funding	Shea-Porter Calls for Increased LIHEAP Funding	2013-12-11	2013	2013-12	Democrat	House	NH	Carol Shea-Porter	S001170	web.archive.org	legacy	FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Ben Wakana, 202-225-5456 WASHINGTON, DC – As Granite Staters face another cold winter, Congresswoman Carol Shea-Porter (NH-01) is calling on Congress to increase funding for the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP). In a letter to leaders of the House and Senate Appropriations committees, Shea-Porter wrote, “As people across the country are trying to get through another cold winter while facing a sluggish economy and high home heating costs, I urge you to release additional funding for the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP). These funds are critical to the security and safety of citizens across the country, especially in my home state of New Hampshire.” LIHEAP is the main federal program that helps low-income households, veterans, and seniors with their energy bills, providing them with vital and temporary assistance during cold winter months. In October of this year, the Energy Information Administration projected that the cost of heating a home with gas this winter will be 13% higher than it was last year, while the cost to heat a home with propane will increase by 9%. These increased costs add strain to LIHEAP and the almost 9 million Americans who received support from the program in 2012. “In New Hampshire, LIHEAP funding is not a partisan issue,” Shea-Porter said. “However, I have been in Congress five years, and each year it’s been a struggle to obtain enough funding to keep people warm. This just should not be so difficult.” Shea-Porter has been a strong advocate for LIHEAP funding. In April of this year, she sent a bipartisan letter requesting that funding for LIHEAP be authorized at a level of $5.1 billion in FY2014. In previous years, she has testified before the House Budget Committee and introduced legislation that would increase funding for LIHEAP. Full text of Shea-Porter’s letter is below. +++ The Honorable Barbara Mikulski and The Honorable Richard Shelby Chair a…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140912160033/http://shea-porter.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/shea-porter-to-speaker-boehner-congress-must-not-adjourn-for-year	Shea-Porter to Speaker Boehner: Congress Must Not Adjourn for Year without Extending Federal Emergency Unemployment Insurance	2013-12-11	2013	2013-12	Democrat	House	NH	Carol Shea-Porter	S001170	web.archive.org	legacy	FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Ben Wakana, 202-225-5456 WASHINGTON, DC – Congresswoman Carol Shea-Porter (NH-01) joined 166 lawmakers today in urging Speaker John Boehner (R-OH) not to adjourn the House of Representatives for the year without allowing a vote to extend emergency unemployment compensation, which is scheduled to expire on December 28. “We write to urge you to address the looming expiration of unemployment benefits for millions of Americans before adjourning Congress for the remainder of the year,” the letter reads. “Without swift Congressional action, 1.3 million jobless workers will have their benefits cut off on December 28th, and nearly another 1.9 million will lose their unemployment benefits over the first half of next year. This would not only be a devastating blow for millions of Americans who are already struggling, but it would also hurt our economy.” Failure to extend unemployment insurance would mean 1,300 Granite Staters will lose vital benefits on December 28. An additional 3,900 New Hampshire workers would lose their benefits in the first six months of 2014 if Congress doesn’t act. Full text of the letter is below. +++ December 11, 2013 The Honorable John Boehner Speaker, U.S. House of Representatives H232, U.S. Capitol Washington, DC 20515 Dear Speaker Boehner: We write to urge you to address the looming expiration of unemployment benefits for millions of Americans before adjourning Congress for the remainder of the year. Without swift Congressional action, 1.3 million jobless workers will have their benefits cut off on December 28th, and nearly another 1.9 million will lose their unemployment benefits over the first half of next year. This would not only be a devastating blow for millions of Americans who are already struggling, but it would also hurt our economy. The Emergency Unemployment Compensation (EUC) program is scheduled to immediately and completely stop at the end of 2013, during the holiday season, with the last payable week ending on December 28th. All…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140110010520/http://shea-porter.house.gov:80/media-center/press-releases/shea-porter-spokesperson-statement-on-misleading-radio-ads	Shea-Porter Spokesperson Statement on Misleading Radio Ads	2013-12-10	2013	2013-12	Democrat	House	NH	Carol Shea-Porter	S001170	web.archive.org	legacy	FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Ben Wakana, 202-295-7608 MANCHESTER, NH – Ben Wakana, spokesperson for Congresswoman Carol Shea-Porter, issued the following statement regarding a misleading radio advertisement about the Affordable Care Act: “This ad is false. Washington Republicans should take down their misleading attack ads and stop frightening Granite Staters who hold individual policies from Anthem, because they can indeed renew their policies and keep their current doctors and hospitals. “Congresswoman Shea-Porter worked this out with Anthem weeks ago: New Hampshire residents who hold individual policies from Anthem have until December 16 to renew their current policies and keep their hospitals and doctors in 2014. “In fact, under the Affordable Care Act, families in a situation like the one depicted in this ad no longer face lifetime limits on coverage, they won’t suffer from bankruptcy due to overwhelming medical bills, and they can’t be kicked off their insurance or kept from getting insurance because of illness. Washington Republicans should stop trying to take people’s insurance away and start working to improve the Affordable Care Act.” ###	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://kuster.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/kuster-derides-liheap-cuts-that-leave-low-income-new-hampshire-families	Kuster Derides LIHEAP Cuts that Leave Low-Income New Hampshire Families Out In the Cold	2013-12-09	2013	2013-12	Democrat	House	NH	Ann Kuster	K000382	kuster.house.gov	legacy	LIHEAP provides low-income households – including those with young children, individuals with disabilities, and seniors – with heating assistance to help pay energy bills during the winter In New Hampshire, funding for this program has declined every year since 2008, yet sequestration cut more than $1.6 million from LIHEAP in 2013; Kuster reiterates her call for Congress to replace the sequester and restore LIHEAP funding for NH families Kuster: It’s unconscionable to cut LIHEAP for Granite Staters who could go cold without it NASHUA, N.H. – As the cold winter months get underway in New Hampshire and across the country, Congresswoman Annie Kuster (NH-02) today derided cuts to the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) that have resulted from across-the-board budget cuts known as sequestration. During a visit to Southern New Hampshire Services (SNHS) in Nashua, Kuster underscored the harmful impacts of cutting LIHEAP for New Hampshire families and called on Congress to replace the sequester with a more responsible budget that restores vital funding for heating assistance. Kuster was joined at the event by Gale Hennessey, Executive Director of SNHS; Tracy Desmarais, Energy and Crisis Coordinator at SNHS; Jeanne Agri, Child Development Director at SNHS; and Celeste Lovett, Fuel Assistance Program Manager at the New Hampshire Office of Energy and Planning. “LIHEAP helps some of our state’s most vulnerable children, seniors, and families make it through the winter,” Kuster said. “It’s unconscionable to cut this vital program for Granite Staters who could go cold without it. With a long and cold winter ahead, Congress needs to step up and pass a budget that will restore LIHEAP funding and protect low-income and middle class Granite Staters.” Despite the fact that LIHEAP funding in New Hampshire has fallen every year since 2008, sequestration cut more than $1.6 million from the program in FY 2013, eliminating heating assistance for more than 1,200 low-income New Hampshire households – including those with …	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://kuster.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/kuster-hosts-exporter-forum-to-help-local-businesses-boost-international	Kuster Hosts Exporter Forum to Help Local Businesses Boost International Sales	2013-12-06	2013	2013-12	Democrat	House	NH	Ann Kuster	K000382	kuster.house.gov	legacy	Forum brought together local business leaders, state officials, and representatives from the Export-Import Bank for a discussion about strategies for expanding exports, accessing capital, and creating jobs Last year, Granite State exports totaled more than $3.4 billion, helping fuel economic growth and job creation across the state (Friday, December 6, 2013 \| Rep. Kuster delivers remarks during an Exporter Forum at Nashua Community College) NASHUA, N.H. – As part of her commitment to helping create jobs and opportunity for the middle class, Congresswoman Annie Kuster (NH-02) today convened a group of local business leaders, state officials, and representatives from the Export-Import Bank of the United States to discuss strategies for boosting international sales during an Exporter Forum at Nashua Community College. The session helped local business owners learn about ways to boost their exports, access working capital, leverage government resources, and find new markets and customers around the globe. “My top priority in Congress is helping create jobs and opportunity for the middle class, and supporting exports is a key part of that goal,” Kuster said. “That’s what this Forum was all about – ensuring that New Hampshire businesses have access to the tools and resources they need to boost their exports and create good, middle class jobs right here in the Granite State.” Kuster delivered remarks at the forum, as did Patricia M. Loui, a member of the Export-Import Bank’s Board of Directors. State and federal officials then joined local business owners for panel discussions on export resources and strategies. “With 95% of the world’s customers outside the United States, the value of exporting has become increasingly clear,” Director Loui said. “Increasing American exports is vital to our economic recovery and we will not reach our export potential without the participation of small business. That is why Ex-Im Bank is committed to growing the number of these companies that use our financing and, in doing so, create, s…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://kuster.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/weekly-roundup-boosting-nh-exports-streamlining-services-for-businesses	WEEKLY ROUNDUP: Boosting NH Exports, Streamlining Services for Businesses, and More	2013-12-06	2013	2013-12	Democrat	House	NH	Ann Kuster	K000382	kuster.house.gov	legacy	This week, Congresswoman Kuster hosted an Exporter Forum at Nashua Community College that brought together local business leaders and federal officials for a discussion about strategies for boosting international sales. The event, which was held in conjunction with the Export-Import Bank of the United States, helped provide local business owners with the tools and resources they need to boost their exports, access working capital, leverage government resources, and find new markets and customers around the globe. More than 50 Granite Staters representing businesses from all across the state participated in the forum. Since taking office, Kuster has prioritized efforts to boost exports and create jobs and opportunity for middle class families in New Hampshire. To help make it easier for Granite State companies to create good, middle class jobs, Kuster also introduced common sense legislation to streamline federal services for businesses. Kuster’s bill, the Executive Agency Simplification and Efficiencies (EASE) Act, would help consolidate duplicative agencies and redundant programs to improve services for businesses and simplify the maze of departments many companies confront when seeking federal assistance. Kuster’s bill follows previous calls from President Obama to restructure business-related agencies to boost efficiency and eliminate duplication. For more on these updates and others, please continue reading below. Source: https://www.whitehouse.gov/businessusa Kuster introduces bill to streamline services for Granite State businesses To help make it easier for Granite State companies to create good, middle class jobs, Congresswoman Annie Kuster (NH-02) today introduced common sense legislation to streamline federal services for businesses that are looking to grow, boost exports, and access capital. Kuster’s bill, the Executive Agency Simplification and Efficiencies (EASE) Act, would help consolidate duplicative agencies and redundant programs to improve services for businesses and simplify the maze of depa…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://kuster.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/kuster-leads-push-for-national-renewable-electricity-standard	Kuster Leads Push for National Renewable Electricity Standard	2013-12-05	2013	2013-12	Democrat	House	NH	Ann Kuster	K000382	kuster.house.gov	legacy	Introduces legislation that would require utilities to generate 25 percent of their power from renewable energy sources like solar, wind, and biomass by 2025 New Hampshire already leads the nation with its own renewable energy standard; Kuster’s legislation would help the rest of the country follow the Granite State’s lead and raise the bar for energy efficiency Kuster: This bill is a win-win-win – will create jobs, cut pollution, and save consumers money WASHINGTON, D.C. – This week, Congresswoman Annie Kuster (NH-02) partnered with Congressman Jared Polis (CO-02) and Congressman Ben Ray Luján (NM-03) to introduce legislation to establish a national Renewable Electricity Standard (RES) that would help create good jobs, cut pollution, and save consumers money. Their bill, the Renewable Electricity Standard Act of 2013, would require utility companies to produce at least 25 percent of their power from renewable energy sources like wind, solar, and biomass by 2025, helping spur growth in our country’s renewable energy sector. “Investments in clean energy are investments in a healthier environment and a stronger economy. This common sense bill will help create good middle class jobs, cut pollution, and reduce our dependence on foreign oil – all while saving consumers money on their utilities,” Kuster said. “New Hampshire is already a leader on this issue with our own state renewable energy standard of 25 percent by 2025. This important legislation will help the rest of our nation catch up to the Granite State while supporting a growing American industry.” Twenty nine states, including New Hampshire, Colorado, and New Mexico, already have renewable generation standards. By advancing the production of clean renewable energy sources in all states, the Renewable Electricity Standard Act would spur innovation, capital investments, and job growth across the country while enhancing energy security and reducing pollution. Studies indicate that a national renewable energy standard would: Create approximately 274,000-297,000…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://kuster.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/kuster-statement-on-the-passing-of-nelson-mandela	Kuster Statement on the Passing of Nelson Mandela	2013-12-05	2013	2013-12	Democrat	House	NH	Ann Kuster	K000382	kuster.house.gov	legacy	CONCORD, N.H. – Congresswoman Annie Kuster (NH-02) today released the following statement on the passing of former South African President Nelson Mandela. “Today, the world has lost one of its most inspiring champions for freedom, equality, and peace. Nelson Mandela’s life is a story of courage in the face of adversity; forgiveness in the face of injustice; and reconciliation in the face of oppression. His commitment to the causes of freedom and non-violence helped free a nation and inspire the world. And while he is no longer with us, Nelson Mandela’s legacy will forever inspire us to work toward a better and brighter future.” ###	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140413010906/http://shea-porter.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/shea-porter-no-budget-no-vacation	Shea-Porter: No Budget, No Vacation	2013-12-05	2013	2013-12	Democrat	House	NH	Carol Shea-Porter	S001170	web.archive.org	legacy	FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Ben Wakana, 202-225-5456 WASHINGTON, DC – With only six legislative days remaining before the House of Representatives goes home for the holidays, Congresswoman Carol Shea-Porter added her name to the newly introduced H. Res. 424, legislation that would prevent Congress from adjourning for the remainder of the year unless it passes a budget conference report by December 13th. “The least productive Congress ever should stay in Washington until a budget is agreed to,” Shea-Porter said. “Without fulfilling this basic function, there is no question that Congress should not go on vacation.” The 113th Congress is on track to have the least productive year in Congressional history. But next Friday, the House of Representatives is scheduled to go home for the holidays until January 7th. Earlier this week, Speaker of the House John Boehner had this outrageous response for reporters asking about progress in the Republican-led Congress: “We’ve done our work.” Without agreeing to a budget, Congress risks another government shutdown and credit default as early as January 15, 2014. Without authorizing the nation’s Farm Bill, the price of milk could skyrocket to $8.00 per gallon in January. Additionally, unemployment insurance, common sense gun legislation, and jobs bills all remain on the table but unpassed. Earlier today, Shea-Porter supported a motion that would have forced Congress to pass a budget conference report before adjourning for the year. In early August, Congresswoman Carol Shea-Porter spoke on the floor of the U.S. House of Representatives asking Congress to extend its session in order to end sequestration and pass job-creating legislation. You can watch the video here. ###	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140912204245/http://shea-porter.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/statement-shea-porter-on-the-passing-of-nelson-mandela	Shea-Porter on the Passing of Nelson Mandela	2013-12-05	2013	2013-12	Democrat	House	NH	Carol Shea-Porter	S001170	web.archive.org	legacy	FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Ben Wakana, 202-225-5456 WASHINGTON, DC – Congresswoman Carol Shea-Porter (NH-01) released the following statement on the passing of former South African President Nelson Mandela: “Today, the world grieves with South Africa over the loss of Nelson Mandela. “Nelson Mandela was a great leader who chose peace over violence, and love and forgiveness over hate and revenge. His power sprang from this, and from his humility. “The world will be a little emptier now, but we must strive to keep his legacy alive for the living.” ###	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://kuster.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/friday-in-nashua-kuster-to-host-exporter-forum-to-help-local-businesses	FRIDAY IN NASHUA: Kuster to Host Exporter Forum to Help Local Businesses Boost International Sales	2013-12-03	2013	2013-12	Democrat	House	NH	Ann Kuster	K000382	kuster.house.gov	legacy	Forum will bring together local businesses and federal officials for a discussion about strategies for expanding exports, accessing capital, and creating jobs Last year, Granite State exports totaled more than $3.4 billion, helping fuel economic growth and job creation across the state NASHUA, N.H. – On Friday, December 6 at 8:30am, Congresswoman Annie Kuster (NH-02) will convene a group of local and national business leaders to discuss strategies for boosting international sales during an Exporter Forum at Nashua Community College. The session, held in conjunction with the Export-Import Bank of the United States, will help business owners learn about ways to boost their exports, access working capital, leverage government resources, and find new markets and customers around the globe. “My top priority in Congress is helping to grow the economy and create jobs and opportunity for the middle class. That’s what this Exporter Forum is all about,” Kuster said. “This event will help ensure that our businesses have the tools and resources they need to boost their exports and create good, middle class jobs right here in the Granite State.” Kuster will deliver remarks at the forum, as will Patricia M. Loui, a member of the Export-Import Bank’s board of directors. State and federal officials will then join local business owners for panel discussions on export resources and strategies. A member of the House Small Business Committee, Kuster has prioritized efforts to boost exports and create jobs and opportunity for middle class families in New Hampshire. Earlier this year, she introduced the Small Business Growth Through Exports Act, legislation that would extend and expand the successful State Trade and Export Promotion program (STEP). To date, the STEP program has helped dozens of Granite State companies expand their exports, create jobs, and grow New Hampshire’s economy. Granite Staters who are interested in attending the event are asked to register here. Members of the media who plan to attend should email Jake Berry a…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://kuster.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/kuster-introduces-bill-to-streamline-services-for-granite-state	Kuster Introduces Bill to Streamline Services for Granite State Businesses	2013-12-03	2013	2013-12	Democrat	House	NH	Ann Kuster	K000382	kuster.house.gov	legacy	Common sense EASE Act would help simplify maze of agencies and offices that businesses face when seeking federal assistance to help boost exports, access capital, and grow jobs Last year, President Obama asked Congress for consolidation authority that would allow him to restructure executive branch agencies to boost efficiency, but Congress failed to act on the President’s request Kuster: NH businesses should be able to access federal services with ease Source: https://www.whitehouse.gov/businessusa WASHINGTON, D.C. – To help make it easier for Granite State companies to create good, middle class jobs, Congresswoman Annie Kuster (NH-02) today introduced common sense legislation to streamline federal services for businesses that are looking to grow, boost exports, and access capital. Kuster’s bill, the Executive Agency Simplification and Efficiencies (EASE) Act, would help consolidate duplicative agencies and redundant programs to improve services for businesses and simplify the maze of departments many companies confront when seeking federal assistance. “Granite State businesses that are looking to boost their exports, secure a loan, or access new markets shouldn’t have to navigate a confusing maze of agencies just to access the services they need,” Kuster said. “We need to make it easier – not harder – for our businesses to grow and succeed. By streamlining duplicative agencies and programs, we can save money while strengthening services that help Granite State businesses expand, create middle class jobs, and grow our economy.” In January 2012, President Obama called on Congress to reinstate the “consolidation authority” past presidents have enjoyed that would allow him to reorganize and restructure executive branch agencies. Congress failed to act on the President’s request and has also failed to address the redundancy and duplication in federal agencies that help boost American competitiveness. In making his request for consolidation authority, the President identified six major departments and agencies prim…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://kuster.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/with-time-running-out-kuster-pressese-for-a-vote-on-bill-to-extend	With Time Running Out, Kuster Pressese For a Vote on Bill to Extend Unemployment Insurance For Granite Staters	2013-12-03	2013	2013-12	Democrat	House	NH	Ann Kuster	K000382	kuster.house.gov	legacy	In letter to Speaker Boehner, Kuster urges action on legislation to renew the federal Emergency Unemployment Compensation program, which would give Granite Staters struggling to find work a vital lifeline Without Congressional action, 1.3 million Americans – including 1,300 Granite Staters – will be cut off from vital unemployment insurance benefits just days after Christmas Kuster to Boehner: With less than 10 legislative days remaining before benefits expire, the time to act is now WASHINGTON, D.C. – With critical unemployment insurance for the long-term unemployed set to expire just days after Christmas, Congresswoman Annie Kuster (NH-02) today called on Speaker Boehner to allow a vote on legislation to renew the federal Emergency Unemployment Compensation program for another year. In a letter to Speaker Boehner, Kuster said that an extension of unemployment insurance benefits will provide a vital lifeline to Granite Staters and other Americans who are still struggling to find work as the economy continues to recover from the worst recession since the Great Depression. Kuster, who also reiterated her call for Congress to focus like a laser on job creation, underscored that with only ten legislative days remaining before benefits are set to expire, the time for action is now. “While our economy has made important progress since the Great Recession, too many people in New Hampshire and across the country are still struggling to find work. Now is not the time to cut off unemployment insurance benefits that are helping these families survive as they search for jobs,” Kuster wrote. “I therefore respectfully request that you allow a simple vote on legislation that will protect these benefits and the hardworking families who count on them.” Last month, Kuster cosponsored legislation that would extend unemployment insurance benefits for another year and highlighted a report which estimated that without Congressional action, 1.3 million Americans – including 1,300 Granite Staters – would be cut off from their benefits …	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140912204336/http://shea-porter.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/shea-porter-expose-ceo-pay-disparity	Shea-Porter: Expose CEO Pay Disparity	2013-12-03	2013	2013-12	Democrat	House	NH	Carol Shea-Porter	S001170	web.archive.org	legacy	FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Ben Wakana, 202-295-7608 WASHINGTON, DC – Yesterday, Congresswoman Carol Shea-Porter (NH-01) sent a letter to the Chair of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) supporting a proposed rule to require publicly traded companies to disclose the ratio between CEO pay and median employee compensation. “Over the course of my lifetime, I’ve watched American workers become more productive than ever, only to see wages remain largely stagnant. Over those same decades, CEO pay has gone through the roof, rising from 42 times the average pay of workers in 1980 to 354 times that of the average worker today,” Shea-Porter said. “In 2012, the CEO of J.C. Penney (JCP) made 1,795 times that of the average JCP employee. It’s time for publicly traded companies to report on this disparity.” The letter notes that it is important for investors to know the salaries of chief executives at publicly-traded corporations. At the same time, it is essential that these salaries be contextualized through comparison with the median employee salary at the firm. The proposed rule also reflects public concern over disparate levels of executive compensation and the need to have this information available in an understandable format. Peter Drucker, one of the 20th century’s best-known business theorists, wrote that the ratio of CEO-to-worker pay was best kept between 20-1 and 25-1. The 32 Members of Congress to sign the letter noted that they found no credibility in the idea that the burdens of documenting the ratio between CEO pay and median employee compensation will be too high. “Companies already track how much they spend on personnel including salary and benefits,” the letter reads. “Firms that set up advanced computers for high frequency trading or that master the concept of just-in-time inventory should be able to figure out the median salary using basic software.” Last week, Shea-Porter cosponsored legislation that would prevent Wall Street banks from collecting tax breaks on fines paid to the U.S. govern…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140412132150/http://shea-porter.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/shea-porter-cosponsors-nsa-reform-legislation	Shea-Porter Cosponsors NSA Reform Legislation	2013-12-02	2013	2013-12	Democrat	House	NH	Carol Shea-Porter	S001170	web.archive.org	legacy	FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Ben Wakana, 202-225-5456 WASHINGTON, DC – Continuing her efforts to protect the privacy of Granite Staters, Congresswoman Carol Shea-Porter (NH-01) has cosponsored the USA FREEDOM Act. The bipartisan legislation would rein in the dragnet collection of data by government agencies and increase transparency, oversight, and accountability for domestic surveillance. “The recent string of stories about the National Security Agency collecting massive amounts of information on law-abiding Americans has been shocking, and this bulk collection of data needs to stop,” Shea-Porter said. “The USA FREEDOM Act would help restore the balance between liberty and security.” Shea-Porter has a long history of protecting Granite Staters’ right to privacy. In 2010 she voted against reauthorizing the USA PATRIOT Act because she believed the scope of the government’s surveillance power was too broad then, and it remains so today. This year, she broke with President Obama and Democratic leaders in supporting the Amash Amendment, which would have required specific, tangible evidence to be presented to the FISA Courts to justify a warrant. She has also cosponsored legislation that would: prohibit the federal government from establishing a firearms registry; prevent law enforcement agencies from storing pictures of people’s license plates; and protect workers from disclosing private information like passwords to employers. The USA FREEDOM Act is endorsed by organizations across the political spectrum including the American Civil Liberties Union, FreedomWorks, Project on Government Oversight, and technology companies such as Microsoft, Apple, Yahoo!, Facebook, AOL, Google, LinkedIn, and Mozilla. The comprehensive legislation would end the dragnet surveillance by: Ending bulk collection of Americans’ communications records The USA FREEDOM Act ends bulk collection under Section 215 of the PATRIOT Act. The bill would require that tangible things sought are relevant to an authorized investigation into internati…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140912204359/http://shea-porter.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/shea-porter-don-t-give-jpmorgan-a-tax-deduction-for-breaking-the-law	Shea-Porter: Don’t Give JPMorgan a Tax Deduction for Breaking the Law	2013-11-27	2013	2013-11	Democrat	House	NH	Carol Shea-Porter	S001170	web.archive.org	legacy	FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Ben Wakana, 202-225-5456 WASHINGTON, DC – Congresswoman Carol Shea-Porter has cosponsored legislation that would prevent Wall Street banks from collecting tax breaks on fines paid to the U.S. government as a result of irresponsible behavior that helped caused the financial crisis. “New Hampshire taxpayers already bailed out Wall Street once,” Shea-Porter said. “Banks should not be allowed to collect a tax break on fines levied against them for reckless and irresponsible behavior. It’s time Congress stopped letting Wall Street write the rules and started standing up for Main Street.” Recently, JPMorgan agreed to pay $13 billion in penalties for faulty mortgage assets it sold in the years leading up to the financial crisis. The $13 billion settlement is a record amount paid by one corporation to the federal government, but according to JPMorgan’s Chief Financial Officer Marianne Lake, billions will be tax-deductible. H.R.3445, the Stop Deducting Damages Act of 2013 would stop big banks from writing off, as a business expense, settlement payments to the government. This would ensure that taxpayers are not partially on the hook when large financial institutions agree to settlements with the government. In 2008, Shea-Porter voted against legislation to create the Troubled Assets Relief Program (TARP), also known as the bank bailout. ###	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://kuster.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/shaheen-blunt-courtney-gibson-kuster-lead-bipartisan-coalition-calling	Shaheen, Blunt, Courtney, Gibson, Kuster Lead Bipartisan Coalition Calling for Changes to FDA Proposed Rules	2013-11-26	2013	2013-11	Democrat	House	NH	Ann Kuster	K000382	kuster.house.gov	legacy	WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Roy Blunt (R-MO) and Representatives Joe Courtney (D-CT), Chris Gibson (R-NY) and Annie Kuster (D-NH) led a bipartisan group of lawmakers in requesting that the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issue a second draft of regulations for public comment before issuing final Food Safety Modernization rules. In a letter co-signed by 75 members of Congress, including 42 Republicans and 33 Democrats or Independents, the bipartisan coalition expressed concerns about the impact of proposed rules on farmers and businesses that an additional comment period could help alleviate. “Despite your agency’s efforts to engage with stakeholders during the rulemaking process, we remain concerned about the ambiguity surrounding many aspects of these proposed rules,” the letter said. The lawmakers continued, “We believe the rules as currently proposed would result in a multitude of unintended consequences that would be severely detrimental to national, regional and local agriculture. By seeking additional input through second proposed rules for public comment before final rules, we believe that producers’ concerns can be addressed and unintended consequences can be greatly mitigated.” The FDA recently issued two proposed rules implementing the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA), a 2011 law that overhauled food safety laws to increase the safety of our food supply. The rules address preventative controls for human food and standards for the growing, harvesting, packing, and holding of produce for human consumption. As proposed, the 1,200-page rules have left food producers and processors across the country concerned about a number of issues surrounding facility compliance, environmental standards, among others. The full text of the letter is below: November 22, 2013 Dear Commissioner Hamburg: We appreciate the Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) efforts to implement the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) and the agency’s willingness to seek input and guidance from pro…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140413005904/http://shea-porter.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/new-report-affordable-care-act-saved-new-hampshire-seniors-96-million-at	NEW REPORT: Affordable Care Act Saved New Hampshire Seniors $9.6 Million at the Pharmacy in 2013	2013-11-26	2013	2013-11	Democrat	House	NH	Carol Shea-Porter	S001170	web.archive.org	legacy	FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Ben Wakana, 202-225-5456 MANCHESTER, NH – New Hampshire seniors with Medicare prescription drug coverage saved $9,658,317, or an average of $807 per beneficiary, during the first 10 months of 2013, according to new data released today by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). “In New Hampshire, 11,962 Medicare beneficiaries saved an average of $807 each this year thanks to the Affordable Care Act,” Shea-Porter announced. “This proves that we can strengthen Medicare and save people money at the same time. That’s good news for the health and economic well-being of Granite Staters.” Overall, Medicare beneficiaries in New Hampshire have saved $31,218,777 since the passage of the Affordable Care Act. Nationwide, more than 7.3 million seniors and people with disabilities who reached the donut hole in their Medicare Part D (Medicare Prescription Drug Coverage) plans have saved $8.9 billion on their prescription drugs, an average of $1,209 per person since the Affordable Care Act was enacted. During the first 10 months of 2013, the nearly 3.4 million people nationwide who reached the donut hole have saved an average of $866 each. These figures are higher than at this same point last year, when 2.8 million beneficiaries had saved $1.8 billion for an average of $677 per beneficiary. For many people enrolled in Medicare Part D, the Medicare “donut hole” is the gap in the Medicare prescription drug benefits before catastrophic coverage for prescriptions takes effect. Under the discount program in the Affordable Care Act, in 2010, anyone with a Medicare prescription drug plan who reached the prescription drug donut hole got a $250 rebate. In 2011, beneficiaries who landed in the donut hole began receiving discounts on covered brand-name drugs and savings on generic drugs. Next year, Medicare Part D participants who fall into the donut hole will receive savings of about 53 percent on the cost of brand name drugs and 28 percent on the cost of gene…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://kuster.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/kuster-hosts-career-and-opportunities-fair-in-nashua	Kuster Hosts Career and Opportunities Fair In Nashua	2013-11-22	2013	2013-11	Democrat	House	NH	Ann Kuster	K000382	kuster.house.gov	legacy	(Friday, November 22, 2013 \| Rep. Kuster speaks with Pam Potter of Rapid Machining during the Career and Opportunities Fair in Nashua) NASHUA, N.H. – As part of her commitment to helping create jobs and opportunity for middle class families, Congresswoman Annie Kuster (NH-02) today hosted a Career and Opportunities Fair to help connect local residents with jobs and employment opportunities throughout the Granite State. The fair featured more than two dozen employers and professional groups representing the manufacturing, finance, healthcare, and recreation industries, among others. Nearly 300 Granite Staters attended today’s fair. “My top priority is helping create jobs and opportunity for middle class families in the Granite State,” Kuster said. “That’s what today’s jobs fair was all about – connecting local job seekers with a wide variety of New Hampshire employers who are looking to grow their businesses and hire new workers.” Participating employers and professional groups included: Dyn, Inc Corfin Industries Crotched Mountain Crotched Mountain Ski and Ride Area The Rapid Group W.H. Bagshaw Triangle Credit Union USPS Whaddy.com Primerica Right at Home of Southern NH In-Home Care of Lutheran Social Services Axenics Corporation New England Veterans Business Resource Center Small Business Administration WorkReadyNH Department of Veterans Affairs SCORE NH Small Business Development Center ###	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://kuster.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/weekly-roundup-connecting-nh-employers-and-workers-protecting-medicare	WEEKLY ROUNDUP: Connecting NH Employers and Workers, Protecting Medicare and Social Security, and More	2013-11-22	2013	2013-11	Democrat	House	NH	Ann Kuster	K000382	kuster.house.gov	legacy	As part of her commitment to helping create jobs and opportunity for middle class New Hampshire families, Congresswoman Kuster today hosted a Career and Opportunities Fair in Nashua to bring together Granite Staters looking for work and employers looking to hire. The fair featured more than two dozen New Hampshire employers and professional groups and drew nearly 300 job-seekers. In advance of the jobs fair, Kuster reiterated her call for Congress to focus like a laser on job creation, and she also signed onto legislation that would extend vital unemployment insurance benefits that are set to expire just days after Christmas. If Congress fails to act soon, 1.3 million Americans – including 1,300 Granite Staters – will be cut off from their benefits at the end of the year. Kuster also called on the lead negotiators on the Budget Conference Committee to protect Medicare and Social Security as they work toward a long-term budget agreement. Kuster and a group of more than 60 Democratic lawmakers underscored that while reaching a responsible budget agreement will require difficult choices, it does not require Americans to surrender their hard-earned benefits. Kuster is a cosponsor of a House resolution opposing the use of Chained CPI and has repeatedly highlighted the harmful impacts that sequestration is having on programs like Meals on Wheels that serve New Hampshire seniors. For more on these updates and others, please continue reading below. Kuster hosts jobs fair in Nashua to connect employers looking to hire and workers looking for jobs More than two dozen companies, including Manchester tech firm Dyn Inc., Crotched Mountain ski area, and the U.S. Postal Service, will be part of a job fair in Nashua on Friday. The fair will take place from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. at the Crowne Plaza Hotel, 2 Somerset Parkway…The fair is being hosted by U.S. Rep. Annie Kuster, D-N.H. Other employers and professional groups that will be represented at the fair include Corfin Industries, Crotched Mountain Rehabilitation Center, The Rapid…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140228023014/http://shea-porter.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/shea-porter-fights-to-protect-medicare-and-social-security	Shea-Porter Fights to Protect Medicare and Social Security	2013-11-22	2013	2013-11	Democrat	House	NH	Carol Shea-Porter	S001170	web.archive.org	legacy	FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Ben Wakana, 202-225-5456 WASHINGTON, DC – Congresswoman Carol Shea-Porter (NH-01) continued her fight against reckless schemes to balance the budget on the backs of New Hampshire seniors by joining 60 lawmakers in sending a letter to leaders of the Conference Committee on the 2014 Budget. The letter demands that seniors’ earned benefits be defended during budget negotiations. “The conference must reject policy reforms that place Medicare and Social Security benefits on the chopping block,” Shea-Porter and lawmakers wrote. “Too often, we hear of proposals to drastically slash benefits provided through these critical programs. These proposals are presented under the guise of fiscal responsibility, but would jeopardize the livelihood and health of the millions of seniors who depend on Social Security and Medicare.” As part of last month’s agreement to end the 16-day government shutdown, a Conference Committee on the 2014 Budget was created. The committee was tasked with shaping an agreement on a federal budget for fiscal year 2014. Shea-Porter has strongly defended the role that Medicare and Social Security play in providing a secure retirement for millions of Americans. In February, she wrote to President Obama urging him to reject proposals to cut Medicare, Medicaid, and Social Security as he works with Congress to address our nation’s fiscal challenges. She has cosponsored the Strengthening Social Security Act of 2013, legislation that would improve benefits for current and future Social Security beneficiaries, and has spoken out against chained CPI and other cuts to benefits that seniors have earned through a lifetime of hard work. Social Security is also a vital safety net for people with disabilities and family members of workers who have died. As of December 2012, the average monthly benefit for those receiving Social Security was $1,215. Over the course of a year, this averages out to $14,580. The idea that we should balance the budget on the backs of seniors re…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://kuster.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/kuster-signs-onto-bill-to-extend-critical-unemployment-insurance-for	Kuster Signs Onto Bill to Extend Critical Unemployment Insurance for Granite State Families	2013-11-21	2013	2013-11	Democrat	House	NH	Ann Kuster	K000382	kuster.house.gov	legacy	Legislation would renew the federal Emergency Unemployment Compensation program for an additional year, giving Granite Staters struggling to find work a vital lifeline Without Congressional action, 1.3 million Americans – including 1,300 Granite Staters – will be cut off from unemployment insurance benefits just days after Christmas Kuster: We must provide assistance to long-term unemployed and focus like a laser on job creation WASHINGTON, D.C. – With critical unemployment insurance for the long-term unemployed set to expire just days after Christmas, Congresswoman Annie Kuster (NH-02) today signed onto legislation to renew the federal Emergency Unemployment Compensation program for another year. The legislation would extend the program through 2014, providing a vital lifeline to Granite Staters and other Americans who are still struggling to find work as the economy continues to recover from the worst recession since the Great Depression. Kuster, who also reiterated her call for Congress to focus like a laser on job creation, is hosting a Career and Opportunities Fair tomorrow in Nashua to help bring together New Hampshire employers looking to hire and workers looking for jobs. Kuster called for an extension of unemployment insurance benefits earlier this month and highlighted a report which estimated that without Congressional action, 1.3 million Americans – including 1,300 Granite Staters – would be cut off from their benefits on December 28. “Without Congressional action, more than one thousand Granite Staters will lose their unemployment benefits just days after Christmas,” Kuster said. “We can’t let that happen. Losing these vital benefits will be a painful blow to New Hampshire families who are already struggling to find jobs. Congress needs to step up, extend these benefits, and focus like a laser on job creation.” Last year, unemployment compensation helped keep 2.5 million Americans out of poverty, including 600,000 children. Not only would losing these benefits hurt New Hampshire families, it would al…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://kuster.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/kuster-urges-budget-negotiators-to-protect-medicare-and-social-security	Kuster Urges Budget Negotiators to Protect Medicare and Social Security	2013-11-21	2013	2013-11	Democrat	House	NH	Ann Kuster	K000382	kuster.house.gov	legacy	As Budget Conference Committee works toward an agreement, Kuster calls on negotiators to protect programs Granite State seniors have paid into their entire lives Kuster to Negotiators: Don’t balance the budget on the backs of NH seniors WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congresswoman Annie Kuster (NH-02) called on the leaders of the Budget Conference Committee to protect Medicare and Social Security as they work toward a long-term budget agreement. In a letter to the leaders of the committee, Congressman Paul Ryan (R-WI) and Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), Kuster and a coalition of more than 60 Democratic lawmakers underscored that while reaching a responsible budget agreement will require difficult choices, it does not require Americans to surrender their hard-earned benefits. “As you work with your colleagues on the conference committee for the Fiscal Year 2014 Budget, we urge you to support policies that prioritize America’s seniors and the benefits that they have earned over a lifetime of hard work,” Kuster and other lawmakers wrote. “While we understand that you and your fellow conferees will have to make difficult decisions to find common ground, we believe that any compromise the conference produces must protect Medicare and Social Security for current and future generations.” The Budget Conference Committee, which is made up of a bipartisan, bicameral group of lawmakers, was created as part of the deal to end the government shutdown and prevent a default in October. The committee is tasked with shaping a budget agreement that will be presented to both the House and Senate by December 13. Kuster is deeply committed to protecting and strengthening Medicare and Social Security for Granite State seniors who have worked hard their entire lives and paid into these safety net programs. During her first months in office, Kuster sent a letter to President Obama urging him to protect Medicare, Medicaid, and Social Security as he works with Congress to address our nation’s fiscal challenges. Kuster is a cosponsor of a House re…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://kuster.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/kuster-encourages-nh-stakeholders-to-apply-for-newly-announced-youth	Kuster Encourages NH Stakeholders to Apply For Newly-Announced Youth CareerConnect Grants	2013-11-20	2013	2013-11	Democrat	House	NH	Ann Kuster	K000382	kuster.house.gov	legacy	$100 million federal grant program will help equip high school students with industry-relevant education and skills they need to fill 21st century jobs Program encourages school districts, institutions of higher education, and workforce development leaders to scale-up evidence-based models to strengthen talent pipeline WASHINGTON, D.C. – To help train a highly-skilled, 21st century workforce in the Granite State, Congresswoman Annie Kuster (NH-02) today encouraged New Hampshire stakeholders to apply for a newly-announced, $100 million federal grant program designed to help equip high school students with industry-relevant education and skills they need to compete for good jobs. The Youth CareerConnect Grant program, administered by the U.S. Department of Labor in collaboration with the U.S. Department of Education, encourages school districts, institutions of higher education, and workforce development leaders to scale-up evidence-based models to strengthen the talent pipeline in states like New Hampshire. “Training a highly-skilled, 21st century workforce in the Granite State is critical for growing our economy, creating jobs, and strengthening the middle class,” Kuster said. “When we invest in our workforce, more young people will stay here in New Hampshire, our students will be more competitive in the job market, and our businesses will be more successful in the economy. The Youth CareerConnect grant program represents a great opportunity to help strengthen New Hampshire’s workforce, and I encourage interested parties to apply.” According to DOL, the Youth CareerConnect Grant program will help strengthen our country’s talent pipeline through: Integrated Academic and Career-Focused Learning: Grants will provide students with education and training that combines rigorous academic and career-focused curriculum to increase students’ employability in in-demand industries and prepare them for employment, post-secondary education, long-term occupational skills training, or registered apprenticeships. Work-Based Lea…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://kuster.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/kuster-improper-payments-continue-to-waste-hundreds-of-millions-of-tax	Kuster: Improper Payments Continue to Waste Hundreds of Millions of Tax Dollars	2013-11-20	2013	2013-11	Democrat	House	NH	Ann Kuster	K000382	kuster.house.gov	legacy	Helps introduce common sense legislation – the Improper Payments Agency Cooperation Enhancement Act – to crack down on erroneous payments to deceased individuals Legislation would help give agencies tools they need to curb this wasteful practice and cut down on fraud and abuse across government WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congresswoman Annie Kuster (NH-02) helped introduce common sense legislation that would crack down on improper federal payments to deceased individuals that have wasted hundreds of millions of tax dollars in recent years. The legislation, the Improper Payments Agency Cooperation Enhancement Act, would equip federal agencies with tools to help ensure tax dollars are not wasted on unnecessary payments and to cut down on fraud across government. Congresswoman Cheri Bustos (IL-17) and Congressman Chris Gibson (NY-19) are the lead sponsors of the bill. “Instead of going after programs that seniors, middle class families, and struggling Americans count on, Congress should aggressively root out waste and fraud across government,” Kuster said. “That’s exactly what this common sense bill does. By cracking down on wasteful improper payments, we can save hundreds of millions of tax dollars while protecting critical priorities that we need to create jobs and strengthen the middle class.” Every year, federal payments are erroneously made to deceased individuals all across the country. Recent examples of improper payments to deceased individuals include: A total of $601 million in improper payments were made from 2006 to 2010 to federal retirees later found to have already died; More than $1 billion in farm program payments to farmers who were dead for more than three years; and Medicare prescription drug plans were paid approximately $3.6 million for drugs provided to 1,500 dead beneficiaries. Improving the collection of information on deceased beneficiaries has the potential to save the government hundreds of millions, if not billions of dollars. The Improper Payments Agency Cooperation Enhancement Act wo…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://kuster.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/kuster-to-boehner-don-t-stand-in-the-way-of-ending-workplace	Kuster to Boehner: Don’t Stand In the Way of Ending Workplace Discrimination	2013-11-20	2013	2013-11	Democrat	House	NH	Ann Kuster	K000382	kuster.house.gov	legacy	During a speech urging House action on ENDA, Kuster shares story of a teenage transgender constituent who is fearful about his job prospects Senate already passed ENDA with bipartisan support earlier this month, but Speaker Boehner has called this vital legislation unnecessary and refuses to allow a vote WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, on National Transgender Day of Remembrance, Congresswoman Annie Kuster (NH-02) called on Speaker of the House John Boehner to allow a vote on the Employment Non-Discrimination Act (ENDA), legislation that would end workplace discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation or gender identity. During her remarks on the House floor, Kuster shared a story from a transgender teenage constituent who supports ENDA, and who is fearful about his job prospects if the legislation doesn’t become law. ENDA recently passed the Senate with strong bipartisan support, but Speaker Boehner has refused to allow a simple vote on the legislation in the House. “Earlier this month, the Senate made history by passing employment protections for transgender workers for the first time ever. This bipartisan legislation is about one thing: ensuring that all Americans – regardless of who they are or who they love – are treated with the dignity and equality they deserve,” Kuster said. “Last week, I heard from a teenage constituent in New Hampshire who would be deeply impacted by this bill. This young man is just beginning to search for his first job, and he is worried that he will be at a significant disadvantage right off the bat just because he is transgender.” Following Senate passage of ENDA earlier this month, Kuster said that “no one should ever fear being fired from their job or harassed in the workplace because of who they are or who they love – period.” Kuster is an original co-sponsor of ENDA. Kuster’s remarks as prepared for delivery are below: Today, as we mark National Transgender Remembrance Day, I rise in support of H.R. 1755, the Employment Non-Discrimination Act. Earlier this month, the Senate made h…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://kuster.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/friday-in-nashua-kuster-to-host-career-and-opportunities-fair	FRIDAY IN NASHUA: Kuster to Host Career and Opportunities Fair	2013-11-19	2013	2013-11	Democrat	House	NH	Ann Kuster	K000382	kuster.house.gov	legacy	NASHUA, N.H. – As part of her commitment to helping create jobs and opportunity for middle class families, Congresswoman Annie Kuster (NH-02) will host a Career and Opportunities Fair later this week to help connect local residents with jobs and employment opportunities throughout the Granite State. The fair, which will be held on Friday, November 22, at the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Nashua, will feature employers from the manufacturing, finance, healthcare, and recreation industries, among others. “My top priority is helping create jobs and opportunity for middle class families in the Granite State,” Kuster said. “That’s what this jobs fair is all about – connecting local job seekers with a wide variety of New Hampshire employers who are looking to grow their businesses and hire new workers.” More than two dozen employers and professional groups will be represented at the fair, including: Corfin Industries Crotched Mountain Crotched Mountain Ski and Ride Area Dyn The Rapid Group Two C Pack U.S. Postal Service W.H. Bagshaw Whaddy.com Job seekers wishing to attend the Career and Opportunities Fair can register here. Members of the media wishing to attend should email Jake Berry at Jake.Berry@mail.house.gov to RSVP. A member of the House Small Business Committee, Kuster has prioritized efforts to foster job creation, grow the economy, and expand opportunity for middle class families. The first bill she authored would incentivize public-private partnerships to improve workforce development for New Hampshire students. Last month, Kuster introduced legislation to extend and expand a federal pilot program to help boost small businesses exports. She has also supported legislation to make permanent the federal research and development tax credit, helped lead the fight to prevent pending regulations from harming New England farmers, and worked to protect New Hampshire small businesses from burdensome online sales tax collection requirements. WHAT: Kuster to host Career and Opportunities Fair WHEN: …	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140713163426/http://shea-porter.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/shea-porter-meets-with-paul-o-connor-to-discuss-continuing-effects-of	Shea-Porter Meets with Paul O’Connor to Discuss Continuing Effects of Sequestration	2013-11-19	2013	2013-11	Democrat	House	NH	Carol Shea-Porter	S001170	web.archive.org	legacy	FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Ben Wakana, 202-225-5456 WASHINGTON, DC – This afternoon, Congresswoman Carol Shea-Porter (NH-01) met with Paul O’Connor, President of the Shipyard Metal Trades Council, to discuss the destructive effects of sequestration and the need for Congress to replace these reckless cuts with a responsible budget. “Our shipyard will not survive another 9 ½ years of sequestration,” O’Connor told Shea-Porter during their meeting in her Washington D.C. office. “Sequestration was never intended to be a sensible budget cutting device. It was a scheme of cuts so damaging that Congress would be forced to work together to avoid them. This is a bad law and it must end.” Workers at Portsmouth Naval Shipyard are among the roughly 650,000 U.S. Department of Defense employees who experienced up to 11 days of unpaid furloughs between July and September, suddenly reducing their income by 20 percent for the duration of the furloughs. “I cannot stress this enough, Congress must pass a responsible budget that creates jobs and eliminates sequestration,” Shea-Porter said. “The men and women at the Shipyard are essential to our national defense and contribute $660 million to the region’s economy. Continuing the cuts of sequestration is unfair to these men and women, and it is a deeply misguided approach.” According to the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office, sequestration will cost our economy up to 1.6 million jobs through 2014. According to a George Mason University study, the economic impact in New Hampshire is estimated to be $468 million in 2013. Congresswoman Shea-Porter did not vote for sequestration and she spoke out against these indiscriminate cuts even before she was sworn into the 113th Congress. Since then, she has consistently spoken out in opposition to sequestration’s reckless cuts. ###	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://kuster.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/fda-acts-on-kuster-s-request-to-extend-comment-period-for-food-safety	FDA Acts on Kuster’s Request to Extend Comment Period for Food Safety Rules	2013-11-15	2013	2013-11	Democrat	House	NH	Ann Kuster	K000382	kuster.house.gov	legacy	Announcement comes after lawmakers raised concerns over technical problems with Regulations.gov that prevented constituents from submitting feedback Kuster: It’s vital that the voices of New Hampshire farmers are heard WASHINGTON, D.C. – In response to a request from Congresswoman Annie Kuster (NH-02) and other lawmakers, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) today announced that it will extend the public comment period for two proposed food safety regulations by an additional week. The announcement came in response to a direct request from Kuster and other lawmakers, who urged the FDA to extend the comment period in light of technical problems with Regulations.gov that prevented constituents from submitting feedback. The new submission deadline is now Friday, November 22. “I am very pleased that the FDA has agreed to my request to extend the comment period for these proposed rules,” Kuster said. “It’s vital that New Hampshire farmers have a chance to express their concerns about how these rules would impact them, and extending the comment period will ensure that their voices are heard. I hope that the FDA will fully consider the concerns raised by my constituents as they work to revise these rules.” For months, Kuster has led efforts to ensure that Granite Staters have sufficient time and information to provide comments on the proposed food safety rules. Earlier this year, Kuster and Senator Shaheen led a bipartisan, bicameral group of lawmakers to successfully call on the FDA to come to New England after hearing concerns about these new rules potentially burdening small farmers across the region. In August, Kuster also pushed FDA to answer specific questions raised by New Hampshire farmers about how the proposed rules will impact their operations. The full text of the letter is below: November 13, 2013 Dear Commissioner Hamburg: Thank you for your agency’s continued efforts to ensure that farmers and consumers have an opportunity to provide input …	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://kuster.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/kuster-leads-new-england-lawmakers-in-supporting-national-blueways	Kuster Leads New England Lawmakers In Supporting National Blueways Program, Urging Interior Secretary to Visit Connecticut River	2013-11-15	2013	2013-11	Democrat	House	NH	Ann Kuster	K000382	kuster.house.gov	legacy	National Blueways System (NBS) helps coordinate federal, state, and local partners to encourage stewardship of rivers; earlier this year, Interior Secretary put a hold on the program As Secretary Jewell makes a decision about the NBS’s future, Kuster and lawmakers urge her to visit the Connecticut River – the country’s only designated Blueway – to see the program’s benefits first-hand WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congresswoman Annie Kuster (NH-02) and Senator Chris Murphy (D-CT) are leading a coalition of New England lawmakers in support of a federal program designed to encourage collaborative stewardship of our nation’s rivers and watersheds. The National Blueways System (NBS) recognizes large river systems that are being protected and restored through stakeholder partnerships and aims to increase conservation of the watershed system through locally-driven voluntary collaboration. The Connecticut River is the first and currently only designated National Blueway in the country. The lawmakers, representing New Hampshire, Connecticut, Massachusetts and Vermont, recently sent a letter to Secretary of the Interior Sally Jewell, who earlier this year placed a hold on any new Blueway designations as she reviews the program. In the letter, which was signed by all seventeen of the river’s Representatives and Senators, the lawmakers highlighted the NBS’s benefits and urged the Secretary to visit the Connecticut River as she makes a decision about the program’s future. “We believe that the success of the Connecticut River program – the first and currently only designated National Blueway – can provide valuable information and insights that will be critical to your decision-making process,” Kuster, Murphy and the other lawmakers wrote. “We would encourage you to seek input from these important stakeholders prior to making any decisions on the future of the Blueways program. We believe that the Blueways designation for the Connecticut River can continue to function as an important asset for the people, the economy, and the environm…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://kuster.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/kuster-statement-on-the-keep-your-health-plan-act	Kuster Statement on the Keep Your Health Plan Act	2013-11-15	2013	2013-11	Democrat	House	NH	Ann Kuster	K000382	kuster.house.gov	legacy	WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congresswoman Annie Kuster (NH-02) released the following statement today after voting for the Keep Your Health Plan Act of 2013. “As I have said before, I support good-faith efforts to ensure that people who like their current plans are able to stay on them for another year. I will continue to work with the President and members of Congress to get this right. My priority is to ensure that Granite Staters have access to the quality, affordable coverage they deserve. “The Affordable Care Act is not a perfect law and I am committed to improving it, but make no mistake: we cannot go back to the days when insurance companies were free to deny coverage to those with preexisting conditions or drop people from their plans just because they get sick.” ###	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://kuster.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/weekly-roundup-fighting-for-the-long-term-unemployed-standing-up-for-nh	WEEKLY ROUNDUP: Fighting for the Long-Term Unemployed, Standing Up for NH Farmers, and More	2013-11-15	2013	2013-11	Democrat	House	NH	Ann Kuster	K000382	kuster.house.gov	legacy	Congresswoman Kuster this week joined all Granite Staters in mourning the loss of Executive Councilor Ray Burton, a staple of governance in the North Country and one of New Hampshire’s most respected and compassionate public servants. Kuster said that while there is no replacing Ray Burton, his memory will live on in the enormous good he did, in the countless lives he touched, and in the spirit of service he embodied. Kuster also called on Congress to extend vital unemployment insurance benefits for the long-term unemployed and focus like a laser on job creation. She unveiled a new report which found that if Congress fails to act soon, 1.3 million Americans – including 1,300 Granite Staters – will be cut off from unemployment insurance just days after Christmas. Kuster said that losing these vital benefits will be a painful blow to Granite Staters who are already struggling to find work and make ends meet. For more on these updates and others, please continue reading below. Kuster calls for extension of unemployment insurance benefits for Granite State families With critical unemployment insurance for the long-term unemployed set to expire just days after Christmas, Congresswoman Annie Kuster (NH-02) today called on Congress to immediately extend the Emergency Unemployment Compensation program and take aggressive steps to help boost job creation in New Hampshire and across the country. Kuster highlighted a new House Ways and Means Committee report which estimates that without Congressional action, 1.3 million Americans – including 1,300 Granite Staters – will immediately be cut off from unemployment insurance on December 28 if Congress does not reauthorize the program. “Losing these vital benefits will be a body-blow to New Hampshire families who are already struggling to find work and make ends meet.” (11/12/2013) NH’s Kuster asks for more time on food safety New Hampshire Rep. Annie Kuster wants the Food and Drug Administration to extend the comment period for sweeping food safety rules that farmers say c…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140912204906/http://shea-porter.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/shea-porter-statement-on-hr-3350-the-keep-your-health-plan-act-of-2013	Shea-Porter Statement on H.R. 3350, the Keep Your Health Plan Act of 2013	2013-11-15	2013	2013-11	Democrat	House	NH	Carol Shea-Porter	S001170	web.archive.org	legacy	FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Ben Wakana, 202-225-5456 WASHINGTON, DC – Congresswoman Carol Shea-Porter issued the following statement after voting for H.R. 3350, the Keep Your Health Plan Act of 2013: “My goal of helping Granite Staters receive quality, affordable health care continues, and I do not see that as a Republican or Democratic issue. While I wish that Republicans had allowed a Democratic motion to improve the bill with greater consumer protections, at this moment, the most important thing is to make sure that people are insured in January.” ###	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140912204932/http://shea-porter.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/anthem-to-extend-renewal-date-for-nh-individual-market-policy-holders	Anthem to Extend Renewal Date for NH Individual Market Policy Holders	2013-11-15	2013	2013-11	Democrat	House	NH	Carol Shea-Porter	S001170	web.archive.org	legacy	FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Ben Wakana, 202-225-5456 MANCHESTER, NH – Anthem has extended the renewal date for Granite Staters who buy individual market policies to November 30. “I’m pleased to announce that Anthem has informed me that it has extended its renewal period for current individual plans, and I thank them for their flexibility. Current customers can now contact Anthem until November 30th to extend their coverage for a year,” Shea-Porter said. Under Anthem’s decision, consumers have an extra 15 days to carefully compare their old insurance policies to new options on the Marketplace. This is important because the old policies might not offer the same benefits and protections that will be in effect on January 1, 2014 under the Affordable Care Act. These old plans will also not be eligible for tax subsidies. Shea-Porter has consistently said that the Affordable Care Act is not a perfect law, and it still needs fixes, but she remains committed to ensuring that all Granite Staters have access to quality, affordable health care. This summer, following news that only Anthem would offer plans through the Marketplace in 2014, the Congresswoman spoke directly to President Obama about New Hampshire’s single health insurer and NH’s historically high costs. She has continued to advocate for the state in follow-up conversations with various Administration officials and Anthem. ###	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://kuster.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/kuster-statement-on-the-affordable-care-act	Kuster Statement on the Affordable Care Act	2013-11-14	2013	2013-11	Democrat	House	NH	Ann Kuster	K000382	kuster.house.gov	legacy	WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congresswoman Annie Kuster (NH-02) released the following statement following President Obama’s remarks on the Affordable Care Act. “Despite my significant frustration with the rollout of the Affordable Care Act, I remain committed to increasing access to affordable health care for hardworking Granite State families. To that end, I support efforts to ensure that people who like their current plans are able to stay on them for another year. “In New Hampshire, Granite Staters already have the option of renewing their current plans. Families across the country should be able to do the same, and I encourage good-faith efforts to make that possible. I support the Keep Your Health Plan Act in its current form, and am pleased that the President has proposed his own fix. It’s encouraging that both Congress and the President are working to get this right. “The Affordable Care Act is not a perfect law and I am committed to improving it, but make no mistake: we cannot go back to the days when insurance companies were free to deny coverage to those with preexisting conditions or drop people from their plans just because they get sick. I will continue to work with anybody who is serious about making this law work and ensuring that Granite Staters have access to the quality, affordable care they deserve.” Kuster also announced her support for Senator Shaheen’s legislation that would extend the enrollment period and ensure that no Granite Staters are penalized because of problems with Healthcare.gov. ###	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://kuster.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/kuster-to-fda-ensure-nh-input-on-food-safety-regulations-is-heard	Kuster to FDA: Ensure NH Input on Food Safety Regulations Is Heard	2013-11-14	2013	2013-11	Democrat	House	NH	Ann Kuster	K000382	kuster.house.gov	legacy	In light of recent technical problems with Regulations.gov, Kuster calls for an extension of the comment period to ensure New Hampshire farmers have a chance to share feedback WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congresswoman Annie Kuster (NH-02) is leading a coalition of New England lawmakers in calling on the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to extend the comment period for two proposed Food Safety Modernization Act rules. In recent days, technical problems with Regulations.gov, the website where public comments are submitted, have prevented Granite Staters from submitting comments in advance of Friday’s deadline. The letter to FDA Commissioner Hamburg comes after Rep. Kuster heard from numerous constituents who experienced problems submitting comments through the website. “It came to our attention last week that Regulations.gov, the federal government’s website that provides information on proposed federal regulations and allows for the electronic submission of public comments, was experiencing technical problems that prevented the website from functioning,” the group wrote to Commissioner Hamburg. “We are gravely concerned that these problems are preventing our constituents from submitting comments on the proposed FSMA rules in advance of this Friday’s deadline. As a result, we request that the comment period for the Produce Safety and Preventive Controls rules be extended for a minimum of one additional week from the day that Regulations.gov is properly running.” “The New England Farmers Union has worked diligently and in good faith to get help educate farmers on the importance of commenting on the proposed FSMA rules,” said Roger Noonan, President of the New England Farmers Union. “The issues with the website have discouraged some of our farmers from engaging in this vitally important process. We know FDA wants to hear from farmers and we urge them to consider this request.” For months, Kuster has led efforts to ensure that Granite Staters have sufficient time and information to provide comments on the proposed food safet…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140912204955/http://shea-porter.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/shea-porter-statement-on-president-obama-s-signing-of-the-school-access	Shea-Porter Statement on President Obama’s Signing of the School Access to Emergency Epinephrine Act	2013-11-14	2013	2013-11	Democrat	House	NH	Carol Shea-Porter	S001170	web.archive.org	legacy	FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Ben Wakana, 202-225-5456 WASHINGTON, DC – Congresswoman Carol Shea-Porter, Founder and Co-chair of the Congressional Asthma and Allergies Caucus, issued the following statement regarding President Obama’s signing of the School Access to Emergency Epinephrine Act yesterday: “I join millions of American families in celebrating the signing of this lifesaving legislation. The School Access to Emergency Epinephrine Act will protect children with life threatening allergies and bring peace of mind to parents across the country who no longer have to worry when they send an allergic child to school. According to the Centers for Disease Control, almost 90 percent of schools have at least one student who suffers from food allergies. As co-chair of the Congressional Asthma and Allergy Caucus, I applaud the passage of this common-sense legislation. However, our nation must continue working to find a cure for asthma and allergies.” BACKGROUND: Co-chaired by Congresswoman Carol Shea-Porter (D-NH), Congressman Eliot Engel (D-NY), and Congressman Bill Cassidy (R-LA), the bipartisan Congressional Asthma and Allergy Caucus consists of Members of Congress dedicated to increasing public awareness and advancing research for those living with asthma and severe allergies. Currently, 20 million Americans suffer from asthma and 50 million suffer from all types of allergies. Asthma is the most common chronic condition among children, affecting 1 in every 20 children, and approximately 2.2 million school-aged children have food allergies. Each year, the costs of asthma total $20 billion and the costs of allergies approach $7 billion. Every day in the United States, because of asthma, 40,000 people miss school or work, 30,000 people have an attack, 5,000 people visit the emergency room, and 1,000 people are admitted to the hospital. In addition, 4,000 people die each year from asthma-related causes, and asthma is a contributing factor in another 7,000 deaths every year. ###	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140912205019/http://shea-porter.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/shea-porter-statement-on-fixes-to-the-affordable-care-act	Shea-Porter Statement on Fixes to the Affordable Care Act	2013-11-14	2013	2013-11	Democrat	House	NH	Carol Shea-Porter	S001170	web.archive.org	legacy	FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Ben Wakana, 202-225-5456 WASHINGTON, DC – Congresswoman Carol Shea-Porter issued the following statement regarding proposals to address cancelled health care policies: “I am encouraged that Congress and the President are both working on fixes to make the Affordable Care Act work better. “In New Hampshire, people who buy individual market policies from Anthem already have the option of renewing their current coverage by November 15th, and keeping their hospital network and doctors for another year. Consumers should carefully compare their old insurance policies to new options, because the old policies might not offer the same benefits and protections that will be in effect on January 1, 2014 under the Affordable Care Act. These old plans will also not be eligible for tax subsidies. “Congress must continue to fix the problems that arise with the Affordable Care Act. But we cannot go back to the days when health insurance companies could deny men and women coverage due to a preexisting condition, or cancel a person’s policy when they need it most. “I’ll continue working to increase insurance options so everyone in New Hampshire has access to quality, affordable healthcare.” ###	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://kuster.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/kuster-statement-on-the-passing-of-executive-councilor-ray-burton	Kuster Statement on the Passing of Executive Councilor Ray Burton	2013-11-12	2013	2013-11	Democrat	House	NH	Ann Kuster	K000382	kuster.house.gov	legacy	CONCORD, N.H. – Congresswoman Annie Kuster (NH-02) released the following statement today on the passing of Executive Councilor Ray Burton. “With the passing of Ray Burton, New Hampshire has lost one of its finest public servants, kindest souls, and most steadfast leaders. For nearly four decades, Ray served his community and state with unmatched dedication, always putting the needs of those he served above all else. His compassion and commitment to the North Country and New Hampshire set a standard for service that will inspire generations to come. “There is no replacing Ray Burton, but Ray's memory will live on in the enormous good he did, in the countless lives he touched, and in the spirit of service he embodied. My thoughts and prayers, and those of so many across New Hampshire, are with Ray’s family, and with all those who were lucky enough to know him.” ###	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://kuster.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/kuster-with-clock-ticking-congress-must-extend-unemployment-insurance	Kuster: With Clock Ticking, Congress Must Extend Unemployment Insurance for Granite State Families, Focus on Job Creation	2013-11-12	2013	2013-11	Democrat	House	NH	Ann Kuster	K000382	kuster.house.gov	legacy	Unveils new report showing that without Congressional action, 1.3 million Americans – including 1,300 Granite Staters – will be cut off from vital unemployment insurance just days after Christmas Kuster: We must provide critical assistance to long-term unemployed and focus like a laser on helping create jobs WASHINGTON, D.C. – With critical unemployment insurance for the long-term unemployed set to expire just days after Christmas, Congresswoman Annie Kuster (NH-02) today called on Congress to immediately extend the Emergency Unemployment Compensation program and take aggressive steps to help boost job creation in New Hampshire and across the country. Kuster highlighted a new House Ways and Means Committee report which estimates that without Congressional action, 1.3 million Americans – including 1,300 Granite Staters – will immediately be cut off from unemployment insurance on December 28 if Congress does not reauthorize the program. “If Congress fails to act soon, more than one thousand Granite Staters will lose their unemployment benefits at the end of the year,” Kuster said. “Losing these vital benefits will be a body-blow to New Hampshire families who are already struggling to find work and make ends meet. After wasting weeks on a pointless government shutdown that hurt our economy, Congress needs to come together to extend these benefits and focus on helping create jobs and opportunity for Granite Staters.” The Emergency Unemployment Compensation program was first authorized in 2008 and has been reauthorized on several occasions since then, most recently as part of the Jan. 1, 2013 fiscal cliff agreement, with the number of weeks of federal benefits substantially reduced over the last two years. Key points from the report include: 1,300 Granite Staters will lose unemployment insurance on December 28, 2013 Failure to extend unemployment insurance would cost economy 310,000 jobs, according to the Economic Policy Institute 37% of unemployed have been without a job for longer than six months Economy still …	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140912204841/http://shea-porter.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/shea-porter-announces-support-for-the-keep-your-health-plan-act-of-2013	Shea-Porter Announces Support for the Keep Your Health Plan Act of 2013	2013-11-12	2013	2013-11	Democrat	House	NH	Carol Shea-Porter	S001170	web.archive.org	legacy	FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Ben Wakana, 202-225-5456 WASHINGTON, DC – Congresswoman Carol Shea-Porter issued the following statement in support of H.R. 3350, the Keep Your Health Plan Act of 2013. The House of Representatives will vote on H.R 3350 this week. “While I’m pleased with the provisions in the Affordable Care Act that protect consumers both healthy and sick, some aspects of the ACA need to be fixed. Later this week, the House of Representatives will vote on legislation titled Keep Your Health Plan Act of 2013. The legislation would allow plans available on the individual market today to be offered for the next year and be exempt from certain ACA requirements. “It’s important to note that in New Hampshire, people who buy individual market policies from Anthem already have the option of renewing their current coverage by November 15th, and keeping their hospital network and doctors for another year. I’m glad this option is being offered in the Granite State, and it should be available to all Americans with individual-market plans for the next year, even if those plans offer fewer protections, benefits, and subsidies than policies on the Marketplace (exchange). “Barring last minute amendments, I will support H.R. 3350. If this legislation comes up for a vote in its current form, I will vote yes. In the coming week, I urge Democrats and Republicans not to tinker with this common sense legislation. Now is not the time to score political points by adding partisan amendments in the dark of night. “The Affordable Care Act is not a perfect law, and it still needs fixes, but we can’t go back to the days when getting sick meant health insurance companies could deny coverage, or cancel a person’s policy and plunge them into bankruptcy due to unpaid medical bills. Going forward, I’ll continue working to drive down deductibles and premiums and to increase insurance competition so everyone in our state has access to quality, affordable healthcare.” ###	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140912205047/http://shea-porter.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/shea-porter-statement-on-the-passing-of-executive-councilor-ray-burton	Shea-Porter Statement on the Passing of Executive Councilor Ray Burton	2013-11-12	2013	2013-11	Democrat	House	NH	Carol Shea-Porter	S001170	web.archive.org	legacy	FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Ben Wakana, 202-225-5456 MANCHESTER, NH – Congresswoman Carol Shea-Porter issued the following statement on the passing of Executive Councilor Raymond S. Burton: "I am deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Councilor Ray Burton. He was a dedicated public servant and an effective voice for the North Country. My thoughts and prayers are with his family, his friends, and the people he loved and served so well for so long." ###	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140412132220/http://shea-porter.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/shea-porter-statement-on-veterans-day	Shea-Porter Statement on Veterans Day	2013-11-11	2013	2013-11	Democrat	House	NH	Carol Shea-Porter	S001170	web.archive.org	legacy	FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE November 11, 2013 Contact:  Ben Wakana, 202-255-5456 MANCHESTER, NH – Congresswoman Carol Shea-Porter issued the following statement in honor of Veterans Day. She will deliver remarks today during an event at the New Hampshire State Veterans Cemetery. “Veterans Day is when Americans pause to reflect on freedom and thank the men and women who protected that freedom for us. We follow the age-old traditions of marching in parades, attending ceremonies, and sharing the stories of duty, of sacrifice, of patriotism. “It is a special day, but we know that honoring veterans and military families requires much more than one day each year. “Patriotic Americans in every generation have stepped up when asked to serve. They went to places near and far from home, and they experienced things that the rest of us cannot imagine. Some served in war. Some served in peacetime. All of them left families and friends and interrupted their lives to serve this country. Veterans were there for us, and on Veterans Day and every day, they need to know that our nation and our people will be there for them. “Today, let us honor the bravery and sacrifice of veterans. And let us remember that ‘thank you’ must be more than a phrase. It must be an enduring commitment to America’s veterans.” ###	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://kuster.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/kuster-statement-on-veterans-day	Kuster Statement on Veterans Day	2013-11-08	2013	2013-11	Democrat	House	NH	Ann Kuster	K000382	kuster.house.gov	legacy	CONCORD, N.H. – Congresswoman Annie Kuster (NH-02) released the following statement in commemoration of Veterans Day, which falls on Monday. “Today, we pay special tribute to the heroic veterans in New Hampshire and across America who have sacrificed so much to protect our country and our way of life. As the proud daughter and daughter-in-law of World War II veterans, I know the tremendous courage and patriotism of those who have worn the uniform of the United States of America. Today, our thoughts and prayers are with those we’ve lost, those still serving, and all of their families. “As a nation, we have a sacred responsibility to honor those who serve in our Armed Forces, not just with our words, but with our deeds. When our brave men and women come home, we owe them high-quality health care, jobs worthy of their immense talents, and the support they need to adjust back to civilian life. As a member of the Veterans’ Affairs Committee, I will continue to work every single day to ensure that we serve our returning heroes as honorably as they have served each and every one of us. “Our veterans represent the very best of America. Today, and every day, we express our gratitude for the sacrifices they’ve made, for the extraordinary example they’ve set, and for everything they’ve done to keep our country safe, prosperous, and free.” ###	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://kuster.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/weekly-roundup-creating-jobs-and-opportunity-for-the-middle-class	WEEKLY ROUNDUP: Creating Jobs and Opportunity for the Middle Class, Reining in the NSA, and More	2013-11-08	2013	2013-11	Democrat	House	NH	Ann Kuster	K000382	kuster.house.gov	legacy	This week, Congresswoman Kuster continued to focus on helping create jobs and opportunity for middle class New Hampshire families. Throughout the week, she toured a West Lebanon brewery to discuss legislation that would cut taxes on New Hampshire’s small brewers, visited a Salem company to highlight the importance of boosting small business exports, and hosted a 21st century workforce roundtable in Hudson with students, business owners, and education leaders. Kuster also signed onto new bipartisan legislation that would make meaningful, comprehensive reforms to the NSA to help rein in the agency’s worst excesses. During a visit to the Upper Valley, Kuster said that the USA FREEDOM Act, introduced by Rep. Jim Sensenbrenner (R-WI) and Sen. Patrick Leahy (D-VT) and endorsed by the ACLU, would help restore a more responsible balance between protecting our national security and preserving our constitutionally-protected right to privacy. Last week, Kuster called on President Obama to lead a top-to-bottom review of the entire NSA and all of its activities. For more on these updates and others, please continue reading below. Kuster promotes export bill at Salem firm For two decades, a local company has made its mark around the world by capturing goofy, memorable images of people on film. Couples, teenagers and families in 30 countries have hammed it up and posed for photographs in Innovative FOTO’s specially designed booths. So when Congresswoman Ann Kuster, D-N.H., visited the small company on Industrial Way yesterday, she couldn’t resist posing as well… Kuster stopped off at the 55-employee, research, design and manufacturing facility to tout legislation she has sponsored that would extend and expand the State Trade and Export Promotion program, known as STEP. (Eagle-Tribune, 11/4/2013) Salem-based company flash-forwards with photo booths On Monday morning, Congresswoman Annie Kuster visited the Innovative FOTO headquarters to tout the success of and push for the renewal of the State Trade and Export Promotion (S…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140912205113/http://shea-porter.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/shea-porter-statement-on-october-jobs-report	Shea-Porter Statement on October Jobs Report	2013-11-08	2013	2013-11	Democrat	House	NH	Carol Shea-Porter	S001170	web.archive.org	legacy	FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Ben Wakana, 202-225-5456 WASHINGTON, DC – Congresswoman Carol Shea-Porter issued the following statement today after the Department of Labor released its October jobs report: “Today’s jobs report beat expectations by indicating that 212,000 private sector jobs were created in October, but more work remains to improve the economy and strengthen the middle class. Last month’s government shutdown was an embarrassing, self-inflicted wound that cost our economy $24 billion and hurt Americans’ confidence in their government. Going forward, there is no question that Congress should pass a responsible budget that invests in job creation, strengthens the middle class, and takes a balanced approach to deficit reduction.” ###	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://kuster.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/kuster-hosts-21st-century-workforce-roundtable-at-omni-components-in	Kuster Hosts 21st Century Workforce Roundtable at Omni Components in Hudson	2013-11-07	2013	2013-11	Democrat	House	NH	Ann Kuster	K000382	kuster.house.gov	legacy	Roundtable brought together diverse group of students, business owners, and education leaders for a discussion about local efforts to train a highly-skilled workforce in the Granite State Earlier this year, Kuster introduced legislation to provide tax credits to companies that partner with local educational institutions to strengthen workforce development for NH students HUDSON, N.H. – As part of her commitment to helping create jobs and opportunity for middle class families, Congresswoman Annie Kuster (NH-02) today convened a diverse group of students, business owners, and education leaders for a roundtable discussion focused on local efforts to train and secure a highly-skilled, 21st century workforce in the Granite State. During the roundtable at Omni Components in Hudson, Kuster highlighted her efforts in Congress to strengthen workforce development, and heard directly from local stakeholders who are on the frontlines of ensuring that Granite State students and workers have the skills they need to compete for well-paying, middle class jobs. “Training a highly-skilled, 21st century workforce in the Granite State is critical for growing our economy, creating jobs, and strengthening the middle class,” Kuster said. “When we invest in our workforce, more young people will stay here in New Hampshire, our students will be more competitive in the job market, and our businesses will be more successful in the economy. I was thrilled to host this roundtable to hear about all of the great work being done in Nashua and across the state to equip our students with the skills they need to fill the jobs of today and tomorrow.” Roundtable participants included students from Nashua Community College and representatives from Omni Components, UltraSource Inc., the Community College System of New Hampshire, Stay Work Play New Hampshire, Nashua Community College, and other local organizations focused on workforce development. Earlier this year, Kuster introduced legislation that would provide up to $10,000 in annual tax credits to …	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://kuster.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/kuster-statement-on-senate-passage-of-enda	Kuster Statement on Senate Passage of ENDA	2013-11-07	2013	2013-11	Democrat	House	NH	Ann Kuster	K000382	kuster.house.gov	legacy	WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congresswoman Annie Kuster (NH-02) today released the following statement after the U.S. Senate passed the Employment Non-Discrimination Act (ENDA), legislation that would help eliminate workplace discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation or gender identity. Kuster is an original cosponsor of ENDA. “Now that the Senate has passed ENDA with bipartisan support, the House should immediately follow suit and do the same. No one should ever fear being fired from their job or harassed in the workplace because of who they are or who they love – period. As a proud original cosponsor of this vital legislation, I am hopeful that the House will finally pass ENDA and reaffirm one of our nation’s bedrock principles: that every American deserves equal treatment under the law.” ###	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://kuster.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/kuster-to-cms-action-needed-to-crack-down-on-improper-medicare-payments	Kuster to CMS: Action Needed to Crack Down on Improper Medicare Payments	2013-11-07	2013	2013-11	Democrat	House	NH	Ann Kuster	K000382	kuster.house.gov	legacy	In letter to CMS Administrator, Kuster raises concerns over new report detailing $23 million in improper payments made on behalf of over 17,000 deceased people in 2011 Kuster calls for immediate action to implement aggressive controls to prevent improper payments and ensure Medicare dollars are spent caring for our nation’s seniors; urges Granite Staters to report suspected Medicare errors, fraud, or abuse WASHINGTON, D.C. – In the wake of a troubling new Inspector General (IG) report detailing thousands of improper Medicare payments that have wasted millions of taxpayer dollars, Congresswoman Annie Kuster (NH-02) today called on the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) to take immediate and aggressive actions to crack down on fraud and wasteful improper payments. A recent report by the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) IG found that in 2011 alone, CMS made over 17,000 improper payments on behalf of deceased individuals to providers, suppliers, Medicare Advantage organizations, and prescription drug plan sponsors at a cost of $23 million to taxpayers. According to the Government Accountability Office, Medicare made a total of more than $44 billion in improper payments in 2012. “I know we share a commitment to protecting Medicare by ensuring that limited taxpayer dollars are invested to the greatest benefit of our seniors. In that spirit, I was deeply frustrated by the October 30, 2013, Department of Health and Human Services Inspector General (IG) report which found that CMS made $23 million in improper payments on behalf of deceased individuals in 2011,” Kuster wrote. “To prevent the diversion of precious resources away from our nation’s seniors, I respectfully urge you to immediately and aggressively prioritize the implementation of the IG’s recommendations to prevent future improper payments, recover past improper payments, and ensure the legitimacy of providers and suppliers.” “Granite State seniors have worked hard their entire lives as they raised their families, strengthened our …	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140413005240/http://shea-porter.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/shea-porter-calls-on-veterans-affairs-to-investigate-reports-of-opiate	Shea-Porter Calls On Veterans Affairs to Investigate Reports of Opiate Overprescription	2013-11-07	2013	2013-11	Democrat	House	NH	Carol Shea-Porter	S001170	web.archive.org	legacy	FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Ben Wakana, 202-225-5456 WASHINGTON, DC – Congresswoman Carol Shea-Porter (NH-01) has sent a letter to Veterans Affairs (VA) Secretary Eric Shinseki regarding her concerns over recent reports that veterans in VA hospitals are being prescribed a potentially dangerous cocktail of prescription painkillers, leading to addiction and overdoses. The Center for Investigative Reporting (CIR) wrote that “Since the 9/11 terrorist attacks, the agency charged with helping veterans recover from war instead masks their pain with potent drugs, feeding addictions and contributing to a fatal overdose rate among VA patients that is nearly double the national average.” According to CIR’s analysis, VA prescriptions of four opiates – hydrocodone, oxycodone, methadone and morphine – have surged by 270 percent in the past 12 years. In her letter, Shea-Porter asks the VA to fully investigate whether, as CIR alleges, some veterans are being overmedicated as a substitute for the full treatment that they have earned and need. “It would indeed be a failure to honor our commitments to our men and women who have sacrificed so much in service to our country if veterans were being prescribed powerful, highly addictive medications as a substitute for safer, more comprehensive and effective, and less expensive, non-pharmaceutical treatments,” Shea-Porter wrote. The CIR article tells the story of a discharged Marine who received nearly 4,000 oxycodone pills from the VA since 2008. In September 2013, CBS News also reported on the issue of overmedication. The Center for Investigative Reporting is a nonprofit and nonpartisan news organization founded in 1977. In 2013, the organization was a finalist for the Pulitzer Prize in public service. Full text of the letter is below. +++ The Honorable Eric K. Shinseki Secretary Department of Veterans Affairs 810 Vermont Avenue, NW Washington, DC 20420 Dear Secretary Shinseki, …	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140912205200/http://shea-porter.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/shea-porter-statement-on-senate-passage-of-enda	Shea-Porter Statement on Senate Passage of ENDA	2013-11-07	2013	2013-11	Democrat	House	NH	Carol Shea-Porter	S001170	web.archive.org	legacy	FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Ben Wakana, 202-225-5456 WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congresswoman Carol Shea-Porter issued the following statement regarding the Senate’s passage of the Employment Non-Discrimination Act (ENDA), legislation that would prevent Americans from being denied a job or fired because they are lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgender: “The Senate has, in a bipartisan manner, voted for equality and fairness for all citizens by passing ENDA. Speaker Boehner needs to bring ENDA to a vote in the House. BACKGROUND: Shea-Porter voted in support of ENDA in 2007. She is an original cosponsor of H.R.1755, the Employment Non-Discrimination Act of 2013. ###	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://kuster.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/kuster-touts-plan-to-cut-taxes-on-new-hampshire-s-small-brewers-at-seven	Kuster Touts Plan to Cut Taxes on New Hampshire’s Small Brewers at Seven Barrel Brewery In West Lebanon	2013-11-06	2013	2013-11	Democrat	House	NH	Ann Kuster	K000382	kuster.house.gov	legacy	Small BREW Act would cut the federal excise tax on New Hampshire’s small brewers in half from $7.00 to $3.50 per barrel on first 60,000 barrels, helping promote growth and job creation Kuster: Small BREW Act would mean more jobs on tap in the Granite State WEST LEBANON, N.H. – As part of her commitment to helping create jobs and opportunity for middle class families, Congresswoman Annie Kuster (NH-02) today continued her “Congress at Your Company” series with a visit to the Seven Barrel Brewery, where she highlighted legislation she is cosponsoring that would cut taxes for small brewers across the Granite State to help promote growth and job creation. The Small BREW Act would cut the federal excise tax in half, from $7.00 to $3.50 per barrel, on the first 60,000 barrels for small breweries that produce less than 6 million barrels per year. “My top priority in Congress is helping create jobs and opportunity for middle class families,” Kuster said. “That’s what the Small BREW Act is all about. This bill would cut the federal excise tax on our small brewers in half, helping them grow their businesses and ensuring that there are more, middle class jobs on tap in the Granite State.” The Seven Barrel Brewery, which is approaching its 20th year in business, produces about 500 barrels per year. At that rate, the Small BREW Act could mean savings of $1,750 each year for the company, which could go toward expanding operations and creating jobs. The brewery and restaurant first opened in 1994 under the direction of renowned brewer Gregory Noonan. A new ownership group purchased the restaurant and brewery in 2010 and have renovated and updated parts of the facility. "As a small brewery we don't have the ‘discretionary’ cash flow to spend on advertising and other things that the larger breweries seem to have,” said Tony Lubold, head brewer at the Seven Barrel Brewery. “The Small BREW Act would make it easier for us to remain a strong part of the New Hampshire marketplace.” According to a recent Harvard University study, the S…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://kuster.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/kuster-signs-onto-comprehensive-bipartisan-nsa-reform-bill	Kuster Signs Onto Comprehensive, Bipartisan NSA Reform Bill	2013-11-05	2013	2013-11	Democrat	House	NH	Ann Kuster	K000382	kuster.house.gov	legacy	Bipartisan USA FREEDOM Act would end the bulk, dragnet collection of Americans’ phone data and institute meaningful oversight of the government’s surveillance programs Last week, Kuster called on the Obama Administration to launch a rigorous, top-to-bottom review of the entire NSA and all of its programs WASHINGTON, D.C. – After calling on the Obama Administration to launch a rigorous, top-to-bottom review of the entire National Security Agency (NSA) and all of its programs, Congresswoman Annie Kuster (NH-02) this week signed onto bipartisan legislation that would reign in some of the NSA’s worst excesses and deliver meaningful reform to the Agency’s surveillance activities. The bipartisan United and Strengthening America by Fulfilling Rights and Ending Eavesdropping, Dragnet Collection, and Online Monitoring (USA FREEDOM) Act would put an end to the NSA’s bulk collection of phone records and institute rigorous, meaningful oversight over the government’s surveillance programs. “The NSA is clearly in need of significant reform that will better safeguard our constitutionally-protected right to privacy,” Kuster said. “Unlike previous efforts that would have only temporarily defunded specific NSA activities, the USA FREEDOM Act would make comprehensive reforms that will bring greater transparency and accountability to intelligence programs. That’s the right way to begin restoring a more responsible balance between preserving our national security and protecting our privacy.” In addition to ending the bulk collection of Americans’ communications records, the USA FREEDOM Act would: Strengthen the prohibition on targeting foreign individuals with the goal of obtaining communications involving Americans; Require the government to more aggressively filter and discard information about Americans accidentally collected through NSA programs; Create an Office of the Special Advocate (OSA) tasked with promoting privacy interests before the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Court (FISC)’s closed proceedings; Institute new a…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://kuster.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/kuster-touts-bill-to-boost-small-business-exports-during-congress-at	Kuster Touts Bill to Boost Small Business Exports During “Congress at Your Company” Stop at Innovative FOTO in Salem	2013-11-04	2013	2013-11	Democrat	House	NH	Ann Kuster	K000382	kuster.house.gov	legacy	Innovative FOTO was recently awarded a State Trade and Export Program (STEP) grant to help expand its reach into the South American market Kuster’s legislation would extend the successful STEP program and double the annual funding available from $30 million to $60 million, helping even more NH businesses grow their exports and create jobs Kuster: Expanding this program is an important step forward for NH small businesses SALEM, N.H. – As part of her commitment to helping create jobs and opportunity for middle class families, Congresswoman Annie Kuster (NH-02) today continued her “Congress at Your Company” series with a visit to Innovative FOTO in Salem, where she highlighted legislation she recently introduced that would help boost small business exports in the Granite State. Kuster’s bill, the Small Business Growth Through Exports Act, would extend and expand the State Trade and Export Promotion program (STEP), a successful grant program that has helped dozens of Granite State companies like Innovative FOTO expand their exports, create jobs, and grow New Hampshire’s economy. “My top priority in Congress is helping create jobs and opportunity for the middle class, and boosting small business exports is a key part of that goal,” Kuster said. “Companies like Innovative FOTO have used STEP grants to expand their reach and send more of their products around the world. My legislation to extend and expand this important program will help even more Granite State businesses export their goods, create middle class jobs, and grow New Hampshire’s economy.” Launched in 2010, the STEP program was created to help grow the number of businesses exporting their goods and to increase the value of U.S. exports on the global market. The program, which will receive no additional funding without Congressional action, helps businesses attend international trade shows, supports export training programs, and assists with the development of international marketing materials, among other efforts to boost exports. Kuster’s Small Business Gr…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://kuster.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/kuster-to-obama-administration-must-lead-rigorous-top-to-bottom-review	Kuster to Obama: Administration Must Lead Rigorous, Top-to-Bottom Review of Entire NSA	2013-11-01	2013	2013-11	Democrat	House	NH	Ann Kuster	K000382	kuster.house.gov	legacy	Kuster letter to President Obama follows troubling pattern of privacy violations at the NSA; letter calls on President to personally ensure that review is rigorous so that Administration can begin to restore public trust Kuster: Review must be comprehensive, unsparing, and followed by meaningful reform WASHINGTON, D.C. – As troubling privacy violations at the National Security Agency (NSA) continue to come to light, Congresswoman Annie Kuster (NH-02) today called on President Obama to lead a rigorous, top-to-bottom review of the entire NSA and all of its programs. In her letter, Kuster underscored that a comprehensive, unsparing review of the NSA is the only way for the Administration to begin restoring some of the public trust that has been lost in recent months. “I respectfully request that your Administration conduct a rigorous, top-to-bottom review of the entire NSA and all of its activities, and that you personally ensure that this review is comprehensive, unsparing, and followed by meaningful reform,” Kuster wrote. “Furthermore, I request that upon completion of this review, your Administration immediately take steps to share the results with the American people so that they can continue to play a leading role in the important national dialogue over the future of these surveillance programs. By conducting a top-to-bottom review of the NSA and advancing substantive reforms to its programs, your Administration can begin to repair some of the public trust that has been eroded by the recent cascade of troubling disclosures.” The full text of the letter is below: November 1, 2013 Dear President Obama: Earlier this year, in the wake of widespread reports of privacy violations by the National Security Agency (NSA), I joined 187 of my colleagues in urging you to consider implementing reforms that would strengthen the balance between our national security and Americans’ civil liberties. Since then, a steady stream of deeply troubling revelations about the nature and scope of NSA activities has emerged, further er…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://kuster.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/weekly-roundup-eliminating-the-va-backlog-preventing-another-shutdown	WEEKLY ROUNDUP: Eliminating the VA Backlog, Preventing Another Shutdown, and More	2013-11-01	2013	2013-11	Democrat	House	NH	Ann Kuster	K000382	kuster.house.gov	legacy	After joining Granite Staters in celebrating the World Series Champion Red Sox, Congresswoman Kuster this week continued her efforts to eliminate the VA claims backlog, prevent future shutdowns of the federal government, and support job creation across New Hampshire. Earlier this week, the House of Representatives passed with overwhelming bipartisan support legislation introduced by Kuster to help eliminate the backlog of disability compensation claims at the VA. Kuster’s bill, the Veterans Claims Efficiency Through Automation Act, pushes the VA to make greater use of automation in the processing of veterans claims to help boost efficiency and free up resources to provide more timely services for veterans in New Hampshire and across the country. The bill passed the House as part of a comprehensive legislative package designed to help get veterans’ claims settled faster and more efficiently. Currently, there are more than 700,000 disability claims pending nationally, with nearly 410,000 in the backlog. Kuster also led a coalition of 178 Democrats in calling on Speaker Boehner and Republican leadership to publicly declare that they will not use the threat of another government shutdown or default on our debt as leverage in budget negotiations. Underscoring the economic damage caused by the recent shutdown, Kuster and her colleagues said that Congress must work together to pass a responsible budget agreement and take the crippling twin threats of a shutdown and default off the table for good. For more on these updates and others, please continue reading below. “Kuster co-leader of Democratic coalition seeking ‘no shutdown’ promise from GOP House speaker” U.S. Rep. Annie Kuster is a co-leader of a coalition of 178 Democratic lawmakers calling on Republican House Speaker John Boehner and his leadership to “publicly declare” they will not sue the threat of another government shutdown or default as leverage in the budget talks, her office said Thursday. Those talks, prompted by the agreement that ended the recent go…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://kuster.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/kuster-leads-178-democrats-in-calling-on-speaker-boehner-to-end-threat	Kuster Leads 178 Democrats In Calling on Speaker Boehner to End Threat of Government Shutdown and Default	2013-10-31	2013	2013-10	Democrat	House	NH	Ann Kuster	K000382	kuster.house.gov	legacy	In letter to Speaker Boehner, Kuster and colleagues urge House Republican leadership to publicly declare they will not use threat of a government shutdown or default as leverage in budget negotiations Estimates show recent shutdown cost U.S. economy $24 billion, reduced 4th quarter GDP growth by 0.6 percent, and triggered higher interest rates that added $100 million to deficit in final week of shutdown alone Kuster to Boehner: No More Shutdowns WASHINGTON, D.C. – As lawmakers from both parties begin to negotiate a long-term budget agreement, Congresswoman Annie Kuster (NH-02) and Congresswoman Elizabeth Esty (CT-05) are leading a coalition of 178 Democratic lawmakers in calling on Speaker Boehner and Republican leadership to publicly declare that they will not use the threat of another government shutdown or default as leverage in budget talks. Underscoring the economic damage caused by the recent shutdown, the group of lawmakers said that Congress must work together to pass a responsible budget agreement and take the crippling twin threats of a shutdown and default off the table for good. “We are sending a clear message to the Republican leadership on behalf of the American people – No More Shutdowns,” said Kuster and Esty. “The 16-day-long federal government shutdown is over and default on America’s debt has been averted, although no one is relieved that this latest crisis ever occurred. Now, we are deeply concerned that the American people are in danger of another shutdown or threat of default early next year,” the lawmakers wrote. “The most powerful source of uncertainty to American families and businesses is the threat of a government shutdown and default on our debts. That is why we are writing to you to urge you and your leadership to publicly declare that you will not again use the threat of a government shutdown or default as leverage in the important discussions regarding long-term deficit reduction and economic growth.” Earlier this month, Kuster was part of a bipartisan coalition of lawmakers that …	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://kuster.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/kuster-touts-plan-to-cut-taxes-on-new-hampshire-s-small-brewers-at	Kuster Touts Plan to Cut Taxes on New Hampshire’s Small Brewers at Henniker Brewing Company	2013-10-31	2013	2013-10	Democrat	House	NH	Ann Kuster	K000382	kuster.house.gov	legacy	Small BREW Act would cut the federal excise tax on New Hampshire’s small brewers in half from $7.00 to $3.50 per barrel on first 60,000 barrels, helping promote growth and job creation Kuster: Small BREW Act would mean more jobs on tap in the Granite State HENNIKER, N.H. – As part of her commitment to helping create jobs and opportunity for middle class families, Congresswoman Annie Kuster (NH-02) today continued her “Congress at Your Company” series with a visit to the Henniker Brewing Company, where she highlighted legislation she is cosponsoring that would cut taxes for small brewers across the Granite State to help promote growth and job creation. The Small BREW Act would cut the federal excise tax in half, from $7.00 to $3.50 per barrel, on the first 60,000 barrels for small breweries that produce less than 6 million barrels per year. “My top priority in Congress is helping create jobs and opportunity for middle class families,” Kuster said. “That’s what the Small BREW Act is all about. This bill would cut the federal excise tax on our small brewers in half, helping them grow their businesses and ensuring that there are more, middle class jobs on tap in the Granite State.” The Henniker Brewing Company, which brewed its first barrels in December 2012, plans to produce about 7,500 barrels per year. At that rate, the Small BREW Act could mean savings of $26,250 each year for the company, which could go toward expanding operations and creating jobs. Henniker Brewing formally launched in 2011 and moved into its new Centervale Road facility in July 2012. Its four brands – Working Man’s Porter, Amber Apparition, Whipple’s Wheat, and Hop Slinger – are now available in more than 200 stores and restaurants around New Hampshire. “The Small BREW Act would make a big difference to us,” said David Currier, founder and managing member of the Henniker Brewing Company. “The less we have to pay in taxes, the more money we have to put back into developing our business.” A member of the Small Brewers Caucus and the House Small …	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140413005314/http://shea-porter.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/shea-porter-votes-to-reduce-veterans-disability-backlog	Shea-Porter Votes to Reduce Veterans Disability Backlog	2013-10-29	2013	2013-10	Democrat	House	NH	Carol Shea-Porter	S001170	web.archive.org	legacy	FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Ben Wakana, 202-225-5456 WASHINGTON, DC – Congresswoman Carol Shea-Porter (NH-01) released the following statement after voting in favor of bipartisan reforms to help reduce the Veterans Administration’s (VA) disability claims backlog: “The VA backlog is simply unacceptable, and I am 100% committed to ensuring veterans have access to the health benefits they’ve earned. We owe it to veterans and their families to reduce the backlog, which is at 400,000 disability claims, quickly and as accurately as possible.” BACKGROUND Yesterday, the House of Representatives passed a number of bills that included key provisions cosponsored by Shea-Porter to address the VA claims backlog by: Speeding up claims by allowing veterans’ medical examinations to be done by physicians outside the VA system and encouraging veterans to file fully developed claims. Strengthening accountability by requiring the VA to regularly track and provide information to the public on claims processing and the performance of VA regional offices. Expediting claims processing by educating veterans on the quickest route to receive their decision. Encouraging the VA to look at better ways to process claims in an electronic system. Taking steps to help ensure the VA has the needed information from other agencies to accurately process claims in a timely way. Paying veterans more quickly by paying as their individual conditions are adjudicated. Over the last six months, the Administration has significantly reduced the backlog claims by over 30%, or 190,000 claims. However, the government shutdown created a self-inflicted wound that reduced the progress made on the veterans backlog. ###	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://kuster.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/kuster-bill-to-address-va-claims-backlog-passes-house-with-strong	Kuster Bill to Address VA Claims Backlog Passes House with Strong, Bipartisan Support	2013-10-28	2013	2013-10	Democrat	House	NH	Ann Kuster	K000382	kuster.house.gov	legacy	Common sense measure would encourage greater use of automation in claims processing to boost efficiency and settle claims faster; current backlog is holding up claims by nearly 410,000 veterans nationwide, including many in NH Bill is part of comprehensive legislative package designed to help eliminate the VA claims backlog Kuster: I will keep fighting to end the backlog until we finish the job WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, the House of Representatives passed legislation introduced by Congresswoman Annie Kuster (NH-02) to help eliminate the backlog of disability compensation claims at the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). Kuster’s bill, the Veterans Claims Efficiency Through Automation Act, encourages the VA to make greater use of automation in the processing of veterans claims to help boost efficiency and free up resources to provide more timely services for veterans in New Hampshire and across the country. The bill passed as part of a comprehensive legislative package designed to help get veterans’ claims settled faster and more efficiently. “I am grateful that my legislation to help eliminate the VA claims backlog passed the House with strong, bipartisan support,” Kuster said. “It is simply unacceptable that so many of our heroic veterans are unable to get timely access to the care and services that they’ve earned. I will keep fighting to end the backlog until we finish the job.” Over the past six months, the Administration has significantly reduced backlog claims by over 30%, or 190,000 claims. However, the unnecessary government shutdown reduced the progress made on the veterans backlog and halted appeals. Currently, there are more than 700,000 disability claims pending nationally, with nearly 410,000 in the backlog. There are 1,628 claims pending at the Manchester VA Medical Center, 886 of which are considered backlogged. There are an additional 821 claims pending at the White River Junction VA Medical Center, 488 of which are considered backlogged. A member of the House Veterans’ Affairs Committee, Kuster…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140221055305/http://shea-porter.house.gov/media-center/carolscolumns/seniors-and-the-budget-battle	Seniors and the Budget Battle	2013-10-24	2013	2013-10	Democrat	House	NH	Carol Shea-Porter	S001170	web.archive.org	legacy	Last week, reasonable Republicans and Democrats in Congress came together to finally end the government shutdown and eliminate the threat of default. It was not a perfect solution, but I voted for it because it was a necessary compromise in the face of an unnecessary government shutdown. As part of the compromise to open the government and avert default, Congress agreed to try to focus on the budget. This means that Republicans and Democrats will come to the table and try to negotiate a plan to boost job creation, make key investments in infrastructure, education, and housing, reduce the deficit, and protect programs vital to middle class security. This will be extremely tough since there are four budgets floating around: President Obama's budget, the Senate's budget (known as the Murray budget), House Republicans’ Budget (known as the Ryan Budget), and the House Democrats’ budget (known as the Van Hollen budget). Before these talks even begin, there is chatter about ways to balance the budget on the backs of seniors by making dramatic changes to Social Security and Medicare. In past years, House Republicans have passed Paul Ryan's budget, which would eliminate the Medicare guarantee and put Social Security at risk. The Senate has refused to go along, so Ryan's budget has been dead on arrival in the upper chamber. I strongly oppose the Ryan budgets. America faces real problems. Too many people remain unemployed. Wages have been stagnant for too long. And our deficit, though falling, is still too high. But targeting our seniors and other vulnerable populations is not the answer to the financial challenges we face. New Hampshire seniors have worked for, paid into, and earned Medicare and Social Security benefits through a lifetime of hard work and responsibility. We must keep our commitment to them, and to future generations. Together with Medicare and Medicaid, Social Security embodies the moral fabric of our country. These programs are the foundation of economic security for America's seniors and for the most vu…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://kuster.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/kuster-to-host-career-and-opportunities-fair-next-month-in-nashua	Kuster to Host Career and Opportunities Fair Next Month in Nashua	2013-10-23	2013	2013-10	Democrat	House	NH	Ann Kuster	K000382	kuster.house.gov	legacy	NASHUA, N.H. – As part of her commitment to helping create jobs and opportunity for middle class families, Congresswoman Annie Kuster (NH-02) today announced that she will host a Career and Opportunities Fair next month to help connect local residents with jobs and employment opportunities throughout the Granite State. The fair, which will be held on Friday, November 22, at the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Nashua, will feature employers from the manufacturing, retail, recreation, and postal industries, among others. “My top priority is helping create jobs and opportunity for middle class families in the Granite State,” Kuster said. “That’s what this jobs fair is all about – connecting local job seekers with a wide variety of New Hampshire employers who are looking to grow their businesses and hire new workers.” Job seekers wishing to attend the Career and Opportunities Fair can register here. Employers looking to take part in the fair should contact Collin Lever at 603-595-2006 or Collin.Lever@mail.house.gov, and members of the media wishing to attend should email Jake Berry at Jake.Berry@mail.house.gov to RSVP. A member of the House Small Business Committee, Kuster has prioritized efforts to foster job creation, grow the economy, and expand opportunity for middle class families. The first bill she authored would incentivize public-private partnerships to improve workforce development for New Hampshire students. Last month, Kuster introduced legislation to extend and expand a federal pilot program to help boost small businesses exports. She has also supported legislation to make permanent the federal research and development tax credit, helped lead the fight to prevent pending regulations from harming New England farmers, and worked to protect New Hampshire small businesses from burdensome online sales tax collection requirements. WHO: Congresswoman Annie Kuster WHAT: Kuster to host Career and Opportunities Fair WHEN: Friday, November 22, 10:00am to 1:00pm WHERE: …	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140413010116/http://shea-porter.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/shea-porter-introduces-repay-supplies-act-of-2013	Shea-Porter Introduces REPAY Supplies Act of 2013	2013-10-23	2013	2013-10	Democrat	House	NH	Carol Shea-Porter	S001170	web.archive.org	legacy	FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE October 23, 2013 Contact: Ben Wakana, 202-225-5456 WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Congresswoman Carol Shea-Porter (NH-01) introduced the Reimburse Educators Who Pay for Academic Year Supplies Act of 2013, or REPAY Supplies Act. The bill would help teachers who pay for educational supplies out of their own pockets. “Teachers come to school early, stay late, and give up their own time and money,” Shea-Porter said. “Due to budget cuts, teachers are now forced to dig deeper into their own pockets for necessary supplies. This legislation mitigates the financial sacrifices they make on behalf of their students and their communities.” The REPAY Supplies Act would permanently extend the Classroom Expense Deduction, a $250 deduction offered to teachers who pay out of their own pockets for educational supplies. The popular above-the-line deduction is available to all teachers, regardless of whether they itemize their taxes. The legislation comes in response to a letter Shea-Porter received from Dr. Margaret Morse-Barry, a Derry educator who, over the summer, urged Shea-Porter to look into extending the expiring tax credit. “Educators often reach into our own pockets to purchase classroom supplies because we want to make sure students have what they need to succeed,” said Dr. Morse-Barry. “The introduction of this legislation makes us feel appreciated; like someone in Washington is listening.” Local, state, and federal budget cuts have hit many teachers and school districts hard. Without passage of the REPAY Supplies Act of 2013, the deduction will expire at the end of December. “When I heard from Dr. Morse-Barry, I knew this had to be fixed, so I’m pleased to introduce this legislation,” Shea-Porter added. Shea-Porter’s legislation has been endorsed by the National Education Association (NEA), National Association of Elementary School Principals (NAESP), National Association of Secondary School Principals (NASSP), Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE), National Scienc…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://kuster.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/kuster-statement-on-bipartisan-deal-to-end-shutdown-prevent-default	Kuster Statement On Bipartisan Deal to End Shutdown, Prevent Default	2013-10-16	2013	2013-10	Democrat	House	NH	Ann Kuster	K000382	kuster.house.gov	legacy	WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congresswoman Annie Kuster (NH-02) released the following statement on the Senate’s bipartisan agreement to end the government shutdown and prevent a default on our nation’s debt: “I’m pleased that after weeks of political brinksmanship, Congress is now poised to pass bipartisan legislation that will put an end to this senseless shutdown and lift the threat of default. This isn’t a perfect bill, but it reflects good-faith, bipartisan negotiations and provides a way forward at this late stage. I applaud the bipartisan group of Senators who helped reach this agreement, and urge both chambers of Congress to quickly send this bill to President Obama’s desk. Once it becomes law, Congress needs to immediately return its focus to working together on a long-term, bipartisan plan to reduce the deficit, create jobs, and strengthen the middle class. “While today’s breakthrough is a critical step forward, Congress shouldn’t pat itself on the back for ending a manufactured crisis it created in the first place. The partisan brinksmanship we’ve seen in recent weeks has hurt families and businesses all across New Hampshire. It was entirely avoidable and we cannot let it happen again. Moving forward, both parties need to come together, put an end to these partisan games, and focus on doing the right thing for our country.” For weeks, Kuster has been meeting with members of both parties to seek common ground and reach a solution that would end the government shutdown, prevent a default on our nation’s debt, and give both parties time to work on a longer-term deal to reduce the deficit, create jobs, and strengthen the middle class. ###	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140413010944/http://shea-porter.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/shea-porter-voices-support-for-bipartisan-plan-to-end-government	Shea-Porter Voices Support for Bipartisan Plan to End Government Shutdown and Avoid U.S. Default	2013-10-16	2013	2013-10	Democrat	House	NH	Carol Shea-Porter	S001170	web.archive.org	legacy	FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Ben Wakana, 202-225-5456 WASHINGTON, DC – Congresswoman Carol Shea-Porter issued the following statement after the Senate announced a bipartisan plan to fund the government through January 15 and raise the debt ceiling until February 7, which would avoid the economic uncertainty of a default and end the government shutdown: “I will support this legislation. I am hopeful that obstructionists in the House of Representatives yield to reason and support the bipartisan Senate plan to end the government shutdown, avoid default, and refocus on economic growth. “For two weeks, the Tea Party faction of the Republican Party has held the American government and economy hostage in a futile attempt to obstruct the Affordable Care Act. This is an unacceptable way to govern. “It’s time for Washington to stop dragging America from one crisis to the next and work together on a bipartisan budget that grows the economy and creates jobs.” BACKGROUND Shea-Porter has worked consistently to end the shutdown and avoid an economic shutdown that would come with default. Last Thursday, she offered a motion to allow a vote on compromise legislation that would end the shutdown and reopen the government. Yesterday, she called on Speaker of the House John Boehner (R-OH) to stop threatening default and work across the aisle on a bipartisan budget. During the shutdown, she also cosponsored legislation which would force House Speaker John Boehner to remove the Members-only gym and spa from his list of “essential” House services. ###	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140912212221/http://shea-porter.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/shea-porter-votes-for-bipartisan-plan-to-end-the-government-shutdown-and	Shea-Porter Votes for Bipartisan Plan to End the Government Shutdown and Avoid U.S. Default	2013-10-16	2013	2013-10	Democrat	House	NH	Carol Shea-Porter	S001170	web.archive.org	legacy	FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Ben Wakana, 202-225-5456 WASHINGTON, DC – Congresswoman Carol Shea-Porter (NH-01) issued the following statement after voting to end the two-week-old government shutdown and avert default: “I am relieved to support this bipartisan bill that ends the government shutdown, eliminates the threat of default, and gets our economy moving again. This is not a perfect bill. Nor is it a bill that I, or most Americans, are celebrating. It is a necessary compromise in the face of an unnecessary government shutdown. “The shutdown cost our economy $24 billion, and it costs thousands of Americans access to vital government services. We cannot continue to govern by crisis. It hurts small businesses, working families, and America’s economic standing in the world. “Going forward, Congress must work out a long-term budget to reduce the deficit, invest in job creation, and strengthen the middle class. I am hopeful that cooler heads will prevail in that debate and that our country will benefit from more common sense.” BACKGROUND Earlier today, Congresswoman Shea-Porter spoke about the effects of the government shutdown on New Hampshire’s economy and federal workers at a joint Congressional hearing. Watch the video here. Last Thursday, Shea-Porter offered a motion to allow a vote on compromise legislation that would end the shutdown and reopen the government. Yesterday, she called on Speaker of the House John Boehner (R-OH) to stop threatening default and work across the aisle on a bipartisan budget. ###	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140912212309/http://shea-porter.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/shea-porter-urges-speaker-boehner-to-stop-playing-games-with-us-default	Shea-Porter Urges Speaker Boehner to Stop Playing Games with U.S. Default	2013-10-15	2013	2013-10	Democrat	House	NH	Carol Shea-Porter	S001170	web.archive.org	legacy	FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Ben Wakana, 202-295-7608 WASHINGTON, DC – Building on her efforts to end the government shutdown and put Americans back to work, Congresswoman Carol Shea-Porter (NH-01) today called on Speaker of the House John Boehner (R-OH) to stop threatening default, end the government shutdown, and work across the aisle on a bipartisan budget that grows the economy and creates jobs. In two days, the United States is slated to exhaust its borrowing authority, resulting in self-inflicted wounds that could cripple economic growth, create uncertainty for families and businesses, and drive the country back into recession. Increasing the debt limit does not authorize new spending nor does it increase the deficit. It simply allows the Treasury Department to pay the bills Congress has already incurred. “Instead of taking our country to the brink of default, Washington Republicans should reopen the government and ensure America pays its bills on time so we can negotiate a bipartisan budget and focus on growing the economy,” Shea-Porter said. “For Speaker Boehner to allow the Tea Party faction of the Republican Party to put its ideology ahead of the health of the U.S. economy and financial security of New Hampshire families is irresponsible and unacceptable.” In recent days, Senate Democratic and Republican lawmakers have held multiple meetings over a bipartisan approach to ending the government shutdown and raising the debt ceiling. To date, House Republican leaders have refused to bring a bipartisan funding bill up for a vote. Today, Speaker Boehner discussed introducing legislation that would only raise the debt ceiling if parts of the Affordable Care Act were repealed or delayed, such as removing requirements that employer-offered health insurance cover birth control and other forms of contraception. “These partisan politics are exactly what Granite Staters hate about Washington,” Shea-Porter said. “This shutdown has now dragged on for two weeks, and that’s two weeks too many. It’s time to re-open …	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140912212334/http://shea-porter.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/shea-porter-no-congressional-spa-until-shutdown-end	Shea-Porter: No Congressional Spa Until Shutdown Ends	2013-10-11	2013	2013-10	Democrat	House	NH	Carol Shea-Porter	S001170	web.archive.org	legacy	FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact:Ben Wakana, 202-295-7608 WASHINGTON, DC – The government has been shut down for eleven days, but Members of Congress continue to have access to an exclusive gym and spa while workers face furloughs and taxpayers foot the bill. Today, Congresswoman Carol Shea-Porter (NH-01) cosponsored the Shutdown Prioritization Act (SPA) which would force House Speaker John Boehner to remove the Members-only gym and spa from his list of “essential” House services. “It is absolutely outrageous that John Boehner refuses to end the government shutdown but continues to give Members of Congress access to an exclusive spa,” Shea-Porter said. “It’s ridiculous for Paul Ryan and John Boehner to keep this taxpayer-funded luxury open while New Hampshire families and business are denied access to their government.” Congresswoman Shea-Porter has strongly denounced the shutdown and has repeatedly called on House Leadership to allow a vote on a clean funding bill to reopen the government, put people back to work, and get our economy moving again. To date, Speaker Boehner and Tea Party Republicans have refused to allow an up or down vote on noncontroversial legislation to reopen the government. But Boehner has deemed cushy perks like the House gym, sauna, and steam room – which are used exclusively by Members of the House of Representatives who pay a nominal membership fee – “essential” during the shutdown. Members of Congress should not be able to access the taxpayer-supported gym, sauna, and steam room while tens of thousands of federal employees remain furloughed. “How can Speaker Boehner decide that a steam room is essential but a paycheck for workers is not?” Shea-Porter added. Additional details about the Shutdown Prioritization Act are available here. ###	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://kuster.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/today-kuster-to-host-telephone-town-hall-on-government-shutdown	TODAY: Kuster to Host Telephone Town Hall on Government Shutdown	2013-10-10	2013	2013-10	Democrat	House	NH	Ann Kuster	K000382	kuster.house.gov	legacy	WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today at 6:30 pm, Congresswoman Annie Kuster (NH-02) will host a telephone town hall with constituents from the Second District to answer questions about the government shutdown and to discuss the need for both parties to work together to address our nation’s fiscal challenges. “As Congress works toward a solution to reopen the government, I want to hear directly from Granite Staters who have questions about what the shutdown means for them or who have ideas about how we can address our nation’s fiscal challenges,” Kuster said. “Congress needs to put these manufactured crises behind us so that we can actually work together to reduce the deficit, create jobs, and strengthen the middle class.” Today at 6:30 pm, Second District constituents will receive an automated phone call inviting them to stay on the line to join the telephone town hall. WHO: Congresswoman Annie Kuster WHAT: Kuster to Host Telephone Town Hall on Government Shutdown WHEN: TODAY, 6:30 pm HOW: Constituents will receive automated phone call inviting them to stay on the line to join the telephone town hall. ###	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140912212358/http://shea-porter.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/shea-porter-offers-motion-to-end-the-government-shutdown-let-s-stop-the	Shea-Porter Offers Motion to End the Government Shutdown “Let’s stop the gamesmanship and turn the lights back on.”	2013-10-10	2013	2013-10	Democrat	House	NH	Carol Shea-Porter	S001170	web.archive.org	legacy	FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Ben Wakana, 202-295-7608 WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Congresswoman Carol Shea-Porter (NH-01) offered a motion to allow a vote on compromise legislation that would end the shutdown and reopen the government. Under Shea-Porter’s motion, the House of Representatives would immediately take up the Senate-passed clean funding bill that enjoys bipartisan support and would end the government shutdown. Congresswoman Shea-Porter has strongly denounced the shutdown and has repeatedly called on House Leadership to allow a vote on a clean funding bill to reopen the government, put people back to work, and get our economy moving again. New Hampshire businesses, workers, and families are facing significant hardship because of the government shutdown. Privately run campgrounds in the White Mountain National Forest are closed, costing local businesses and the federal government money [Union Leader, 9/6]. Furloughs are impacting local businesses [WMUR, 9/9]. The Small Business Administration – which, in the past 11 months has loaned $90 million to help Granite State businesses expand, hire and grow – has stopped lending money [WMUR, 9/2]. Yesterday, Gallup released polling on what Americans believe is the most important problem facing the country. For the first time in Gallup’s trend dating back to 1939, more Americans picked Congressional dysfunctional as the nation’s top issue. Dysfunctional government (39%) now eclipses the economy (19%), unemployment (12%), the deficit (12%), and healthcare (12%) as the nation's top problem. USA Today noted, “As the world knows well, congressional Republicans are refusing to reopen the government and are threatening a default on the U.S. debt unless they get what they want. But what, exactly, do they want? That's hard to say, given their constantly shifting demands.” Shea-Porter’s motion is simple: allow the House of Representatives to vote on a clean funding bill to end this reckless government shutdown. Below are Shea-Porter’s remarks as prepared for …	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://kuster.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/kuster-questions-va-secretary-on-impacts-of-shutdown-on-veterans	Kuster Questions VA Secretary on Impacts of Shutdown on Veterans	2013-10-09	2013	2013-10	Democrat	House	NH	Ann Kuster	K000382	kuster.house.gov	legacy	WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congresswoman Annie Kuster (NH-02), a member of the House Veterans’ Affairs Committee, questioned Secretary of the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Eric Shinseki about how the government shutdown is impacting services and benefits that our veterans and service members count on. Specifically, Kuster asked Secretary Shinseki how the lapse in government funding will directly impact New Hampshire veterans’ earned benefits, and how many would see a delay in their compensation, pension, education, and vocational rehabilitation benefits if the funding is not fully restored before November 1. “It’s absolutely unacceptable that veterans who courageously served our country are now paying the price for gridlock in Washington,” Kuster said. “Congress needs to stop playing political games, end the shutdown immediately, and restore the services that veterans and other Americans count on.” ###	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20131028024019/http://shea-porter.house.gov/media-center/carolscolumns/the-mess-in-washington	The Mess in Washington	2013-10-09	2013	2013-10	Democrat	House	NH	Carol Shea-Porter	S001170	web.archive.org	legacy	Gridlock in Washington has hit New Hampshire as the federal government is shut down for the first time in 17 years. In order to keep all of the government operating, Congress needed to pass a budget by October 1st. But Republicans and Democrats could not agree on a budget, so instead, they agreed to pass what’s called a Continuing Resolution or CR. A CR would fund the government at existing levels for six weeks while the House and Senate worked on a long-term budget agreement. Republicans and Democrats agreed on the funding level for a Continuing Resolution, but a number of Tea Party Republicans in the House of Representatives also insisted on defunding or delaying the Affordable Care Act. As a result of this refusal to allow consideration of a “clean” Continuing Resolution to fund the government, the government shut down on October 1st. Here’s how the Washington Post put it: “It's true that House Republicans are holding up a spending bill, but they're not holding it up over demands for spending cuts or tax increases or some other package of deficit reduction. In fact, they're happy with the level of spending in the bill. It's a number they proposed, after all… [But] Republicans weren't willing to keep the government open unless Democrats let them dismantle Obamacare.” I am willing to work with anyone who has a serious proposal to improve the Affordable Care Act; responsibly reduce our deficits; and invest in long-term economic growth. But those debates should take place through the regular, open legislative process, not through a hostage-taking stunt like shutting down the federal government. We are a nation of laws. If someone dislikes a particular law, they work to change it through elections and the legislative process laid out in America’s founding documents. The government shutdown does not come without significant pain to families in New Hampshire. Overall, it’s costing taxpayers $300 million per day, not to mention added stress on small businesses and hardworking federal employees. This also doesn’t inclu…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140912212422/http://shea-porter.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/shea-porter-sends-letter-to-forest-service-urging-them-to-open-private	Shea-Porter Sends Letter to Forest Service Urging Them to Open Private Campgrounds in New Hampshire	2013-10-09	2013	2013-10	Democrat	House	NH	Carol Shea-Porter	S001170	web.archive.org	legacy	FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Ben Wakana, 202-295-7608 WASHINGTON, DC – Following multiple reports that 22 privately run campgrounds in the White Mountain National Forest are closed as part of the ongoing government shutdown, Congresswoman Carol Shea-Porter (NH-01) sent a letter to the United States Forest Service urging the agency to allow these campgrounds to reopen and continue operation during the shutdown. “There is really no reason to close these campgrounds down,” Shea-Porter wrote. “No federal money is spent to run these locations, as the private operators pay for maintenance, upkeep, and insurance.” According to a report by the New Hampshire Union Leader, campground operators were told that all facilities operating on federal lands are closing “because of consistency.” Shea-Porter noted that this is hardly an acceptable reason to close private facilities during one of their busiest periods. “The economic damage to these private campgrounds could be considerable,” Shea-Porter wrote. “The Columbus Day weekend is one of the busiest weekends of the year for tourists visiting New Hampshire to view our wonderful fall foliage, and closing these campgrounds would have a significant economic impact on these private businesses. Beyond that, you will see losses from nearby businesses that provide supplies, gas, and meals to visitors.” Allowing the private campgrounds to remain open would not only be good for local businesses, it would decrease the deficit because a percentage of the campground revenue is paid to the government. Not only are visitors denied the ability to stay at these campgrounds and enjoy New Hampshire’s great outdoors, but each day these facilities are closed, the government loses money. Shea-Porter has repeatedly called on House Leadership to allow a vote on a clean Continuing Resolution that would fund the government at existing levels, put people back to work, and get our economy moving again. Full text of Shea-Porter’s letter to Tom Tidwell, Chief of the U.S. Forest Service is below. +++…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140912212446/http://shea-porter.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/shea-porter-letter-to-pentagon-grant-fallen-service-members-death	Shea-Porter Letter to Pentagon: Grant Fallen Service Members Death Benefits	2013-10-08	2013	2013-10	Democrat	House	NH	Carol Shea-Porter	S001170	web.archive.org	legacy	FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Ben Wakana, 202-295-7608 WASHINGTON, DC – Due to the federal government shutdown, the Pentagon is currently withholding the death gratuity benefit, a $100,000 payment normally sent to relatives of fallen soldiers to help family members cover funeral costs and travel to meet the coffins of their loved ones. After learning of this news, Congresswoman Carol Shea-Porter (NH-01), a member of the House Armed Services Committee, sent a letter to Secretary of Defense Chuck Hagel requesting that the families of service members who died in combat or otherwise be granted the death gratuity during the shutdown. “Military members who die while serving our country are certainly entitled to all the benefits, including the death gratuity and other death benefits that they were promised when they enlisted,” Shea-Porter wrote. “Payment of these benefits is crucial to maintaining the morale, well-being, and the current and future readiness of our Armed Forces and our military families.” Shea-Porter noted that under the Pay Our Military Act, which passed the House and Senate unanimously and was signed into law on September 30, 2013, the Department of Defense is given considerable discretion to make determinations with regard to personnel pay and allowances. She urged the Department of Defense to take the broadest possible interpretation when executing this law. Shea-Porter has always been committed to helping veterans and their families receive their promised benefits and be given the utmost respect for their service. In the 111th Congress, Shea-Porter introduced the Combat Veterans Debt Elimination Act (H. R. 5155), which prohibits the government from collecting debts from the families of soldiers who, since 9/11, have been killed in combat or died from their injuries. Her bill was included in the Supplemental Appropriations Act of 2008 and was signed into law on June 30, 2008. Shea-Porter is also a cosponsor of the Fallen Heroes and Families Assistance Act, legislation that would explicitly author…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140912212519/http://shea-porter.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/shea-porter-statement-on-passage-of-the-federal-employee-retroactive-pay	Shea-Porter Statement on Passage of the Federal Employee Retroactive Pay Fairness Act	2013-10-07	2013	2013-10	Democrat	House	NH	Carol Shea-Porter	S001170	web.archive.org	legacy	FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Ben Wakana, 202-225-5456 WASHINGTON, DC – Congresswoman Carol Shea-Porter (NH-01) issued the following statement after the House of Representatives unanimously passed H.R. 3223, the Federal Employee Retroactive Pay Fairness Act. Congresswoman Shea-Porter was a cosponsor of this bipartisan legislation to ensure that federal employees, furloughed as a result of the government shutdown, receive back pay for the duration the shutdown: “I was proud to cosponsor this legislation to ensure workers are not unfairly punished due to Washington gridlock, and I’m glad the House passed it,” Shea-Porter said. “But this bill does not address the urgent need for Congress to do its job and reopen the full federal government. It’s time to put aside partisan politics and allow a vote on a clean funding bill that has bipartisan support and would put people back to work.” Additional information on the Federal Employee Retroactive Pay Fairness Act is available here. ###	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140912212547/http://shea-porter.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/government-still-shut-down-house-of-representatives-takes-day-off	Government Still Shut Down. House of Representatives Takes Day Off.	2013-10-05	2013	2013-10	Democrat	House	NH	Carol Shea-Porter	S001170	web.archive.org	legacy	FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Ben Wakana, 202-225-5456 WASHINGTON, DC – As Washington gridlock continues to damage the economy and disrupt the lives of working men and women across New Hampshire, Republican Leadership announced that the House of Representatives will recess until Monday. The news comes as a government shutdown costs taxpayers $300 million per day; as 4,000 workers in New Hampshire are off the job; and as the Tea Party in Washington continues to hold vital government functions hostage in order to demonstrate their opposition to the Affordable Care Act. Upon hearing that Members of Congress would go home for two days, Congresswoman Carol Shea-Porter spoke on the floor of the House of Representatives. A transcript of the Congresswoman’s remarks is below: “It’s very clear to the Wall Street Journal. It’s clear to the Chamber of Commerce. It’s clear to USA Today. And it’s clear to the America public that the Republican Right Wing, the Tea Party, has shut down the government. “Now I find out that we [the House of Representatives] are going home. Speaker Boehner has decided that Congress will go home tomorrow. How can we possibly go home!? “There are people [in New Hampshire] who are not being paid. People here who are not being paid; police were not paid who work here every day. Across this country people are not receiving what they paid for, and we’re going home? “I’m embarrassed about this. We should stay here. And if they can’t agree to accept the fact that they lost the vote on the health care law, again and again, if they can’t agree to that, can they at least agree to work on jobs? There’s plenty of work to do in this country. And we have no right to go home until we get this job done.” ###	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140413011023/http://shea-porter.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/shea-porter-cosponsors-federal-employee-retroactive-pay-fairness-act	Shea-Porter Cosponsors Federal Employee Retroactive Pay Fairness Act	2013-10-03	2013	2013-10	Democrat	House	NH	Carol Shea-Porter	S001170	web.archive.org	legacy	FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: 202-225-5456 WASHINGTON, DC – For the first time in 17 years, thousands of New Hampshire workers face furloughs due to a federal government shutdown. To ensure these workers are not unfairly punished due to Washington gridlock, Congresswoman Carol Shea-Porter (NH-01) has cosponsored the Federal Employee Retroactive Pay Fairness Act, bipartisan legislation that would ensure all federal employees receive back pay for the duration the shutdown. “More than 800,000 hardworking public servants will lose their pay because Tea Party Members of Congress refuse to fund the government,” Shea-Porter said. “Congress should pass a funding bill now along with this common sense legislation.” In New Hampshire, 1,520 men and women at the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard have been furloughed, hundreds of New Hampshire National Guardsmen and women have faced furloughs, and New Hampshire's top federal prosecutor has furloughed almost half of his staff. Government employees have already shouldered a number of past deficit reduction measures and continue to endure the pain of sequestration. These hardworking public servants have mortgages to pay, kids to put through college, and retirement savings to build. Retroactive pay has always been provided after past shutdowns, and providing that assurance again would be a step toward regaining the trust of the nation’s scientists, engineers, veterans, medical researcher, National Guard, and park rangers. The federal government shutdown costs America $300 million per day. The Senate passed a continuing resolution that would fund the government at existing levels for six weeks, giving Congress time to work out a long term fiscal plan. To date, House Republicans have refused to allow a vote on the Senate legislation in order to demonstrate their opposition to the Affordable Care Act. ###	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://kuster.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/government-shutdown-information	Government Shutdown Information	2013-10-01	2013	2013-10	Democrat	House	NH	Ann Kuster	K000382	kuster.house.gov	legacy	As of October 1, 2013, the federal government was forced to shut down after Congress failed to reach a budget agreement to keep the government running. Congresswoman Kuster continues to work with members of both parties to reach a solution. During this time, she remains committed to serving Granite State families and businesses. Our office has reduced staffing levels and will return to normal operations once the federal government shutdown ends. Constituents in need of assistance should call our Concord office at 603-226-1002 or our Washington office at 202-225-5206.	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://kuster.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/kuster-statement-on-republican-government-shutdown	Kuster Statement on Republican Government Shutdown	2013-10-01	2013	2013-10	Democrat	House	NH	Ann Kuster	K000382	kuster.house.gov	legacy	WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congresswoman Annie Kuster (NH-02) released the following statement in response to House Republicans forcing a shutdown of the federal government. “House Republicans’ insistence on putting partisan ideology ahead of basic common sense has forced a government shutdown that will hurt real people in real ways. Some of my colleagues across the aisle have concluded that they would rather score political points at the expense of Granite State families and businesses than find actual solutions to the challenges we face. This is the height of irresponsibility. “Instead of doubling-down on their all-or-nothing demands, House Republicans need to help pass a responsible bill to fund the government and provide certainty for New Hampshire families and businesses. I am hopeful that common sense will prevail so that the government can resume serving the American people and Congress can focus on solving problems instead of creating them. We can’t afford to keep lurching from crisis to crisis.” ###	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20131009223359/http://shea-porter.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/shea-porter-statement-on-the-federal-government-shutdown	Shea-Porter Statement on the Federal Government Shutdown	2013-10-01	2013	2013-10	Democrat	House	NH	Carol Shea-Porter	S001170	web.archive.org	legacy	FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE October 1, 2013 Contact: Ben Wakana: 202-225-5456 WASHINGTON, DC – Congresswoman Carol Shea-Porter (NH-01) issued the following statement after House Republicans chose to shut the federal government down rather than allow a vote on a clean bill to fund the government at current levels for six weeks: “In a reckless attempt to obstruct the new health care law and extract an ideological laundry list of demands, House Republicans have shut down the federal government. These Tea Party tactics are harmful to the economy and they are an unacceptable way to govern. “The House of Representatives has voted 45 times to obstruct, delay, defund, or repeal the Affordable Care Act. I am happy to debate the merits of the health care law through an open legislative process, but to hold vital government functions hostage unless we defund or delay the health care law is staggeringly irresponsible. “This government shutdown will hurt New Hampshire families. Workers across the Granite State will be furloughed. Seniors’ applications to begin receiving Social Security and Medicare benefits could be delayed. Businesses applying for loans through the Small Business Administration will have to wait. “I have been very clear that I am willing to work with anyone to improve the Affordable Care Act, but I will not dismantle the health care law in exchange for funding the government. Funding the government is not a negotiating point. It’s Congress’ responsibility. “I am deeply disappointed but not surprised that Tea Party Republicans have thrown our country into yet another unnecessary crisis. It’s time for Speaker John Boehner to drop this poisonous brand of politics and allow a vote on a clean bill to fund the government.” ###	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z

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    ON [releases] ([chamber]);
CREATE INDEX [idx_releases_state]
    ON [releases] ([state]);
CREATE INDEX [idx_releases_bioguide_id]
    ON [releases] ([bioguide_id]);
CREATE INDEX [idx_releases_has_text]
    ON [releases] ([has_text]);

Press releases

398 rows where state = "NH" and year = 2013 sorted by date descending

Advanced export