Press releases
Data license: MIT · Data source: dwillis/congress-press
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219 rows where state = "NJ" and year = 2021 sorted by date descending
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| url | title | date ▲ | year | month | party | chamber | state | member_name | bioguide_id | domain | scraper | source | date_source | text | has_text | collected_at | updated_at |
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| https://norcross.house.gov/press-releases?ID=37FCA562-CE65-4856-9B2D-E538FB7825D5 | Rep. Norcross Announces South Jersey Winners of 2021 Congressional App Challenge | 2021-12-31 | 2021 | 2021-12 | Democrat | House | NJ | Donald Norcross | N000188 | norcross.house.gov | norcross | https://norcross.house.gov/press-releases | page_html | CHERRY HILL, NJ – Today, Rep. Donald Norcross (D-NJ-01) announced that three Cherry Hill High School East students have won the 2021 Congressional App Challenge for New Jersey’s 1st Congressional District. Armaan, Karina, and Gia Gupta – triplets with a passion for designing apps who also won the Congressional App Challenge in 2020 – focused on COVID-19’s disruption to people’s health. Their 2021 app, Tulio, allows people to track their health from the comfort of their own homes and receive medical advice from health care professionals. “Armaan, Karina, and Gia saw a problem and set out to solve it,” said Congressman Norcross. “It is heartening that their instinct in creating Tulio was to help improve the health of others. These past few years have been extremely challenging, especially for our students, and I applaud Armaan, Karina, and Gia for their dedication to working hard even as the pandemic disrupted their learning environment.” Watch the Gupta’s video explaining their app and its design process here. The Congressional App Challenge is designed to engage student creativity and encourage their participation in STEM fields. This nationwide event allows high school students from across the country to compete against their peers by creating and exhibiting their software applications on a platform of their choice. | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-03-30T11:08:25Z |
| https://watsoncoleman.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/reps-watson-coleman-kim-sires-call-on-nj-state-officials-to-equitably-distribute-federal-infrastructure-funding | Reps. Watson Coleman, Kim, Sires Call on NJ State Officials to Equitably Distribute Federal Infrastructure Funding | 2021-12-22 | 2021 | 2021-12 | Democrat | House | NJ | Bonnie Watson Coleman | W000822 | watsoncoleman.house.gov | watsoncoleman | https://watsoncoleman.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases | scraper | Today, Congresswoman Bonnie Watson Coleman (NJ-12) and Congressmen Andy Kim (NJ-03) and Albio Sires (NJ-08) sent a letter to New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy, the NJ Department of Transportation and NJ Transit urging them to distribute funding from the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act to underrepresented businesses. Specifically, the letter asks that state elected officials ensure that Small, Minority, Women or Veteran-owned Business Enterprises (SMWVBE), Disability-owned businesses, and LGBTQ-owned businesses have sufficient funding to be involved in the execution of upcoming infrastructure projects. The letter reads in part: Diversity is one of New Jersey’s biggest assets. Our infrastructure investments and workforce should reflect this. This critical investment will improve our state’s infrastructure and position our economy for continued growth by creating more job opportunities. Ensuring underrepresented firms are beneficiaries of this federal investment will promote a more inclusive workforce and a thriving economy for all. Systemic discrimination against women and minority-owned businesses has created barriers to obtaining these contracts and prioritizing these underrepresented populations is an opportunity to help remedy this historic and ongoing discrimination. Watson Coleman also urged state officials to adequately enforce policies that promote diversity and inclusion in infrastructure modernization. In the letter, the Congresswoman proposed that the NJ Department of Transportation improve its Disadvantaged Business Enterprise program by implementing stronger accountability measures. The letter concludes: Governor Murphy has a proven track record building a stronger and fairer New Jersey. It is imperative and aligned with his commitment to equity that the state renews its commitment to centering equity so that this historic federal investment is used to address New Jersey’s most pressing infrastructure needs and workforce disparities. For too long, discrimination and disinvestment have create… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T20:37:48Z |
| https://watsoncoleman.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/thompson-watson-coleman-defazio-larsen-write-airlines-to-urge-them-to-require-and-pay-for-crew-members-to-attend-tsas-self-defense-program | Thompson, Watson Coleman, DeFazio, Larsen Write Airlines to Urge Them to Require and Pay for Crew Members to Attend TSA’s Self Defense Program | 2021-12-22 | 2021 | 2021-12 | Democrat | House | NJ | Bonnie Watson Coleman | W000822 | watsoncoleman.house.gov | watsoncoleman | https://watsoncoleman.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases | scraper | Committee on Homeland Security Chair Bennie G. Thompson (D-MS), Transportation & Maritime Security Subcommittee Chair Bonnie Watson Coleman (D-NJ), Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure Chair Peter DeFazio (D-OR), and Aviation Subcommittee Chair Rick Larsen (D-WA) sent letters to four major airlines urging them to require their crew members to attend TSA’s Crew Member Self Defense Program so that they are equipped with the necessary skills to deter and mitigate dangerous situations as unruly passenger behavior spikes across the country. The Chairs also requested that the airlines provide crewmembers with paid time, travel, and accommodations to participate in the program. “This voluntary, no-cost training is led by Federal Air Marshals to teach crew members how to defuse tense situations and defend themselves during physical altercations with passengers,” wrote the Chairs. “Presently, flight attendants and other members of the flight crew who wish to attend this training must do so outside of work hours and secure travel and lodging at their own expense.” “Though we all hope most flight crew members will never have to employ the skills they learn in this course, the disturbing increase and intensity of disruptive incidents aboard planes has accentuated the need for such training. It is our hope that you will require and provide for flight crew members to attend this training as part of your ongoing efforts to uphold safety and restore consumer confidence in air travel.” | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T20:37:48Z |
| https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-and-barragn-urge-epa-to-strengthen-standards-for-freight-pollution-sources | Booker and Barragán Urge EPA to Strengthen Standards for Freight Pollution Sources | 2021-12-21 | 2021 | 2021-12 | Democrat | Senate | NJ | Cory A. Booker | B001288 | www.booker.senate.gov | booker | https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Senator Cory Booker and Congresswoman Nanette Diaz Barragán led 48 of their colleagues in encouraging the Environmental Protection Agency to update technology standards for freight-related sources of pollution to address the high levels of air pollution in communities surrounding our nation’s freight shipping facilities and freight transportation corridors. In a letter to EPA Administrator Michael Regan, Booker, Barragán and their colleagues also requested information regarding EPA’s regulatory schedule for updating freight-related emissions standards, technology assessments for mobile and non-mobile freight sources, and opportunities available to streamline rulemaking to update several emissions standards by 2025. “We appreciate the EPA’s demonstrated commitment to combatting environmental racism and advancing equal access to clean air, land and water. We specifically applaud the steps the EPA has taken to set criteria pollutant and greenhouse gas emissions standards for medium- and heavy-duty trucks. We encourage you to expand these efforts to include other freight sources, including locomotives, ocean-going vessels, and aircraft,” the members of Congress wrote. In the 10-20 years since the EPA has updated emissions standards for mobile and non-mobile freight-related emissions sources, new control technologies have become available, including zero-emissions and electric options. There are significant opportunities for reducing toxic air pollution in environmental justice communities while addressing the climate crisis. Senator Booker and Congresswoman Barragán were joined on the letter by Senators Richard Durbin (Ill.), Richard Blumenthal (Conn.), Edward J. Markey (Mass.), Christopher Murphy (Conn.), Alex Padilla (Calif.), Sheldon Whitehouse (R.I.), Dianne Feinstein (Calif.), Elizabeth Warren (Mass.) and Bernard Sanders (Vt.), and Congressmembers Alan Lowenthal (Calif.), Adriano Espaillat (N.Y.), Emmanuel Cleaver (Mo.), Yvette Clarke (N.Y.), Bobby Rush (Ill.), Suzanne Bonamici (Ore… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T20:37:48Z |
| https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-leads-colleagues-in-calling-on-us-department-of-education-to-suspend-wage-garnishment-of-student-loan-borrowers | Booker Leads Colleagues in Calling on U.S. Department of Education to Suspend Wage Garnishment of Student Loan Borrowers | 2021-12-21 | 2021 | 2021-12 | Democrat | Senate | NJ | Cory A. Booker | B001288 | www.booker.senate.gov | booker | https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press | scraper | Washington, D.C. -- Today, U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) led colleagues in urging the U.S. Department of Education (USDOE) to suspend administrative wage garnishment of student loan borrowers. The letter comes nearly a month before student loan and interest payments are set to resume on January 31, 2022. “Currently, over 9 million borrowers are in default on more than $180 billion in federal student loan debt,” wrote the lawmakers to USDOE Secretary Miguel Cardona. “A disproportionate number of these borrowers are people of color, first-generation college students, veterans, parents, people with disabilities, and students who will not complete college. Even before the devastating COVID-19 pandemic, these borrowers in default were subject to aggressive collection measures, some of which only the federal government can utilize to collect on student loans. In addition to having to pay exorbitant fees, borrowers in default could expect to see their wages, tax refunds, and even Social Security checks confiscated. Low-income families that had their Child Tax Credit (CTC) and Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) refund checks seized by the federal government were often left in worse situations with limited access to jobs and housing, and fewer resources to cover basic necessities.” The lawmakers continued by highlighting that the USDOE’s “current intention to resume these collection efforts in a couple of months, as cash-strapped borrowers struggle to recover from a still-ongoing pandemic, will likely result in significant financial harm.” As such, they asked the Department “to automatically remove eligible borrowers from default status” and “to suspend administrative wage garnishment and other forced collections until of the end of the COVID-19 national public health emergency.” Furthermore, the lawmakers urged the USDOE “to conduct an analysis of the disparate effects of these practices on Black, Latino and Indigenous people with student debt as part of any comprehensive review of the student loan debt collection syst… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T20:37:48Z |
| https://watsoncoleman.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/watson-coleman-pressley-lead-letter-to-president-biden-and-secretary-becerra-to-highlight-needs-of-children-who-have-lost-caretakers-to-covid | Watson Coleman, Pressley Lead Letter to President Biden and Secretary Becerra to Highlight Needs of Children Who Have Lost Caretakers to Covid | 2021-12-20 | 2021 | 2021-12 | Democrat | House | NJ | Bonnie Watson Coleman | W000822 | watsoncoleman.house.gov | watsoncoleman | https://watsoncoleman.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases | scraper | Today, Congresswoman Bonnie Watson Coleman (NJ-12), vice-chair of the Congressional Progressive Caucus, and Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley (MA-7) lead 21 of their colleagues in a letter to President Joe Biden and Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra urging them to prioritize the needs of children who have lost parents and caregivers to Covid 19. The letter reads in part: As Members of Congress, we are concerned that these bereaved children are not receiving support, both specialized mental health counseling as well as financial assistance, in order to recover from the trauma of losing a loved one. According to a recent report released by COVID Collaborative, there are an estimated 167,000 children in the United States - or 1-in-450 of all children - who have lost a parent or in-home caregiver to COVID-19, including more than 13,000 children who lost their only in-home caregiver. Roughly seventy percent of caregiver loss affected children under the age of 13. “The loss of a parent is a traumatic experience for any child. The sheer number of children who have lost caregivers to this disease is tragic and will impact a generation,” said Watson Coleman. “Ensuring that they receive the care they need including mental health care should be a priority for the country.” “The COVID-19 pandemic has inflicted unspeakable hurt, harm and trauma on millions of families and communities across the country-- especially the hundreds of thousands of young children who were robbed of a parent or grandparent caretaker,” Pressley said. “This unprecedented loss and grief will have lasting impacts on an entire generation of young people and exacerbate the childhood trauma crisis that was already prevalent in so many of our most vulnerable communities. It is critical that we respond with urgency and prioritize their wellbeing so they can get the care and support they need to get on a pathway to healing. I’m grateful to Congresswoman Watson Coleman and our colleagues for their partnership in this effort.” Research sugge… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T20:37:48Z |
| https://watsoncoleman.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/rep-watson-coleman-announces-trenton-mercer-airport-to-receive-34-million-from-infrastructure-investment-and-jobs-act | Rep. Watson Coleman Announces Trenton-Mercer Airport to Receive $3.4 Million From Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act | 2021-12-17 | 2021 | 2021-12 | Democrat | House | NJ | Bonnie Watson Coleman | W000822 | watsoncoleman.house.gov | watsoncoleman | https://watsoncoleman.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases | scraper | Today, Rep. Bonnie Watson Coleman (NJ-12) announced that $3,482,989 in new federal funding from the bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act is headed to New Jersey’s 12th District to make much-needed improvements to Trenton-Mercer Airport. The funding can be used to update runways and taxiways, improve safety and sustainability, or invest in terminals, airport-transit connections and roadway projects. “Thanks to the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, this nearly $3.5 million grant will deliver new, good-paying jobs for New Jerseyans while making sorely needed renovations to Trenton-Mercer Airport,” said Rep. Watson Coleman. “By modernizing the airport’s infrastructure and prioritizing safety, we will ensure that all travelers flying in and out of Trenton have a better experience from terminal to tarmac.” “I thank Congresswoman Watson Coleman and the Biden Administration for recognizing the importance of air transportation to the Trenton region and the associated challenges inherent in providing for Trenton-Mercer Airport’s unique operating and improvement needs,” said Mercer County Executive Brian M. Hughes. “The cost of maintaining an adequate airport is an investment that yields benefits to the region and the state, and this renewable grant will help us attain the goal of putting in place a long-term 21st century solution for Trenton-Mercer Airport.” Trenton-Mercer Airport will receive a similar tranche of funding from the historic Bipartisan Infrastructure Law each year for the next five years, as part of a program for airport development. The tranche could vary from year to year, as the funding reflects annual enplanement totals. In addition to these guaranteed funds, Trenton-Mercer can compete with other airports across the country for grants from an additional $5 billion nationally for terminal and landside improvements. On November 15th, President Biden signed the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, which included $15 billion in formula funding to help redevelop airports across the c… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T20:37:48Z |
| https://watsoncoleman.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/rep-watson-coleman-urges-justice-department-to-investigate-use-of-racist-prosecutorial-tactics-in-domestic-terrorism-cases | Rep. Watson Coleman Urges Justice Department to Investigate Use of Racist Prosecutorial Tactics in Domestic Terrorism Cases | 2021-12-17 | 2021 | 2021-12 | Democrat | House | NJ | Bonnie Watson Coleman | W000822 | watsoncoleman.house.gov | watsoncoleman | https://watsoncoleman.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases | scraper | Today, Congresswoman Bonnie Watson Coleman (NJ-12), a member of the House Homeland Security Committee, led three of her colleagues in a letter to U.S. Attorney General Merrick Garland calling for the Department of Justice to investigate the Department’s use of prosecutorial tactics that disproportionately harm Black and brown Americans. The letter reads in part: This past June you gave remarks on the first National Strategy for Countering Domestic Terrorism and spoke about the efforts to prevent similar attacks and to affirm the “values on which our justice system depends.” Particularly after the events of January 6th, we know that this work is critical to maintaining our democratic norms and to preventing domestic terror. At the same time, we must draw attention to an equally troubling issue: the weaponization of prosecutorial tactics, like the domestic terrorism enhancement, that harm Black and brown Americans disproportionately. Violent incidents must meet certain criteria, per the statutory definition of domestic terrorism laid out in the U.S. Constitution, for the Justice Department to prosecute the perpetrators as domestic terrorists. The ambiguous nature of these criteria, however, has enabled the DOJ to prosecute lesser offenses, such as property destruction or disorderly conduct, as incidents of domestic terrorism. Historically, this has allowed the DOJ to impose more severe penalties on Black and brown Americans who committed minor offenses than on white Americans whose actions were more serious. For instance, Trump’s DOJ was hesitant to pursue domestic terrorism charges against violent far-right protesters at the 2017 Charlottesville rally but moved swiftly to pursue felony conspiracy cases against protestors at a January 20, 2017 protest who broke windows and set fire to a limousine. In the letter, Watson Coleman and her colleagues asked Attorney General Garland to thoroughly investigate the ways in which the DOJ uses its powers to target Black and brown Americans. Specifically, they asked that t… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T20:37:48Z |
| https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/senators-booker-and-scott-introduce-comprehensive-legislation-addressing-sickle-cell-disease | Senators Booker and Scott Introduce Comprehensive Legislation Addressing Sickle Cell Disease | 2021-12-17 | 2021 | 2021-12 | Democrat | Senate | NJ | Cory A. Booker | B001288 | www.booker.senate.gov | booker | https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Cory Booker (D-NJ) and Tim Scott(R-SC) introduced the Sickle Cell Disease Comprehensive Care Act. This legislation would direct the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) to create a Medicaid demonstration program to improve access to comprehensive, high-quality, outpatient care - including clinical and support services - for individuals with sickle cell disease (SCD). Congressman Danny K. Davis (D-IL 07) and Congressman Michael C. Burgess (R-TX 26) introduced the Sickle Cell Disease Comprehensive Care Act in the House last week. Sickle cell disease is an inherited blood disorder that disproportionately impacts people of African descent. Among the most notable symptoms of SCD is severe, debilitating pain, but people with SCD also experience complications like stroke, acute chest syndrome, and organ damage. Sadly, individuals with SCD have a significantly lower life expectancy than the overall population. While some advancements in the field have been made recently, many with SCD are not receiving the level of care needed to adequately manage the disease. A Medicaid demonstration program, such as the one outlined in the Sickle Cell Disease Comprehensive Care Act, could significantly improve the quality of care SCD patients receive. Additionally, any improvements made as a result of this demonstration program would have the potential to meaningfully improve care for all SCD patients as approximately half of SCD patients in the U.S. are enrolled in Medicaid according to CMS data. Further, this demonstration program shows a lot of promise in saving money, as it aims to reduce patients’ reliance on costly emergency room care. “People with sickle cell disease have for too long suffered from an underinvestment in federal funding and attention,” said Senator Booker. “The Sickle Cell Disease Comprehensive Care Act would improve access to high-quality, comprehensive care for SCD patients and would be the greatest investment in SCD patients and care since our Sickle Cell Disease… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T20:37:48Z |
| https://norcross.house.gov/press-releases?ID=0F3A2C09-2E64-41CD-A297-41D9D6DF91B9 | Rep. Norcross Statement on 61st Consecutive Annual Defense Bill to Meet the Needs of Servicemembers and Military Families, Invest in Jobs for South Jersey | 2021-12-15 | 2021 | 2021-12 | Democrat | House | NJ | Donald Norcross | N000188 | norcross.house.gov | norcross | https://norcross.house.gov/press-releases | page_html | WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Rep. Donald Norcross (D-NJ-01) released the following statement upon the Senate’s passing of bipartisan defense legislation, the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2022 (FY22 NDAA), that strengthens America’s security and meets the needs of our servicemembers, veterans and military families. This robust bill bolsters pay and improves benefits for servicemembers, combats sexual assault in the military, and modernizes our defense technology. The bill first passed through the House on December 7. “This legislation takes bold action to protect members of the Armed Forces both at home and abroad,” said Congressman Norcross. “New Jersey’s first congressional district and the state as a whole win with this bill. The soldiers, sailors, and airmen stationed in New Jersey, their families, and the companies that support them will benefit from the provisions I secured to support our defense industrial base and strengthen our supply chain.” For the sixty-first consecutive year, Congress will enact this essential legislation and fulfill its critical, constitutional obligation to “provide for the common defense.” The FY22 NDAA authorizes historic investments in our diverse fighting force, innovation, and emerging technologies. Doing so will ensure the Department of Defense can strengthen the nation’s efforts to defend democratic values and strengthen our alliances in the face of challenges from authoritarian states – while modernizing our national security institutions and processes to keep families safe on the home front. “I am proud to support provisions that improve the response of the Department of Defense to sexual assault within its ranks and ensure their effective prosecution to promote the safety and wellbeing of every person who puts their life on the line to defend our nation. Joining the military entails a level of risk – but that risk should not come from those who serve under or serve with. It’s past time we address the elephant in the room and update the Uniform Code of M… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-03-30T11:08:25Z |
| https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-cardin-sanders-introduce-legislation-to-create-special-envoy-to-monitor-and-address-islamophobia | Booker, Cardin, Sanders Introduce Legislation to Create Special Envoy to Monitor and Address Islamophobia | 2021-12-14 | 2021 | 2021-12 | Democrat | Senate | NJ | Cory A. Booker | B001288 | www.booker.senate.gov | booker | https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C - Today, U.S. Senators Cory Booker (D-NJ) and Ben Cardin (D-MD), both members of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, and Bernie Sanders (I-VT) introduced the Combating International Islamophobia Act, legislation that would require the Department of State to establish a Special Envoy for tracking and combatting Islamophobia globally. The creation of the Special Envoy will also help lawmakers and other government officials better understand anti-Muslim hatred and violence, allowing for the development of a comprehensive strategy that will establish U.S. leadership in addressing Islamophobia worldwide. The legislation is the Senate companion to a House bill introduced by Representatives Ilhan Omar (MN-05) and Jan Schakowsky (IL-9). The House is expected to consider Omar and Schakowsky’s bill for passage as early as today. In a recent survey conducted by the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), 69% of American Muslims responded that they have personally experienced anti-Muslim bigotry or discrimination since 9/11. In March, the United Nations Human Rights Council cited discrimination and hatred toward Muslims had risen to “epidemic proportions.” “We’ve witnessed in recent years an alarming rise in Islamophobia both in the United States and globally that has threatened the religious freedom, well-being, and lives of Muslims,” said Sen. Booker. “Establishing a Special Envoy at the State Department is an important step that we should take to develop a comprehensive plan to reverse this trend and position the U.S. as a global leader in combating hate.” “For over a decade, we have seen a rise in Islamophobia around the country and around the world. The United States should be a global leader in fighting such intolerance. So I am proud today to be joining my Senate colleagues in introducing the Combating International Islamophobia Act. This bill would elevate our commitment to freedom of religion and further protect the rights of Muslims everywhere, ” said Senator Cardin, who serves as the … | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T20:37:48Z |
| https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-norcross-celebrate-expansion-of-the-enterprise-center-into-new-jersey | Booker, Norcross Celebrate Expansion of The Enterprise Center Into New Jersey | 2021-12-14 | 2021 | 2021-12 | Democrat | Senate | NJ | Cory A. Booker | B001288 | www.booker.senate.gov | booker | https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press | scraper | Newark, NJ - Today, U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) and Representative Donald Norcross (NJ-01) celebrated the New Jersey launch of The Enterprise Center, a nonprofit organization that has secured contracts to create two distinct entities: the New Jersey Minority Development Agency (MBDA) Business Center and the Camden Cares Business Center. Through these contracts, The Enterprise Center will help minority-owned businesses in New Jersey access capital, business development opportunities, and contracts to grow their operations as well as provide technical assistance, training services, and funding application support to COVID-impacted businesses in Camden. Citing the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on minority small business and historical racial inequities within the financial system, Booker urged the U.S. Department of Commerce to establish a Minority Business Center in New Jersey earlier this year. Over the past years, he has also worked to ensure that the MBDA is permanently authorized, an effort that was recently signed into law as part of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Deal. “The devastating economic effects of this pandemic have disproportionately impacted minority small businesses across America, with nearly half of Black and one-third of Latino small businesses being forced to shut down - some permanently,” said Sen. Booker. “However, we know that minority businesses and entrepreneurs were struggling even before the pandemic, and historic inequities and barriers were merely exacerbated by this crisis. That is why I’ve fought to make the MBDA permanent and fought to open the first Minority Business Center here in New Jersey so that our residents don’t have to travel out of state to access these services. As it launches today, I know that The Enterprise Center will offer critical resources and assistance to our state’s underserved small businesses for years to come.” “We know that our financial institutions can and need to be better if we’re going to expand equal opportunity to everyone in our community,” … | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T20:37:48Z |
| https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/senate-passes-booker-scott-resolution-raising-awareness-of-sickle-cell-disease | Senate Passes Booker, Scott Resolution Raising Awareness of Sickle Cell Disease | 2021-12-14 | 2021 | 2021-12 | Democrat | Senate | NJ | Cory A. Booker | B001288 | www.booker.senate.gov | booker | https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – This week, the U.S. Senate unanimously passed U.S. Senators Cory Booker (D-N.J.) and Tim Scott’s (R-S.C.) resolution designating September as Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) Awareness Month. “Sickle cell disease is the most common inherited blood disorder in our country, and yet research, treatment, and awareness efforts for the disease still lag far behind other chronic illnesses,” said Senator Booker. “More work and research remains to be done, and we must continue to raise awareness of sickle cell disease and ensure that communities that are largely affected by this condition have equitable access to care and treatments that help improve their health. I am proud to lead the Sickle Cell Disease Awareness Month resolution with Senator Scott and I will continue to champion federal initiatives to raise awareness, improve access to care, and help find a cure for this disease.” “Sickle cell disease is the most common inherited blood disorder in the U.S., affecting one in every 365 Black Americans,” said Senator Scott. “Yet despite the prevalence of SCD, research and treatments remain far too limited. With this resolution, we commit to raising awareness and seeking out legislation that will help our medical community fight—and one day, cure—this painful disease.” | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T20:37:48Z |
| https://watsoncoleman.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/bipartisan-bicameral-group-introduces-legislation-to-create-national-liberty-memorial-honor-african-american-revolutionary-war-patriots | Bipartisan, Bicameral Group Introduces Legislation to Create National Liberty Memorial, Honor African American Revolutionary War Patriots | 2021-12-08 | 2021 | 2021-12 | Democrat | House | NJ | Bonnie Watson Coleman | W000822 | watsoncoleman.house.gov | watsoncoleman | https://watsoncoleman.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases | scraper | Congresswoman Bonnie Watson Coleman (NJ-12) and Senator Chuck Grassley of Iowa along with Senator Chris Murphy of Connecticut and Congresswoman Ashley Hinson (IA-1) today introduced legislation to extend authorization of the National Liberty Memorial, a monument to commemorate enslaved and free African Americans who fought in the United States Revolutionary War. The bipartisan National Liberty Memorial Preservation Act (H.R. 6201/S. 3334) would allow a nonprofit to continue its important work to construct this memorial near the National Mall in Washington, D.C. “We would not be the country we are today if not for the valiant sacrifices of the free and enslaved Black soldiers who fought for American independence,” Watson Coleman said.“My bill would honor the Black soldiers who are far too often erased from the narrative surrounding our nation’s founding. Black people built this country in more ways than one, and the National Liberty Memorial will help tell their story.” “As Americans, our understanding of history has a tremendous impact on our sense of who we are and where we’re headed. Unfortunately, many people are unaware of the significant contribution that enslaved and free African Americans played in the American Revolution,” Grassley said. “It’s past time we dedicate a memorial to those brave men who volunteered to serve. This monument will be a tangible reminder that, despite the lingering legacy of slavery, the promise of liberty and equality is the shared heritage of all Americans.” “Thousands of enslaved people and freedmen served in the Revolutionary War, risking their lives for a country that did not recognize them as full citizens. The National Liberty Memorial will commemorate the bravery, distinction, and patriotism of African American soldiers during the American Revolution and ensure that future generations of Americans can honor their sacrifice,” said Murphy. “Many Black Americans bravely fought in the Revolutionary War. Their stories should be told, and their contributions should be honored… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T20:37:48Z |
| https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-krishnamoorthi-lead-colleagues-in-calling-on-us-department-of-education-to-facilitate-student-civic-engagement-in-institutions-of-higher-education | Booker, Krishnamoorthi Lead Colleagues in Calling on U.S. Department of Education to Facilitate Student Civic Engagement in Institutions of Higher Education | 2021-12-07 | 2021 | 2021-12 | Democrat | Senate | NJ | Cory A. Booker | B001288 | www.booker.senate.gov | booker | https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) and Representative Raja Krishnamoorthi (IL-8th) led a bicameral group of over two dozen colleagues in urging the U.S. Department of Education (USDOE) to address student voter registration and participation as it formulates rulemaking for higher education accountability. The letter comes as states across the country pass legislation designed to curb the voting rights of Black, Brown, and young people. “Across the country, voting rights are under attack, and new laws restricting access to voting have been transparently intended to discourage students and people of color from participating in our elections,” wrote the lawmakers to USDOE Secretary Miguel Cardona. “The Department can and should play a significant role in supporting democracy by creating additional nonpartisan opportunities for students to register to vote, keep their voter registration up to date, and participate in state and federal elections.” The lawmakers continued by highlighting that “Section 487(a)(23) of theHigher Education Act requires each institution of higher education that receives federal financial aid funds to make a “good faith effort” to distribute voter registration materials and to make such materials “widely available” to students. A college’s good faith effort to distribute voter registration information widely should reflect the most common methods by which individuals register to vote—including, increasingly, online registration—and the deadlines they must meet.” Given that the USDOE will only complete rulemaking for higher education institutions in early 2022, the lawmakers called on the department to“swiftly issue sub-regulatory guidance that clarifies institutions’ responsibilities under current regulations. This guidance should remind colleges of their existing requirement to distribute voter registration information to students well in advance of state deadlines to register to vote. And, such guidance should strongly encourage institutions to adopt best practices … | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T20:37:48Z |
| https://norcross.house.gov/press-releases?ID=935E98D9-4246-490F-958E-EEDECEB8FA03 | Rep. Norcross Announces Bill to Increase Access to and Modernize Opioid Use Disorder Treatment | 2021-12-06 | 2021 | 2021-12 | Democrat | House | NJ | Donald Norcross | N000188 | norcross.house.gov | norcross | https://norcross.house.gov/press-releases | page_html | WASHINGTON, DC – Today, U.S. Congressman Donald Norcross (D-NJ-01) announced the imminent introduction of the Opioid Treatment Access Act, innovative legislation that would increase access to and modernize the process of obtaining methadone to treat opioid use disorder (OUD). The bill will lower obstacles to treatment by making opioid treatment programs more accessible, allowing patients easier access to evidence-based treatment, and empowering them to spend more time living their lives and less time waiting in line at opioid treatment programs (often referred to as methadone clinics). “People struggling with opioid addiction shouldn’t be stigmatized. They shouldn’t be forced to wait in lines every morning for treatment. They deserve dignity. They should be able to get their medicine from their pharmacist, just like everyone else does. If you can get the drug at a pharmacy, you should be able to get medicine to treat the drug misuse disorder at a pharmacy,” said Congressman Norcross, a member of the Bipartisan Addiction and Mental Health Task Force and the Education and Labor Committee’s Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions Subcommittee. “People lost hope during the 2008 financial crisis when jobs dried up. Tragically, some of my union brothers and sisters turned to opioids to numb the pain of losing their livelihoods, their ability to provide for their families, and their sense of self. We owe it to every person who has lost a loved one to addiction and every person struggling with opioid use disorder to improve access and modernize opioid treatment.” “When he was alive, my brother endured such unfair stigma around his disease. This legislation provides greater flexibility in where and how a patient receives care when it is clinically appropriate. This should improve outcomes and reduce the stigma that is often associated with methadone treatment,” said Laura Walker-Talbot, a Woodbury resident and ambassador for Shatterproof, a national nonprofit organization dedicated to ending the addiction crisis in the U… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-03-30T11:08:25Z |
| https://watsoncoleman.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/house-progressives-call-for-rep-lauren-boebert-to-be-removed-from-committee-assignments | House Progressives Call for Rep. Lauren Boebert to Be Removed From Committee Assignments | 2021-12-03 | 2021 | 2021-12 | Democrat | House | NJ | Bonnie Watson Coleman | W000822 | watsoncoleman.house.gov | watsoncoleman | https://watsoncoleman.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases | scraper | Representatives Jamaal Bowman (NY-16), Cori Bush (MO-01), André Carson (IN-07), Pramila Jayapal (WA-07) and Bonnie Watson Coleman (NJ-12), were joined by 34 House progressives to issue the following statement today calling for Representative Lauren Boebert (CO-03) to be removed from her committee assignments following her Islamophobic comments and incitement of anti-Muslim animus. “Rep. Boebert has repeatedly weaponized dangerous, anti-Muslim bigotry at our colleague Representative Ilhan Omar (MN-05). Instead of apologizing, Rep. Boebert has continued her Islamophobic rhetoric and chosen to spread hateful speech even further. In the face of death threats and vitriol being spewed at Rep. Omar, Representative Kevin McCarthy (CA-23)’s decision to allow and embolden continued hostility from his members speaks clearly to the Republican party’s willingness to allow hate and division to grow at the expense of our people, our values, and our institutions. “But we refuse to stand by as Islamophobia, anti-Blackness, anti-immigrant sentiment, and xenophobia are trafficked into the halls of Congress by members of the Republican party. Today, we are calling for Rep. Boebert to be removed from her committee assignments. Our response to behavior that creates a dangerous work environment and furthers a climate of toxicity and intolerance cannot be silence. Congress cannot forgo accountability when a Member engages in hate speech that dehumanizes not only a colleague, but an entire people. We cannot be complicit as members of this body, who swore an oath to protect and defend the constitution of the United States, trample on the fundamental right of religious freedom. “Muslims across the country are looking to Congress at this moment, watching to see if those they sent to represent their interests in Washington are going to stand up in the face of blatant, vicious Islamophobia. We owe it to them, and to every person who has been the recipient of harassment and verbal abuse based on their religion, race, gender, sexuality, or o… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T20:37:48Z |
| https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-menendez-applaud-senate-judiciary-committee-passage-of-bipartisan-bill-to-protect-privacy-safety-of-federal-judges-and-their-families | Booker, Menendez Applaud Senate Judiciary Committee Passage of Bipartisan Bill To Protect Privacy, Safety of Federal Judges and Their Families | 2021-12-02 | 2021 | 2021-12 | Democrat | Senate | NJ | Cory A. Booker | B001288 | www.booker.senate.gov | booker | https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-N.J.), a member of the Senate Judiciary Committee and co-author of the bill, and U.S. Senator Bob Menendez (D-N.J.), lead and co-author of the bill, applauded the passage of the Daniel Anderl Judicial Security and Privacy Act of 2021 by the Senate Judiciary Committee. The legislation comes after the fatal, targeted attack last year on U.S. District Court Judge Esther Salas’s New Jersey home. The bill, named for Judge Salas’s son who was murdered during the violent home invasion last year, would safeguard the personally identifiable information of federal judges and their immediate families that could leave them vulnerable to potential threats. The bill passed through the Judiciary Committee today without opposition and with broad bipartisan support. WATCH MEDIA AVAILABILITY HERE “I am grateful that Senators of both parties came together today to support the Daniel Anderl Judicial Security and Privacy Act— urgently needed legislation that will help protect the privacy and safety of federal judges and their families,” said Senator Booker, a member of the Senate Judiciary Committee. “No person who takes on the responsibility of serving as a federal judge should ever have to live in fear that they or their family could be targeted by someone who is able to access their personal information easily online. As we continue to grieve and stand with the Salas family in honoring the memory of their son Daniel, we must never forget that tragic day, and we must ensure that this legislation is passed by the full Senate.” “I made a personal commitment to Judge Salas that I would push for legislation to better protect those who serve on our federal judiciary. Today, we are one step closer to fulfilling that promise with this important legislation passing the Senate Judiciary Committee,” said Sen. Menendez, who recommended Judge Salas to President Barack Obama for appointment to the federal bench. “Over the past several years, we have witnessed increased threats against th… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T20:37:48Z |
| https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-sullivan-introduce-world-aids-day-resolution | Booker, Sullivan Introduce World AIDS Day Resolution | 2021-12-01 | 2021 | 2021-12 | Democrat | Senate | NJ | Cory A. Booker | B001288 | www.booker.senate.gov | booker | https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press | scraper | Washington, DC - Today, U.S. Senators Cory Booker (D-NJ) and Dan Sullivan (R-AK) introduced a resolution commemorating and supporting the goals of World AIDS Day, including the goal to achieve zero new HIV infections and AIDS-related deaths. The resolution recognizes current efforts made by the United States and international organizations in combatting HIV/AIDS while also encouraging greater coordination between the global community to end the HIV epidemic by 2030. A companion resolution was introduced in the House by Representatives Barbara Lee (CA-13) and Jenniffer González-Colón. “Each year, thousands of Americans are newly diagnosed with HIV/AIDS, with Black and Brown communities being disproportionately affected by the disease,” said Sen. Booker. “As we commemorate World AIDS Day, this is also the time for us to recommit to finally eradicating HIV/AIDS in the United States and worldwide by scaling up support for prevention, treatment and research programs and improving access to life-saving medications, especially for vulnerable populations.” “As we continue to battle COVID-19, World AIDS Day is an important reminder of the millions of people living with another virus—HIV,” said Senator Sullivan. “Since coming to the Senate, I’ve been an ardent supporter of robust funding for PEPFAR, a federal program started by President Bush that has treated nearly 15 million people around the world. I’m glad to join Senator Booker and our House colleagues in introducing a resolution to recognize World AIDS Day and the critical work being done to prevent infections and save lives.” “On World AIDS Day, we remember those who have lost their struggle against this disease, their families and loved ones, and the millions more who continue to live with and fight against it,” said Rep. Lee. “This is the moment that we must all enact the political and moral will to bring equitable care and services for the LGBTQI+ community, sex workers, racial and ethnic minorities, and women and girls. We will only end AIDS if we address the… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T20:37:48Z |
| https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-and-durbin-introduce-legislation-aimed-at-increasing-membership-within-us-sentencing-commission | Booker and Durbin Introduce Legislation Aimed at Increasing Membership within U.S. Sentencing Commission | 2021-11-30 | 2021 | 2021-11 | Democrat | Senate | NJ | Cory A. Booker | B001288 | www.booker.senate.gov | booker | https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Cory Booker (D-NJ) and Dick Durbin (D-IL) today introduced the Sentencing Commission Improvements Act, legislation that would for the first time add an ex officio member with a public defender background to the U.S. Sentencing Commission. The U.S. Sentencing Commission, an independent agency within the federal judiciary, was created to establish policies and practices to help reduce sentencing disparities. It specifically collects and analyzes information on federal sentencing practices to help develop fairer and more effective criminal justice policies. Currently, the Commission consists of seven members from both political parties appointed by the President and two ex officio, nonvoting members, the Attorney General or a designee and the U.S. Parole Commission chair. However, unlike the majority of state sentencing commissions, the federal Commission lacks a representative from a public defender background who would provide an essential perspective on the criminal justice system. “The federal Sentencing Commission was created to be fair, impartial, and capable of providing evidence-driven improvements to our sentencing system, which is fraught with disparities,” said Senator Booker. “Adding a statutory member to the Commission with a public defender background will ensure that the Commission’s ranks include this distinct and essential perspective on our criminal justice system and, thus, bring us one step closer to a more balanced and just system.” “The U.S. Sentencing Commission is tasked with establishing practices and policies to promote transparency and reduce sentencing disparities, but the Commission is missing a crucial perspective from the federal public defender system. If we hope to improve sentencing policies in America, we must balance the Commission’s membership by adding a nonvoting federal defender,” said Senator Durbin. “The Sentencing Commission Improvements Act will remedy the Commission’s blind spot and move us toward a fairer sentencing process.” “We wel… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T20:30:49Z |
| https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/as-thanksgiving-approaches-booker-khanna-announce-legislation-to-protect-meatpacking-workers | As Thanksgiving Approaches, Booker, Khanna Announce Legislation to Protect Meatpacking Workers | 2021-11-23 | 2021 | 2021-11 | Democrat | Senate | NJ | Cory A. Booker | B001288 | www.booker.senate.gov | booker | https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press | scraper | WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) and Representative Ro Khanna (CA-17) announced the Protecting America’s Meatpacking Workers Act which would provide stronger workplace protections for meat and poultry processing workers. Our nation’s food system has long been broken, but the COVID-19 pandemic has shined a light on just how broken the system truly is for workers, farmers and ranchers, animals, and consumers. Unfortunately, the workers responsible for getting food from the farm to our table are often overlooked and underappreciated. It is clear that our food system is not safe for most farm and food chain workers including meatpacking workers that, due to the power and influence of large multinational corporations, have been forced to risk their lives, crowded into meatpacking plants that became hotbeds for COVID-19 outbreaks. In fact, recent reports indicate that over 59,000 meatpacking workers employed by JBS, Tyson, Smithfield, Cargill, and National Beef contracted COVID-19, and at least 269 died. The Protecting America’s Meatpacking Workers Act would provide much needed protections for meatpacking workers along with systemic reforms such as creating a fair market that allows independent farmers, ranchers and robust local food systems to thrive and ensuring that consumers can actually identify where their food comes from so that food giants cannot simply shift the burden of their unfair system to others in the supply chain or import more unsustainable meat from other parts of the world. “As we sit down with family and friends this Thanksgiving, let it also be a day of gratitude for the workers who have worked tirelessly to ensure we have food on our tables,” said Senator Booker. “Unfortunately, meatpacking workers, including those processing the turkeys on the plates of many Americans this week, often face exploitative and dangerous work conditions. We must end this era of abusive practices and begin to ensure that all workers, farmers, and ranchers have a safe and fair opportunity to earn … | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T20:30:49Z |
| https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-announces-legislation-aimed-at-banning-dangerous-pesticides-from-our-agriculture-system | Booker Announces Legislation Aimed at Banning Dangerous Pesticides from our Agriculture System | 2021-11-23 | 2021 | 2021-11 | Democrat | Senate | NJ | Cory A. Booker | B001288 | www.booker.senate.gov | booker | https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Cory Booker (D-NJ) announced the Protect America’s Children from Toxic Pesticides Act of 2021 (PACTPA) that would remove dangerous pesticides within our farm system. Specifically, this legislation would update the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide and Rodenticide Act of 1972 (FIFRA) by banning the most damaging pesticides that have been scientifically proven to harm the safety of people and our environment. Each year, the United States uses over a billion pounds of pesticides — nearly a fifth of worldwide use. Once they’re approved, pesticides often remain on the market for decades, even when scientific evidence overwhelmingly shows a pesticide is causing harm to people or the environment. In 2017 and 2018, the Environmental Protection Agency registered more than 100 pesticides containing ingredients widely considered to be dangerous. Approximately one-third of annual U.S. pesticide use — over 300 million pounds from 85 different pesticides — comes from pesticides that are banned in the European Union. The pesticide regulation statute, the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide and Rodenticide Act of 1972 (FIFRA), contains many loopholes that put the interests of the pesticide industry above the health and safety of people and our environment. “As we sit down with family and friends for Thanksgiving, let this day also be one of gratitude for the workers who have worked tirelessly to ensure we have food on our tables,” said Senator Booker. “Farmworkers are often exposed to dangerous and toxic pesticides, risking their health as they work to provide our food. It is imperative that we address this issue directly by updating our laws in order to protect farmworkers, frontline communities, and our environment.” “Pesticide hazards haunt farm workers, especially those that are parents. No parent should worry that hugging their children after a long day of work could expose them to brain-harming chemicals. No pregnant worker should have to wonder what the effects will be on a developing b… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T20:30:49Z |
| https://norcross.house.gov/press-releases?ID=F40D230D-B6B9-4EB3-9E35-2BF3AF8D2558 | Rep. Norcross Statement on Build Back Better Vote | 2021-11-19 | 2021 | 2021-11 | Democrat | House | NJ | Donald Norcross | N000188 | norcross.house.gov | norcross | https://norcross.house.gov/press-releases | page_html | WASHINGTON, DC – Today, U.S. Congressman Donald Norcross (NJ-01) released the following statement regarding his vote in the House of Representatives to pass H.R. 5376, the Build Back Better Act: “Today, I voted for the Build Back Better Act, a blue-collar blueprint for rebuilding the American middle class. “This historic legislation puts workers and their families first. It was workers who kept us running through the pandemic – from staffing emergency rooms to stocking grocery store shelves – and it is working people who will pull us forward. But despite America’s dependence on hard-working families – they have gotten a raw deal for far too long. “The Build Back Better Act is a game-changer and a job-generator. It will provide access to affordable, quality child care so parents don’t have to choose between their family and their livelihoods, and it will make jobs in the care economy more sustainable. It reins in runaway health care costs so workers can keep more of their pay. It closes critical gaps in Medicare coverage so seniors on fixed incomes don’t go bankrupt. It lowers excessive prescription drug costs so people aren’t price-gouged for needed medicines. And it tackles climate change by creating good-paying jobs and making America a leader in the green economy. Together, these measures add up to the largest investments the middle class has seen in generations, and we do this while ensuring anyone making under $400,000 a year will not pay a penny more in taxes. “Congressional Republicans have coddled the wealthy for too long. They spent $1.9 trillion on tax giveaways for the rich. Now, they balk at investing in the true drivers of our economic success – America’s workers. Today, House Democrats said: Enough is enough. It’s time to rebuild the middle class by making wealthy individuals and corporations pay their fair share.” Read more about what is included in the Build Back Better Act here. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-03-30T11:08:25Z |
| https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-murray-menendez-maloney-kelly-and-porter-lead-over-100-democrats-in-introducing-the-access-to-birth-control-act | Booker, Murray, Menendez, Maloney, Kelly, and Porter Lead Over 100 Democrats in Introducing the Access to Birth Control Act | 2021-11-18 | 2021 | 2021-11 | Democrat | Senate | NJ | Cory A. Booker | B001288 | www.booker.senate.gov | booker | https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press | scraper | Washington, D.C.—Today, Senators Cory Booker (D-NJ), Patty Murray (D-WA), Chair of the Senate Committee on Committee on Health, Education, Labor and Pensions, and Bob Menendez (D-NJ) led the reintroduction of the Access to Birth Control Act in the Senate. Representatives Carolyn B. Maloney (D-NY), Chairwoman of the House Committee on Oversight and Reform, Robin Kelly (D-IL), and Katie Porter (D-CA) reintroduced the bill in the House. Over 100 Democrats are cosponsors of the bill. The legislation—which has been endorsed by 50 national and local advocacy organizations—would guarantee patients’ timely access to birth control at the pharmacy—including by addressing pharmacies’ refusals of contraception that prevent patients from obtaining their preferred form of birth control medication. “Birth control is a vital part of reproductive health care and basic family planning,” said Senator Booker. “At a time when reproductive rights are under increasing attack throughout the country, protecting Americans' access to contraception is more important than ever. The Access to Birth Control Act would ensure that all people not only have autonomy over their health but also have affordable and timely access to birth control.” “Birth control is essential health care—full stop. And it’s health care that helps ensure everyone can control their own bodies, lives and futures,” said Senator Murray. “With reproductive rights under attack from every angle, we’ve got to stand up and make clear that no one should be able to come between a patient and the birth control they need—including being turned away at the pharmacy.” “I am proud to lead my colleagues in reintroducing the Access to Birth Control Act to ensure patients seeking birth control can access their health care without unnecessary barriers or delay,” said Chairwoman Maloney. “During the Trump Administration, some health care providers—including pharmacists—denied patients care simply based on their personal views. Health care providers must do their jobs based on science—n… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T20:30:49Z |
| https://norcross.house.gov/press-releases?ID=583F38CF-D021-484E-965E-6F70C7D0DB26 | Rep. Norcross Statement on the Unanimous Passing of the BRAVE Act | 2021-11-16 | 2021 | 2021-11 | Democrat | House | NJ | Donald Norcross | N000188 | norcross.house.gov | norcross | https://norcross.house.gov/press-releases | page_html | WASHINGTON, DC – Today, U.S. Congressman Donald Norcross (NJ-01) released the following statement regarding the unanimous House passage of his legislation, H.R. 147, the Bringing Registered Apprenticeships to Veterans Education (BRAVE) Act: “We provide America’s servicemembers with world-class training to fulfill their responsibilities to our nation, and it is only right that we provide them with world-class opportunities as they transition back into civilian society,” said Congressman Donald Norcross, the author of the bill. “The men and women of the U.S. Armed Services are highly skilled and uniquely qualified for Registered Apprenticeships, which allow apprentices to earn while they learn and build toward a fulfilling career in a skilled trade.” According to the Department of Labor, 92% of apprentices who complete a Registered Apprenticeship retain employment, with an average annual salary of $72,000. For comparison, the average starting salary for a graduate of a traditional four-year college is around $55,000 a year. “Programs like Helmets to Hardhats act as pipelines for the veteran community into the skilled trades. But without the education and training piece, these vital career pathways aren’t being tapped to their fullest potential,” continued Norcross. “That’s why I’m proud the BRAVE Act passed today. It will bridge servicemembers to long-term, family-sustaining careers.” There are an estimated 3 million veterans who served in the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, many of whom are considered “prime working age” or between the ages of 25-54. The BRAVE Act provides servicemembers transitioning off active duty better access to information about and access to VA-certified registered apprenticeship programs. It also extends Post-9/11 GI Bill stipend benefits to participants in these registered apprenticeship programs. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-03-30T11:08:25Z |
| https://norcross.house.gov/press-releases?ID=7D514E5F-D26F-47E2-9F92-C2CA8E1DF5E0 | Rep. Norcross Statement on Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act Signing | 2021-11-15 | 2021 | 2021-11 | Democrat | House | NJ | Donald Norcross | N000188 | norcross.house.gov | norcross | https://norcross.house.gov/press-releases | page_html | WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Congressman Donald Norcross (NJ-01) released the following statement regarding his attendance of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act signing ceremony: “The Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act is going to help rebuild America and will create millions of good-paying jobs. And as I’ve said, the best social program is a good-paying job. Today marked a historic investment in America’s workforce, which will improve South Jersey’s roads, bridges, rail, ports, and build the first-ever national electric vehicle charging network. It expands reliable and high-speed internet to every household, and replaces lead water pipes, ensuring communities and schools have clean drinking water. The Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act will put South Jerseyans to work and enable everyone to get to work safely while reducing congestion for commuters. “I was honored to be present for the signing of this historic bill. I know the importance of large-scale infrastructure projects. As an IBEW union electrician, I worked on the Ben Franklin Bridge and PATCO, and those jobs allowed me to provide for my family. Infrastructure investment creates jobs and opportunities for our communities. But they also have a more fundamental impact: when we work to build bridges in our communities and in Congress, we deliver for the American people. That’s what rebuilding our infrastructure is about: creating jobs and building opportunities for people and our nation for generations to come.” Read how the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act delivers for New Jersey here. New Jersey Infrastructure Background The Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act meets critical needs for New Jersey. The American Society of Civil Engineers gave New Jersey infrastructure a grade of “D+.” In New Jersey 502 bridges and nearly 4,000 miles of highway are in poor condition. Poor road conditions cost the average New Jersey driver over $700 in vehicle repairs. Investments to expand broadband access will connect the 31% of New Jersey households … | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-03-30T11:08:25Z |
| https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-releases-resource-handbook-for-new-jersey-veterans | Booker Releases Resource Handbook for New Jersey Veterans | 2021-11-11 | 2021 | 2021-11 | Democrat | Senate | NJ | Cory A. Booker | B001288 | www.booker.senate.gov | booker | https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press | scraper | Newark, NJ - Today, U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) released a comprehensive resource guide for New Jersey veterans and their families. The handbook, accessible on Booker’s website here, includes added information on COVID-19 resources and VA benefits for conditions related to toxic exposure as well as information on health benefits, crisis support services, federal and state education programs, and employment resources. “As a nation, we must make sure that our veterans are given the resources, care, and support they need to succeed as they return to civilian life,” said Sen. Booker. “Ahead of Veterans Day, I am proud to release this handbook that provides the 400,000 veterans who call New Jersey home and their loved ones information on accessing critical services - from healthcare benefits, employment programs, to COVID-19 assistance.” | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T20:30:49Z |
| https://watsoncoleman.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/rep-watson-coleman-votes-to-pass-infrastructure-bill-and-advance-build-back-better-act | Rep. Watson Coleman Votes to Pass Infrastructure Bill and Advance Build Back Better Act | 2021-11-10 | 2021 | 2021-11 | Democrat | House | NJ | Bonnie Watson Coleman | W000822 | watsoncoleman.house.gov | watsoncoleman | https://watsoncoleman.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases | scraper | On Friday, under the leadership of President Biden, Congress delivered a long awaited “infrastructure week.” The Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, also known as the Bipartisan Infrastructure Deal, is a once-in-a generation investment that will modernize our nation’s infrastructure while creating millions of good-paying union jobs. The Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) will fund and jumpstart the manufacture of solar panels, wind farms, and electric vehicle charging stations to grow our clean energy supply chains and solidify the United States as a global leader in clean energy technology. Additionally, the act will put plumbers and pipefitters to work replacing lead pipes across the country to ensure safe drinking water. It will repair and modernize rails, roads, public transit and tunnels including funding the vitally important Gateway Tunnel project between New York and New Jersey linking the entire Northeast. New Jersey’s seaports and airports will also see the revitalization they need to continue to serve the region. Of utmost importance to New Jersey, the act will help build up our resilience to the damaging superstorms, flooding, and hurricanes that have impacted the state as we feel the effects of global climate change. As we continue to deliver on the critical needs for every American and working family, I am excited for the next opportunity with the “Build Back Better” agenda that extends more support to our struggling families, seniors, and children. My progressive colleagues and I have worked for months to ensure that despite zero support for BBB from Republicans, we’ve kept the bill moving forward while ensuring as many of the overwhelmingly popular and important priorities as possible were included. The agreement struck Friday night with Moderates to support this tremendous bill is a more tangible commitment than ever before and brings us that much closer to delivering for the American people. The Build Back Better Act will represent one of the greatest investments in American… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T20:30:49Z |
| https://watsoncoleman.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/watson-coleman-leads-letter-to-january-6th-select-committee-urging-them-to-move-swiftly-despite-resistance-from-witnesses | Watson Coleman Leads Letter to January 6th Select Committee Urging Them to Move Swiftly Despite Resistance from Witnesses | 2021-11-10 | 2021 | 2021-11 | Democrat | House | NJ | Bonnie Watson Coleman | W000822 | watsoncoleman.house.gov | watsoncoleman | https://watsoncoleman.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases | scraper | Today, Congresswoman Bonnie Watson Coleman (NJ-12) – Chair of the Subcommittee on Transportation & Maritime Security, along with six other members of the Homeland Security and Judiciary Committees, sent a letter to Congressman Bennie Thompson (MS-02) – Chair of the Select Committee to Investigate the January 6th Attack of the United States Capitol, calling on the Committee to continue its work despite recent resistance to subpoenas for witnesses and documents. The letter reads in part: As more time passes, we write to you and the Committee to say that this cannot be forgotten, or even normalized, and we must swiftly to bring justice and accountability to the perpetrators. We are thankful for the work you and the Committee have done thus far and ask that you continue to push for the answers we desperately need. The letter also requests that the committee look into the seeming discrepancy between the seriousness of the crimes and the leniency of charges. It also requests that all effort be taken by the Select Committee and other agencies and Departments to preserve all documentation and make them available to the public. | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T20:30:49Z |
| https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/on-eve-of-veterans-day-booker-klobuchar-announce-legislation-to-improve-access-to-mental-health-services-for-veterans | On Eve of Veterans Day, Booker, Klobuchar Announce Legislation to Improve Access to Mental Health Services for Veterans | 2021-11-10 | 2021 | 2021-11 | Democrat | Senate | NJ | Cory A. Booker | B001288 | www.booker.senate.gov | booker | https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press | scraper | Washington, D.C. - Today, U.S. Senators Cory Booker (D-NJ) and Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) announced the Vet CENTERS for Mental Health Act, legislation that would expand access to mental health services for veterans and their families. The bicameral bill would allow 10 additional states, including New Jersey and Minnesota, to be eligible for at least one additional Vet Center which would provide mental health counseling to veterans, survivors of military sexual assault, and Gold Star families. Companion legislation was earlier introduced in the House by Representatives Mikie Sherrill (NJ-11), Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-01), Anthony Gonzalez (OH-16), Dean Phillips (MN-03), and Gregorio Kilili Camacho Sablan (Northern Mariana Islands-At-Large). This legislation has been endorsed by The American Legion, the Veterans of Foreign Wars, Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America, the Service Women’s Action Network, and New Jersey SOS Veteran Stakeholder Group. “Vet Centers play a critical role in ensuring that our veterans and their families receive access to affordable and potentially lifesaving care, including vital mental health resources and gender specific services,” said Sen. Booker.“Unfortunately, as data shows, such centers are not always available in communities with high veteran populations. This bicameral legislation will help expand Vet Center services in several states, allowing more of our nation’s veterans to receive the VA care they have earned and deserve.” “Our veterans have sacrificed for our country, and we need to repay this service by providing access to care that meets their unique needs, whether that be mental health needs or readjustment counseling,” said Sen. Klobuchar. “The VA estimates that about 11 to 20 out of every 100 Iraq and Afghanistan veterans have been diagnosed with potential symptoms of PTSD, making it all the more crucial that we ensure every veteran has access to Vet Center services, regardless of where they live. I am proud to partner with Senator Booker on this legislation to prioritize th… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T20:30:49Z |
| https://watsoncoleman.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/rep-watson-coleman-announces-more-than-112-million-to-help-new-jersey-families-cover-energy-costs-this-winter | Rep. Watson Coleman Announces More than $112 Million to Help New Jersey Families Cover Energy Costs This Winter | 2021-11-09 | 2021 | 2021-11 | Democrat | House | NJ | Bonnie Watson Coleman | W000822 | watsoncoleman.house.gov | watsoncoleman | https://watsoncoleman.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases | scraper | Investment Will Help Hardworking Families Afford Heating, Utility Costs and Energy Repairs Today, Congresswoman Bonnie Watson Coleman (NJ-12) announced $112,718,824 to help hardworking New Jersey families with energy costs this winter through the Department of Health and Human Services’ Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP). As American’s continue to deal with the impacts of the pandemic, LIHEAP grantees will be able to use the funding appropriated by Congress, along with funding made available through the American Rescue Plan Act, to help more than 5 million households stay warm this winter, cover utility costs and pay for energy repairs. Local families who need assistance should contact Mr. Fidel Ekhelar at (609) 984-6670 or Fidel.ekhelar@dca.nj.gov. “Between the pandemic and Hurricanes Henri and Ida, this year has been historically challenging for New Jerseyans,” said Watson Coleman. “As hardworking New Jersey families continue recovering from a difficult year, this investment will help them cover their energy costs and stay warm, safe and healthy this winter.” The LIHEAP allocations are in addition to the funding New Jersey families received in May from the American Rescue Plan to help cover energy costs during the summer months. | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T20:30:49Z |
| https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-releases-open-enrollment-resource-guide-for-new-jerseyans | Booker Releases Open Enrollment Resource Guide for New Jerseyans | 2021-11-09 | 2021 | 2021-11 | Democrat | Senate | NJ | Cory A. Booker | B001288 | www.booker.senate.gov | booker | https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press | scraper | Newark, NJ - Today, U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) released a Health Insurance Marketplace Open Enrollment Resource Guide for New Jerseyans. The guide, accessible here, includes information on health insurance plans available through the marketplace, financial assistance options, and the enrollment process. New Jersey uses a state-based exchange, Get Covered New Jersey, to provide health insurance to residents. Also, as a result of the American Rescue Plan Act, which President Biden signed into law in March 2021, more New Jerseyans will have access to subsidies that will make their health coverage even more affordable in 2022. New Jerseyans can enroll in a health insurance plan for themselves and their loved ones during the Open Enrollment Period that runs from November 1, 2021, to January 31, 2022. | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T20:30:49Z |
| https://norcross.house.gov/press-releases?ID=02186B8E-4B81-49BC-BCCD-4DC753D898D2 | Rep. Norcross Statement on House Infrastructure Vote | 2021-11-05 | 2021 | 2021-11 | Democrat | House | NJ | Donald Norcross | N000188 | norcross.house.gov | norcross | https://norcross.house.gov/press-releases | page_html | WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Congressman Donald Norcross (NJ-01) released the following statement regarding his vote in the House of Representatives to pass H.R. 3684, the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act: “The best social program is a good-paying job, and today the Democratic majority in the House voted to make historic and long-overdue investments in infrastructure that will create millions of jobs for hardworking families. Every stretch of asphalt, every concrete pillar, and every mile of broadband will help rebuild our economy, help South Jersey families put food on the table, pay for their child’s education, and meet their everyday needs. “By building America’s infrastructure, workers will rebuild their communities and local economies. They will receive more than just a paycheck. Whether they are welders, builders, or electricians, they’ll receive stability in what has been an incredibly stressful 19 months. This bill invests in America’s future by connecting businesses to market and working people to opportunity. That’s what rebuilding our infrastructure is about: creating jobs and building opportunities for people and our nation for generations to come.” Congressman Norcross, who is an electrician by trade and rose through the ranks of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers before being elected to Congress, also supports the Build Back Better Act, which includes equally important investments in America’s middle class. He added: “The Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act is an incredible first step, but our work will not be done until we pass the Build Back Better Act. The Build Back Better Act invests in support infrastructure like affordable child care, among other vital investments, to make jobs accessible. I was once a young, single dad, raising my son and working on construction sites. I know how important child care is to hold down a job. To build back better and deliver for the American people, we must pass the Build Back Better Act.” Background The Infrastructure Investment and Jo… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-03-30T11:08:25Z |
| https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-celebrates-four-months-of-child-tax-credit-payments-to-nj-families | Booker Celebrates Four Months of Child Tax Credit Payments to NJ Families | 2021-11-04 | 2021 | 2021-11 | Democrat | Senate | NJ | Cory A. Booker | B001288 | www.booker.senate.gov | booker | https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press | scraper | WASHINGTON, DC - Today, U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) highlighted the transformative impact that four months of Child Tax Credit (CTC) payments have had on New Jersey families. Since monthly payments were first issued in July, nationally, the CTC has provided historic economic relief for nearly 39 million households, covering almost 90 percent of children in the country, and setting the U.S. on course to cut child poverty by half. Statistics from the Treasury Department and IRS show that $1,552,834,000 in CTC payments was awarded to New Jersey families from July to October, with more than 1.6 million New Jersey children being covered in October alone. “Four months ago, families across the United States received their first child tax credit payments, a historic investment in the lives of working people that has helped struggling parents put food on the table, cover child care costs, and buy school supplies,” said Sen. Booker. “In New Jersey specifically, this transformative policy has been a lifeline for the 14% of children who lived in poverty prior to the pandemic, helping change life trajectories and positioning our state for stronger economic growth. I am especially encouraged to see President Biden’s Build Back Better framework include an extension of these payments.” | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T20:30:49Z |
| https://norcross.house.gov/press-releases?ID=B29898DD-85BD-40A5-A420-B098819C633E | Rep. Norcross Announces $625,000 Grant for Youth Mentorship Program | 2021-11-03 | 2021 | 2021-11 | Democrat | House | NJ | Donald Norcross | N000188 | norcross.house.gov | norcross | https://norcross.house.gov/press-releases | page_html | CAMDEN, NJ – U.S. Congressman Donald Norcross (NJ-01) announced today that the Center for Family Services (CFS), located in Camden, will receive a $625,000 grant from the Department of Justice for a youth mentorship program targeted at those affected by the opioid crisis and drug addiction. The program, titled “Legacy Through Leadership,” will offer one-on-one and group mentoring to youth in Camden and Gloucester counties currently abusing or addicted to drugs, at risk for abusing drugs, and/or have family members who are currently abusing or addicted to drugs. “Supporting our most vulnerable community members means providing resources for the children and families impacted by the opioid crisis and drug addiction,” said Congressman Norcross. “I’m hopeful that these federal resources will help change lives here in South Jersey. We will continue to work with our neighborhood partners to address the needs of all those in our community battling the disease of addiction or impacted by it, and I look forward to seeing how this funding positively impact our families and children in South Jersey by giving them the tools to succeed.” “There continues to be a great need for recovery support services, and this grant award from the Department of Justice will open the door to high-impact services,” said Richard Stagliano, President & CEO at Center For Family Services. “Thanks to this important federal funding, youth will have access to trauma-informed counseling services, one-to-one mentoring, and group mentoring to support a pathway to recovery.” According to the Department of Justice, Camden and Gloucester counties have seen an overall increase in drug-related hospital and overdose facility visits since 2008. This funding will allow CFS to recruit at least 62 mentors, of which at least 50 will be trained, accepted, and paired with youth. Recognizing the underlying individual, family, and community traumas that many youths served have lived through, “Legacy Through Leadership” will also pair mentoring with voluntary traum… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-03-30T11:08:25Z |
| https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-colleagues-urge-dot-to-implement-regulations-to-detect-and-reduce-methane-leaks | Booker, Colleagues Urge DOT to Implement Regulations to Detect and Reduce Methane Leaks | 2021-10-29 | 2021 | 2021-10 | Democrat | Senate | NJ | Cory A. Booker | B001288 | www.booker.senate.gov | booker | https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) led a letter with 11 colleagues urging the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) and the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) to issue strong regulations to help reduce methane leaks within our natural gas pipeline system. Specifically, the Senators urged DOT and PHMSA to require advanced methane leak detection technologies that effectively detect and address harmful greenhouse gas emissions, an important step in implementing the PIPES Act of 2020 which Congress passed last year. “Leaks in natural gas gathering, transmission, storage, processing and distribution threaten public health and our environment and cost industry substantial amounts in escaped methane,” the Senators wrote to DOTSecretary Pete Buttigieg. “Methane is more than 80 times as potent as carbon dioxide and drives near-term greenhouse gas emission trends. A 2018 study published in Science found that the volume of natural gas leaking from across the natural gas supply chain would be enough to fuel 10 million homes and isworth an estimated $2 billion per year – and these estimates do not include the significant air quality and climate benefits associated with abating these methane emissions.” The Senators continued, “The first step to fixing methane leaks is finding them. Fortunately, effective technologies now exist to detect, locate, and quantify natural gas leaks quickly and accurately. Enabling swift, broad deployment of this technology will keep our communities safer, our air cleaner, and our greenhouse gas emissions lower. That is why in December 2020, Congress reauthorized the PIPES Act and required PHMSA to create minimum performance standards for leak detection and repair that reflect the capabilities of commercially-available advanced leak detection technologies.” “We are urging the Department of Transportation and PHMSA to take quick action to complete this rulemaking process and issue strong regulations that will enhance pipeline safety and reduce h… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T20:24:51Z |
| https://norcross.house.gov/press-releases?ID=C473D5EE-89B0-4AD1-8B43-6C29BD2A1A43 | Norcross Announces $5.2M from Department of Defense for National Security Research at Rowan | 2021-10-28 | 2021 | 2021-10 | Democrat | House | NJ | Donald Norcross | N000188 | norcross.house.gov | norcross | https://norcross.house.gov/press-releases | page_html | GLASSBORO, NJ – U.S. Congressman Donald Norcross (NJ-01) announced today that the Army Corps of Engineers-Department of Defense (DoD) has awarded a $5.2 million grant to Rowan University’s Center for Research and Education in Advanced Transportation Engineering Systems (CREATES), the center’s single largest award to date, to help the United States protect its national security interests in the Arctic region. “Rowan University is making its mark as a hub of innovation and research,” said Congressman Donald Norcross, who recently visited CREATES’ research facilities. “The development of new materials and methods for cold-weather construction is essential for our national security and will be broadly applicable as we continue our work to address climate change. I am proud that the next generation of engineers are playing a key role in these vital research programs right here in New Jersey.” Working in partnership with two labs from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers’ Engineering Research and Development Center (ERDC), the Cold Regions Research and Engineering Laboratory (CRREL) and the Geotechnical and Structural Laboratory (GSL), CREATES is developing innovative construction materials for cold regions. Since CREATES opened in 2016, its researchers have earned nearly $17 million in grant funding and equipment from the Department of Defense encompassing 23 projects. The newest two-year grant funds the continued research and development of new technologies and paving materials for bridges, roads and airstrips for a cold-weather region undergoing rapid climate change. “New technologies and materials will facilitate a quick and safe deployment of troops and the establishment of military bases in the Arctic region,” said Dr. Yusuf Mehta, civil and environmental engineering professor in the Henry M. Rowan College of Engineering and director of CREATES. “Eventually, these projects will serve as a major step toward securing our northern borders and securing Arctic infrastructure.” The grant-funded work also provides hand… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-03-30T11:08:25Z |
| https://norcross.house.gov/press-releases?ID=DC3A8618-799B-4238-8889-7CD079A05A8B | Rep. Norcross Announces Resolution Supporting Workers’ Rights | 2021-10-28 | 2021 | 2021-10 | Democrat | House | NJ | Donald Norcross | N000188 | norcross.house.gov | norcross | https://norcross.house.gov/press-releases | page_html | WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Congressman Donald Norcross (NJ-01) announced the introduction of a House Resolution expressing solidarity with workers across the country who have raised their voices to demand adequate pay, retirement benefits, and safer working conditions. “I want every working person in this country to know – be they a machinist on the picket line or a barista organizing a union drive – that I stand with them,” said Congressman Donald Norcross. “Despite large corporations turning huge profits on the backs of workers, too many workers are not being rewarded with family-sustaining wages or benefits. It’s time to put the American worker at the heart of federal policymaking. I urge my colleagues in the House – from both parties – to sign onto my resolution and pledge to pass pro-worker legislation.” Congressman Norcross, a graduate of an IBEW Registered Apprenticeship and a member of the House Education and Labor Committee, announced the resolution at a press conference organized by Jobs With Justice, the National Women’s Law Center, and Teamsters Union, where labor leaders and members of Congress spoke to the importance of passing the Protecting the Right to Organize (PRO) Act. The PRO Act would create a pathway to union membership for millions of American workers and was passed by the House over 230 days ago but has not yet been brought to a vote in the Senate. “Sixty million non-unionized workers in America would join a union today if they could. Unfortunately, because of illegal intimidation tactics from employers, many won’t ever have the chance to vote for union membership,” added Congressman Norcross. “The PRO Act will level the playing field for hard-working people and corporations that have immense resources to intimidate, disrupt, and suppress labor organizing. Our labor laws haven’t been updated since 1975, and it’s time to put the law on the side of the average worker and start holding large corporations accountable for illegal and unfair behavior.” The month of October has been dubbed “Str… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-03-30T11:08:25Z |
| https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-peters-lead-21-senators-to-urge-interior-department-to-place-emergency-protections-on-gray-wolves | Booker, Peters Lead 21 Senators to Urge Interior Department to Place Emergency Protections on Gray Wolves | 2021-10-28 | 2021 | 2021-10 | Democrat | Senate | NJ | Cory A. Booker | B001288 | www.booker.senate.gov | booker | https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senators Cory Booker (D-NJ) and Gary Peters (D-MI) led 21 of their colleagues in urging the U.S. Department of Interior to issue an emergency listing to restore temporary federal Endangered Species Act (ESA) protections to the gray wolf in the western United States. The letter comes on the heels of the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service initiation of a comprehensive status review of the gray wolf in the western United States as well as the recent enactment of dangerous wolf eradication policies in several states including Idaho and Montana. “If continued unabated for this hunting season, these extreme wolf eradication policies will result in the death of hundreds of gray wolves and will further harm federally protected ecosystems like Yellowstone,” the Senators wrote to Secretary of Department of Interior Deb Haaland. “The Department of the Interior can prevent these senseless killings, and we urge you to immediately establish emergency interim protections while the Service completes its status review. The Senators continued, “As you know, wolves are an integral component of North American ecosystems. More than 600 scientists have written to request emergency relisting of the Northern Rockies wolf population, precisely because wolves’ role in maintaining healthy ecosystems is being jeopardized by the policies now being implemented by Idaho, Montana, and Wyoming. As the scientists note, ‘Without the presence of key species in numbers, we are merely conserving scenery and not functioning ecosystems.’ “Given the above, we urge you to immediately issue an emergency listing to establish temporary federal protections for gray wolves. An emergency listing, which extends for 240 days, will prevent more wolves from being killed before the Service makes a determination about whether relisting is warranted. Furthermore, as part of its status review, we respectfully request that the Service both engage in meaningful tribal consultation and consider the impacts of state-level policies like those in… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T20:24:51Z |
| https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/senators-booker-braun-announce-subcommittee-hearing-on-the-state-of-nutrition-in-america-in-2021 | Senators Booker, Braun Announce Subcommittee Hearing on the State of Nutrition in America in 2021 | 2021-10-27 | 2021 | 2021-10 | Democrat | Senate | NJ | Cory A. Booker | B001288 | www.booker.senate.gov | booker | https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press | scraper | Washington, D.C. - U.S. Senators Cory Booker (D-NJ), Chairman of the U.S. Senate Agriculture Subcommittee on Food and Nutrition, Specialty Crops, Organics, and Research, and Mike Braun (R-IN), Ranking Member, today announced that the subcommittee will hold a hearing entitled “The State of Nutrition in America 2021.” WHEN: Tuesday, November 2nd, 2021 at 10:00 A.M. ET WHERE: 216 Hart Senate Office Building WHO: Dr. Dariush Mozaffarian, Dean, Friedman School of Nutrition Science & Policy, Tufts University, Boston, MA Dr. Angela Odoms-Young, Associate Professor, Director, Food and Nutrition Education in Communities Program and NYS Expanded Food and Nutrition Education Program (EFNEP), Division of Nutritional Sciences, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY Dr. Donald Warne, Associate Dean, Director, Indians into Medicine (INMED) & Public Health Programs, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of North Dakota, Grand Forks, ND Dr. Patrick Stover, Dean and Vice Chancellor for Agriculture and Life Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX Ms. Angela Rachidi, Senior Fellow and Rowe Scholar, American Enterprise Institute (AEI), Washington, D.C. ***The Committee will follow guidelines developed in consultation with the Office of the Attending Physician, the Senate Sergeant at Arms, and the Senate Rules Committee to protect the health of members, staff, and the public. This includes maintaining six-foot social distance spacing in the hearing room as well as wearing a mask or face covering. Pursuant to this guidance, Senate office buildings are not open to the public other than official business visitors and credentialed press at this time. Accordingly, the general public will not be allowed to attend the hearing. MEDIA GUIDANCE: Congressionally-credentialed members of the media wishing to attend the hearing should RSVP to their respective gallery by 5:00 p.m. on November 1, 2021. Editorial presence will be limited due to social distancing requirements. Questions about coverage should be directed to… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T20:24:51Z |
| https://watsoncoleman.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/rep-watson-coleman-reintroduces-customer-non-discrimination-act | Rep. Watson Coleman Reintroduces Customer Non-Discrimination Act | 2021-10-26 | 2021 | 2021-10 | Democrat | House | NJ | Bonnie Watson Coleman | W000822 | watsoncoleman.house.gov | watsoncoleman | https://watsoncoleman.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases | scraper | Bill would add sexual orientation, sex, and gender identity to the prohibitions on discrimination covered by the Civil Rights Act of 1964 Today, Congresswoman Bonnie Watson Coleman (NJ-12) reintroduced the Customer Non-Discrimination Act, legislation that ensures fair treatment for LGBTQ Americans in public spaces and commercial services open to the public. The bill, also included as a provision of the Equality Act in 2020, adds sexual orientation, sex, and gender identity to the prohibitions on discrimination covered by the Civil Rights Act of 1964. “We’ve come a long way in the fight for equality irrespective of what we look like or who we love, especially in states like New Jersey. But too many LGBTQ Americans still risk being fired, refused housing, or even denied healthcare just because of who they are,” said Watson Coleman. “This bill would prevent that, making it so that spaces like restaurants, banks, retail stores and hotels cannot refuse to serve LGBTQ people.” “The Customer Non-Discrimination Act is an important step in providing fair treatment for LGBTQ+ Americans in every public space across the country,” said Maloney. “Too many LGBTQ+ people are at risk of being fired, refused housing, or denied healthcare simply because of who they love or how they express their gender. Restaurants, hotels, stores, and other public spaces and commercial services should NOT be able to refuse service due to a person’s sexual orientation or gender identity. I want to thank Congresswoman Watson Coleman for leading the charge on this important issue, so that all LGBTQ+ Americans can be treated fairly in public spaces.” “I join Rep. Watson Coleman on this important legislation to prevent restaurants, banks, retail stores, and hotels from refusing to serve LGBTQ+ Americans,” McCollum said. “Our LGBTQ+ neighbors continue to face discrimination, and we need to establish protections to ensure fairness and equality for all.” The Customer Non-Discrimination Act, first introduced by Watson Coleman in 2015, amends the Civil… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T20:24:51Z |
| https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-braun-mcgovern-and-walorski-introduce-bipartisan-bicameral-bill-that-would-convene-a-white-house-conference-on-food-nutrition-hunger-and-health | Booker, Braun, McGovern, and Walorski Introduce Bipartisan, Bicameral Bill That Would Convene a White House Conference on Food, Nutrition, Hunger and Health | 2021-10-26 | 2021 | 2021-10 | Democrat | Senate | NJ | Cory A. Booker | B001288 | www.booker.senate.gov | booker | https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press | scraper | WASHINGTON, DC – Today, U.S. Senators Cory Booker (D-NJ) and Mike Braun (R-IN) and U.S. Representatives James P. McGovern (D-MA) and Jackie Walorski (R-IN) introduced a bipartisan, bicameral bill that would convene a second national White House conference on food, nutrition, hunger, and health. The first such conference occurred just over 50 years ago, culminating in the creation and expansion of programs such as the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children (WIC), and the National School Breakfast and Lunch Program. The proposed second conference would take a whole-of-government approach to ending hunger and combatting nutrition insecurity in America, featuring diverse voices and those with lived experience. The conference would also explore weaknesses within the current food system, highlighting the fragility created by hyper-consolidation that has led to fewer choices for consumers and economic insecurity for farmers, ranchers, and rural communities, many of which are now considered food deserts. “Fifty years ago, our nation convened a conference to address the widespread hunger crisis in America, leading to the creation and expansion of programs such as WIC and the National School Breakfast and Lunch Program,” said Sen. Booker. “Despite the progress made, America is grappling with a hunger crisis and now faces a second crisis—one of nutrition insecurity—that is plaguing our nation and hindering the success of our nation’s youth as a result of decades-long policy failures in our food system. This bicameral, bipartisan legislation will, in the spirit of 50 years ago, convene a second conference of advocates, healthcare professionals, and farmers and ranchers to address the failures and inequities of our broken food system that is poisoning our communities and preventing us from achieving true justice.” “The time has come to address our nation’s food insecurity with a bipartisan, commonsense approach. There is no reason that mi… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T20:24:51Z |
| https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-menendez-applaud-confirmation-of-karen-m-williams-to-us-district-court-for-new-jersey | Booker, Menendez Applaud Confirmation of Karen M. Williams to U.S. District Court for New Jersey | 2021-10-26 | 2021 | 2021-10 | Democrat | Senate | NJ | Cory A. Booker | B001288 | www.booker.senate.gov | booker | https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press | scraper | WASHINGTON, DC – Today, U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-N.J), a member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, and Senator Bob Menendez (D-N.J.) applauded the Senate’s confirmation of Karen M. Williams to the United States District Court for the District of New Jersey. “Judge Williams has had a long and distinguished legal career defending the rights of workers and has a deep understanding of the issues facing the people of New Jersey,” said Senator Booker. “Judge Williams is eminently qualified to serve on the United States District Court for the District of New Jersey, and I know that she will bring fairness, impartiality, and a commitment to applying justice equally to the federal bench. This is a historic confirmation—she is the first African-American federal judge confirmed by the Senate to sit in the federal courthouse in Camden, New Jersey. I am proud of her confirmation today.” “Judge Karen M. Williams is a thoughtful and intelligent legal mind and her unique experience as a human resources professional, trial attorney, and magistrate judge make her eminently qualified to serve on the U.S. District Court of New Jersey,” said Senator Menendez. “I’m incredibly proud that she is the first Senate-confirmed African American and person of color to sit in the U.S. District courthouse in Camden, N.J. I am confident that she will not only administer equal justice under the law, but serve the people of New Jersey with distinction. I thank President Biden for selecting a stellar nominee who reflects the values and diversity of the great state of New Jersey.” Karen M. Williams has served as a U.S. Magistrate Judge for the U.S. District Court in the District of New Jersey since 2009. Judge Williams also currently serves as an adjunct professor at Rowan University in Glassboro, New Jersey. Prior to her appointment, Judge Williams spent 17 years in private practice at Jasinski & Williams, P.C. in Atlantic City, New Jersey. Judge Williams’s work focused on employment law, including litigation in state and federal courts and be… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T20:24:51Z |
| https://norcross.house.gov/press-releases?ID=282458A0-D2F2-405F-93C3-97E243030400 | Rep. Norcross Announces More Than $2.1 Million to Modernize South Jersey Health Centers and Support Underserved Communities | 2021-10-22 | 2021 | 2021-10 | Democrat | House | NJ | Donald Norcross | N000188 | norcross.house.gov | norcross | https://norcross.house.gov/press-releases | page_html | CHERRY HILL, NJ – Today, U.S. Congressman Donald Norcross (NJ-01) announced that thanks to the American Rescue Plan, three South Jersey federally qualified health care centers (FQHCs) will receive a total of $2,119,607 from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to fund COVID-19 and primary health care infrastructure needs in medically underserved communities. Specifically, South Jersey FQHCs will receive: $922,272 to CAMcare Health Corporation, which has provided health care to Camden and Gloucester counties since 1978. $661,535 to Osborn Family Health Center, which provides patients with access to primary health care. $535,800 to Project H.O.P.E., which specializes in the health and well-being of homeless residents in Camden. “Everyone deserves access to quality health care, and community health centers ensure there’s access for the most vulnerable members of our community,” said Congressman Norcross. “This funding from the American Rescue Plan will allow community health centers to build, renovate, or expand facilities and purchase state-of-the-art equipment to enhance pandemic response in communities hit especially hard by COVID-19.” “We appreciate the hard work Congressman Norcross put in to secure the Health Center Infrastructure Support grant for CAMcare Health,” said Mark Roberts, President and CEO of CAMcare Health. “We will utilize these monies to improve the quality of service to our communities. Our Clementon facility, in particular, will be modernized using these funds.” “The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), American Rescue Plan – Health Center Construction and Capital Improvements (ARP-Capital, C8E) one-time funding will enable Project H.O.P.E. to make alterations and renovations at the West Street Health Center to provide workspace for COVID vaccines, testing and support quality clinical activities and telehealth visits,” said Patricia DeShields, CEO of Project H.O.P.E.. “This renovation funding will ensu… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-03-30T11:08:25Z |
| https://watsoncoleman.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/watson-coleman-reintroduces-the-gig-is-up-act-to-combat-exploitation-of-gig-economy-workers | Watson Coleman Reintroduces The Gig Is Up Act to Combat Exploitation of Gig Economy Workers | 2021-10-22 | 2021 | 2021-10 | Democrat | House | NJ | Bonnie Watson Coleman | W000822 | watsoncoleman.house.gov | watsoncoleman | https://watsoncoleman.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases | scraper | Today, Congresswoman Bonnie Watson Coleman (NJ-12) reintroduced the Gig Is Up Act, which would provide unprecedented relief for gig workers. The bill would require companies that gross at least $100 million and employ at least 10,000 independent contractors to pay the full cost of both the employer and worker contributions to Social Security and Medicare. “Companies like Uber are worth billions of dollars, yet they refuse to treat their workers humanely. This is exploitation, pure and simple,” said Watson Coleman. “We’re seeing the start of a new American labor movement, and gig workers are demanding the same level of dignity being called for by traditional employees. I support them in this struggle. I’m proud to reintroduce a bill that would provide gig workers with some financial security and let them work with dignity.” “For too long, large companies and multinational corporations have taken advantage of workers based on their classification as independent contractors," said Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky. "Today we say the gig is up! I am proud to join my friend and colleague Congresswoman Bonnie Watson Coleman in introducing the Gig is Up Act to ensure that companies prioritize people over profits by paying workers fair compensation and providing the benefits that they have earned." “For too long billion-dollar companies have profited off the backs of gig workers struggling to make ends meet, especially as many took unprecedented risks to try and do so amid the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Congresswoman Rashida Tlaib. “We’ve waited long enough for such companies to put people before profits. It’s time to compel them to so that gig workers are given the same opportunity to thrive as any other worker in this country. That’s why I couldn’t be prouder to cosponsor Congresswoman Watson Coleman’s reintroduction of this critical piece of legislation.” “For more than a year, gig workers have been on the front lines of the pandemic, helping us shop, get takeout, or drive us to where we need to be. But the multibillion … | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T20:24:51Z |
| https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-underwood-adams-kelly-and-beatty-urge-president-biden-speaker-pelosi-and-leader-schumer-to-include-critical-investments-to-advance-maternal-health-equity-in-final-build-back-better-package | Booker, Underwood, Adams, Kelly, and Beatty Urge President Biden, Speaker Pelosi, and Leader Schumer to Include Critical Investments to Advance Maternal Health Equity in Final Build Back Better Package | 2021-10-22 | 2021 | 2021-10 | Democrat | Senate | NJ | Cory A. Booker | B001288 | www.booker.senate.gov | booker | https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press | scraper | WASHINGTON, DC – In a letter to President Joe Biden, House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, and Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) and Representatives Lauren Underwood (IL-14), Alma Adams (NC-12), Robin Kelly (IL-02), and Congressional Black Caucus Chair Joyce Beatty (OH-03) pushed to ensure that investments from the Black Maternal Health Momnibus Act are included in full in the final Build Back Better package. The group also urged the leaders to build on the critical progress made through the American Rescue Plan Act by investing in the permanent expansion of yearlong postpartum Medicaid coverage in every state. “Permanently expanding postpartum Medicaid coverage and advancing comprehensive investments in the Momnibus will uphold a principle that is fundamental to the Build Back Better Plan: that in America, every family has a right to thrive—a principle that begins with a safe and healthy pregnancy and birth. We must include these critical maternal health equity investments in the final Build Back Better reconciliation package,” they wrote. If passed, the Momnibus and postpartum Medicaid provisions in the Build Back Better package would be historic investments to save moms’ lives, end racial and ethnic maternal health disparities, and advance birth equity across the United States. The letter echoes previous outreach to Leadership by more than 160 Members of the House and Senate advocating for the inclusion of the Momnibus and yearlong postpartum Medicaid coverage in a reconciliation package. The United States has the highest rate of pregnancy-related mortality among high-income countries, and the only rate that is rising. Maternal mortality rates for Black and Native Americans are 2-4 times higher than rates for white Americans, and Hispanic and AAPI people also experience disproportionately high rates of maternal mortality and morbidity. The Black Maternal Health Momnibus Act includes 12 bills to build on postpartum Medicaid coverage expansion and comprehensively address the drivers of th… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T20:24:51Z |
| https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-wicker-introduce-legislation-to-better-measure-future-precipitation-amounts | Booker, Wicker Introduce Legislation to Better Measure Future Precipitation Amounts | 2021-10-22 | 2021 | 2021-10 | Democrat | Senate | NJ | Cory A. Booker | B001288 | www.booker.senate.gov | booker | https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Senators Cory Booker (D-NJ) and Roger Wicker (R-MS) today introduced the Providing Research and Estimates of Changes in Precipitation Act, or PRECIP Act, legislation that would update out-of-date precipitation data in the U.S. by providing the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) with funding and guidance to conduct future research. The PRECIP Act would also direct NOAA to studythe ongoing changes in precipitation that will help communities better prepare for extreme weather and flooding events and to work with the National Academies to complete a consensus study on the best practices for estimating precipitation. Companion legislation was introduced in the House earlier this year by Rep. Mikie Sherrill (D-NJ-11). “We must take every step possible to protect our communities from the increasing frequency of disasters like the historic flooding and rainfall New Jersey experienced this summer from the remnants of Hurricane Ida,” said Sen. Booker. “This bipartisan bill would provide NOAA with vital funding to consult with partner organizations and conduct studies to modernize and improve our nation’s precipitation data, which is needed now more than ever as communities in New Jersey and across the country face the realities of climate change and extreme weather. The new data will be especially useful as we invest in climate-resilient infrastructure to strengthen and safeguard our communities.” “Flooding regularly puts American lives and property at risk, resulting in billions of dollars in economic losses each year,” said Sen. Wicker. “One threat from flooding is dam failure, and in Mississippi there are hundreds of state-regulated dams with a high hazard potential. Forty-two of these dams have failed and nine others have been drained. We need better data to help flood control managers improve dam safety and to update methods used to estimate the risk of failure.” Specifically, the PRECIP Act requires NOAA to: Update precipitation frequency estimates for the United States… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T20:24:51Z |
| https://watsoncoleman.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/reps-watson-coleman-barbara-lee-schiff-jones-reintroduce-prep-assistance-program-act | Reps. Watson Coleman, Barbara Lee, Schiff, Jones Reintroduce PrEP Assistance Program Act | 2021-10-15 | 2021 | 2021-10 | Democrat | House | NJ | Bonnie Watson Coleman | W000822 | watsoncoleman.house.gov | watsoncoleman | https://watsoncoleman.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases | scraper | Today, Representatives Bonnie Watson Coleman (NJ-12), Barbara Lee (CA-13), Adam Schiff (CA-28) and Mondaire Jones (NY-17) reintroduced the PrEP Assistance Program Act to make the preventative HIV drug PrEP more affordable and accessible to underserved and high-risk populations. The bill would provide grants to cover medication costs, clinic and testing fees, physician visits and community outreach programs. Although PrEP has been available for several years, many Americans lack access to and awareness of the medication. The PrEP access gap is especially prevalent in Black and Latinx communities, who also suffer from disproportionately high rates of HIV. “Thanks to decades of scientific advancement, we now have the tools to end the HIV epidemic once and for all. The next step is getting those tools into the communities that need them most,” said Congresswoman Watson Coleman. “This is not just a public health issue — it’s a social justice issue too. The PrEP Assistance Program Act is an important step toward both eliminating HIV and advancing healthcare equity.” “As the founding Co-Chair of the bipartisan and bicameral Congressional HIV/AIDS Caucus, I am proud to join Reps. Bonnie Watson Coleman, Adam Schiff and Mondaire Jones for the introduction of the PrEP Assistance Program Act. While we have made great strides over the last 40 years in the fight to end the HIV/AIDS epidemic, more people are living longer with HIV than ever before,” said Congresswoman Lee. “But despite the rate of diagnoses decreasing due to federal investments in HIV/AIDS research, prevention, education and care, Black Americans, Latinos, Asians, American Indians, Alaska Natives, Native Hawaiians and other Pacific Islanders are still disproportionately affected by HIV in the United States. The PrEP Assistance Program Act would help address gaps in access to PrEP, support existing PrEP Assistance Programs and create new programs in communities most in need of PrEP to prevent the spread of HIV.” “Because of the advancement in PrEP, we have t… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T20:24:51Z |
| https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-cardin-portman-and-young-urge-more-countries-to-engage-with-israel-following-historic-face-to-face-meetings-with-uae | Booker, Cardin, Portman, and Young Urge More Countries to Engage with Israel Following Historic Face-to-Face Meetings with UAE | 2021-10-13 | 2021 | 2021-10 | Democrat | Senate | NJ | Cory A. Booker | B001288 | www.booker.senate.gov | booker | https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press | scraper | WASHINGTON – Cory Booker (D-N.J.), U.S. Senators Ben Cardin (D-Md.), Rob Portman (R-Ohio), and Todd Young (R-Ind.), all members of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, released the following statement on Wednesday’s meeting between the foreign ministers of Israel and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) at the U.S. Department of State. The senators are the lead sponsors of S. 1061, the Israel Relations Normalization Act of 2021, which has 69 sponsors/cosponsors. “Today, we witnessed an historic milestone as Secretary Blinken hosted Israeli Foreign Minister Yair Lapid and UAE Foreign Minister Sheikh Abdullah Bin Zayed Al Nahyan to discuss progress made since the signing of the Abraham Accords last year, future opportunities for collaboration, and bilateral issues including regional security and stability. This joint meeting with the UAE and Israel would have been impossible prior to the signing of the Abraham Accords,” the senators said. “As the lead authors of the Israel Relations Normalization Act of 2021, we hope to continue to build on the success of the Abraham Accords and expand normalization agreements. The countries that signed the Abraham Accords have demonstrated global leadership and embraced a new path for the future of their nations. Progress on economic, political and security cooperation can only be made through meaningful and face-to-face engagements, and we hope to see many more of these meetings in the future. | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T20:24:51Z |
| https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-warren-call-on-doj-to-decriminalize-cannabis | Booker, Warren Call on DOJ to Decriminalize Cannabis | 2021-10-08 | 2021 | 2021-10 | Democrat | Senate | NJ | Cory A. Booker | B001288 | www.booker.senate.gov | booker | https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press | scraper | Washington, DC - United States Senators Cory Booker (D-NJ) and Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) sent a letter to Attorney General Merrick Garland urging the Department of Justice (DOJ) to decriminalize cannabis by removing the drug from the Federal controlled substances list. Under the Controlled Substances Act of 1970 (CSA), the Attorney General can remove a substance from the CSA’s list, in consultation with the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS), based on the finding that it does not have the potential for abuse. Decriminalizing cannabis at the federal level via this descheduling process would allow states to regulate cannabis as they see fit, begin to remedy the harm caused by decades of racial disparities in enforcement of cannabis laws, and facilitate valuable medical research. “While Congress works to pass comprehensive cannabis reform, you can act now to decriminalize cannabis,” wrote Senators Booker and Warren. The vast majority of the country supports decriminalization of cannabis: approximately 91% of adults in the United States believe that cannabis should be legal for medical and recreational use, or for medical use only. To date, thirty-six states, four territories, and the District of Columbia have legalized cannabis for medicinal purposes, and eighteen states, two territories, and the District of Columbia have legalized cannabis for adult recreational use. These state-level legalizations have not caused spikes in traffic accidents or violent crime, or use by teenagers, paving the way for much-needed action at the federal level. Decriminalizing cannabis at the federal level is a critical first step in addressing the racial inequities in cannabis law enforcement. Federal cannabis policy has disproportionately affected the ability of people of color in the United States to vote, to pursue educational and career opportunities, and to build intergenerational wealth. Moreover, decriminalizing cannabis is a vital step so that Americans seeking cannabis treatment options for conditions such as chro… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T20:24:51Z |
| https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-paul-introduce-bipartisan-fda-modernization-act-to-end-animal-testing-mandates | Booker, Paul Introduce Bipartisan FDA Modernization Act to End Animal Testing Mandates | 2021-10-07 | 2021 | 2021-10 | Democrat | Senate | NJ | Cory A. Booker | B001288 | www.booker.senate.gov | booker | https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Cory Booker (D-NJ) and Rand Paul (R-KY) introduced the FDA Modernization Act to end animal testing mandates. This legislation would end an outdated FDA mandate that experimental drugs must be tested on animals before they are used on humans in clinical trials. The bill would not ban animal testing outright, but would allow the option for drug sponsors to use alternative methods where they are suitable. This legislation is currently co-sponsored by U.S. Senators Mike Braun (R-IN), John Kennedy (R-LA), and Ben Ray Lujan (D-NM). “Thanks to modern scientific innovation, the use of animal toxicity testing for experimental drugs has become increasingly obsolete,” said Sen. Booker. “This legislation will eliminate unnecessary suffering for countless animals when scientifically reliable alternative testing methods are available.” “The FDA Modernization Act would accelerate innovation and get safer, more effective drugs to market more quickly by cutting red tape that is not supported by current science. It would also prevent the needless suffering and death of animal test subjects—which is something I think both Republican and Democrats can agree needs to end,” said Dr. Paul. “Over the years, research has demonstrated that animal testing can often be inefficient in predicting drug effects and efficacy in humans. I’m proud to join Sen. Paul in introducing legislation that will cut FDA red tape, allowing drug manufacturers and sponsors to innovate clinical trial designs and utilize modern alternatives to demonstrate safety and efficacy,” said Sen. Braun. “Testing new drugs on animals is often risky for both animals and people. The FDA Modernization Act would allow drug producers to improve safety by using more modern, humane and effective testing. I want Louisianians to get the best medicines as quickly and safely as possible, and I’m thankful to work with Sen. Paul to protect our furry friends at the same time,” said Sen. Kennedy. Background: In 1938, Congress passed the U.S. … | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T20:24:51Z |
| https://norcross.house.gov/press-releases?ID=89DCFD27-CD04-474D-B0C1-8A0DE471A03A | Rep. Norcross Announces $150,000 to Highlight South Jersey’s Role in the American Revolution | 2021-10-06 | 2021 | 2021-10 | Democrat | House | NJ | Donald Norcross | N000188 | norcross.house.gov | norcross | https://norcross.house.gov/press-releases | page_html | CAMDEN, NJ – Today, U.S. Congressman Donald Norcross (NJ-01) announced that the Camden County Historical Society (CCHS) has been awarded a $150,000 Battlefield Interpretation Grant by the National Park Service (NPS). This new grant program funds projects that use technology to bring the stories of sites of armed conflict alive for modern audiences. The funding will be used by CCHS for its Camden County American Revolution Mobile Audio App and Signage Trail Project to highlight the lesser-known stories of the American Revolution in Southern Jersey. Thirty-nine historical places in New Jersey will be marked by signs that link to the audio app, creating a trail of the locations of battles, skirmishes, troop movements, and related sites of interest in Camden County. “As we approach America’s 250th birthday, the Camden County Historical Society is making sure we remember the pivotal role Camden County played in our fight for independence,” said Congressman Donald Norcross. “This funding will allow the Camden County Historical Society to tell the story of how South Jersey fits into the larger story of the American Revolutionary War. I am proud to have supported this funding and look forward to the educational and tourism opportunities the new trail will create for local and visiting families.” “Located across the Delaware River from Philadelphia, Camden County often gets overlooked for the critical role it played in the ‘Forage War’ and the British evacuation of Philadelphia,” said Chris Perks, President of the Camden Historical Society. “This project is aimed to highlight South Jersey’s impact on the Revolution and the 39 sites in Camden County that contributed to America’s success. This project will also attract our share of the millions of visitors and conventioneers that will be converging on Philadelphia for America’s 250th celebrations.” “This grant money from the National Park Service will assist the Camden County Historical Society and the Commissioners to continue to build a bridge back to the Revolutionar… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-03-30T11:08:25Z |
| https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-mcgovern-urge-usda-to-work-with-local-farmers-and-ranchers-to-help-provide-nutritious-meals-to-school-districts | Booker, McGovern Urge USDA to Work with Local Farmers and Ranchers to Help Provide Nutritious Meals to School Districts | 2021-10-06 | 2021 | 2021-10 | Democrat | Senate | NJ | Cory A. Booker | B001288 | www.booker.senate.gov | booker | https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) and Representative Jim McGovern (D-MA), along with 19 other Senators and Representatives, urged the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to work with independent family farmers and ranchers to help address the food shortages currently impacting schools, and consequently, school meals, across the country. Due to supply chain disruptions within large multinational food corporations, many schools throughout the nation are currently facing food shortages and are struggling to provide healthy and nutritious meals to their students. The USDA recently announced that they are providing $1.5 billion to help school districts offer meals to address this issue. However, without clear direction, that money will likely end up in the pocket of large food corporations, such as Tyson Foods, who continue to be the source of ongoing supply chain disruptions instead of local and independent family farmers and ranchers that have continued to provide healthy, nutritious food to their communities throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. “Creating opportunities for schools to work with local, resilient, small scale producers would also allow school districts the ability to feed children in a way that aligns with their values,” wrote Senator Booker and Representative McGovern to USDA Secretary Tom Vilsack. “Many school foodservice professionals are frustrated by the idea of serving food from companies that have committed human rights abuses, environmental harms, and violation of federal laws. As one school dietitian in Washington State put it, “I am pulling my hair out every day having to feed these Big Ag products to children.” “A growing number of school districts have committed to the Good Food Purchasing Program, which includes a commitment not to source from companies with labor violations,” the lawmakers continued. “However, when school districts place their commodity purchasing orders with the USDA, they are not given a choice in which company will fill that order. The USDA Fo… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T20:24:51Z |
| https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-meets-with-new-jerseys-haitian-community | Booker Meets with New Jersey’s Haitian Community | 2021-10-06 | 2021 | 2021-10 | Democrat | Senate | NJ | Cory A. Booker | B001288 | www.booker.senate.gov | booker | https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C - U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) today met with leaders of the New Jersey Haitian community and Haitian elected officials to discuss issues affecting the Haitian diaspora in the state and the treatment of Haitian immigrants at the Southern Border. The meeting occurred a week after images showed Border Patrol agents on horseback violently interdictingmigrants attempting to cross the Rio Grande River, and as nearly 2,000 Haitian immigrants, including more than 170 children, were deported back to Haiti. “I was proud to join leaders of our state’s Haitian community for this important discussion and look forward to working together to ensure that our country’s immigration policies reflect our nation’s best values,” said Sen. Booker. “I unequivocally condemn the unconscionable violence and inhumane treatment Haitian migrants have experienced while seeking entry into the United States. As the political situation in Haiti deteriorates and the country endures the aftermath of another devastating earthquake, our nation must stop the cruel deportations of Haitians and live up to its highest ideals as a beacon of hope to people cast out of their native lands by violence, terror, persecution, oppression, and humanitarian disaster.” “With the third most Haitian American elected officials in the U.S., the state of New Jersey and its leaders have a moral obligation to act in the Haitian migrants’ best interest by allowing them to stay in the U.S. with due process capabilities and legal representation,” wrote members of National Haitian American Elected Officials Network. “We firmly believe [Senator Booker’s] office can assist us in the execution of our strategic plans.” “Thank you to Senator Booker for bringing light to and addressing this unthinkable crisis,” said Stanley Neron, Commissioner of the Elizabeth Board of Education. “Helping Haiti and our Haitian brothers and sisters is a humanitarian issue and we must work together to establish solutions that will save lives and provide a bright future.” | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T20:24:51Z |
| https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-duckworth-ossoff-schatz-padilla-and-feinstein-lead-25-senators-to-promote-access-to-solar-energy-for-low_and-moderate-income-households | Booker, Duckworth, Ossoff, Schatz, Padilla, and Feinstein Lead 25 Senators to Promote Access to Solar Energy for Low- and Moderate-Income Households | 2021-10-01 | 2021 | 2021-10 | Democrat | Senate | NJ | Cory A. Booker | B001288 | www.booker.senate.gov | booker | https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Senators Cory Booker (D-NJ), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Jon Ossoff (D-GA), Brian Schatz (D-HI), Alex Padilla (D-CA) and Dianne Feinstein (D-CA) today led a group of 25 Senators to urge the inclusion of a direct pay option for residential renewable energy property tax credits in Section 25D of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 (25D). In a letter, the Senators detailed how a direct pay option would help low- and moderate-income (LMI) households install solar energy systems and help meet President Biden’s goal of curbing greenhouse gas emissions by 50% from 2005 levels by 2030. “[The] essential tax credit is designed to help residential customers install renewable energy systems such as solar, wind and geothermal, but without a direct pay option, the low- and moderate-income (LMI) households who would benefit most from distributed generation are effectively blocked from accessing this tax credit,” wrote the Senators. “We believe that a direct pay option will not only help us meet President Biden’s goal of a 50% reduction of greenhouse gas emissions over 2005 levels by 2030, but it will also help address long-standing impacts of climate injustice.” “Renewable energy and environmental justice advocates estimate that roughly half of American households – approximately 60 million households – do not owe enough taxes to fully capitalize on the 25D tax credit in a single year under current law,” continued the Senators. “However, because these LMI households spend more of their income on energy bills, they will benefit disproportionately from installing distributed generation like solar on their properties. We have an obligation to ensure that all Americans have equal access to benefit from the renewable energy transition, and securing 25D direct pay is critical to this goal.” Taking into account the number of LMI households who own their homes, the current tax code prevents an estimated 26 million households from fully benefiting from the residential solar tax credit in the same year that the syste… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T20:24:51Z |
| https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-applauds-house-judiciary-committees-passage-of-crown-act | Booker Applauds House Judiciary Committee’s Passage of CROWN Act | 2021-09-30 | 2021 | 2021-09 | Democrat | Senate | NJ | Cory A. Booker | B001288 | www.booker.senate.gov | booker | https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. - Today, U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ), a member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, applauded the passage of the CROWN Act out of the House Judiciary Committee. “No one should be harassed, punished, or fired for the beautiful hairstyles that are true to themselves and their cultural heritage, yet Black people – especially Black women – face unjust harassment because of their natural and protective hairstyles, including denial of employment opportunities and exclusion from school activities,” said Sen. Booker. “To combat biases against natural hair and to protect the civil rights of people of color, the CROWN Act will ensure that discrimination based on hairstyles is prohibited. I applaud the House Judiciary Committee for their vote today and now urge all members of the House and Senate to support this legislation that will allow individuals to wear their hair proudly without fear or prejudice.” | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T20:17:01Z |
| https://norcross.house.gov/press-releases?ID=6C27D3EA-C222-4939-9F17-3D1B1A2E8960 | Norcross Announces $4 Million for Acenda Health for Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services | 2021-09-28 | 2021 | 2021-09 | Democrat | House | NJ | Donald Norcross | N000188 | norcross.house.gov | norcross | https://norcross.house.gov/press-releases | page_html | GLASSBORO, NJ – Today, U.S. Congressman Donald Norcross (NJ-01) announced that Acenda Integrated Health, located in Glassboro, will receive $4,000,000 in federal funding over two years from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) for a Mental Health and Substance Abuse Service Grant. “This funding will allow Acenda to help residents with both physical and mental health needs,” said Congressman Norcross. “I have long applauded Acenda for their commitment to providing crucial services for members of our community impacted by mental health and substance use disorders, and I am happy to have supported this funding that will help so many.” "The pandemic has exacerbated pre-existing disparities in behavioral health care more than any other time in recent history," said Melissa Fox, MHA, FACMPE, FACHE, Chief Operating Officer, Acenda Integrated Health. "SAMHSA's CMHC Expansion funding will allow us to better reach the communities in Gloucester and Cape May counties who have been affected the most, so we can help provide the compassionate and effective care they deserve." "Acenda's leadership and board are dedicated to identifying innovative ways to meet the needs of our community members by building and expanding our integrated programs and services," said Dr. Anthony DiFabio, President & CEO, Acenda Integrated Health. "We are incredibly excited to partner with SAMHSA to expand our Community Mental Health Center services." Acenda Inc. is a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing prevention, treatment, and wellness services to the local community. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-03-30T11:08:25Z |
| https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-menendez-raise-concerns-over-proposed-changes-to-faas-william-j-hughes-technical-center | Booker, Menendez Raise Concerns Over Proposed Changes to FAA’s William J. Hughes Technical Center | 2021-09-28 | 2021 | 2021-09 | Democrat | Senate | NJ | Cory A. Booker | B001288 | www.booker.senate.gov | booker | https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Cory Booker and Robert Menendez (both D-NJ) raised concerns to the Federal Aviation Administration over the agency’s proposed changes to the structure of the William J. Hughes Technical Center located in Egg Harbor Township, New Jersey. The changes would restructure the current research, development, testing, and evaluation operations of the facility, decentralizing the center’s operations, threatening the effectiveness and autonomy of the center and impacting the numerous economic development initiatives in the Greater Atlantic City region. “The William J. Hughes Tech Center plays a key role within FAA,” the Senators wrote to FAA Administrator Steve Dickson. “It offers world class laboratories and serves as a central hub for research, development, testing, and evaluation. As emerging technologies in Unmanned Aircraft Systems and developments in commercial aviation continue to advance, the Tech Center is positioned as essential to the future of aviation. The central management, yet collaborative coordination, of each of these interdependent functions creates a synergy that allows for more effective and efficient operations. This centralized model is in line with best practices for research centers and is utilized at many other research facilities across several federal agencies and departments. “The William J. Hughes Tech Center is also vitally important to its regional economy, both because it currently employs approximately 4,000 individuals and because it is central to many economic development initiatives,” the Senators continued. “The Greater Atlantic City region is economically distressed due to historic reliance on the casino and tourism industries, and extensive efforts are underway to diversify the local economy by attracting new aviation related businesses. Due to its prominent role, resources from the Tech Center are often sought out by private sector and academic stakeholders for collaboration, making the center a major asset in regional economic development i… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T20:17:01Z |
| https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/senate-sponsors-laud-house-passage-of-equal-act | Senate Sponsors Laud House Passage of EQUAL Act | 2021-09-28 | 2021 | 2021-09 | Democrat | Senate | NJ | Cory A. Booker | B001288 | www.booker.senate.gov | booker | https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press | scraper | Washington, DC – Senators Cory Booker (D-NJ), Dick Durbin (D-IL), Rob Portman (R-OH), Rand Paul (R-KY), Thom Tillis (R-NC), and Patrick Leahy (D-VT), the bipartisan Senate sponsors of the EQUAL Act, issued the following statement: “Today, House Republicans and Democrats joined together in passing the EQUAL Act, legislation that will once and for all eliminate the unjust federal crack and powder cocaine sentencing disparity. Enjoying broad support from faith groups, civil rights organizations, law enforcement, and people of all political backgrounds, this commonsense bill will help reform our criminal justice system so that it better lives up to the ideals of true justice and equality under the law. We applaud the House for its vote today and we urge our colleagues in the Senate to support this historic legislation.” | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T20:17:01Z |
| https://norcross.house.gov/press-releases?ID=CF3E0859-479D-4CC0-8FDD-FE663D80BDF7 | Norcross Announces $15.8 Million for Low-Income Housing for the Elderly in South Jersey | 2021-09-27 | 2021 | 2021-09 | Democrat | House | NJ | Donald Norcross | N000188 | norcross.house.gov | norcross | https://norcross.house.gov/press-releases | page_html | CHERRY HILL, NJ – Today, U.S. Congressman Donald Norcross (NJ-01) announced that the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) has awarded a total of $15,835,231 in Section 202 Supportive Housing for the Elderly Program grants to expand affordable housing options for South Jersey seniors. The funding will provide low-income elderly residents with options that allow them to live independently in an environment that provides support activities such as cleaning, cooking, transportation, and health-related services. The funding will be used to develop housing for very low-income elderly residents, with the Diocesan Housing Services Corp. of the Diocese of Camden receiving $8,575,642 to support the production of 42 units, and the Volunteers of America Delaware Valley, Inc. (VOADV) receiving $7,259,589 to support the production of 55 units. “This vital funding will help to ensure our elderly residents not only have an affordable and safe place to call home but will also ensure they have access to transportation and health-related services,” said Congressman Norcross. “Every older American deserves to age independently and with dignity, and this funding will allow more South Jerseyans to do just that. I was glad to work with community leaders to support this grant and look forward to seeing the completed projects.” “We’re thrilled to receive this HUD 202 award,” said Jamie Reynolds, Executive Director of The Diocesan Housing Services Corporation of the Diocese of Camden. “The funding will allow us to leverage an additional $10 million in financing to construct 75 units of much-needed affordable housing for low- and moderate-income seniors in Gloucester County. We’re grateful for the cooperation and assistance of Our Lady of Peace Parish and Bishop Sullivan, along with our local, state, and federal government partners in helping to make this project a reality.” “Access to quality, affordable housing, particularly for senior citizens, is critical for their long-term health and well-being,” said Daniel L. … | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-03-30T11:08:25Z |
| https://norcross.house.gov/press-releases?ID=91686A3E-B515-4BC6-B152-5C25159006E3 | Norcross Statement on a Woman’s Right to Choose | 2021-09-24 | 2021 | 2021-09 | Democrat | House | NJ | Donald Norcross | N000188 | norcross.house.gov | norcross | https://norcross.house.gov/press-releases | page_html | WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Congressman Donald Norcross (NJ-01) released the following statement regarding the House of Representatives vote on the Women’s Health Protection Act, which defends a woman’s right to choose: “Today I voted to protect reproductive health for all women in America. Republicans in Congress and state legislatures across the country continue to wage a war against women’s health. 2021 is on track to be the worst year for women’s health rights since 1973 – the year Roe v. Wade established a constitutional right to basic reproductive health care for every woman in every state. “Republican legislators in Texas passed an extreme anti-choice bill, and now the Supreme Court, stacked with conservative justices, is on track to overturn Roe v. Wade. Women’s rights are under attack. Congress must protect women as fully equal members of society. “The hypocrisy of Republican legislators would be laughable if it weren’t so dangerous. They treat personal freedom as sacred until a woman wants to be free to decide what’s best for her health. They want to tell the government to stay out of their personal lives until a woman seeks to make the most personal and private of health choices. “To the Republican officials trying to limit the freedom of women I say: your assault on women’s reproductive health care is unacceptable and must end. The women of South Jersey, and the women of America, deserve better.” ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-03-30T11:08:25Z |
| https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-padilla-merkley-lead-push-to-enhance-nations-data-science-and-literacy-education | Booker, Padilla, Merkley Lead Push to Enhance Nation’s Data Science and Literacy Education | 2021-09-24 | 2021 | 2021-09 | Democrat | Senate | NJ | Cory A. Booker | B001288 | www.booker.senate.gov | booker | https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Cory Booker (D-NJ), Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), and Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.) led a group of colleagues in urging the Institute of Education Sciences (IES) and the National Science Foundation (NSF) to improve equity and access to high-quality K-12 data science education. The Senators also asked how Congress can better support the development and deployment of data science curriculum to reach more communities and open doors to STEM careers. Increasing access to high-quality data science education will help students keep pace with our 21st century world. One poll found that while 69 percent of employers would prefer candidates with data science skills, only 23 percent of educators said their graduates would possess those skills. Only 25 percent of students took a statistics course in 2019. “Enhancing data science education will have significant benefits for our nation’s citizenry and economy. Like reading, writing, and arithmetic, basic data literacy is vital for informed democratic participation. We also see employers increasingly demanding data science expertise. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of computer and information research scientists is expected to grow 15 percent between 2019 to 2029, far exceeding the average growth rate of other occupations,” wrote the Senators. The Senators asked the NSF and IES to “describe any past, existing or planned efforts to enhance equitable access to data science education and data science careers, as well as any efforts to increase research in this field.” Statistics show there are stark disparities on who has access to data science courses and who can pursue data science careers. African Americans and Hispanics occupy only 6 and 7 percent of STEM jobs, respectively. Moreover, in order to address artificial intelligence algorithms that may contain implicit biases, it is critical to foster a diverse data science workforce that will develop more equitable technologies. Only a handful of states and school districts ha… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T20:17:01Z |
| https://norcross.house.gov/press-releases?ID=02E6B536-C6DD-4A52-BBDD-43BABB06ED57 | Norcross Statement on House Passage of FY22 National Defense Authorization Act | 2021-09-23 | 2021 | 2021-09 | Democrat | House | NJ | Donald Norcross | N000188 | norcross.house.gov | norcross | https://norcross.house.gov/press-releases | page_html | WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Congressman Donald Norcross (NJ-01), Chair of the Tactical Air and Land Forces (TAL) Subcommittee of the House Armed Services Committee (HASC), released the following statement after the House of Representatives passed the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2022 (FY22), which authorizes funding for the Department of Defense and the national security programs of the Department of Energy: “This NDAA represents a commitment to our nation’s security, the servicemembers of the U.S. Armed Forces, and those who supply the equipment and systems that keep them safe. “Investing in the modernization of our military, maximizing the combat effectiveness of existing systems, and reducing risk in our defense industrial base ensures that we remain prepared at home and competitive abroad. To safeguard our nation’s ability to defend vital national interests wherever they may arise, we must take care of the people who make that possible at home. “‘Buy American’ provisions ensure we bring the jobs that are essential to our national security back home. We secured funding to give our military heroes a 2.7% pay raise, and I fought to require defense contractors to pay a $15 minimum wage for their workers. “Investing in America’s workforce – civilian and uniformed – ensures that we remain prepared at home and competitive abroad. This includes investing in manufacturing that will keep our nation safe while creating good-paying jobs in South Jersey and across the country.” Aspects of the NDAA are relevant to the people who live and work in New Jersey’s 1st congressional district. To support more than 1,200 high-paying jobs at the Philadelphia Shipyard, and prepare our nation's maritime forces for future conflicts, Norcross secured funding for the National Security Multi-Mission Vessel and five additional V-22 Ospreys. Norcross also secured an additional $41 million to produce two Medium Unmanned Surface Vessel, which are made by L3 Harris in Camden, NJ. Furthermore, he secured $170 million… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-03-30T11:08:25Z |
| https://norcross.house.gov/press-releases?ID=7DBB62C2-00B1-44E3-A8B7-4E2C6681E143 | Norcross Announces $12.4 Million for Coriell Institute for Prestigious Cancer Research Grant | 2021-09-23 | 2021 | 2021-09 | Democrat | House | NJ | Donald Norcross | N000188 | norcross.house.gov | norcross | https://norcross.house.gov/press-releases | page_html | CAMDEN, NJ – Today, U.S. Congressman Donald Norcross (NJ-01) announced that the Coriell Institute for Medical Research has been awarded a Specialized Programs of Research Excellence (SPORE) grant from the National Cancer Institute (NCI). The five-year grant is valued at an estimated $12.4 million and will support nearly 20 scientists as they work to improve epigenetic therapies for cancer. The grant is to be shared with the Van Andel Institute located in Grand Rapids, Michigan. This prestigious grant is the first of its kind at Coriell and is currently the only SPORE grant awarded to an organization in New Jersey, establishing Coriell as a premier institution for cancer research. The SPORE grant seeks to improve on current epigenetic therapies by exploring new targets, investigating novel combinations of epigenetic therapies with other cancer treatments, and designing, and running clinical trials to evaluate these promising strategies. Epigenetic therapy aims to treat cancer by correcting abnormal gene expression. In doing so, these therapies can also make other cancer therapies more effective. “South Jersey continues to develop as a center for world-class medical research, and the Coriell Institute is leading the way with important initiatives to cure and prevent disease,” said Congressman Norcross. “This award is the first of its kind at Coriell and the only of its kind to be awarded to a New Jersey institute. I’m excited to see what this brilliant team in Camden will accomplish.” “SPORE grants hold a special place in translational cancer research. Through them, the NCI enables groundbreaking work and the trust it puts in the awarded scientists allows for unparalleled freedom and collaboration,” said Dr. Jean-Pierre Issa, President and CEO of Coriell. “It’s a true honor to receive this grant and it’s a sign of more exciting things to come for the Coriell Institute.” About the Coriell Institute for Medical Research Founded in 1953, the Coriell Institute for Medical Research is a nonprofit research institut… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-03-30T11:08:25Z |
| https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/11-senators-back-house-progressives-in-demand-for-passage-of-entire-biden-agenda | 11 Senators Back House Progressives in Demand for Passage of Entire Biden Agenda | 2021-09-22 | 2021 | 2021-09 | Democrat | Senate | NJ | Cory A. Booker | B001288 | www.booker.senate.gov | booker | https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press | scraper | WASHINGTON, Sept. 22 — Sens. Cory Booker (D-N.J.), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.), Mazie K. Hirono (D-Hawaii), Ed Markey (D-Mass.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii), Tina Smith (D-Minn.), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), and Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.) issued the following statement on upcoming votes regarding infrastructure and reconciliation legislation: “In the coming weeks, Congress has the opportunity to pass the most consequential economic legislation since the New Deal. We can create millions of good-paying jobs as we repair our crumbling infrastructure, address the climate crisis, and finally confront the long-neglected crises facing millions of low-income and working-class families across this country. But we can accomplish those goals only if we stick to our original agreement. “We voted for the bipartisan infrastructure bill with the clear commitment that the two pieces of the package would move together along a dual track. Abandoning the $3.5 trillion Build Back Better Act and passing the infrastructure bill first would be in violation of that agreement. Congress must not undercut the President’s proposals that will create new opportunities for America’s families and workers. The House of Representatives should wait to pass the bipartisan infrastructure bill until the budget reconciliation bill, which enacts the rest of the President’s Build Back Better agenda, is sent to the President’s desk. “Now is the time to pass both of these major pieces of legislation. We have no time to waste. We strongly support the Congressional Progressive Caucus and other members in the House who have said they intend to vote for the bipartisan infrastructure bill only once the Build Back Better Act is passed. That is what we agreed to, it’s what the American people want, and it’s the only path forward for this Congress.” | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T20:17:01Z |
| https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-statement-on-bipartisan-policing-reform-negotiations | Booker Statement on Bipartisan Policing Reform Negotiations | 2021-09-22 | 2021 | 2021-09 | Democrat | Senate | NJ | Cory A. Booker | B001288 | www.booker.senate.gov | booker | https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press | scraper | Washington, DC -- Sen. Cory Booker (D-NJ) issued the following statement: “America has a serious problem when it comes to discriminatory policing and excessive and deadly force used against communities of color. We can’t properly honor the lives of the victims of this violence if we don’t take meaningful steps to prevent future violence and deaths from occurring and make our communities safer. “We made it clear from the beginning of our negotiations that a bill must ensure true accountability, transparency, and the policing standards necessary to bring an end to horrific incidents of violence Americans are routinely seeing -- like the murder of George Floyd. After months of exhausting every possible pathway to a bipartisan deal, it remains out of reach right now, even after working collaboratively with and securing the support of policing groups like the Fraternal Order of Police and International Association of Chiefs of Police for our proposals. “Unfortunately, even with this law enforcement support and further compromises we offered, there was still too wide a gulf with our negotiating partners and we faced significant obstacles to securing a bipartisan deal. “The time has come to explore all other options to achieve meaningful and common sense policing reform. I will not stop fighting until we achieve change that keeps our communities and police officers safe.” | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T20:17:01Z |
| https://watsoncoleman.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/reps-watson-coleman-pallone-kim-applaud-house-passage-of-funding-bill-that-forgives-new-jersey-community-disaster-loans | Reps. Watson Coleman, Pallone, Kim Applaud House Passage of Funding Bill that Forgives New Jersey Community Disaster Loans | 2021-09-21 | 2021 | 2021-09 | Democrat | House | NJ | Bonnie Watson Coleman | W000822 | watsoncoleman.house.gov | watsoncoleman | https://watsoncoleman.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases | scraper | The bill also includes billions for recovery efforts related to Hurricane Ida Representatives Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06), Bonnie Watson Coleman (NJ-12), and Andy Kim (NJ-03) today applauded House passage of a government operations spending bill that will help New Jersey recover from the devastation of natural disasters. The bill forgives outstanding balances of Community Disaster Loans (CDLs) made to municipalities throughout New Jersey to help them recover from Superstorm Sandy. Last year, the New Jersey delegation requested cancellation of unforgiven loans. Currently, 21 New Jersey municipalities owe more than $30 million worth of Community Disaster Loans that were issued after the storm. The spending bill also includes billions of dollars in funding to respond to the devastation of Hurricane Ida. “Nearly nine years after Superstorm Sandy, cities and towns in New Jersey are still struggling to rebuild from the devastating impacts of the storm. These federal loans are made in times of true crisis and are intended to be forgiven, which is why it’s simply unfair to force New Jersey residents bear the burden of paying millions of dollars so many years later,” Pallone said. “I’m glad we were able to secure this important relief in the House bill and look forward to working with the New Jersey delegation to get this win across the finish line. I will continue to work with the Biden Administration to ensure our state receives all the support it needs to recover from Hurricane Ida.” “I’m relieved to learn that after a week of conversations with Chairwoman DeLauro and others by myself and Reps. Pallone and Kim, the continuing resolution will include forgiveness of the outstanding balances for New Jersey towns still saddled with FEMA Community Disaster Loan payments,” said Watson Coleman. “There was concern that this relief might once again be left out but with this news our New Jersey municipalities can finally put some of the ongoing pain of Superstorm Sandy behind them.” “Nearly a decade after Superstorm Sandy hit… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T20:17:01Z |
| https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-menendez-urge-ice-to-end-transfer-of-detainees-out-of-new-jersey | Booker, Menendez Urge ICE to End Transfer of Detainees out of New Jersey | 2021-09-21 | 2021 | 2021-09 | Democrat | Senate | NJ | Cory A. Booker | B001288 | www.booker.senate.gov | booker | https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. —Today, U.S. Senators Cory Booker and Bob Menendez (both D-NJ) urged the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to end the out-of-state transfer of people detained in New Jersey, and to release detainees from custody who do not fall under the current enforcement prioritization scheme. The letter comes on the heels of legislation recently passed and signed into law by New Jersey legislators and Governor Phil Murphy prohibiting state, local, and private entities from entering into, renewing or extending detention agreements with ICE. Booker and Menendez have both previously called for an end to contracts between ICE and local governments in New Jersey. “When the ICE detention program at the Essex County Jail closed earlier this year, our offices made several inquiries encouraging you to release detained individuals who did not fall within the enforcement priorities outlined by Secretary Mayorkas, rather than transferring said individuals to detention centers located several states away,” the Senators wrote to acting ICE Director Tae D. Johnson. “Reports indicate that at least 46 people detained at Essex were transferred to facilities across the country, including to Alabama, Georgia, and Louisiana. Transferring detained individual’s increases their risk of contracting COVID-19, endangers immigrants’ mental and physical health and wellbeing, and makes it extremely difficult to remain in contact with their existing legal counsel. “Not only do transfers expose detainees to COVID-19, but they also threaten the physical, mental, and emotional health of detained individuals,” the Senators continued. “Any form of detention is a traumatic experience, especially among immigrant detainees who are more likely to experience anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder both during and after detention than the general population. For detainees with existing medical conditions, transfer risks can interrupt necessary or urgent medical care. The destination facility may also neglect to provide … | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T20:17:01Z |
| https://norcross.house.gov/press-releases?ID=D915330D-A76C-41AB-90E9-124C45AA93FA | Norcross Secures Key Provision to Hold Insurers Accountable for Failing to Meet Mental Health Parity Standards | 2021-09-16 | 2021 | 2021-09 | Democrat | House | NJ | Donald Norcross | N000188 | norcross.house.gov | norcross | https://norcross.house.gov/press-releases | page_html | WASHINGTON, DC – Last week, U.S. Congressman Donald Norcross (NJ-01), a member of the House Committee on Education and Labor, secured a key mental health parity provision in the committee’s markup of the Build Back Better Act. The provision reinforces 2008 legislation authored by then-U.S. Representative Patrick J. Kennedy which mandated that health insurance plans cover mental illnesses like they cover physical illnesses. The mental health parity provision authored by Congressman Norcross expands the U.S. Department of Labor’s authority to hold health insurers and plan sponsors accountable for violating that mandate. “This bill empowers the Department of Labor to investigate and fine insurers offering federally regulated health plans if they violate the Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act,” said Congressman Norcross. “Our nation has seen a surge in mental health crises due to the stress, anxiety, and isolation due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Our minds are what make us uniquely human, and it is frankly ridiculous that some insurers refuse to provide the same level of care for mental and behavioral health issues as they would for a broken arm or strained wrist.” "Enabling the U.S. Department of Labor to assess fines for violations of the Federal Parity Act is critical to ensuring equal insurance coverage of lifesaving mental health and addiction treatment for Americans," said former U.S. Rep. Patrick J. Kennedy, founder of The Kennedy Forum. "I applaud Congressman Norcross and Chairman Scott for including the Parity Enforcement Act in the Committee's Build Back Better Act language." Norcross added: “I applaud Chairman Scott for his leadership on the Build Back Better Act and my colleagues who voted to include this vital language in the final mark-up. The mental health parity language within the Build Back Better Act will ensure families receive the lifesaving support they are entitled to under the law.” Health insurers are required by law to provide the same level of coverage for mental health and subs… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-03-30T11:08:25Z |
| https://watsoncoleman.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/congresswoman-watson-coleman-leads-letter-to-hud-secretary-regarding-homes-sold-in-flood-zones | Congresswoman Watson Coleman Leads Letter to HUD Secretary Regarding Homes Sold in Flood Zones | 2021-09-15 | 2021 | 2021-09 | Democrat | House | NJ | Bonnie Watson Coleman | W000822 | watsoncoleman.house.gov | watsoncoleman | https://watsoncoleman.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases | scraper | Recent NPR investigation indicated homes sold by HUD were 75 times more likely to be in flood zones. Today, Congresswoman Bonnie Watson Coleman (D-NJ) lead 15 of her House Democratic Colleagues in a letter to Secretary Marica Fudge of the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) seeking a response to a recent NPR investigation that claimed HUD was far more likely to sell homes in federally designated flood zones. Buyers were often unlikely to receive information about flood risk and flood insurance. “We write to express our concerns of a recent investigation, conducted by NPR, which showed that the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) had historically sold homes disproportionately located in flood-prone places” read the Letter. “With the recovery and rebuild of Ida still on the forefront of our Nation’s mind, this article is of grave concern.” Between 2017 and 2020, HUD sold nearly 100,000 homes around the country, often after the previous owner was unable to pay their federally insured mortgage. NPR’s investigation emphasized that these homes were 75 times more likely to be sold in a federally designated flood zone versus homes sold nationwide. The letter requested information on the total number of homes sold between January 217 and the present that HUD had sold in flood prone areas, steps HUD is taking to to disclose to potential homebuyers that homes under HUD are at risk of flooding, how HUD is following up with homebuyers who purchased homes during this period and are at risk of flooding, and what additional resources HUD will provide to those who have brought homes in flood prone areas. The letter was signed by Reps. Bonnie Watson Coleman (NJ-12), Alma Adams (NC-12), Earl Blumenauer (OR-3), Jamaal Bowman (NY-16), Cori Bush (MO-1), Debbie Dingell (MI-12), Adriano Espaillat (NY-13), Dwight Evans (PA-3), Al Lawson (FL-5), Barbara Lee (CA-13), Jerry McNerny (CA-9), Donald Payne, Jr. (NJ-10), Mikie Sherrill (NJ-11), Rashida Tlaib (MI-13), Debbie Wasserman Shultz (FL-23), and Frederica… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T20:17:01Z |
| https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-reintroduces-legislation-prohibiting-discrimination-in-the-name-of-religion | Booker Reintroduces Legislation Prohibiting Discrimination in the Name of Religion | 2021-09-15 | 2021 | 2021-09 | Democrat | Senate | NJ | Cory A. Booker | B001288 | www.booker.senate.gov | booker | https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press | scraper | Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ), a member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, reintroduced the Do No Harm Act, legislation to restore the Religious Freedom Restoration Act’s (RFRA) original intent and prohibit individuals and businesses from using religion to deny others’ civil rights. Representative Bobby Scott (D-VA) introduced this legislation earlier this year in the U.S. House. In response to the 1990 Supreme Court case, Employment Division v. Smith, which excused discriminatory practices towards American Indians, Congress passed the Religious Freedom Restoration Act (RFRA) in 1993, expanding civil rights protections for religious minorities. However, decades of systematic efforts by some organizations and businesses and the Supreme Court’s 2014 decision in Burwell v. Hobby Lobby (which held that RFRA requires closely-held corporations with religious opposition to contraception to be exempt from the Affordable Care Act’s contraception mandate) have coopted the original intent of the law and turned it into a license to legally discriminate and impose religious beliefs on others. “Freely exercising your religion shouldn’t mean denying others of their civil rights,” said Senator Booker. “The Do No Harm Act rights the Supreme Court’s wrong, restoring the careful balance of the First Amendment by both protecting religious liberty and ensuring the law and religious beliefs cannot be wielded to deny people of their right to live free from discrimination.” “When Congress passed the Religious Freedom Restoration Act in 1993, it was intended to protect religious exercise—not to erode civil rights under the guise of religious freedom. Regrettably, we have seen RFRA repeatedly used to attack civil rights protections, deny access to health care, and allow discrimination in federal contracts and programs. The Do No Harm Act simply provides that RFRA cannot be used to limit access to health care, deny services supported by taxpayer dollars, or undermine the Civil Rights Act or other anti-discrim… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T20:17:01Z |
| https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/senator-booker-joins-nj-delegation-in-urging-congressional-appropriations-committees-to-supply-emergency-funding-for-families-impacted-by-tropical-storm-ida | Senator Booker Joins NJ Delegation In Urging Congressional Appropriations Committees to Supply Emergency Funding for Families Impacted by Tropical Storm Ida | 2021-09-15 | 2021 | 2021-09 | Democrat | Senate | NJ | Cory A. Booker | B001288 | www.booker.senate.gov | booker | https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press | scraper | Washington D.C. -- Senator Booker (D-NJ) joined the entire New Jersey bicameral congressional delegation in a letter urging Congressional Appropriations Committees to supply emergency funding for the state of New Jersey in wake of the destruction caused by Tropical Storm Ida. Emergency supplemental appropriations would immediately help the thousands of New Jerseyans who suffered catastrophic damage to their homes and who will undoubtedly need more assistance in the long-term. “New Jersey faces a long, difficult road to recovery from Tropical Storm Ida. In fact, the damage in many parts of the state is worse than the aftermath caused by Hurricane Sandy, which rightly merited an emergency supplemental funding bill. The storm caused the tragic and heartbreaking deaths of over two dozen people, left hundreds homeless, crippled our infrastructure and transportation networks, and damaged countless homes and small businesses,” wrote the New Jersey lawmakers. As of today, President Biden has declared a Major Disaster Declaration in 11 New Jersey counties, unlocking FEMA assistance for individuals and business owners. For information and resources available to those impacted by the remnants of Hurricane Ida, please visit booker.senate.gov/ida. Read the text of the letter below or here. Dear Chair DeLauro and Leahy, Ranking Member Granger and Vice Chairman Shelby: We are requesting emergency supplemental appropriations as soon as possible for the New Jersey region in the wake of Wednesday night’s destruction caused by Tropical Storm Ida. To date, the storm has taken 27 lives in New Jersey — more fatalities than in any other state in the Northeast. While the recovery and damage assessment continue, we ask that you act swiftly so that we can get Jersey’s families, small businesses, and local governments back on their feet. On Wednesday night, September 1, the remnants of Hurricane Ida slammed the Garden State with raging flash floods, tornadoes, and record rainfall. At Newark Liberty International Airport, the National… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T20:17:01Z |
| https://norcross.house.gov/press-releases?ID=887E6844-30A2-42BC-88E0-F86C6F8A41B9 | Norcross Announces $300K for Smart Grid Workforce Education at Rowan University | 2021-09-14 | 2021 | 2021-09 | Democrat | House | NJ | Donald Norcross | N000188 | norcross.house.gov | norcross | https://norcross.house.gov/press-releases | page_html | CHERRY HILL, NJ – Today, U.S. Congressman Donald Norcross (NJ-01) announced that the National Science Foundation (NSF) has awarded a $300,000 grant to Rowan University to enhance the power of engineering education at the university to help meet the nation’s needs for a highly qualified next-generation Smart Grid workforce. The funding also supports research and development projects to improve the effectiveness of STEM education for all students. “Investing in our smart grid workforce means investing in the future of this country for generations to come,” said Congressman Norcross, a member of the House Committee on Education and Labor and the only electrician in Congress. “As an electrician who worked for years connecting power to our homes and businesses, I know firsthand the dangers these frontline workers face, and by bettering our energy grid we can create safer working environments and smarter structures. We also know that climate change is a present threat, and a smart grid will conserve natural resources and improve our environment. This funding will train engineering students for the future and equip them to join a workforce that evolves alongside modern technology.” “The electricity grid has been recognized as the largest and most complex machine ever made, sending $400 billion energy a year through seven million miles of transmission and distribution lines in the United States,” said Dr. Jie Li, Principal Investigator and associate professor of electrical and computer engineering at the Henry M. Rowan College of Engineering. “As one of the nation’s most critical infrastructures, the electric power grid is undergoing a fundamental revolution in the physical structure, management policy, and business operation, ultimately leading towards a 'Smart Grid' - an enabling engine for the nation’s economy, environment, and future. In order to build a reliable, resilient power grid and to integrate renewable energy, we need to retool the power grid using more advanced techniques. Our educational programs also ne… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-03-30T11:08:25Z |
| https://norcross.house.gov/press-releases?ID=7B4B6777-A33A-48BB-9A14-543834F3416D | Norcross Touts Historic Investments in Child Care, Education, Job Training for South Jersey | 2021-09-13 | 2021 | 2021-09 | Democrat | House | NJ | Donald Norcross | N000188 | norcross.house.gov | norcross | https://norcross.house.gov/press-releases | page_html | WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Congressman Donald Norcross (D-NJ) along with Reps. Joe Courtney (D-CT) and Susan Wild (D-PA), members of the House Committee on Education and Labor, touted investments in child care, education, job training, and child nutrition advanced through the Committee’s section of the Build Back Better Act. The historic investments will lower costs for families, secure good-paying jobs for American workers, and set a strong foundation of America’s children. “By advancing important provisions of the Build Back Better Act, we laid a clear path to make historic investments in affordable child care and higher education, strengthening our public schools, securing good-paying jobs for workers, reducing child hunger, and ensuring mental health parity,” said Congressman Norcross. “The Build Back Better Act will increase opportunity for students, families, and workers. I am proud to support these historic investments that will benefit working families across South Jersey.” “There’s a lot at stake in our economic recovery, and we have a chance in the coming days to shape a piece of legislation that can fundamentally improve the lives of millions of Americans,” said Congresswoman Wild. “I am very optimistic that Congress can get this right, and that means including the commonsense investments into workforce, education, and child care programs that we know will strengthen American families, small businesses, and major employers for generations to come.” “The Build Back Better plan is an example of how Congress can work to deliver on behalf of real American workers and families,” said Congressman Courtney. “American families are feeling more and more squeezed economically, and the Build Back Better plan makes them the priority—the Education and Labor Committee’s portion of the bill would finally make childcare more affordable, would provide more training opportunities for high-paying careers, and would give more Americans the basic support they need right now to focus on their own lives, livelihoods, and lov… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-03-30T11:08:25Z |
| https://norcross.house.gov/press-releases?ID=95D7163A-A82C-4504-B23B-FB9BC86656C4 | Rep. Norcross Votes to Invest $761 Billion in Families, Workers, and Mental Health as Part of Education and Labor Committee Reconciliation Package | 2021-09-10 | 2021 | 2021-09 | Democrat | House | NJ | Donald Norcross | N000188 | norcross.house.gov | norcross | https://norcross.house.gov/press-releases | page_html | WASHINGTON, DC – Today, U.S. Congressman Donald Norcross (NJ-01), a member of the House Committee on Education and Labor, voted to advance provisions of the Build Back Better Act. The bill, which advanced on a vote of 28 - 22 out of committee, includes roughly $450 billion to establish affordable child care and universal pre-K and nearly $80 billion for workforce development programs, including registered apprenticeships. It also includes a key provision authored by Congressman Norcross which expands the U.S. Department of Labor’s authority to hold health insurers and plan sponsors accountable for not offering adequate mental health coverage. “Today, I was proud to vote to advance the Build Back Better Act that increases opportunity for students, families, and workers,” said Congressman Norcross. “We laid a clear path to make historic investments in affordable child care and higher education, strengthening our public schools, securing good-paying jobs for workers, reducing child hunger, and ensuring mental health parity. “I was a single dad working in construction and back then it was hard to find affordable, quality child care. With the pandemic, it’s near impossible. Investing in affordable and safe child care options will be life-changing for parents by enabling them to rejoin the workforce and contribute to our economic recovery.” The Build Back Better (BBB) Act makes a historic investment to lower the cost of child care for working families, allowing parents to get back to work and boosting the American economy by helping employers increase wages for child care providers. Additionally, the BBB Act invests nearly $80 billion in workforce development programs that allow workers to build new skills and secure good-paying jobs. “I’m an electrician by trade, and I know registered apprenticeships lead to more than just jobs, they lead to careers,” continued Congressman Norcross, who served as an apprentice in the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers before being elected to Congress. “A registered ap… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-03-30T11:08:25Z |
| https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-menendez-applaud-biden-for-major-disaster-declaration-for-additional-counties-hit-hard-by-tropical-storm-ida | Booker, Menendez Applaud Biden for Major Disaster Declaration for Additional Counties Hit Hard by Tropical Storm Ida | 2021-09-10 | 2021 | 2021-09 | Democrat | Senate | NJ | Cory A. Booker | B001288 | www.booker.senate.gov | booker | https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press | scraper | Newark, N.J. – U.S. Senators Cory Booker and Bob Menendez (both D-N.J.) today applauded President Biden and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) for adding Essex, Hudson, Mercer and Union counties to the Major Disaster Declaration that was first issued to several counties on Sunday. The declaration will make these counties eligible for more federal resources as areas recover from damage caused by Tropical Storm Ida. The storm caused historic flash flooding, tornadoes and record rainfall, and resulted in the tragic deaths of at least 27 New Jerseyans. On Sunday, FEMA approved the Major Disaster Declaration for Bergen, Gloucester, Hunterdon, Middlesex, Passaic and Somerset counties. “Last week, New Jersey experienced the devastating impacts caused by the remnants of Hurricane Ida,” said Sen. Booker. “This amended disaster declaration will allow more communities in our state to get the critical federal assistance they need for their relief efforts. I was proud to work alongside Senator Menendez and the rest of the New Jersey delegation to get this vital aid for our state and am grateful to President Biden for his decisive response to this crisis.” “I’m glad President Biden approved a Major Disaster Declaration for these additional counties that were hit hard by the storm,” said Sen. Menendez. “With this declaration, Essex, Hudson, Mercer and Union counties now have access to greater federal assistance and resources to help residents, families, and businesses rebuild and get back on their feet. There is still more work to be done and I look forward to going back to Washington next week to fight for additional federal resources to help our state and region.” Sens. Booker and Menendez joined the state’s entire congressional delegation in urging Congressional leaders to pass an emergency disaster supplemental bill to rebuild homes, businesses and infrastructure affected by the storm. | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T20:17:01Z |
| https://norcross.house.gov/press-releases?ID=50E17AA2-1F1C-442C-9CED-BD18826B620D | Norcross Votes to Advance Science, Space and Technology Committee’s Provisions of the Build Back Better Act, Including Historic Investments to Combat Climate Change | 2021-09-09 | 2021 | 2021-09 | Democrat | House | NJ | Donald Norcross | N000188 | norcross.house.gov | norcross | https://norcross.house.gov/press-releases | page_html | WASHINGTON, DC – Today, U.S. Congressman Donald Norcross (NJ-01), who serves on the Energy Subcommittee and Space and Aeronautics Subcommittee of the House Committee on Science, Space, and Technology, voted to advance portions of the Build Back Better Act. The bill, which advanced out of committee on a party-line vote of 21 – 17, is comprised of $45.51 billion in science, space, and technology funding. Congressman Norcross has been a champion of investing in key programs and research that will allow the United States to meet the challenge of climate change head-on. Funding to enhance climate adaption and resilience and develop a climate-ready workforce was also included in the bill. “Climate change isn’t coming, it’s already here,” said Congressman Norcross. “Last week, tornadoes and flooding caused by Ida devasted portions of New Jersey, underscoring why we must respond to the climate crisis. Today’s vote sends a clear message: to build back better, America needs historic levels of investment in climate monitoring; we need to fund institutions and universities that are on the cutting-edge of climate research; and we need a climate-ready workforce. Climate change and job creation go hand in hand, and by investing in our climate response we are laying the foundation for economic growth and generating good-paying jobs. I am proud to vote for these vital investments in America’s future to ensure our nation is prepared as climate change brings increasingly extreme weather events to our shores. This bill also provides much needed investment for domestic manufacturing and for first responders, like firefighters, who often find themselves on the frontline of the climate crisis.” This allocation will be folded into the broader Build Back Better Act, a $3.5 trillion infrastructure package. Key Investments Supported by Congressman Norcross National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) $1.24 billion toward weather, ocean, and climate research and forecasting to better prepare and anticipate the impacts of clim… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-03-30T11:08:25Z |
| https://norcross.house.gov/press-releases?ID=7CF2A32A-451B-496F-8008-E806AE668B09 | Norcross, Murphy, & Labor Secretary Walsh Break Ground on the New Jersey Wind Port | 2021-09-09 | 2021 | 2021-09 | Democrat | House | NJ | Donald Norcross | N000188 | norcross.house.gov | norcross | https://norcross.house.gov/press-releases | page_html | WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Congressman Donald Norcross (NJ-01) today joined Governor Phil Murphy, U.S. Secretary of Labor Marty Walsh, Senate President Steve Sweeney, President of the New Jersey State Building & Construction Trades Council Bill Mullen, AECOM Tishman Community Relations Director Flora Ramos, elected officials, union leaders, environmental advocates, private sector partners, and representatives of the offshore wind industry for the groundbreaking of the New Jersey Wind Port, a first-in-the-nation infrastructure investment that will provide a location for essential staging, assembly, and manufacturing activities related to offshore wind projects on the East Coast. In addition to the groundbreaking ceremony, the event also included the signing of a project labor agreement (PLA) for the project between AECOM-Tishman and the United Building Trades Council of Southern New Jersey AFL-CIO. The largest economic investment in Salem County in decades, the New Jersey Wind Port has the potential to create up to 1,500 manufacturing, assembly, and operations jobs, as well as hundreds of union construction jobs in New Jersey. Manufacturing and marshaling projects supported by the Wind Port will drive economic growth in Salem County, in South Jersey, and throughout the state. Through the PLA signed today, the Murphy Administration has delivered on its commitment to using union labor to construct the Wind Port while setting a new standard for inclusion of minority and women workers and business owners. “South Jersey is becoming the hub of wind energy – meeting the challenge of climate change head-on,” said Congressman Donald Norcross. “Tropical Storm Ida tragically underscored just how urgent the need for climate action is. The Alloway Wind Port will create good-paying union jobs and help revitalize local economies. It will secure America’s energy independence while also making our grid more resilient. And we’re only just starting to build back better. The bipartisan infrastructure bill includes once-in-a-generation … | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-03-30T11:08:25Z |
| https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/bipartisan-american-beef-labeling-act-would-reinstate-mandatory-country-of-origin-labeling | Bipartisan American Beef Labeling Act Would Reinstate Mandatory Country of Origin Labeling | 2021-09-09 | 2021 | 2021-09 | Democrat | Senate | NJ | Cory A. Booker | B001288 | www.booker.senate.gov | booker | https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Sens. Cory Booker (D-NJ), a member of the Senate Agriculture Committee, John Thune (R-S.D.), Jon Tester (D-Mont.), and Mike Rounds (R-S.D.) today announced the American Beef Labeling Act, legislation that would reinstate mandatory country of origin labeling (MCOOL) for beef. This legislation, which will be formally introduced next week, would require the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR), in consultation with the U.S. Secretary of Agriculture, to develop a World Trade Organization-compliant means of reinstating MCOOL for beef within one year of enactment. USTR would have six months to develop a reinstatement plan followed by a six-month window to implement it. If USTR fails to reinstate MCOOL for beef within one year of enactment, it would automatically be reinstated for beef only. “Americans should know exactly where their beef is coming from, but current USDA labeling practices allow big meatpacking companies to falsely label imported beef as being a product of the USA,” said Booker. “I’m proud to join colleagues in this bipartisan legislation that will restore mandatory country of origin labelling for all beef products and provide fairness for our family farmers and ranchers.” “Transparency in labeling benefits both producers and consumers,” said Thune. “Unfortunately, the current beef labeling system in this country allows imported beef that is neither born nor raised in the United States, but simply finished here, to be labeled as a product of the USA. This process is unfair to cattle producers and misleading for consumers. When you see a ‘product of the USA’ label on the grocery store shelf, it should mean just that. “South Dakota cattle producers work tirelessly to produce some of the highest quality beef in the world. The pandemic has only highlighted their important role in our domestic food supply and the urgent need to strengthen it. To ensure the viability of cattle ranching in this country, the system in which producers operate must be fair and transparent. As a long-time su… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T20:17:01Z |
| https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-president-biden-governor-murphy-and-fema-administrator-criswell-discuss-and-survey-damage-caused-by-ida | Booker, President Biden, Governor Murphy, and FEMA Administrator Criswell Discuss and Survey Damage Caused by Ida | 2021-09-07 | 2021 | 2021-09 | Democrat | Senate | NJ | Cory A. Booker | B001288 | www.booker.senate.gov | booker | https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press | scraper | Newark, NJ – Today, U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) met with President Joe Biden, Governor Phil Murphy, FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell, and local and state officials in Hillsborough, New Jersey, to discuss and survey damage following historic rain and flooding caused by the remnants of Hurricane Ida. During a briefing hosted by local officials in Hillsborough, New Jersey, Booker joined the President and called for the quick completion of preliminary damage assessments by FEMA in New Jersey counties severely impacted by the storm to ensure every resident gets the federal resources they need to recover. After the discussion, Booker toured a neighborhood in Manville, New Jersey, alongside the President and Governor to speak with residents impacted by the storm. Senator Booker with President Biden at a briefing to discuss relief operations after the effects of Ida. | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T20:17:01Z |
| https://norcross.house.gov/press-releases?ID=69F9067D-60AD-4CAB-AD2C-39D4DC452313 | Norcross Statement on Labor Day | 2021-09-06 | 2021 | 2021-09 | Democrat | House | NJ | Donald Norcross | N000188 | norcross.house.gov | norcross | https://norcross.house.gov/press-releases | page_html | CHERRY HILL, NJ – Congressman Donald Norcross (NJ-01) issued the following statement on Labor Day: “For the second year in a row, Labor Day comes as communities across the country continue to grapple with the COVID-19 pandemic. Our frontline workers have been vital in keeping us safe and our country running the past 18 months. It took a pandemic for so many to realize that essential workers, including our local health care workers, teachers, grocery store clerks, first responders, postal workers, truck drivers and construction workers are the backbone of our country. “In addition to a deadly pandemic, last week South Jersey was hit with a storm that left homes and communities devastated. Once again, our workers showed up and risked their safety to be there for those impacted by the storm. From the linemen fixing powerlines, to the nurses and doctors treating patients in the hospitals, to the emergency responders digging through debris and addressing the floods, we could never recover without your help. On behalf of a grateful nation, thank you to all the men and women who show up each day and put in the work for our communities.” ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-03-30T11:08:25Z |
| https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-menendez-applaud-swift-action-by-biden-for-federal-assistance-after-tropical-storm-ida-ravaged-nj | BOOKER, MENENDEZ APPLAUD SWIFT ACTION BY BIDEN FOR FEDERAL ASSISTANCE AFTER TROPICAL STORM IDA RAVAGED NJ | 2021-09-03 | 2021 | 2021-09 | Democrat | Senate | NJ | Cory A. Booker | B001288 | www.booker.senate.gov | booker | https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press | scraper | Newark, N.J. – U.S. Senators Bob Menendez and Cory Booker (both D-N.J.) today applauded the Emergency Declaration issued to New Jersey for the damage inflicted on the state by Tropical Storm Ida. The storm caused historic flash flooding, tornadoes and record rainfall, and resulted in the tragic deaths of at least 23 New Jerseyans. The senators last night led the entire congressional delegation in a letter urging President Biden to approve Governor Phil Murphy’s request for a Major Disaster Declaration, which will make the state eligible for more federal resources as areas recover from damage. “For communities across New Jersey, this record-breaking storm has caused widespread devastation, and our state’s residents will need robust assistance in the coming days and weeks to rebuild,” said Sen. Booker. “I’m grateful to President Biden for his quick and decisive action that will provide New Jersey with the critical federal resources it needs to help with the immediate recovery efforts.” “I thank President Biden for quickly approving Governor Murphy’s request for federal assistance. This is much needed federal relief for all of New Jersey’s 21 counties,” said Sen. Menendez. “From the tornadoes, to the flooding and torrential rain, communities across the state are now burdened with debris removal and widespread power outages. This will help communities begin the recovery process, get families out of harm’s way and our transit systems back up and running.” In the letter, the lawmakers noted that FEMA Individual Assistance is needed to help New Jerseyans who were displaced from their homes due to flooding. FEMA Public Assistance is also critical in order to resume the state’s mass transit systems that millions of people rely on every day. Last night’s letter was also signed by U.S. Representatives Donald Norcross (N.J.-01), Jeff Van Drew (N.J.-02), Andy Kim (N.J.-03), Chris Smith (N.J.-04), Josh Gottheimer (N.J.-05), Frank Pallone, Jr. (N.J.-06), Tom Malinowksi (N.J.-07), Albio Sires (N.J.-08), Bill Pascrell, Jr. (… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T20:17:01Z |
| https://norcross.house.gov/press-releases?ID=9E810DEE-4F1A-4BE1-BC60-BF64280E9F8D | Norcross Votes to Advance NDAA that Supports South Jersey Jobs, Uplift Military Working Families, Bolsters Our Domestic Supply Chain & Keeps America Safe | 2021-09-02 | 2021 | 2021-09 | Democrat | House | NJ | Donald Norcross | N000188 | norcross.house.gov | norcross | https://norcross.house.gov/press-releases | page_html | WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Congressman Donald Norcross (NJ-01), Chair of the Tactical Air and Land Forces (TAL) Subcommittee of the House Armed Services Committee (HASC), voted to advance the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2022 (FY22). The bill, which passed on a bipartisan vote of 57 - 2 out of committee, provides our military working families with the resources they need to keep our nation secure, invests in American workers and manufacturing, provides opportunities for registered apprenticeships and will make America safer. The bill also includes a number of provisions Norcross fought for that will raise the wages of our defense civilian workforce and bring critical manufacturing jobs back home. “Today we put our working families first, especially the millions of military working families that deserve the best from a grateful nation,” said Chairman Norcross. “I am proud to have fought for provisions that make America safer by investing in the American worker. The threats to the United States today are more complex, and our adversaries abroad like China and Russia are engaged in the types of business practices that cost American Jobs. This bill will put us on a path to build back better by increasing our domestic supply chain capabilities, strengthening our workforce and giving our servicemembers the tools they need to win the future fight.” Norcross added: “I applaud the leadership of Chairman Smith in ushering the NDAA through the House Armed Services Committee. This year I continued the fight to secure America’s supply chain and ensured the inclusion of ‘Buy American’ provisions that would bring jobs back home. Additionally, I led the way on obtaining a minimum wage of $15 per hour for all Defense service contractors, which will ensure the men and women supporting our armed services earn a living wage. I was also proud to support the inclusion of measures that will improve the ability of the Department of Defense to effectively prosecute sex crimes in the military, as well as identify… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-03-30T11:08:25Z |
| https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-menendez-lead-nj-delegation-call-for-president-to-issue-major-disaster-declaration-for-nj-after-tropical-storm-ida | BOOKER, MENENDEZ LEAD NJ DELEGATION CALL FOR PRESIDENT TO ISSUE MAJOR DISASTER DECLARATION FOR NJ AFTER TROPICAL STORM IDA | 2021-09-02 | 2021 | 2021-09 | Democrat | Senate | NJ | Cory A. Booker | B001288 | www.booker.senate.gov | booker | https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press | scraper | NEWARK, N.J. – U.S. Senators Bob Menendez and Cory Booker (both D-N.J.) today led the entire congressional delegation in calling on President Biden to approve Governor Phil Murphy’s request for a Major Disaster Declaration for all 21 counties. Approval of the request would make the state eligible for more federal resources as areas recover from damage caused by Tropical Storm Ida. The storm caused historic flash flooding, tornadoes and record rainfall, and resulted in the tragic deaths of at least 23 New Jerseyans. The state’s mass transit systems also suffered significant damage, which caused service disruptions for residents, commuters and travelers. Flooding at passenger and baggage areas at Newark Liberty International Airport caused flight cancellations and delays, while Teterboro Airport remains closed due to significant flooding on main roads around the facility. Service on NJ Transit remains halted due to downed trees and flooded areas. The lawmakers noted that FEMA Public Assistance is “critical” in order to quickly resume the transit systems that millions of people rely on every day. The letter was also signed by U.S. Representatives Donald Norcross (N.J.-01), Jeff Van Drew (N.J.-02), Andy Kim (N.J.-03), Chris Smith (N.J.-04), Josh Gottheimer (N.J.-05), Frank Pallone, Jr. (N.J.-06), Tom Malinowksi (N.J.-07), Albio Sires (N.J.-08), Bill Pascrell, Jr. (N.J.-09), Donald Payne, Jr. (N.J.-10), Mikie Sherrill (N.J.-11) and Bonnie Watson Coleman (N.J.-12). Full text of the letter can be found here and below. Dear President Biden: Governor Murphy has formally requested a Major Disaster Declaration for all 21 counties in the State of New Jersey in response to Tropical Strom Ida.We urge you to approve this request to ensure New Jersey has all the resources available to manage this disaster. Tropical Storm Ida has devastated our state through historic flash flooding, tornadoes, and record rainfalls. Tragically, at least 23 New Jerseyans have lost their lives due to the storm. Tropical Storm Ida poured inches… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T20:17:01Z |
| https://norcross.house.gov/press-releases?ID=12FC51B9-263E-44BA-B6D8-72E7C2C55335 | Norcross Statement on Conclusion of War in Afghanistan | 2021-08-31 | 2021 | 2021-08 | Democrat | House | NJ | Donald Norcross | N000188 | norcross.house.gov | norcross | https://norcross.house.gov/press-releases | page_html | WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Congressman Donald Norcross (NJ-01) released the following statement on the end of U.S. military presence in Afghanistan: “First and foremost, I am profoundly grateful to and humbled by the nearly 800,000 American soldiers, sailors, airmen and marines who served, and to the 2,443 who gave their last full measure of devotion over the past two decades in Afghanistan. People from every state and territory served in this war, but I want to extend a special thank you to the servicemembers from New Jersey who committed to safeguarding our homeland for so long. To the South Jersey families who sacrificed everything to the war in Afghanistan - your service and sacrifice was meaningful, made Americans safer and will not be forgotten. “Our military’s involvement in Afghanistan has lasted far too long and was characterized by a shifting and often undefined mission. As the fourth commander in chief to oversee this 20-year war, President Biden held to his convictions and I applaud his leadership and courage in finally bringing U.S. servicemembers home. That said, the threat of terrorism persists and I have every confidence that our nation’s military will continue to protect us and our allies against those who would use terror as a political tool. “Over the past two and a half weeks, U.S. troops oversaw the largest airlift in American history. Moving more than 123,000 people in such a short timeframe was nothing short of remarkable, and it is a testament to the dedication and resolve of our servicemembers as they perform even the most challenging missions. That being said, there remain important questions about the intelligence and decisions leading up to this withdrawal and will look into them. Further, several hundred American civilians remain in Afghanistan. We have an absolute responsibility to provide for their safe evacuation until all Americans and their families who want to leave have been allowed to do so. Thank you to Maj. Gen. Chris Donahue, who was the last pair of boots on the ground, and … | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-03-30T11:08:25Z |
| https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-epa-administrator-regan-nj-dep-commissioner-latourette-mayor-baraka-and-advocates-survey-and-discuss-environmental-justice-issues-affecting-newark-residents | Booker, EPA Administrator Regan, NJ DEP Commissioner LaTourette, Mayor Baraka, and Advocates Survey and Discuss Environmental Justice Issues Affecting Newark Residents | 2021-08-27 | 2021 | 2021-08 | Democrat | Senate | NJ | Cory A. Booker | B001288 | www.booker.senate.gov | booker | https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press | scraper | Newark, NJ - U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) joined EPA Administrator Michael Regan, New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection Commissioner Shawn LaTourette, Newark Mayor Ras Baraka, Ironbound Community Corporation, and New Jersey Environmental Justice Alliance for an environmental justice tour of the Ironbound neighborhood in Newark. The tour was followed by a roundtable discussion on federal policies to address issues affecting environmental justice communities. “Since my early days as a tenant rights lawyer in Newark, I’ve seen how underserved communities and communities of color bear the burden of legacy pollution, toxic Superfund sites, and the lack of clean air or water,” said Sen. Booker. “I was proud to host Administrator Regan, Commissioner LaTourette, and local environmental justice advocates for this important tour and discussion that underscores the urgent need to address stark environmental inequalities and racism. Such discussions between local, state, and federal entities are essential to ensuring residents in overlooked communities across the United States are given the tools, resources, and funding they need to achieve environmental justice.” “As EPA Administrator, I understand how important it is to be on the ground, to listen, and to learn from our communities on the frontlines of pollution,” said U.S. EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan. “It’s critical that we understand people’s lived experiences, and that these impacts on communities are at the forefront of EPA’s decision-making. I’m grateful to Senator Booker for his partnership, steadfast leadership, and for providing me an opportunity to see firsthand the environmental injustices facing the Ironbound community in Newark. By listening to our communities of color and working hand in hand with our state and local partners, we will ensure that all people in this country realize the full protections of our environmental laws and policies.” “Thanks to the partnership of our community leaders, advocates, and legislators, New Jersey is … | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T20:11:17Z |
| https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-statement-on-terror-attacks-in-afghanistan | Booker Statement on Terror Attacks in Afghanistan | 2021-08-26 | 2021 | 2021-08 | Democrat | Senate | NJ | Cory A. Booker | B001288 | www.booker.senate.gov | booker | https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press | scraper | Newark, NJ - US Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ), a member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, issued the following statement: “My heart and my prayers are with the loved ones of the American service members and Afghan civilians who were killed in the acts of terrorism earlier today in Afghanistan. “The American heroes who were killed today undoubtedly saved the lives of many more, their enduring legacy will be one of service and sacrifice. “I strongly condemn this act of terror and vow to work alongside my colleagues and the Biden Administration to find those responsible and hold them accountable. “I commend and am deeply grateful to the brave U.S. service members and diplomats working to continue the evacuation.” | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T20:11:17Z |
| https://norcross.house.gov/press-releases?ID=A7449191-E166-4A13-B3DD-AB96F090D59F | Norcross Votes to Protect the Right to Vote for All Americans | 2021-08-24 | 2021 | 2021-08 | Democrat | House | NJ | Donald Norcross | N000188 | norcross.house.gov | norcross | https://norcross.house.gov/press-releases | page_html | WASHINGTON, DC – Today, U.S. Congressman Donald Norcross (NJ-01) voted to pass H.R. 4, the John R. Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act, to restore critical protections of the Voting Rights Act of 1965 and keep the promise of our democracy for all Americans. H.R. 4 would prevent states and localities with a recent history of voter discrimination from restricting the right to vote by requiring these jurisdictions to obtain federal preclearance before changing their voting laws. “I’ve always supported making voting easier, not harder, and today, I proudly voted to pass the John Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act,” said Congressman Norcross. “This bill honors the legacy of my dear friend John Lewis, who devoted his life to ensuring the sacred right to vote, and all those who sacrificed in this fight. Voting rights aren’t a partisan issue – they must be protected for everyone.” For decades, the Voting Rights Act of 1965 (VRA) prevented states and localities from restricting the right to vote. However, in its disastrous Shelby County v. Holder decision in 2013, the Supreme Court gutted the law, invalidating Section 4 and striking down the formula used to determine which jurisdictions are subject to federal oversight. In July 2021, the Court further weakened the law in its decision in Brnovich v. DNC which made it more difficult to challenge discriminatory voting laws under Section 2. Since 2013, there has been a steady increase in the number of restrictive voting laws that disproportionately suppress turnout among minorities, young adults, and the elderly. This accelerated in 2021 with the Big Lie of a “stolen election.” Just this year, 18 states have enacted at least 30 laws to restrict access to the vote. Named for the late Congressman and civil rights icon John Robert Lewis, H.R. 4 restores Section 4 of the VRA by establishing a modern-day formula that requires states and localities with a recent history of voter discrimination to seek approval from the U.S. Department of Justice before making changes to their … | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-03-30T11:08:25Z |
| https://norcross.house.gov/press-releases?ID=B2D5679F-2DAF-46EB-A1E1-69A9A6575F59 | Norcross, Hoyer & Sherrill Host Roundtable Discussion with Wind Energy Producers, Manufacturers, Local Officials | 2021-08-23 | 2021 | 2021-08 | Democrat | House | NJ | Donald Norcross | N000188 | norcross.house.gov | norcross | https://norcross.house.gov/press-releases | page_html | PAULSBORO, NJ – Today, U.S. Congressman Donald Norcross (NJ-01) hosted U.S. House of Representatives Majority Leader Steny Hoyer (MD-05) and Congresswoman Mikie Sherrill (NJ-12) for a roundtable discussion at Paulsboro Marine Terminal with wind energy producers, manufacturers and local officials about how South Jersey is becoming one of the premier wind energy hubs in the Northeast. “The work being done at the Paulsboro Port will enable America’s clean energy future to be built right here in South Jersey, and I thank Majority Leader Hoyer for joining us here today, recognizing our area is becoming one of the premier wind energy hubs in the nation,” said Congressman Norcross. “The new EEW wind turbine manufacturing site will power our economy by building the clean technology that will power our homes and businesses. The need to transition to a clean energy economy is more important than ever before, and I applaud Governor Murphy, EEW, Ørsted, Holt and PSEG for recognizing that and taking action. This project is generating hundreds of union construction jobs, and I look forward to seeing the great work of our local building trades members.” “I am pleased to join Congressman Norcross and manufacturing leaders to learn more about the construction at Paulsboro Marine Terminal that will create good-paying, union jobs in South Jersey and make this community a clean energy and manufacturing leader. Forward-looking infrastructure projects like this one are key to building a strong economy, and it’s these kind of projects that will be made possible by President Biden’s Build Back Better agenda,” said Majority Leader Hoyer. “I’m grateful for Congressman Norcross’ leadership and the work of the partners here with us today whose efforts have made South Jersey a leader in clean energy and good-paying jobs so we can Make it in America.” “New Jersey is a nation-wide leader in wind power and the clean energy economy for a reason,” said Congresswoman Sherrill. “The wind turbine monopile manufacturing facility being constructed … | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-03-30T11:08:25Z |
| https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-menendez-bipartisan-infrastructure-investment-and-jobs-act-delivers-for-nj | BOOKER, MENENDEZ: BIPARTISAN INFRASTRUCTURE INVESTMENT AND JOBS ACT DELIVERS FOR NJ | 2021-08-13 | 2021 | 2021-08 | Democrat | Senate | NJ | Cory A. Booker | B001288 | www.booker.senate.gov | booker | https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Cory Booker and Bob Menendez (both D-N.J.) released a breakdown of how the historic, $1.2 trillion bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act passed today in the U.S. Senate will provide record investments in New Jersey’s aging infrastructure to repair roads and bridges, expand mass transit, build the Gateway Project, replace water and sewer pipes, and increase broadband internet access. The bill projects to generate more than two million jobs per year over the next decade and deliver billions to New Jersey in federal funding to address the state’s most pressing infrastructure needs. The legislation will provide an estimated $12.31 billion in guaranteed transportation and transit funding formula dollars for New Jersey over the next five years—the largest ever investment in the state’s transportation infrastructure. The state will also receive a minimum $100 million to expand broadband internet access. State formula funding for water and sewer infrastructure has yet to be calculated, and New Jersey can still compete for additional federal funding through other discretionary sources TRANSPORTATION ·Highways/Roads $6,883,719,399 ·Bridges $1,146,780,115 ·Electric Vehicles $104,373,268 ·Ferry Service $24,407,410 TRANSIT ·TOTAL $4,154,648,806 ·FY21 $626,068,511 ·FY22 $792,674,692 ·FY23 $809,730,546 ·FY24 $831,558,775 ·FY25 $849,219,308 ·FY26 $871,465,485 BROADBAND $100,000,000 (*min.) The Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act also includes additional infrastructure funding for federal programs that will benefit New Jersey, namely: GATEWAY PROJECT ·Amtrak’s Northeast Corridor (NEC) $30,000,000,000 ·Capital Improvement Grants oSupplemental appropriation $8,000,000,000 oAnnual authorization $3,000,000,000 (Note: Funding from these programs can be used to complete Gateway) AIRPORTS ·Airport Infrastructure Grants $15,000,000,000 ·Airport Terminal Program $5,000,000,000 (Note: Funding is national over the next five years) WATER INFRASTRUCTURE ·Drinking Wate… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T20:11:17Z |
| https://watsoncoleman.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/watson-coleman-leads-colleagues-in-letter-to-secretary-yellen-to-increase-voter-registration-opportunities-at-vita-sites | Watson Coleman Leads Colleagues in Letter to Secretary Yellen to Increase Voter Registration Opportunities at VITA Sites | 2021-08-12 | 2021 | 2021-08 | Democrat | House | NJ | Bonnie Watson Coleman | W000822 | watsoncoleman.house.gov | watsoncoleman | https://watsoncoleman.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases | scraper | Today, Congresswoman Bonnie Watson Coleman (NJ-12) lead 14 of her colleagues in a letter to Secretary of the Treasury Janet Yellen calling on her to increase access to voter registration at the nations thousands of Volunteer Income Tax Assistance Program sites. Following research by the Brookings Institute, it’s estimated that offering voter registration at VITA sites nationwide would lead to about 115,000 registrations of eligible voters without slowing tax preparation times. “While Republican legislatures around the country are introducing laws to make it harder for Americans to vote, everything must be done to secure this fundamental right,” said Watson Coleman. “Every effort must be made to combat these regressive tactics in the courts, in the legislature through bills like HR 1, and by the Biden administration by increasing access to voter registration information and making it easier for eligible voters to register. The best way to create opportunities to register is to provide registration materials at places in which many people interact. On March 7th, President Biden signed an executive order tasking the heads of each federal agency with submitting a strategic plan outlining ways their agency could promote voter registration and participation. Forty-nine states require citizens to register before voting. The letter also cites Rep. Watson Coleman’s Filer Voter Act, a bill modeled on the National Voter Registration Act of 1993, better known as the Motor Voter Law, which allowed voters to register to vote at their local motor vehicle department. The Filer Voter Act would require tax preparers to provide individuals the option to receive voter registration materials. The letter was signed by Reps. Earl Blumenauer (OR-3), Salud Carbajal (CA-24), Jim Cooper (TN-5), Dwight Evans (PA-3), Raúl Grijalva (AZ-3), Ro Khanna (CA-17), John B. Larson (CT-01), Tim Ryan (OH-13), Mary Gay Scanlon (PA-5), Thomas Suozzi (NY-3), Rashida Tlaib (MI-13), John Yarmuth (KY-3), Alma Adams, Ph.D. (NC-12), and James P. McGovern (… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T20:11:17Z |
| https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-durbin-urge-president-biden-to-use-executive-authority-to-allow-individuals-under-federal-custody-to-remain-on-home-confinement | BOOKER, DURBIN URGE PRESIDENT BIDEN TO USE EXECUTIVE AUTHORITY TO ALLOW INDIVIDUALS UNDER FEDERAL CUSTODY TO REMAIN ON HOME CONFINEMENT | 2021-08-12 | 2021 | 2021-08 | Democrat | Senate | NJ | Cory A. Booker | B001288 | www.booker.senate.gov | booker | https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ), Chair of the Senate Judiciary Subcommittee on Criminal Justice and Counterterrorism, and U.S. Senate Majority Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Chair of the Senate Judiciary Committee, today sent a letter to President Biden urging his Administration to rescind a Trump-era opinion that would force individuals on home confinement to return to federal prison following the COVID-19 pandemic. In their letter, Booker and Durbin note that the Office of Legal Counsel’s (OLC) January 15, 2021, memorandum opinion incorrectly found that following the emergency period of the pandemic, the Bureau of Prisons (BOP) must recall people who had been released to home confinement pursuant to the CARES Act to complete their sentences at BOP facilities. In fact, the CARES Act does not require or permit BOP to recall these individuals. “Your Administration has ample executive authority to immediately provide the certainty these returning citizens deserve as they reintegrate into their communities, reunite with their families, and join in rebuilding our economy,” the Senators wrote. “We urge you to use your unfettered pardon power to immediately commute the sentences of those on home confinement pursuant to the CARES Act.” Since March 26, 2020, thousands of people have been released to home confinement and halfway houses, and less than one percent have been returned to BOP facilities for violating the conditions of their release. The Senators continued, “These individuals, who were released only after careful vetting by BOP, have successfully transitioned to home confinement. They have reunited with family, obtained jobs, and are abiding by the conditions of their release.” The CARES Act expanded BOP’s home confinement authority to reduce prison populations to help contain the spread of the virus, The Act provides that during the covered emergency period, BOP may lengthen the maximum amount of time an individual may be placed in pre-release home confinement under 18 U.S.C. § 3624(c)(2). Rec… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T20:11:17Z |
| https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-statement-on-senate-passage-of-bipartisan-infrastructure-bill | Booker Statement on Senate Passage of Bipartisan Infrastructure Bill | 2021-08-10 | 2021 | 2021-08 | Democrat | Senate | NJ | Cory A. Booker | B001288 | www.booker.senate.gov | booker | https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) issued the following statement on Senate passage of the bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act of 2021: “After months of bipartisan negotiations, I applaud the Senate for passing the most extensive infrastructure investment our country has seen in decades. This landmark legislation will help create millions of good-paying jobs throughout our country, strengthen our national security, and bolster our economy -- making us more economically competitive with other nations. “New Jersey and our country badly need federal investment to modernize our nation’s rail and transit systems, repair our crumbling roads and tunnels and deteriorating water systems, strengthen cyberinfrastructure, expand broadband access, and combat climate change. “The IIJA also includes key funding for Amtrak and transit that will support completion of the Gateway Program, funding for the construction and refurbishment of household decentralized wastewater systems that I’ve worked to advance for years, and a toll credit exchange pilot program, ferry operators provision, and wildlife crossing safety program based on my legislation. “I am proud to have worked with my colleagues in passing this bipartisan legislation and look forward to following it up with a budget bill that will make significant and transformative investmentsto lower costs for American families, create additional American jobs, and move our country forward in addressing the climate crisis.” Specifically, the bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act of 2021 will include the following: $66 billion for passenger and freight rail including $30 billion in dedicated funding for Amtrak’s Northeast Corridor that will address the region’s backlog of repairs and improve service. $39.2 billion of new investments over baseline funding for a total of $89.9 billion to modernize transit. $111 billion in new investments in roads and bridges including a $40 billion dedicated program to rebuild our nation’s aging … | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T20:11:17Z |
| https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-warren-reintroduce-bill-to-crack-down-on-bank-overdraft-fees | Booker, Warren Reintroduce Bill to Crack Down on Bank Overdraft Fees | 2021-08-09 | 2021 | 2021-08 | Democrat | Senate | NJ | Cory A. Booker | B001288 | www.booker.senate.gov | booker | https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senators Cory Booker (D-NJ) and Elizabeth Warren (D-MA) today reintroduced legislation to crack down on exploitative overdraft fees that banks charge consumers when they make a purchase or pay a bill but don’t have sufficient funds in their account. The Stop Overdraft Profiteering Act of 2021 would ban overdraft fees on debit card transactions and ATM withdrawals, and limit fees placed for checks and recurring payments. It would also mandate that banks post transactions in a manner that minimizes overdraft and nonsufficient fund fees (often times, banks reorder transactions in such a way as to maximize overdraft fees, which can mean, in some cases, that the consumer faces multiple charges). “Exploitative and excessive overdraft fees allow banks to reap enormous profits at the expense of the most economically vulnerable people,” said Sen Booker. “Even when accounting for the temporary and uneven measures that the industry took to provide relief to consumers throughout the pandemic, banks continued to make billions of dollars of revenue last year on the backs of their most vulnerable consumers. Our bill will require banks to institute overdraft protections and transparency measures that protect consumers and put an end to the unfair practices that can often be the tipping point toward financial ruin for struggling families. Families emerging from this crisis cannot continued to be saddled by these burdensome and abusive practices.” "While the COVID-19 pandemic has swept across the country and millions of families have struggled financially, big banks have reaped in billions of profits made from overdraft fees," said Senator Warren. I am glad to introduce this critical legislation with Senator Booker to protect consumers and crackdown on these predatory practices.” Specifically the Stop Overdraft Profiteering Act of 2021 would: Prohibit overdraft fees on debit card transactions and ATM withdrawals. Prohibit financial institutions from charging more than one overdraft fee per month and n… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T20:11:17Z |
| https://norcross.house.gov/press-releases?ID=5A1C65AC-9890-41C4-B630-DEA45CE8ED1D | Norcross, Reed Demand Upgrades in School Infrastructure to Enhance Safety & Raise Student Achievement | 2021-08-06 | 2021 | 2021-08 | Democrat | House | NJ | Donald Norcross | N000188 | norcross.house.gov | norcross | https://norcross.house.gov/press-releases | page_html | WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Congressman Donald Norcross (D-NJ) and U.S. Senator Jack Reed (D-RI) led over 90 members of Congress in urging Congressional leaders to prioritize the inclusion of federal dollars to boost school infrastructure nationwide as part of this once-in-a generation investment in the nation’s critical infrastructure. School districts are facing increased costs, aging school infrastructure and an urgent need for schools to alleviate crowded classrooms and ensure adequate fresh air ventilation to help reduce COVID-19 transmission. Noting that the crisis with crumbling school infrastructure predates the pandemic and is a threat to the health and well-being of students and teachers and undermines academic achievement, 91 members of Congress penned a joint letter to House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (CA-12) and Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) urging the inclusion of at least $100 billion in federal funds to boost school construction. “An investment of at least $100 billion in school facilities will be critical to achieving the full promise of the American Families Plan for our middle and working class communities. Without an upgrade to school facilities, these communities will struggle to implement universal preschool, expand school nutrition programs, achieve climate resiliency, close the digital divide, and recruit and retain educators. Furthermore, failure to adequately invest in school facilities will undermine our march towards racial and economic justice, as these are the communities with the lowest tax bases and fewest resources for capital improvements,” the 91 members of Congress wrote. The letter also notes: “Currently, our school facilities are not making the grade. School infrastructure earned a D+ on the American Society of Civil Engineers Report Card for America’s Infrastructure. A June 2020 report from the Government Accountability Office (GAO) on the state of school infrastructure—the agency’s first report on the subject since 1996—found that 54 percent of school districts acros… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-03-30T11:08:25Z |
| https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-hirono-blunt-rochester-and-fitzpatrick-reintroduce-bill-to-boost-small-business-growth-in-rural-low-income-and-underserved-areas | Booker, Hirono, Blunt Rochester, and Fitzpatrick Reintroduce Bill to Boost Small Business Growth in Rural, Low-Income, and Underserved Areas | 2021-08-06 | 2021 | 2021-08 | Democrat | Senate | NJ | Cory A. Booker | B001288 | www.booker.senate.gov | booker | https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senators Cory Booker (D-NJ), a member of the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, and Mazie Hirono (D-HI) today reintroduced legislation that invests in startup accelerators and incubators in new and underserved areas. Research indicates that just three geographic clusters — the San Francisco Bay area, the Boston-Washington corridor, and Southern California—account for 77 percent of venture capital funding in the United States, driving small business job growth to thrive in these areas and leaving rural, low-income, and other underserved areas behind. Companion legislation was introduced in the House by U.S. Representatives Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-DE, At-Large) and Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA-1). Incubation and accelerator programs, which provide entrepreneurs with essential services such as experienced leadership, office space, access to financing opportunities, and structured mentorship for certain periods of time, are critical elements of innovation ecosystems where successful startups can flourish. According to research conducted at MIT, areas in which an accelerator opens see a 97 percent increase in the number of distinct venture capital investors compared to similar areas without an accelerator. “When we fail to get entrepreneurs the resources they need to scale their businesses, regardless of their zip code or wealth, we leave some of the best ideas and innovations on the sidelines,” said Sen. Booker. “To aid in our country’s long term economic recovery, our bill will make robust investments to help fund new startup programs in low-income and underserved areas, providing more entrepreneurs with the support they need to launch their businesses and create jobs.” “Every day across our country, small businesses and entrepreneurs drive innovation and growth, and create jobs,” Senator Hirono said. “The SOAR Act is a critical opportunity to provide more businesses and entrepreneurs with the resources they need to succeed—regardless of where they may be located. Passing … | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T20:11:17Z |
| https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-introduces-legislation-to-end-draconian-policy-that-prevents-formerly-incarcerated-individuals-from-accessing-government-assistance-programs | Booker Introduces Legislation to End Draconian Policy that Prevents Formerly Incarcerated Individuals from Accessing Government Assistance Programs | 2021-08-06 | 2021 | 2021-08 | Democrat | Senate | NJ | Cory A. Booker | B001288 | www.booker.senate.gov | booker | https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press | scraper | Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) introduced the Making Essentials Available and Lawful Act, or the MEAL Act. This legislation would repeal a lifetime ban that prevents formerly incarcerated individuals convicted of felony drug offenses from accessing Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits or assistance under programs funded by Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) block grants. Earlier this year, Representatives Steve Cohen (D-TN), Gwen Moore (D-WI), Bonnie Watson Coleman (D-NJ), and Jahana Hayes (D-CT) introduced companion legislation in the House. According to the U.S. Bureau of Justice Statistics, more than 600,000 individuals are released from local and federal prisons every year. However, due to the Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity Act established in 1996, many formerly incarcerated individuals do not have access to critical programs such as SNAP and TANF. Meanwhile, studies have shown that access to public assistance like SNAP and TANF is associated with a reduced risk of recidivism among returning citizens. “For formerly incarcerated individuals trying to reenter society, the lifetime ban on SNAP and TANF benefits poses unnecessary barriers that we know increase the risk of recidivism,” said Senator Booker. “Those who have repaid their debt to society shouldn’t have to suffer from a lifetime of continued punishment. The MEAL Act will repeal this decades-old lifetime ban and ensure that people convicted of felony drug offenses can meet their basic needs and safely reintegrate into their communities.” “I am pleased to be working with Senator Booker and Representatives Gwen Moore, Bonnie Watson Coleman, and Jahana Hayes on these commonsense and humane re-entry reforms,” said Congressman Cohen. “Thousands of people released from state and federal prisons each year re-enter society and find major, and unnecessary, challenges, including lifetime bans on food assistance and TANF. The MEAL Act would repeal the 1996 ban on people with drug felony c… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T20:11:17Z |
| https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-leads-senators-in-urging-majority-leader-schumer-to-include-baby-bonds-in-the-reconciliation-package | Booker Leads Senators in Urging Majority Leader Schumer to Include “Baby Bonds” in the Reconciliation Package | 2021-08-06 | 2021 | 2021-08 | Democrat | Senate | NJ | Cory A. Booker | B001288 | www.booker.senate.gov | booker | https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C – Today, U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) led a letter urging Majority Leader Chuck Schumer to include the American Opportunity Accounts Act, or “Baby Bonds,” in the reconciliation package. If included and passed, this groundbreaking legislation will create a federally-funded savings account for every American child that will make economic opportunity a birthright for every American and substantially close the racial wealth gap. Staggering wealth inequality in the U.S. has only worsened in the past six decades, especially along racial lines. According to the 2019 Survey of Consumer Finances, the median white family has eight dollars in wealth for every one dollar held by Black families, and the members of the Forbes 400 wealthiest Americans own more wealth than all black families in the U.S. combined. Recent studies by Columbia University and Morningstar have found that a program like Baby Bonds would substantially close the racial wealth gap among young adults in America. “The COVID-19 pandemic, ensuing economic crisis, and ongoing recovery have only further exposed vast economic inequities along racial lines,” the senators wrote to Majority Leader Chuck Schumer. “Today, the median white family has eight dollars in wealth for every one dollar held by Black families, and the members of the Forbes 400 wealthiest Americans hold more wealth than all Black families in the U.S. combined. These disparities left Black families particularly vulnerable during this crisis as they dealt with the challenges of high costs of healthcare, unemployment, and remote learning without the buffer of savings and resources.” “To be clear, these disparities are the result of intentional policymaking,” the senators continued. “For decades, federal, state, and local policy has stripped wealth and opportunity from Black and Brown people, and our tax code is overwhelmingly skewed to reward the already-affluent. We have an opportunity to build a just economic recovery that addresses the economic injustices of the past and p… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T20:11:17Z |
| https://norcross.house.gov/press-releases?ID=ADAEBDC1-E6BB-435A-BC4F-3628D762AC1C | Norcross Statement on Passing of Labor Leader Richard Trumka | 2021-08-05 | 2021 | 2021-08 | Democrat | House | NJ | Donald Norcross | N000188 | norcross.house.gov | norcross | https://norcross.house.gov/press-releases | page_html | WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Congressman Donald Norcross (NJ-01) released the following statements on the passing of AFL-CIO President Richard Trumka: “I was saddened to learn of the passing of Richard Trumka. I knew and worked with him for over three decades, from his time fighting for the United Mine Workers to his steadfast leadership at the AFL-CIO. “Ever since his earliest days, he never stopped fighting for working families. Throughout his career, Rich has improved so many lives and led winning battles for workers across the nation. His death is a loss for working families everywhere. His memory will live on as he has set the stage for workers to lead the way in the economic recovery. His powerful voice and remarkable leadership will be dearly missed. My condolences go to his family, loved ones and all who knew him.” | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-03-30T11:08:25Z |
| https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/08/05/2021/booker-reintroduces-sweeping-environmental-justice-bill | Booker Reintroduces Sweeping Environmental Justice Bill | 2021-08-05 | 2021 | 2021-08 | Democrat | Senate | NJ | Cory A. Booker | B001288 | www.booker.senate.gov | booker | https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C.— U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) reintroduced sweeping legislation to address the environmental injustices that harm communities of color, low-income communities, and indigenous communities around the country. The Environmental Justice Act of 2021 would require federal agencies to mitigate environmental injustices through agency action and would strengthen the legal protections of those affected by environmental injustices. Congressman Dr. Raul Ruiz, M.D. (D-CA) introduced companion legislation in the House of Representatives earlier this year. “We cannot achieve economic justice or social justice in this country without simultaneously addressing environmental justice,” said Senator Booker. “Clean air and clean water shouldn’t be luxuries for the privileged – yet every day, communities of color, low income communities, and indigenous communities are disproportionately harmed by pollution. This reality has largely been ignored, and the affected communities have been left without the legal tools to protect their rights. The Environmental Justice Act is an important step in returning power to these communities.” “Having clean water to drink and clean air to breathe is not a privilege for the affluent few – it's a right and common good for everyone," said Dr. Ruiz. "My bill with Senator Booker, the Environmental Justice Act of 2021, will strengthen protections for vulnerable at-risk populations, give impacted communities the ability to hold big corporations and government accountable, and provide much-needed funds to mitigate and prevent future environmental hazards. Our legislation will take an important step forward in creating a healthier environment for all." Booker worked closely with dozens of grassroots organizations in New Jersey and across the country to craft this comprehensive bill that strengthens environmental justice protections for vulnerable communities. As part of that effort, in 2017, he visited important environmental justice communities in the Southeastern United States, includ… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T20:11:17Z |
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