Press releases
Data license: MIT · Data source: dwillis/congress-press
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991 rows where state = "RI" and year = 2018 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://www.whitehouse.senate.gov/news/op-eds/taxing-carbon-emissions | Taxing Carbon Emissions | 2018-12-30 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Democrat | House | RI | Sheldon Whitehouse | W000802 | www.whitehouse.senate.gov | legacy | To the Editor: I must respectfully disagree with my friendJohn Barrasso's Op-Ed article (Cut Carbon Through Innovation, Not Regulation, nytimes.com, Dec. 18). First, the referendum result in Washington State looked like more relentless campaigning by the fossil fuel industry against climate action; without that industry onslaught, the carbon tax referendum there would probably have passed. Second, a carbon tax is notexpensive,except maybe for fossil fuel interests, as in our proposals all the money goes back to the public. In addition, taxing carbon moves energy markets toward cheaper renewables. On balance, people save money. On top of that, the savings from avoiding climate catastrophes are immense. If you really want to innovate, there has to be a cost to carbon pollution. Without that, where is the incentive to innovate? Today, fossil fuel enjoys a$700 billion-a-year subsidy in the United States, according to the International Monetary Fund. That subsidy warps the economy; it discourages innovation. We need to come together to solve this problem, not let the fossil fuel industry's talking points lead us away from a meaningful solution because leading us astray suits its interests. Sheldon Whitehouse Newport, R.I. The writer, a Democrat, is a United States senator from Rhode Island. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://langevin.house.gov/press-release/langevin-statement-passing-former-bishop-robert-mulvee | Langevin Statement on the Passing of Former Bishop Robert Mulvee | 2018-12-29 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Democrat | House | RI | Jim Langevin | L000559 | langevin.house.gov | legacy | WARWICK, RI Congressman Jim Langevin (D-RI) issued the following statement on the passing of former Providence Bishop Robert Mulvee: Bishop Mulvee was a kind and gentle soul who personified what it means to be a good shepherd in the Catholic church. He was a man who devoted his life to God and provided important spiritual guidance to many while always remaining compassionate and understanding. I had the honor to know Bishop Mulvee, and I considered him a true friend. His leadership and presence in the local Catholic church will be greatly missed. May his soul rest in eternal peace. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.whitehouse.senate.gov/news/release/whitehouse-statement-on-the-passing-of-bishop-mulvee | Whitehouse Statement on the Passing of Bishop Mulvee | 2018-12-29 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Democrat | House | RI | Sheldon Whitehouse | W000802 | www.whitehouse.senate.gov | legacy | 12.29.18 Whitehouse Statement on the Passing of Bishop Mulvee Providence, RI U.S. Senator Sheldon Whitehouse today released the following statement on the passing of former Providence Bishop Robert Mulvee: Bishop Mulvee was quite involved in community policing issues during my years in law enforcement, and we came to know and trust each other. He was always a wise, patient and kindly voice, and in all our personal dealings he was warm, honorable and sincere. I am saddened by his passing. ### Print Email Tweet Previous Article | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases/reed-announces-3-million-to-get-quonset-freight-rail-expansion-on-right-track | Reed Announces $3 Million to Get Quonset Freight Rail Expansion on Right Track | 2018-12-27 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Democrat | House | RI | Jack Reed | R000122 | www.reed.senate.gov | legacy | 12/27/2018NORTH KINGSTOWN, RI U.S. Senator Jack Reed, the Ranking Member of the Appropriations Subcommittee on Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies (THUD), today announced a new $3 million federal grant to support the Quonset Freight Rail Enhancements and Expansion (Q-FREE) project. Administered by the U.S. Department of Transportation, the federal funds will help the Quonset Development Corporation (QDC), a quasi-state agency responsible for the development and management of the Quonset Business Park, including the Port of Davisville, make freight rail improvements to enhance the movement of freight within Quonset Business Park and provide easier access to the northeast corridor. The Port of Davisville, which is operated by QDC, is the state's largest port and a major gateway to markets throughout Southern New England and beyond. Rail car volume in Quonset Business Park has tripled since 2007, tenants are expanding, and storage tracks are needed. This federal funding will help QDC provide operational flexibility and expansion opportunities for the rail operator to move industrial rail freight to, from, and within the Quonset Business Park while freeing up additional land for development. This is a smart investment in improving Quonset's transportation infrastructure and growing capacity to keep up with demand now and in the future. Quonest Business Park and the Port of Davisville are strong economic drivers for the state and I will continue working with my colleagues in the delegation to deliver federal funds for Rhode Island, said Senator Reed, who over the last decade has secured over $55 million for the Freight Rail Improvement Project (FRIP) at Quonset to provide a meaningful rail connection to the port. Quonset Business Park currently has over 200 companies employing nearly 12,000 workers. Although land resources within the business park are available to support continued growth, the transportation infrastructure, including the rail system, is at or approaching capacity.… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://langevin.house.gov/press-release/langevin-condemns-trump-government-shutdown | Langevin Condemns Trump Government Shutdown | 2018-12-22 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Democrat | House | RI | Jim Langevin | L000559 | langevin.house.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON Congressman Jim Langevin (D-RI) issued the following statement as the government prepares for a partial shutdown as a result of President Trump's intransigence over his border wall proposal: President Trump wanted a government shutdown, and now he has one. This past week, the President had the opportunity to accept a bipartisan proposal that would have kept the federal government up and running. Instead, the President doubled down on his wall funding push. Just four days before Christmas, he is delivering a lump of coal to hundreds of thousands of federal employees, contractors, and their families who may go unpaid. A government shutdown is never acceptable. This shutdown will cost the American taxpayers hundreds of millions of dollars per day and will further contribute to the growing climate of economic uncertainty. The President needs to face reality and recognize he must drop his outrageous border wall demands. If he fails to do so, it is the American people who will continue to pay the price. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cicilline.house.gov/press-release/cicilline-statement-defense-secretary%E2%80%99s-resignation | Cicilline Statement on Defense Secretarys Resignation | 2018-12-21 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Democrat | House | RI | David Cicilline | C001084 | cicilline.house.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON Democratic Policy and Communications Committee (DPCC) Chair David N. Cicilline (RI-01) issued the following statement tonight: We owe Secretary Mattis an enormous debt of gratitude for his service to our country. He is a patriot who has always conducted himself with dignity and honor. His resignation today, which comes as a direct result of the President abruptly withdrawing from Syria, is bad news for the security of our country and the strength of our alliances. Over the past two years, President Trump has made America less safe at home and less respected around the world. It is long past time for Republicans to work with Democrats to conduct real oversight of this administration and the bizarre decisions it is making by the day. I am very grateful for Secretary Mattis's devotion to our country, and I am very disappointed that our country will no longer benefit from his wise and experienced service. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://langevin.house.gov/press-release/republicans-vote-government-shutdown-five-days-christmas | Republicans Vote for Government Shutdown Five Days before Christmas | 2018-12-21 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Democrat | House | RI | Jim Langevin | L000559 | langevin.house.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON - Congressman Jim Langevin (D-RI) issued the following statement after opposing the Republican border wall funding bill, which passed by a vote of 217-185: Last week, President Trump said he was happy to shut the government down. Tonight, House Republicans are doubling down on this irresponsible course of action. As frustrating as funding the government with stopgap measures can be, Senators at least came together in a bipartisan manner last night to keep the government open for seven more weeks. This wall funding bill is purely partisan, wholly unnecessary, and dead on arrival. It is past time for the Republicans in control of both houses of Congress and the presidency to govern responsibly. Sadly, one of Speaker Ryan's last official acts will be once again caving to the far right wing of his party and pushing government funding to the brink. I can only hope he sees reason and brings the Senate-passed bill up for a vote in the House where it will pass overwhelmingly. If not, President Trump will get the shutdown he wants, and the American people will suffer for it. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases/reed-colleagues-call-on-trump-administration-to-protect-students-from-predatory-financial-arrangements | Reed, Colleagues Call on Trump Administration to Protect Students From Predatory Financial Arrangements | 2018-12-21 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Democrat | House | RI | Jack Reed | R000122 | www.reed.senate.gov | legacy | 12/21/2018WASHINGTON, DC Seeking to protect students who use federal financial aid from being charged unfair fees on financial products that institutions of higher education are paid to promote, U.S. Senator Jack Reed and six of his Senate colleagues this week sent a letter to Secretary of Education Betsy DeVos asking what, if anything, the Department is doing to ensure students are being protected from predatory financial arrangements that allow financial harm to come to them while benefiting large financial institutions like Wells Fargo. Reed was joined on the letter by Senators Sherrod Brown (D-OH), Dick Durbin (D-IL), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Robert Menendez (D-NJ), and Jeff Merkley (D-OR). The letter notes that under the Department's cash management rules, institutions of higher education are required to negotiate agreements with financial service providers that are in the best financial interests of students. It goes on to explain that an unpublished analysis provided to the Department by the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) about the use of college-sponsored deposit and prepaid accounts showed that in cases where colleges were paid to promote campus banking products, students paid, on average, three times more in account fees than students at campuses without these agreements. Not only did the Department fail to act on this information, but it joined the CFPB in suppressing the data despite several requests from Congress. This regulatory failure allowed Wells Fargo to charge students an average $46.99 in fees compared with an average of $11.93 at institutions that were not paid to promote student accounts, the Senators wrote. Given the evidence in the CFPB's analysis, which has been available to the Department for at least ten months, the Department should have taken steps to review the agreements that resulted in the highest average fees for studentsas such fees are clearly not in the best financial interest of students. The case of Wells Fargo is especially troubling … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.whitehouse.senate.gov/news/release/milestone-whitehouse-bills-to-overhaul-criminal-justice-and-juvenile-justice-systems-become-law | Milestone Whitehouse Bills to Overhaul Criminal Justice and Juvenile Justice Systems Become Law | 2018-12-21 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Democrat | House | RI | Sheldon Whitehouse | W000802 | www.whitehouse.senate.gov | legacy | 12.21.18 Milestone Whitehouse Bills to Overhaul Criminal Justice and Juvenile Justice Systems Become Law New laws help inmates successfully transition back to society, encourage states to adopt new protections for youth offenders Washington, DC Senator Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI) today attended a ceremony at the White House for the signing of two landmark bills to improve the federal criminal justice and juvenile justice systems. Whitehouse has worked for years on the First Step Act and the Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention Reauthorization Act, which both passed Congress in recent days with significant bipartisan support. Rhode Island's success improving outcomes for youth offenders and adults in the criminal justice system inspired features of each of these new laws, said Whitehouse, a member of the Senate Judiciary Committee. I'm proud that our years-long bipartisan effort has produced laws that protect the public safety, reduce the burden on taxpayers, and create opportunities for offenders to break out of the cycle of incarceration by becoming productive members of society. First Step Act Whitehouse first introduced a central component of the First Step Act in 2013 with Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) to reduce the rate of re-offense among federal inmates, along with other important reforms. That legislation was later merged with sentencing reform legislation to form the core of the First Step Act. The bill establishes recidivism reduction programs, based on Whitehouse and Cornyn's bill, to allow qualifying inmates under the provisions to receive reductions to their sentences through time credits upon successful completion of recidivism reduction programming. Rhode Island implemented similar programs in 2008, which have been followed by a 17 percent reduction in the state prison population, a six percent drop in three-year recidivism rates, and a significant drop in crime. The bill also narrows … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.whitehouse.senate.gov/news/release/whitehouse-attends-signing-of-landmark-criminal-justice-reform-bill | Whitehouse Attends Signing of Landmark Criminal Justice Reform Bill | 2018-12-21 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Democrat | House | RI | Sheldon Whitehouse | W000802 | www.whitehouse.senate.gov | legacy | 12.21.18 Whitehouse Attends Signing of Landmark Criminal Justice Reform Bill Senator's bipartisan legislation to help inmates successfully transition back to society Washington, DC Senator Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), Senate Judiciary Committee member and long-time criminal justice reform champion, attended the signing at the White House today of the First Step Act to improve the federal criminal justice system. Whitehouse's landmark criminal justice reform bill is now law. Years of bipartisan work, and the contributions of countless Americans fighting to reform our criminal justice system, brought us to this moment. I am proud to be part of it, said Whitehouse. This bill will use strategies that have worked in states like Rhode Island and Texas to help inmates settle their debt to society, stay out of trouble, and contribute to their community. It will also put in place long-overdue sentencing reforms. I am glad Rhode Islanders' success is reflected in these reforms, and look forward to building on them. Whitehouse first introduced a central component of the First Step Act in 2013 with Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) to reduce the rate of re-offense among federal inmates, along with other important reforms. That legislation was later merged with sentencing reform legislation to form the core of the First Step Act. The bill establishes recidivism reduction programs, based on Whitehouse and Cornyn's bill, to allow qualifying inmates under the provisions to receive reductions to their sentences through time credits upon successful completion of recidivism reduction programming. Rhode Island implemented similar programs in 2008, which have been followed by a 17 percent reduction in the state prison population, a six percent drop in three-year recidivism rates, and a significant drop in crime. The bill also narrows the scope of mandatory minimum prison sentences to focus on the most serious drug offenders and viol… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.whitehouse.senate.gov/news/release/whitehouse-statement-on-partial-government-shutdown | Whitehouse Statement on Partial Government Shutdown | 2018-12-21 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Democrat | House | RI | Sheldon Whitehouse | W000802 | www.whitehouse.senate.gov | legacy | 12.21.18 Whitehouse Statement on Partial Government Shutdown Washington, DC Senator Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI) issued the following statement on the looming shutdown of parts of the federal government following President Donald Trump's rejection of the stopgap spending bill passed with broad bipartisan support in the Senate: The American people want leaders to do their jobs and govern with a steady hand. But President Trump has upended the agreement he reached with his own party, threatening the paychecks of hundreds of thousands of Americans less than a week before Christmas and sending markets tumbling. Rather than working with Democrats, Republicans are choosing to bring government agencies to a halt, including the agency charged with protecting our border. We have seen plenty of pointless brinksmanship from congressional Republicans in recent years, but this takes the cake. ### Print Email Tweet Previous Article | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://langevin.house.gov/press-release/department-homeland-security-establish-vulnerability-disclosure-policy | Department of Homeland Security to Establish Vulnerability Disclosure Policy | 2018-12-20 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Democrat | House | RI | Jim Langevin | L000559 | langevin.house.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON The Senate has passed H.R. 7237, the Strengthening and Enhancing Cyber-capabilities by Utilizing Risk Exposure (SECURE) Technology Act, clearing the bill for approval by President Trump. The House passed the bill, which was introduced by Congressman Will Hurd (R-TX), yesterday evening. The bill will require the Department of Homeland Security to develop a vulnerability disclosure policy for its information systems and authorizes a pilot bug bounty program at the Department. I have been pushing the Department of Homeland Security to establish a vulnerability disclosure policy for years, said Congressman Langevin (D-RI), a senior member of the House Committee on Homeland Security and the co-founder and co-chair of the Congressional Cybersecurity Caucus. Unfortunately and for reasons that remain completely unclear to me DHS has refused to embrace this practice even as it has become widespread in industry. Thanks to the advocacy of Majority Leader McCarthy and Senator Hassan, well-meaning security researchers will finally have a mechanism to report security flaws in systems run by DHS. A vulnerability disclosure policy gives guidelines to security researchers for what types of testing is appropriate and how to inform a system owner of any potential security vulnerabilities. Last year, the Department of Justice put out guidelines on how public and private entities can institute vulnerability disclosure programs. The guidance included recommendations for framing policies and remediation practices once bugs are discovered. Both the Department of Defense and the General Services Administration currently have vulnerability disclosure policies. Last year, I traveled to DEF CON with my friend Will Hurd, continued Langevin. By far my biggest takeaway was that people conducting security research have many motivations for finding and disclosing bugs. While many chose to do so for money or notoriety, many more are just interested in making the Internet a safer place that works as it was intended. And if we are run… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://langevin.house.gov/press-release/langevin-chinese-economic-espionage-must-end | Langevin: Chinese Economic Espionage Must End | 2018-12-20 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Democrat | House | RI | Jim Langevin | L000559 | langevin.house.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON Congressman Jim Langevin, a senior member of the House Armed Services and Homeland Security Committees and the co-founder and co-chair of the Congressional Cybersecurity Caucus, issued the following statement regarding the indictment of two Chinese hackers on charges of cyber-enabled economic espionage: Stealing commercial secrets to prop up companies is not the behavior of responsible states, and the United States and her allies must stand up to this reckless behavior. I commend the Deputy Attorney General for leading a whole-of-government response to Chinese cyber-enabled economic espionage. We are joined by our international partners, many of which have also been victimized by China's campaign of relentless state-sponsored theft. Collective international action, rather than going it alone, is the best way to make it clear to China that their actions are unacceptable. The Obama-Xi accord in 2015 remains a seminal moment in the development of international rules of the road in cyberspace. China is clearly willfully in violation of that agreement and of statements it agreed to in multilateral fora including the G20. President Xi and his lackeys at the Ministry of State Security must understand that they will be held to account for undermining the rules-based international order. The President should immediately take steps to sanction not just the parties directly involved in breaking into these managed service providers but the Chinese companies that benefited from this illicitly acquired intellectual property. Chinese business leaders need to understand that if they make a Faustian pact with their government, they will not be welcome in the international community. Finally, I strongly encourage my colleagues in Congress to immediately pass the Cyber Deterrence and Response Act introduced by my colleague Representative Ted Yoho, which would codify important authorities and allow the government to take swift action in response to violations of international norms. I look forward to continuing to push f… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://langevin.house.gov/press-release/langevin-commends-secretary-mattis-lifetime-service | Langevin Commends Secretary Mattis for a Lifetime of Service | 2018-12-20 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Democrat | House | RI | Jim Langevin | L000559 | langevin.house.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON Congressman Jim Langevin (D-RI), a senior member of the House Committee on Armed Services, issued the following statement regarding the resignation of Secretary of Defense James N. Mattis: There will be a day and a time to address the President's continued attempts to undermine the rule of law, our vital alliances, and the role of the United States in the world, factors that contributed to Secretary Mattis's resignation. Today, however, let us honor the lifetime of service of a man who has served his country nobly across five decades. In all of my interactions with Secretary Mattis, whether as Secretary of Defense or as a general testifying before me, I have been impressed by his patriotism, his integrity, his selflessness, and his commitment to protecting our nation and its partners. In his current role, I always had confidence that Secretary Mattis would be the adult in the room, motivated not by politics or greed, but by a desire to protect our national security and our service members. He always worked to ensure the awesome might of the U.S. military was brought to bear in service of our country's citizens and our allies abroad. I fear his departure may mean those ideals have been purged from the White House. However, I pledge to continue to strive to live up to those ideals each day I serve in Congress. Godspeed, Secretary Mattis. A grateful nation is in your debt. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://langevin.house.gov/press-release/langevin-statement-trump%E2%80%99s-sudden-decision-pull-us-forces-syria | Langevin Statement on Trumps Sudden Decision to Pull U.S. Forces from Syria | 2018-12-20 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Democrat | House | RI | Jim Langevin | L000559 | langevin.house.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON, DC Congressman Jim Langevin (D-RI), a senior member of the House Armed Services Committee, issued the following statement regarding President Trump's announcement of his plan to remove U.S. troops from Syria: President Trump's announcement paints a picture of a chaotic Administration lacking a foreign policy strategy. This reckless decision shows a disregard for our nation's military and intelligence leaders, many of whom have expressed deep concerns over sudden U.S. disengagement in the region. U.S. foreign policy should not be decided on a whim. The American people are entitled to a well-thought-out Syrian policy that advances our interests, respects our allies, and promotes peace throughout the region. Unfortunately, the course the President seems to be embarking on will only come as welcome news to the Assad regime, ISIS, Russia, and Iran as they will surely seek to capitalize on any premature American departure from the region. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://langevin.house.gov/press-release/langevin-supports-passage-bipartisan-criminal-justice-reform-bill | Langevin Supports Passage of Bipartisan Criminal Justice Reform Bill | 2018-12-20 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Democrat | House | RI | Jim Langevin | L000559 | langevin.house.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON Congressman Jim Langevin (D-RI) issued a statement after voting in favor of the First Step Act, a landmark sentencing reform bill that passed the House of Representatives today by a vote of 358-36: For decades, our justice system has locked up non-violent offenders, even when they pose little risk of committing further crimes. After years of negotiations, today's vote represents a significant step in the right direction to try and return fairness to the sentencing process. By establishing new recidivism reduction programs with incentives for participation and by reducing mandatory minimums sentences, this bill will help us move past the days of needless mass incarceration and towards a more compassionate system that maintains safety in our communities. I am thrilled that Congress was able to come together in a bipartisan manner to pass these critical reforms. Special recognition is owed to my delegation colleague Senator Sheldon Whitehouse for his tireless work on criminal justice reform. He recently shepherded a comprehensive juvenile justice bill through Congress, and his stalwart advocacy for improving sentencing and rehabilitation are evident in the First Step Act. While we must acknowledge the need for further improvements at both the state and federal levels, we have made notable progress today for justice in the United States. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases/reed-statement-on-resignation-of-secretary-mattis | Reed Statement on Resignation of Secretary Mattis | 2018-12-20 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Democrat | House | RI | Jack Reed | R000122 | www.reed.senate.gov | legacy | 12/20/2018WASHINGTON, DC Today, U.S. Senator Jack Reed (D-RI), Ranking Member of the Armed Services Committee, issued the following statement after Defense Secretary James Mattis announced that he is resigning and will leave the Pentagon in February: Secretary Mattis is a true patriot who leads by example and served with great fidelity and dedication to our men and women in uniform. He served as a stabilizing force in a chaotic Administration that seems to be unravelling. His resignation letter made it clear he disagrees with President Trump on major national security issues. Secretary Mattis isn't someone who is willing to stand by while American allies and principles are abandoned. He didn't resign because he grew weary from the fight. I think he saw this as his last best chance to focus the nation's attention on the serious missteps President Trump is making and get him to change course. President Trump is leading the country in the wrong direction and Secretary Mattis isn't willing to go along with it. Print Email Tweet | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.whitehouse.senate.gov/news/release/senate-passes-whitehouse-alexander-murray-gardner-bill-that-allows-families-to-answer-22-fafsa-questions-with-just-one-click | Senate Passes Whitehouse, Alexander, Murray, Gardner Bill That Allows Families to Answer 22 FAFSA Questions With Just One Click | 2018-12-20 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Democrat | House | RI | Sheldon Whitehouse | W000802 | www.whitehouse.senate.gov | legacy | 12.20.18 Senate Passes Whitehouse, Alexander, Murray, Gardner Bill That Allows Families to Answer 22 FAFSA Questions With Just One Click Bipartisan bill makes it easier for students and families to complete tax information on the Free Application for Federal Student Aid Washington, DC The UnitedStatesSenatelast nightpassed bipartisan legislation introduced by Senate education committee Chairman Lamar Alexander (R-Tenn.),Ranking Member Patty Murray (D-Wash.),Senator Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.) andSenatorCory Gardner (R-Colo.)that will allowthenearly 20 million students that complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) each year to answerat least 11 and up to 22questionson the formwithjustone click. The bill will allow students to have the IRS securely send the Department of Education their federal tax information with oneclick.The bill will also help simplify the process for getting through income-driven repayment applications and the student aid verification process.Now that the Senate has passed the legislation, it will head to the U.S. House of Representatives. Theformerpresident of Southwest Community College in Memphis once told me he believes that he loses 1,500 students each semester because of the complexity of theFAFSA,said Alexander.Over and over families have asked me, I've already given most of this information to the federal government when I paid my taxes, why do I have to do it againonce is enough.' This legislation will make completing the complicatedFAFSAmuch easier for studentsand familiesallowing them to answer up to 22 questionson the formwith one simple click, while securing the applicant's data. It is my hope that the U.S. House of Representatives swiftly passes this legislation. Our nation's outdated and overly complicated financial aid system is forcing students and student loan borrowers to jump through too many hoops to access federal financial aid, verify the tax… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.whitehouse.senate.gov/news/release/whitehouse-portman-udall-burr-and-coons-praise-senate-passage-of-delta-act-to-protect-the-okavango-river-delta | Whitehouse, Portman, Udall, Burr, and Coons Praise Senate Passage of DELTA Act to Protect the Okavango River Delta | 2018-12-20 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Democrat | House | RI | Sheldon Whitehouse | W000802 | www.whitehouse.senate.gov | legacy | 12.20.18 Whitehouse, Portman, Udall, Burr, and Coons Praise Senate Passage of DELTA Act to Protect the Okavango River Delta Washington, DC U.S. Senators Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), Rob Portman (R-OH), Tom Udall (D-NM), Richard Burr (R-NC), and Chris Coons (D-DE) today praised the Senate passage, by unanimous consent, of the Defending Economic Livelihoods and Threatened Animals (DELTA) Act, legislation that encourages the U.S. to develop a strategy to protect the Okavango River Delta in southern Africa. The House of Representatives passed the bipartisan bill earlier this year. The legislation will now head to the president's desk to be signed into law. As a co-chair of the International Conservation Caucus, I believe we must confront the threats to wildlife and natural resources around the world, and I'm pleased the Senate has unanimously approved this legislation to encourage the U.S. to develop a strategy to protect the Okavango River Delta in southern Africa, said Senator Portman. The Okavango Delta is a precious water resource that is home to more than one million people and serves as a critical habitat to some of the world's most endangered species that continue to face a variety of threats from wildlife traffickers, poachers, and others. I am proud to protect this important resource and the people, wildlife, and ecosystems that depend on it, and I urge the president to sign this legislation into law as soon as possible. The Okavango River Delta is an unspoiled wilderness a delicate region of deep ecological, cultural, and economic importance to surrounding nations and to the world, said Senator Udall. It is home to some of the world's most iconic species and serves as a vital lifeline and watershed for over one million people throughout the region. But this diverse ecosystem is being threatened by industrial development and wildlife traffickers. I'm proud the Senate passed the DELTA Act today, bipartisan legislation to leverage key partnerships that would help safeguard this precious wetland b… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.whitehouse.senate.gov/news/release/whitehouse-statement-on-resignation-of-defense-secretary-mattis | Whitehouse Statement on Resignation of Defense Secretary Mattis | 2018-12-20 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Democrat | House | RI | Sheldon Whitehouse | W000802 | www.whitehouse.senate.gov | legacy | 12.20.18 Whitehouse Statement on Resignation of Defense Secretary Mattis Washington, DC Senator Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI) issued the following statement on the announcement of the resignation of Secretary of Defense James N. Mattis: As Trump drives away the grownups in the room, there is cause for genuine concern. I thank and honor Secretary Mattis for a lifetime of service. We should mark his closing words about respect for allies, clear-eyed awareness about adversaries and competitors, and the value of an international order that supports our security, prosperity and values. ### Print Email Tweet Previous Article | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.whitehouse.senate.gov/news/videos/watch/time-to-wake-up-we-must-save-the-nfip-from-drowning | Time To Wake Up: We Must Save the NFIP From Drowning | 2018-12-20 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Democrat | House | RI | Sheldon Whitehouse | W000802 | www.whitehouse.senate.gov | legacy | About Services Agency Assistance Success Stories Grants Flag Requests Visiting D.C. Student Resources Email Sheldon Events Community Dinners Community Outreach … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cicilline.house.gov/press-release/cicilline-statement-us-withdrawing-syria-lifting-sanctions-russian-oligarch | Cicilline Statement on U.S. Withdrawing from Syria, Lifting Sanctions on Russian Oligarch | 2018-12-19 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Democrat | House | RI | David Cicilline | C001084 | cicilline.house.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON Democratic Policy and Communications Committee (DPCC) Chair David N. Cicilline (RI-01), who serves on the House Foreign Affairs Committee, issued the following statement today: President Trump just gave Vladimir Putin two big Christmas gifts. Withdrawing American forces from Syria in such a hasty fashion is an enormous boon to Russian and Iranian interests in the Middle East. As I've said all along, Congress should debate an Authorization for the Use of Military Force that defines a clear objective and outlines a strategy for any American involvement in Syria. Rather than seeking an authorization from Congress and setting forth our objectives in this region, the President continues to conduct foreign policy in a critical part of the world with no clear goals in mind or a comprehensive strategy. We've also just learned that the Treasury Department is moving to lift sanctions on three massive corporations run by Oleg Deripaska, a Russian oligarch who previously worked directly with Paul Manafort to advance Russian interests in Ukraine. The timing of these two announcements is suspect. Decisions about American foreign policy should be made with America's best interests in mind, not Russia's. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://langevin.house.gov/press-release/legislation-honoring-us-army-captain-matthew-j-august-signed-law | Legislation Honoring U.S. Army Captain Matthew J. August Signed Into Law | 2018-12-19 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Democrat | House | RI | Jim Langevin | L000559 | langevin.house.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON, DC The post office in Saunderstown, Rhode Island will be named in honor of U.S. Army Captain Matthew J. August after legislation that was led by U.S. Senator Jack Reed (D-RI) and Congressman Jim Langevin (D-RI) was signed into law by President Trump. U.S. Senator Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI) and Congressman David Cicilline (D-RI) co-sponsored the respective Senate and House bills. Captain August, a life-long North Kingstown resident, was killed in action on January 27, 2004, following an ambush on his convoy during a mission outside of Baghdad, Iraq. He was the first Rhode Islander to be killed in action during Operation Iraqi Freedom. I am proud this bill to memorialize the selfless and courageous service of Captain Matthew August has become law, said Congressman Langevin. Captain August is a patriot who was willing to make the ultimate sacrifice on behalf of the community and the country he loved. This lasting tribute will ensure his legacy is always remembered by future generations. Army Captain Matthew August is an American hero who gave his life for our country more than a decade ago, said Congressman Cicilline. I am pleased that the Post Office in Saunderstown will be renamed in his memory so that we can continue to honor his life for years to come. Captain August graduated from Bishop Hendricken High School in 1993 and from the U.S. Military Academy at West Point in 1997.In 2003, Captain August was deployed to Iraq in command of B Company, 1st Engineer Battalion, 1st Infantry Division attached to the 82nd Airborne. During his career, he received the Army Commendation Medal, the Army Achievement Medal with two oak leaves, the National Defense Service Medal and the Army Service and Overseas Service Ribbons. He was posthumously awarded the Bronze Star, Purple Heart, Meritorious Service Medal, Iraqi Campaign and Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medals and Combat Action Badge. Captain August is survived by his parents, Donna and Richard August; his brother, Brig. Gen. Mark August, USAF; his sister… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases/reed-trumps-declaration-of-victory-over-isis-and-hasty-withdrawal-of-us-forces-from-syria-is-reckless-and-destabilizing | Reed: Trump’s Declaration of Victory Over ISIS & Hasty Withdrawal of U.S. Forces from Syria is Reckless and Destabilizing | 2018-12-19 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Democrat | House | RI | Jack Reed | R000122 | www.reed.senate.gov | legacy | 12/19/2018WASHINGTON, DC Today, after President Trump declared victory over the Islamic State in Syria (ISIS) and ordered a sudden withdrawal of U.S. forces from Syria, catching some of his own advisers and U.S. allies off guard, U.S. Senator Jack Reed (D-RI), the Ranking Member of the Armed Services Committee, issued the following statement: The hasty, disjointed manner in which this announcement was made demonstrates an Administration in disarray and provides further evidence of President Trump's inability to lead on the world stage. Just because President Trump tweets that he has defeated ISIS doesn't make us safer, especially when the reality is very different on the ground. The President continues to disregard the advice of his military, diplomatic, and intelligence personnel who have consistently warned against the action the President seems poised to take. Just two weeks ago, General McKenzie, nominated by the President to be the next Commander of U.S. Central Command said: ISIS probably still is more capable than al Qaeda in Iraq at its peak, suggesting it is well positioned to re-emerge if pressure on the group is relieved. And even the President's own advisors say this course of action is reckless. His Special Presidential Envoy for the Global Coalition to Defeat ISIS Brett McGurk stated: We are now in a position where, because of the success of the military campaign, we are heavily influencing that part of Syria, want to make sure that we maintain a permissive environment and stability, and basically freeze the lines in place as [Special Representative for Syria Engagement Jim Jeffrey] and others work the longer-term political solution. So obviously, it would be reckless if we were just to say, well, the physical caliphate is defeated, so we can just leave now. I think anyone who's looked at a conflict like this would agree with that. This is why our troops in Syria have been transitioning over the past year to training local security forces necessary to prevent the re-emergence of ISIS. Those for… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases/reed-whitehouse-colleagues-call-on-trump-administration-to-stop-pushing-health-insurance-plans-that-weaken-pre-existing-condition-protections | Reed, Whitehouse, Colleagues Call on Trump Administration to Stop Pushing Health Insurance Plans That Weaken Pre-Existing Condition Protections | 2018-12-19 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Democrat | House | RI | Jack Reed | R000122 | www.reed.senate.gov | legacy | 12/19/2018WASHINGTON, DC Today, U.S. Senators Jack Reed (D-RI) and Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI) joined Senators Mark Warner (D-VA), Ben Cardin (D-MD), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), and 36 of their Senate colleagues in calling on the Trump Administration to withdraw recent changes making it easier for states to promote junk health care plans, which typically lack protections for people with pre-existing conditions and which would increase health care costs for millions of Americans. Under the Administration's new guidance, states are able to use federal subsidies to pay for the subpar plans by utilizing a section of the Affordable Care Act (ACA) originally intended to give states the flexibility to implement targeted improvements that expand coverage, reduce costs, and provide more comprehensive benefits. The Senators argue in a letter to Health and Human Services Secretary Alex Azar, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services Administrator Seema Verma, and Treasury Secretary Steve Mnuchin that the Administration is improperly using Section 1332 to allow states to do the exact opposite. We have serious concerns they will increase health care costs for millions of consumers while weakening protections for individuals with pre-existing conditions. In light of substantive concerns that we have with the impact on patients, and procedural concerns that we have with the manner in which these significant policy changes have been promulgated, we ask that you immediately withdraw this guidance and re-engage with stakeholders, states, and Congress, the Senators wrote. The Senators make it clear in the letter that the Administration's actions do not reflect Congressional intent when the 1332 waiver program was created, stating that the Administration's recent guidance significantly changes enforcement of these four important guardrails, undermining Congressional intent and posing a significant risk to consumers that now have affordable and comprehensive health coverage. The proposed changes, which were out… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases/senator-reeds-bipartisan-museum-and-library-services-act-heads-to-presidents-desk | Senator Reed’s Bipartisan Museum and Library Services Act Heads to President’s Desk | 2018-12-19 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Democrat | House | RI | Jack Reed | R000122 | www.reed.senate.gov | legacy | 12/19/2018WASHINGTON, DC In an effort to help libraries and museums upgrade their technology, better serve their communities, and boost America's educational infrastructure, the U.S. House of Representatives today approved U.S. Senator Jack Reed's (D-RI) Museum and Library Services Act of 2018 (S.3530), sending the bill to the President's desk to be signed into law. Reed's bill was unanimously approved by the U.S. Senate on December 4. Reed's bipartisan bill authorizes up to $299 million annually through 2025 to advance the roles of libraries and museums in education, lifelong learning, historic preservation, and workforce development. It authorizes federal museum and library programs administered by the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS), an independent federal agency that helps support the more than 120,000 libraries and 35,000 museums nationwide. Senator Reed's bill highlights the role of libraries and museums as community hubs, equipped to meet ever evolving community needs. Passing this legislation will help museums and libraries improve their technology, enhance collaboration, and better serve the public. Local libraries and museums enrich our communities, providing educational opportunities and preserving our history and culture. This bill represents our national commitment to these institutions. Through a relatively modest federal investment, this law helps build capacity to support and expand access to library and museum services at the state and local level, said Senator Reed. Passage of the Museum and Library Services Act will help us write a new chapter in the digital age, as IMLS helps libraries and museums modernize, collaborate, and strengthen their capacity to serve their communities well into the future. It will help fully leverage the role of libraries and museums in supporting the learning, educational, and workforce development needs of Americans nationwide. I am so pleased to have worked on a bipartisan basis with several partners in the Senate and House and with the library … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/speeches/senator-reed-delivers-remarks-in-farewell-to-departing-senators | Senator Reed Delivers Remarks in Farewell to Departing Senators | 2018-12-19 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Democrat | House | RI | Jack Reed | R000122 | www.reed.senate.gov | legacy | 12/19/2018Mr. President, I want to take a moment to salute my colleagues who are departing the Senate at the conclusion of the 115th Congress: Bob Corker of Tennessee, Jeff Flake of Arizona, Orrin Hatch of Utah, Heidi Heitkamp of North Dakota, Dean Heller of Nevada, Joe Donnelly of Indiana, Claire McCaskill of Missouri, Bill Nelson of Florida, and Jon Kyl of Arizona. All of these Members have dedicated themselves to serving their constituents, their States, and our country. The institution of the Senate and the Nation as a whole are stronger because of their service and commitment. I have been privileged to serve with each and every one of them and want to spend a few moments thanking each of them for the wisdom and experience they brought to their work and for their friendship. Bob Corker and I worked on many foreign policy matters together, given my role as ranking member on the Armed Services Committee and his as chairman of the Foreign Relations Committee. I have appreciated Bob's willingness to reach across the aisle in an attempt to remove barriers to gaining bipartisan cooperation on bills and other policy matters. I also appreciate how much Bob was willing to speak his mind and stand up to administrations of his party and of my party over the last several years, particularly with respect to his very astute analysis of the situation with Russia and other major issues confronting the United States today. He has long focused on international development and human rights, causes I have been glad to support alongside him, including a joint resolution, Supporting a Diplomatic Solution in Yemen and Condemning the Murder of Jamal Khashoggi; for promoting economic growth in developing countries through U.S. business investment in the recently enacted BUILD Act; and consistently fighting to end modern slavery. We also served together on the Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs Committee. Here, too, he spent his time reaching across the aisle, trying to find constructive solutions, and informing our work on issues r… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/videos/2018/12/19/reed-bids-farewell-to-departing-senate-colleagues | Reed Bids Farewell to Departing Senate Colleagues | 2018-12-19 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Democrat | House | RI | Jack Reed | R000122 | www.reed.senate.gov | legacy | Home About Jack's Story Fast Facts Committees Voting Record Issues Services Tour D.C. Internships Service Academies U.S. Flags Grants … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.whitehouse.senate.gov/news/op-eds/mergers-should-protect-ri-patients | Mergers should protect R.I. patients | 2018-12-19 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Democrat | House | RI | Sheldon Whitehouse | W000802 | www.whitehouse.senate.gov | legacy | 12.19.18 Mergers should protect R.I. patients We both remember when Rhode Island's major banks were headquartered here in Rhode Island. They kept management decision-making and high-paying jobs in the state while supporting local law firms, accountants, and other service providers. Bank executives provided a strong core of local civic leadership. When the banks merged out of state, it weakened the economic ecosystem. One of the best-known buildings in downtown Providence is a vacant former bank building. The same thing could happen in health care. Our hospitals could become subsidiaries of out-of-state chains, and we'd again hear that same sucking sound of professional jobs and service contracts moving out of Rhode Island to the new out-of-state headquarters. Once more, we would lose the civic participation that local executive leadership provides. Fragmented, out-of-state health care leadership will make it harder for Rhode Island to accomplish critical health care reforms needed to assure healthy communities and high quality health care for Rhode Islanders. In Washington, Congress and the White House continue to wrangle over the fate of the Affordable Care Act. Meanwhile, over the many years, Rhode Island has laid the building blocks for meaningful health-care reform. Rhode Island's eight first-rate community health centers, beneficiaries of the ACA, provide access to high-quality medical, dental, and behavioral health care services to over 170,000 individuals throughout the state. The Rhode Island Chronic Care Sustainability Initiative was the first to align all health insurers, including the federal Medicare program, to support primary care practices. Thanks to the ACA's commitment to supporting primary care, we have primary care doctors and their teams improving care and lowering average patient cost through new payment and care delivery strategies like accountable care efforts. Rhode Island has consistently led the nation in efforts to expand the utilization of health information technology. … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.whitehouse.senate.gov/news/op-eds/stop-losing-a-senators-battle-plan-for-beating-the-right | Stop Losing: A Senator’s Battle Plan for Beating the Right | 2018-12-19 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Democrat | House | RI | Sheldon Whitehouse | W000802 | www.whitehouse.senate.gov | legacy | 12.19.18 Stop Losing: A Senator's Battle Plan for Beating the Right World War II gave us flamboyant American heroes like George Patton and Douglas MacArthur, but Winston Churchill's favorite American general was the quiet, wise, efficient George C. Marshall, whom he called the organizer of victory. Victory has traits. Victory must be organized. Organization requires strategy, preparation, tactics, training, and teamwork. Brave and able troops have been slaughtered throughout history in failures of organization. Losing has traits, too. As Democrats, we offer better and more popular policy positions, and we have flamboyant heroes. Yet, so often, we lose. Now we have won back a foothold on power, and the question is: what do we do with it? I'm sick of losing. I'm particularly sick of our loser traits. It's time we faced up to them. Walking Away from Fights Our worst trait as Democrats is our willingness to lose once we're in a fight. What do I mean? We're the party that achieved great field position on three key issuesimmigration, climate change, and dark moneyand all three times we walked away and conceded defeat. On immigration, we had bipartisan comprehensive immigration reform passed in the Senate. It was August of 2014, and an election was looming. The House speaker was a Republican, but we had the White House and the Senate, and the Senate had done its job: a bipartisan immigration bill. Immigration was a terrible issue for House Republicans because it divided their caucus bitterly. The speaker's expedient? Refuse to even bring the issue up in the House. No hearings, no amendments, no votes. The Constitution gives the president the authority to convene both Houses, or either of them into special session. The Democratic president could have called the House into session, even repeatedly; disrupting the August recess, pressuring the Republicans, driving the news cycle, and spotlighting the popular bipartisan Senate immigration reform. Would we have won had we fought? We will never know, be… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.whitehouse.senate.gov/news/release/senators-whitehouse-and-hatch-introduce-rodchenkov-anti-doping-act | Senators Whitehouse and Hatch Introduce Rodchenkov Anti-Doping Act | 2018-12-19 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Democrat | House | RI | Sheldon Whitehouse | W000802 | www.whitehouse.senate.gov | legacy | 12.19.18 Senators Whitehouse and Hatch Introduce Rodchenkov Anti-Doping Act Washington, DC Helsinki Commissioner Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse (RI) and Sen. Orrin Hatch (UT) today introduced the Rodchenkov Anti-Doping Act. Named for Russian whistleblower Dr. Grigory Rodchenkov, the bipartisan legislation establishes criminal penalties on individuals involved in doping fraud conspiracies affecting major international competitions. Earlier this year, Helsinki Commissioners Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee (TX-18) and Rep. Michael Burgess (TX-26) introduced the Rodchenkov Anti-Doping Act in the House of Representatives. To remain a city on a hill,' America must hold the crooked and corrupt accountable whenever we can. That means forcefully confronting Russia's use of corruption as a tool of foreign policy, said Sen. Whitehouse. In the face of certain retaliation, Dr. Rodchenkov revealed sweeping Russian state-sponsored doping. This bill would create consequences for Russia's cheating, and send a strong signal that Russia and other sponsors of state-directed fraud and corruption no longer enjoy impunity. For too long, internationally agreed upon anti-doping rules have been broken with impunity. Athletes have been defrauded by coordinated, and in some cases state-sponsored, doping fraud schemes that call into question the integrity and fairness central to all competitions, said Senator Hatch. This bill is a long overdue step to deter and punish individuals and state actors who would attempt to defraud international competitions through doping. In 2016, Dr. Rodchenkov exposed the Russian state-sponsored doping scandal that took place during the 2014 Sochi Olympics. By deceiving international anti-doping authorities and swapping athletes' samples, Russian officials cheated U.S. athletes out of Olympic glory and U.S. corporations out of honest sponsorships. These corrupt officials used bribes and illicit payments, sometimes through U.S. financial institutions, to commit this fraud. Unfortunately, the masterminds behind t… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.whitehouse.senate.gov/news/release/whitehouse-and-inhofe-introduce-bill-to-help-train-next-generation-of-manufacturing-workers | Whitehouse & Inhofe Introduce Bill to Help Train Next Generation of Manufacturing Workers | 2018-12-19 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Democrat | House | RI | Sheldon Whitehouse | W000802 | www.whitehouse.senate.gov | legacy | 12.19.18 Whitehouse & Inhofe Introduce Bill to Help Train Next Generation of Manufacturing Workers Bipartisan legislation would help companies bridge the skills gap and hand down valuable institutional knowledge Washington, DC Today, Senators Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI) and James Inhofe (R-OK) introduced the Retain Innovation and Manufacturing Excellence Act, to help businesses train the next generation of manufacturing workers. The senators' bipartisan bill would establish a pilot program to allow businesses to retain retiring employees long enough to train replacement workers tackling a major challenge for manufacturing companies. Manufacturers tell me one of their biggest challenges is handing down skills and knowledge from one generation of workers to the next. This bill would help them do that, said Whitehouse. Rhode Island is the birthplace of the American Industrial Revolution, and to this day continues a long tradition of manufacturing excellence. That's why I'm proud to join Senator Inhofe on bipartisan legislation to strengthen American manufacturing. Manufacturing is the backbone of Oklahoma and America, Inhofe said. But as individuals retire from the workforce, small businesses have trouble finding and training the next generation of workers to take their place. By creating this grant pilot program to support the training of new workers, we can make it possible for small business to effectively train new employees alongside outgoing staffmaking it possible to pass on critical institutional knowledge. Additionally, I am especially pleased that this legislation prioritizes veterans transitioning to a new career. The Retain Innovation and Manufacturing Excellence Act would establish the pilot program at the National Institute of Standards and Technology to allow regional Manufacturing Extension Partnerships (MEPs) to apply for targeted workforce training grants provided by the Department of C… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.whitehouse.senate.gov/news/release/whitehouse-statement-on-bill-to-avoid-government-shutdown | Whitehouse Statement on Bill to Avoid Government Shutdown | 2018-12-19 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Democrat | House | RI | Sheldon Whitehouse | W000802 | www.whitehouse.senate.gov | legacy | 12.19.18 Whitehouse Statement on Bill to Avoid Government Shutdown Washington, DC Senator Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI) released the following statement on Senate passage tonight of legislation to fund the federal government through February 8 and avert a partial government shutdown: Democrats gave President Trump not one, but multiple options for funding the government through the entire year. All the Republicans could come up with after pointless brinksmanship is a seven-week plan. But the American people want their government open. We just passed a bill to keep it open. Now the president should sign it. ### Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.whitehouse.senate.gov/news/speeches/time-to-wake-up-we-must-save-the-nfip-from-drowning | Time To Wake Up: We Must Save the NFIP from Drowning | 2018-12-19 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Democrat | House | RI | Sheldon Whitehouse | W000802 | www.whitehouse.senate.gov | legacy | 12.19.18 Time To Wake Up: We Must Save the NFIP from Drowning As-prepared for delivery I'm grateful to the Senior Senator from New Jersey for joining me again this week to bring attention to the challenges climate change poses to our coastal communities. Our states shared the experience of Superstorm Sandy, which roared ashore on higher and warmer oceans, and we know how vulnerable we are. As sea levels rise and storms intensify, the National Flood Insurance Program should be one of our government's best tools to educate and ready our communities for the changes carbon pollution is driving our way. But the program falls well short of this basic goal. And instead of tackling its shortfalls head-on, ahead of the next big storm, we're getting setyet againto punt. My Ocean State has 400 miles of coastline threatened by sea level rise and storm surge flooding; telling homeowners and coastal businesses we'll get to it eventually isn't good enough. Our risk is growing, not shrinking. A 2017 Zillow report identified over 4,800 homes in Rhode Island, valued at nearly $3 billion, that would be underwater by 2100, using an optimistic estimate of six feet of sea level rise. Rhode Island's Coastal Resources Management Council is now planning for our state to see up to nine to twelve feet of sea level rise by then. New Jersey has even more at risk, with over $93 billion worth of property predicted to fall to rising seas. This problem doesn't arise in 2100. It hits earlier, when 30-year mortgages and insurance are hard to come by, because banks and insurers foresee these risks. Last year, GAO reported that coastal areas face particularly high financial risks, and that annual coastal property losses from sea level rise and increased storms will run into the billions of dollars every year in the short run, and over $50 billion every year by late century. GAO pointed to an EPA estimate of $5.0 trillion in economic cost… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.whitehouse.senate.gov/news/videos/watch/whitehouse-floor-remarks-on-als-disability-insurance-access-act | Whitehouse Floor Remarks on ALS Disability Insurance Access Act | 2018-12-19 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Democrat | House | RI | Sheldon Whitehouse | W000802 | www.whitehouse.senate.gov | legacy | About Services Agency Assistance Success Stories Grants Flag Requests Visiting D.C. Student Resources Email Sheldon Events Community Dinners Community Outreach … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cicilline.house.gov/press-release/2-million-coming-newport-mental-health-services | $2 Million Coming to Newport for Mental Health Services | 2018-12-18 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Democrat | House | RI | David Cicilline | C001084 | cicilline.house.gov | legacy | PAWTUCKET U.S. Senator Jack Reed (D-RI), U.S. Senator Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), and U.S. Congressman David N. Cicilline (D-RI-01) today announced that the Newport County Community Mental Health Center (NCCMHC) is receiving $2,000,000 in federal funds to meet the needs of 24,500 residents over the next two years. All four members of Rhode Island's Congressional Delegation advocated for this federal funding earlier this year in a letter to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). These funds will allow the Newport County Community Mental Health Center to enhance its tireless work supporting Rhode Islanders in need by providing accessible, affordable mental health services, said Senator Reed. We need to do all we can to ensure the accessibility of mental health care services, and this grant will be a welcome step as the Center continues to serve individuals with serious mental illness in Rhode Island. The Newport County Community Mental Health Center is a lifeline for many residents of Aquidneck Island, said Whitehouse. This federal funding will enable the Center to expand services and provide tens of thousands of Rhode Islanders the care they need to live healthy, productive lives. Each year, the Newport County Community Mental Health Center does incredible work to provide Rhode Islanders with quality, affordable mental health services, said Cicilline. This federal funding will help ensure that even more Rhode Islanders who need care will be able to get it. I'm pleased that we are delivering this funding, and I look forward to continuing to work with my colleagues in the Congressional Delegation to deliver results for Rhode Island. The federal funds announced today will help NCCMHC, along with its two direct contract organization partners the Kent Center and Community Care Alliance to provide expanded and enhanced Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinic (CCBHC) services. The project will expand evidence-based behavioral health practices to individuals with serious mental … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.whitehouse.senate.gov/news/release/2-million-coming-to-newport-for-mental-health-services | $2 Million Coming to Newport for Mental Health Services | 2018-12-18 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Democrat | House | RI | Sheldon Whitehouse | W000802 | www.whitehouse.senate.gov | legacy | 12.18.18 $2 Million Coming to Newport for Mental Health Services Federal funding will help Newport County Community Mental Health Center to expand behavioral health services to 24,500 Rhode Islanders Pawtucket, RI U.S. Senator Jack Reed (D-RI), U.S. Senator Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), and U.S. Congressman David N. Cicilline (D-RI-01) today announced that the Newport County Community Mental Health Center (NCCMHC) is receiving $2,000,000 in federal funds to meet the needs of 24,500 residents over the next two years. All four members of Rhode Island's Congressional Delegation advocated for this federal funding earlier this year in a letter to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). These funds will allow the Newport County Community Mental Health Center to enhance its tireless work supporting Rhode Islanders in need by providing accessible, affordable mental health services, said Senator Reed. We need to do all we can to ensure the accessibility of mental health care services, and this grant will be a welcome step as the Center continues to serve individuals with serious mental illness in Rhode Island. The Newport County Community Mental Health Center is a lifeline for many residents of Aquidneck Island, said Whitehouse. This federal funding will enable the Center to expand services and provide tens of thousands of Rhode Islanders the care they need to live healthy, productive lives. Each year, the Newport County Community Mental Health Center does incredible work to provide Rhode Islanders with quality, affordable mental health services, said Cicilline. This federal funding will help ensure that even more Rhode Islanders who need care will be able to get it. I'm pleased that we are delivering this funding, and I look forward to continuing to work with my colleagues in the Congressional Delegation to deliver results for Rhode Island. The federal funds announced today will hel… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.whitehouse.senate.gov/news/release/landmark-whitehouse-criminal-justice-reform-bill-clears-senate- | Landmark Whitehouse Criminal Justice Reform Bill Clears Senate | 2018-12-18 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Democrat | House | RI | Sheldon Whitehouse | W000802 | www.whitehouse.senate.gov | legacy | 12.18.18 Landmark Whitehouse Criminal Justice Reform Bill Clears Senate Bipartisan First Step Act based on Whitehouse legislation to help inmates successfully transition back to society Washington, DC Senate Judiciary Committee member and long-time criminal justice reform champion Senator Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI) cheered passage tonight of his bipartisan First Step Act, to improve the federal criminal justice system. Whitehouse first introduced a central component of the First Step Act in 2013 with Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) to reduce the rate of re-offense among federal inmates, along with other important reforms. That legislation was later merged with sentencing reform legislation to become the Sentencing Reform and Corrections Act (SCRA), which Whitehouse has championed ever since. The current version, First Step, passed tonight by a vote of 87-12. This bill is the product of years of bipartisan hard work, patience, and strong advocacy by Rhode Islanders and people across the country, including those who have gone through the system themselves, said Whitehouse. Senator Cornyn and I drew on our home states' success in helping low-risk inmates return to society, stay out of trouble, and contribute to their community. The bill will also address serious issues with sentencing practices that land too many people in prison for too long. Thank you to the Rhode Islanders who contributed to this bill, and to my colleagues from both sides of the aisle who joined me in this effort. The First Step Act establishes recidivism reduction programs based on Whitehouse and Cornyn's legislation to help prepare low-risk inmates to re-enter society successfully. Qualifying inmates under the provisions may receive reductions to their sentences through time credits upon successful completion of recidivism reduction programming. Rhode Island implemented similar programs in 2008, which have been followed by a 17 percent reduc… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/photos/reed-welcomes-uss-arizona-relic-to-tf-green-and-honor-those-lost-in-pearl-harbor_wwii- | Reed Welcomes USS Arizona Relic to TF Green & Honor Those Lost in Pearl Harbor & WWII | 2018-12-17 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Democrat | House | RI | Jack Reed | R000122 | www.reed.senate.gov | legacy | Reed Welcomes USS Arizona Relic to TF Green & Honor Those Lost in Pearl Harbor & WWII … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases/bill-to-name-saunderstown-post-office-for-fallen-army-captain-matthew-j-august-gets-trumps-stamp-of-approval | Bill to Name Saunderstown Post Office for Fallen Army Captain Matthew J. August Gets Trump’s Stamp of Approval | 2018-12-17 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Democrat | House | RI | Jack Reed | R000122 | www.reed.senate.gov | legacy | 12/17/2018WASHINGTON, DC A bill to name the U.S. Postal Service facility located at 20 Ferry Road in Saunderstown, Rhode Island, as the Captain Matthew J. August Post Office, after a North Kingstown native killed in action in Iraq, has been signed into law by President Trump. Rhode Island native Matthew J. August, a decorated U.S. Army Captain, was killed on January 27, 2004 while leading the 1st Engineer Battalion, 1st Infantry Division attached to the 82nd Airborne on a mission outside Baghdad, Iraq when his convoy was ambushed and hit by improvised explosive devices and small arms fire from insurgents. Captain August was just 28 years old when he was killed in action. U.S. Senator Jack Reed (D-RI) sponsored the bill in the Senate and Congressman Jim Langevin (D-RI) sponsored it in the House. The respective Senate and House bills were cosponsored by U.S. Senator Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI) and Congressman David Cicilline (D-RI). President Trump signed the bill on December 13. Matthew August grew up in North Kingstown, went to Davisville Middle School and graduated from Bishop Hendricken High School in 1993 before attending the U.S. Military Academy at West Point and graduating in 1997. He married fellow West Point graduate, Captain Maureen Innes, on June 6, 1998. During his career, Matthew earned the Army Commendation Medal; Army Achievement Medal with two oak leaves; the National Defense Service Medal; and the Army Service and Overseas Service ribbons. He was posthumously awarded the Bronze Star; Purple Heart; Meritorious Service Medal; Iraqi Campaign and Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary medals; and Combat Action Badge. Matthew August was a patriot and a proud son of Rhode Island. This is a fitting and lasting tribute to Captain August's selfless service to community and country, said Senator Reed, a fellow West Point graduate. We are forever grateful to Captain August for his courage, service, and sacrifice. Matthew August gave his life in courageous service to our community and our nation, said S… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.whitehouse.senate.gov/news/release/bill-to-name-saunderstown-post-office-for-fallen-army-captain-matthew-j-august-gets-trumps-stamp-of-approval | Bill to Name Saunderstown Post Office for Fallen Army Captain Matthew J. August Gets Trump’s Stamp of Approval | 2018-12-17 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Democrat | House | RI | Sheldon Whitehouse | W000802 | www.whitehouse.senate.gov | legacy | 12.17.18 Bill to Name Saunderstown Post Office for Fallen Army Captain Matthew J. August Gets Trump's Stamp of Approval Washington, DC A bill to name the U.S. Postal Service facility located at 20 Ferry Road in Saunderstown, Rhode Island, as the Captain Matthew J. August Post Office, after a North Kingstown native killed in action in Iraq, has been signed into law by President Trump. Rhode Island native Matthew J. August, a decorated U.S. Army Captain, was killed on January 27, 2004 while leading the 1st Engineer Battalion, 1st Infantry Division attached to the 82nd Airborne on a mission outside Baghdad, Iraq when his convoy was ambushed and hit by improvised explosive devices and small arms fire from insurgents. Captain August was just 28 years old when he was killed in action. U.S. Senator Jack Reed (D-RI) sponsored the bill in the Senate and Congressman Jim Langevin (D-RI) sponsored it in the House. The respective Senate and House bills were cosponsored by U.S. Senator Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI) and Congressman David Cicilline (D-RI). President Trump signed the bill on December 13. Matthew August grew up in North Kingstown, went to Davisville Middle School and graduated from Bishop Hendricken High School in 1993 before attending the U.S. Military Academy at West Point and graduating in 1997. He married fellow West Point graduate, Captain Maureen Innes, on June 6, 1998. During his career, Matthew earned the Army Commendation Medal; Army Achievement Medal with two oak leaves; the National Defense Service Medal; and the Army Service and Overseas Service ribbons. He was posthumously awarded the Bronze Star; Purple Heart; Meritorious Service Medal; Iraqi Campaign and Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary medals; and Combat Action Badge. Matthew August was a patriot and a proud son of Rhode Island. This is a fitting and lasting tribute to Captain August's selfless service to community and country, said Senator Reed, a fellow West Point graduate. We are forever grateful to Captain August for his co… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.whitehouse.senate.gov/news/release/senators-pruitt-conflicts-industry-capture-of-trump-administration-renders-epas-proposed-methane-rule-invalid | Senators: Pruitt Conflicts, Industry Capture of Trump Administration Renders EPA’s Proposed Methane Rule Invalid | 2018-12-17 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Democrat | House | RI | Sheldon Whitehouse | W000802 | www.whitehouse.senate.gov | legacy | 12.17.18 Senators: Pruitt Conflicts, Industry Capture of Trump Administration Renders EPA's Proposed Methane Rule Invalid Washington, DC Former Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Scott Pruitt lacked a sufficiently open mind to legally preside over changes to vital protections against the powerful greenhouse gas methane; his involvement in the proposal to tear down those protections violated federal ethics rules; and that proposal amounts to an egregious hand-over of an agency's rulemaking authority to an industry the same agency regulates. That is what Senators Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), and Edward J. Markey (D-MA) write in an official comment submitted to the EPA today on a Trump proposal to water down methane pollution requirements for oil and gas companies. The proposed rule would result in substantially higher emissions of the potent heat-trapping gas from oil and gas facilities. The senators also document efforts by officials at the Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs (OIRA), apparently at the behest of their political leadership, to weaken further the proposed standard. OIRA repeatedly overruled the advice of EPA technical experts. OIRA Administrator Neomi Rao has a long history of working at institutions funded by the Koch brothers, whose company would directly benefit from the proposed rule. The senators write, The extreme and well-documented regulatory capture of the Trump EPA is evidence that it has effectively delegated its authority to the industries that have captured it, in particular, the fossil fuel industry. There is no substantive difference between an agency explicitly telling a company or industry to write a rule for it, and an agency telling a company or industry that it will write whatever rule the company or industry wants. Like Scott Pruitt's Devon Energy letter, the substance is all industry, whatever the letterhead, and the public interest is ignored. Fu… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.whitehouse.senate.gov/news/release/senators-whitehouse-and-markey-trump-administration-is-the-most-anti-climate-anti-environment-in-american-history- | Senators Whitehouse and Markey: Trump Administration is the Most Anti-Climate, Anti-Environment in American History | 2018-12-17 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Democrat | House | RI | Sheldon Whitehouse | W000802 | www.whitehouse.senate.gov | legacy | 12.17.18 Senators Whitehouse and Markey: Trump Administration is the Most Anti-Climate, Anti-Environment in American History Report highlights 114 Trump administration actions - more than one per week - to block climate action, weaken bedrock environment and public health rules Washington, DC Senators Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.) and Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.), Chairs of the Senate Climate Change Task Force, today released a report detailing the numerous anti-climate and anti-environment actions the federal government has taken since President Trump took office. The agency-by-agency review reveals how key federal agencies, taking cues from the fossil fuel industry, have rolled back almost 50 critical Obama-era actions and advocated for the expansion of oil, gas, and coal production. Of the 114 actions taken by the Trump administration, more than 80 percent have been specifically climate-related. The Department of the Interior and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) each account for 35 actionsabout one every two and a half weeks. The Trump administration has been captured part and oil parcel by the fossil fuel and chemical industries, and every environmental, public health, and climate protection on the books is a target, said Senator Markey. From opening up our pristine coasts to offshore drilling, to making our cars less fuel efficient, to allowing corporate polluters to dump more hazardous toxins into our air and water, President Trump is leading the most anti-climate administration in our country's history. His weekly handouts to Big Oil and King Coal all come at the expense of the environment and the American people. Recent scientific studies call for bold and ambitious action on climate, so we must continue fighting the Trump administration every step of the way to ensure we take climate action before it's too late. This report shows just how ugly wholesale capture of the federal government can… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.whitehouse.senate.gov/news/release/whitehouse-cicilline-mark-passage-of-landmark-juvenile-justice-legislation | Whitehouse, Cicilline Mark Passage of Landmark Juvenile Justice Legislation | 2018-12-17 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Democrat | House | RI | Sheldon Whitehouse | W000802 | www.whitehouse.senate.gov | legacy | 12.17.18 Whitehouse, Cicilline Mark Passage of Landmark Juvenile Justice Legislation Whitehouse-Grassley legislation encourages states to adopt new protections for youth offenders Pawtucket, RI U.S. Senator Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI) and Congressman David Cicilline (D-RI) today joined children's advocates and young adults who interacted with the juvenile justice system to mark the passage of the landmark Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention Reauthorization Act of 2018. The reauthorization of the Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention Act was sponsored in the Senate by Senators Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI) and Charles Grassley (R-IA) to secure new protections for youth in the federal juvenile justice grant program. The legislation takes steps to reduce the unnecessary incarceration of youth, improves safeguards for minors who encounter the justice system, and strengthens services that encourage a smooth transition back into society. I've been working with Senator Grassley for years to overhaul our juvenile justice laws so that kids who have made mistakes can have a better shot at starting over and staying out of the system for good, said Whitehouse, a member of the Senate Judiciary Committee. I'm grateful to the Rhode Islanders who advised on this effort, and everyone from both sides of the aisle who advocated tirelessly to get this legislation passed. No kid should have their life ruined because they come into contact with the justice system at an early age, said Cicilline, a member of the House Judiciary Committee. I'm proud that my friend, Senator Whitehouse, has been leading the fight to fix this broken system and give more kids the opportunity to escape the deadly cycle of recidivism and reincarceration. Today's event took place at Tides Family Services, a non-profit social services agency supporting children at risk, where Whitehouse held a field hearing on juvenile justice at the start of … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.whitehouse.senate.gov/news/speeches/whitehouse-floor-remarks-on-the-als-disability-insurance-access-act | Whitehouse Floor Remarks on the ALS Disability Insurance Access Act | 2018-12-17 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Democrat | House | RI | Sheldon Whitehouse | W000802 | www.whitehouse.senate.gov | legacy | 12.17.18 Whitehouse Floor Remarks on the ALS Disability Insurance Access Act Mr. President, one of the things that marks service as a U.S. Senator is the chance to meet really remarkable individuals, and among the remarkable individuals I have had the chance to meet in my time in the Senate, there are few, if any, who are more impressive or memorable than those who have been diagnosed with ALS, commonly known as Lou Gehrig's disease. Competing with them for being impressive and noteworthy are the friends and family and advocates who become their support system and their caregivers. It is not just those with the diagnosis, but it is also the family, friends, and caregivers who face incredible bravery. I remember someone once saying that a special kind of courage is maintaining good morale in the face of terrible circumstances, and few circumstances are more terrible than a diagnosis of ALS amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. We know how it ends. We know it is always fatal. There is no treatment. There is no cure. There is nothing to halt or reverse the effects of ALS. Those of us who have ALS patients visit us watch the decline as they move from people who can walk to people who need a wheelchair, to people who need an increasingly complex wheel-chair. For all this suffering and for all the certainty of how it ends, we still make ALS patients and their family members wait 5 months before they can begin to receive the Social Security Disability Insurance benefits they earned by contributing into Social Security. The logic, I am told, of this 5-month waiting period is that it allows temporary conditions to abate, but ALS is not a temporary condition. It does not abate. It does not reverse. Sadly, some ALS patients lose their fight with the disease before even receiving benefits. I have been working with Senator Cotton to pursue bipartisan legislation to eliminate this 5-month waiting period for ALS. Chairman Hatch, in one of his final acts as chairman of the Finance Committee, expressed his approval of t… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://langevin.house.gov/press-release/langevin-statement-federal-district-court-ruling-against-affordable-care-act | Langevin Statement on Federal District Court Ruling Against Affordable Care Act | 2018-12-15 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Democrat | House | RI | Jim Langevin | L000559 | langevin.house.gov | legacy | WARWICK, RI - Congressman Jim Langevin (D-RI) issued the following statement regarding yesterday's ruling by a federal district court judge declaring the Affordable Care Act (ACA) unconstitutional: Republican attacks on the Affordable Care Act jeopardize the health coverage of Rhode Islanders and millions of Americans across the country, especially those with preexisting conditions. Although I strongly disagree with the court's ruling, I am thankful that this decision will not take effect immediately and look forward to seeing the case appealed. While Republicans tried to repeal the ACA over 60 times during the eight years they spent in control of Congress, the incoming Democratic majority will fight to protect the law and ensure that quality, affordable healthcare remains accessible for all. In the meantime, Rhode Islanders should remember that they can still sign up for coverage on HealthSource RIthrough December 31. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cicilline.house.gov/press-release/cicilline-statement-death-do%C3%B1a-fefa | Cicilline Statement on Death of Doa Fefa | 2018-12-14 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Democrat | House | RI | David Cicilline | C001084 | cicilline.house.gov | legacy | PAWTUCKET Democratic Policy and Communications Committee (DPCC) Chair David N. Cicilline (RI-01) issued the following statement today: I am deeply saddened by the death of my good friend, Josefina Rosario, who was also known as Doa Fefa to countless friends and admirers. Fefa was the mother of Rhode Island's Dominican American community. She and her husband, Tony, supported many families who came to the United States in search of a better life. I was proud to work with her throughout my time in public service. Her death is an enormous loss for our state. My thoughts and prayers are with Fefa's family and all who loved her today. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.whitehouse.senate.gov/news/release/senators-whitehouse-reed-markey-and-warren-urge-consensus-between-the-offshore-wind-and-fishing-industries | Senators Whitehouse, Reed, Markey, and Warren Urge Consensus Between the Offshore Wind and Fishing Industries | 2018-12-14 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Democrat | House | RI | Sheldon Whitehouse | W000802 | www.whitehouse.senate.gov | legacy | 12.14.18 Senators Whitehouse, Reed, Markey, and Warren Urge Consensus Between the Offshore Wind and Fishing Industries Senators advocate that fishermen's interest be considered earlier in the siting process Providence, RI Today, Senators Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), Jack Reed (D-RI), Edward J. Markey (D-MA), and Elizabeth Warren (D-MA) sent a letter to the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM) urging the agency to continue to adopt policies for the offshore wind leasing and permitting process that bring fishermen and other marine stakeholders into the conversation early in order to minimize spatial conflicts and reduce the risk of economic harm to the fishing industry. As wind developers lease areas in federal waters for the first time, the Senators contend that existing stakeholders must be thoroughly consulted both before and after leases are granted. In their letter, the Senators point to the Rhode Island's success fostering collaborative and meaningful engagement, proving that offshore wind and other marine industries can operate in harmony. The Senators note that while BOEM has tried to improve communication between the fishing industry and wind developers, many of their constituents consider the existing efforts to be ineffective. Our states understand that smart planning and consultation with stakeholders, particularly the fishing industry, will allow offshore wind to flourish in the United States, protect important ocean resources, and maintain access for existing users, write the Senators in their letter to BOEM Acting Director Dr. Walter Cruickshank. A copy of the letter can be found HERE. In their letter, the Senators ask the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management to respond to questions that include: Which types of location-specific data has BOEM used before leases are granted to understand where fishermen fish and transit? Has BOEM used fishing location data from the Northeast Regional Dat… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.whitehouse.senate.gov/news/release/whitehouse-statement-on-texas-ruling-striking-down-aca | Whitehouse Statement on Texas Ruling Striking Down ACA | 2018-12-14 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Democrat | House | RI | Sheldon Whitehouse | W000802 | www.whitehouse.senate.gov | legacy | 12.14.18 Whitehouse Statement on Texas Ruling Striking Down ACA Washington, DC U.S. Senator Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), a member of the Senate Finance Committee, released the following statement on the ruling tonight by a federal judge in Texas striking down the Affordable Care Act: Republicans' legal crusade against the Affordable Care Act is a political stunt, but a dangerous one that puts health coverage and vital health protections for millions of Americans at risk. Tonight's ruling won't take effect immediately, and the Texas judge is far from the last word. But this should serve as a wake-up call to the Republicans pursuing this strategy. The American people want their health care protected, not attacked. ### Print Email Tweet Previous Article | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cicilline.house.gov/press-release/federal-grant-boosts-east-providence-waterfront-district | Federal Grant Boosts East Providence Waterfront District | 2018-12-13 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Democrat | House | RI | David Cicilline | C001084 | cicilline.house.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON The growing business district along East Providence's waterfront today received a significant boost as U.S. Senators Jack Reed and Sheldon Whitehouse and Congressman David Cicilline announced a $144,410 grant from the U.S. Economic Development Agency to improve traffic flow in the area. The previously industrial Waterfront District is poised to attract additional private investment and grow the local economy. This is excellent news for East Providence and the whole state, said Senator Reed. As the Waterfront District welcomes greater traffic flow, redevelopment, new businesses, and new jobs, our economy will grow with it. Congratulations to the City of East Providence for receiving this competitive federal grant. The prime Waterfront District holds enormous potential for economic growth and job creation, said Senator Whitehouse. Securing this federal grant to improve transportation in the area marks one more step in the transformation of formerly industrial lots into a productive mixed use development. East Providence is one of Rhode Island's great communities. This federal investment will help grow East Providence's economy with a thriving Waterfront District that supports good-paying jobs for working men and women, said Congressman Cicilline. I'm pleased that I was able to work with Senators Reed and Whitehouse to put this money to good use in Rhode Island. The federal grant from the EDA's Local Technical Assistance Program was awarded to the City of East Providence to make access to the waterfront more efficient for motorists and pedestrians. The City will use the funding to develop a transportation improvement plan for the area that will include adding ramps to I-195, relieving traffic congestion on Waterfront Drive and neighboring roads, and making pedestrian and bike safety improvements. With federal support, the City has facilitated the redevelopment of a number of industrial properties within the Waterfront District over the past 15 years, resulting in the addition of more than 500 permane… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases/congress-overhauls-sexual-harassment-policy | Congress Overhauls Sexual Harassment Policy | 2018-12-13 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Democrat | House | RI | Jack Reed | R000122 | www.reed.senate.gov | legacy | 12/13/2018WASHINGTON, DC In an effort to protect victims, strengthen transparency, and hold perpetrators accountable, Congress today passed a bill to overhaul the way the U.S. Senate and the U.S. House of Representatives handle sexual harassment and sexual misconduct claims. U.S. Senator Jack Reed, who strongly supported reforming the system and strengthening the law to hold members of Congress to higher standards, says the legislation is long overdue. Both chambers voted unanimously to update the 1995 Congressional Accountability Act to streamline sexual harassment and abuse claims. Under the new legislation, lawmakers would be unable to use taxpayer funds to settle sexual harassment claims. It would also improve the process for resolving complaints, eliminating the onerous requirements of waiting periods and mediation between victims and individuals accused of harassment. We need to eliminate sexual harassment in all workplaces and Congress must lead by example and be accountable. This new measure will increase protections for staff, reform the process used to report harassment and discrimination, and make any settlement process transparent so Americans are fully informed, said Reed. Congress must work together to prevent discrimination and sexual harassment in the workplace and ensure the system is fair and workers feel empowered to report misconduct. In addition to requiring lawmakers accused of harassment to pay for their own settlements, the bill would streamline the process by getting rid of the former mandatory 30-day counseling period, 30-day mediation period, and 30-day cooling off period for victims of sexual harassment under the Congressional Accountability Act. Now that the legislation has passed in both chambers, it will be sent to the President's desk to be signed into law. Print Email Tweet | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases/reed-saudis-and-uae-to-repay-us-331m-for-aerial-refueling-costs | Reed: Saudis & UAE to Repay U.S. $331M for Aerial Refueling Costs | 2018-12-13 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Democrat | House | RI | Jack Reed | R000122 | www.reed.senate.gov | legacy | 12/13/2018WASHINGTON, DC After an inquiry led by U.S. Senator Jack Reed (D-RI) uncovered that the U.S. Department of Defense had not properly charged Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) for fuel and aerial refueling services, the Pentagon will now recoup $331 million for U.S. taxpayers from the Saudi-led coalition (SLC). Senator Reed says he is encouraged DOD is taking corrective action to properly charge the SLC. From March of 2015 until November 11, 2018, the United States provided mid-air refueling services for SLC aircraft that flew missions related to the conflict in Yemen. Due to errors in accounting by the Pentagon, the United States had not properly charged Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates for those services, undercharging the SLC by $331 million. In March of 2018, Reed, the Ranking Member of the Armed Services Committee, asked Secretary of Defense Mattis in a letter with Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) and others for a full accounting of reimbursements by both the UAE and Saudi Arabia for inflight refueling assistance provided since March 2015. In November, the Pentagon acknowledged that In response to your letter, U.S. Central Command (USCENTCOM) reviewed its records and found errors in accounting. Today, after a careful review, the Pentagon announced it will seek full reimbursement of $331 million from Saudi Arabia and UAE for fuel, refueling services, and flight hours. This is good news for U.S. taxpayers and underscores the need for strong oversight of the Department of Defense. The American people should not be forced to bear these costs and I am encouraged DOD is taking steps to get full reimbursement, said Senator Reed, who noted that the Department initially failed to secure timely reimbursement from the Saudi-led coalition and uphold its obligation to keep Congress appropriately informed, but is taking corrective action. The Pentagon is taking action to reduce accounting errors of this nature and Congress must continue to be vigilant and fulfill its oversight mission… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/videos/reed-on-the-situation-room-with-wolf-blitzer_-mueller-cohen-yemen-and-saudi-arabia | Reed on the Situation Room with Wolf Blitzer - Mueller, Cohen, Yemen, & Saudi Arabia | 2018-12-13 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Democrat | House | RI | Jack Reed | R000122 | www.reed.senate.gov | legacy | Senator Reed joined Wolf Blitzer for a discussion of updates in the Mueller probe, as well as the current situation in Yemen. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.whitehouse.senate.gov/news/release/federal-grant-boosts-east-providence-waterfront-district | Federal Grant Boosts East Providence Waterfront District | 2018-12-13 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Democrat | House | RI | Sheldon Whitehouse | W000802 | www.whitehouse.senate.gov | legacy | 12.13.18 Federal Grant Boosts East Providence Waterfront District EDA funding will improve access to growing mixed use development Washington, DC The growing business district along East Providence's waterfront today received a significant boost as U.S. Senators Jack Reed and Sheldon Whitehouse and Congressman David Cicilline announced a $144,410 grant from the U.S. Economic Development Agency to improve traffic flow in the area. The previously industrial Waterfront District is poised to attract additional private investment and grow the local economy. This is excellent news for East Providence and the whole state, said Senator Reed. As the Waterfront District welcomes greater traffic flow, redevelopment, new businesses, and new jobs, our economy will grow with it. Congratulations to the City of East Providence for receiving this competitive federal grant. The prime Waterfront District holds enormous potential for economic growth and job creation, said Senator Whitehouse. Securing this federal grant to improve transportation in the area marks one more step in the transformation of formerly industrial lots into a productive mixed use development. East Providence is one of Rhode Island's great communities. This federal investment will help grow East Providence's economy with a thriving Waterfront District that supports good-paying jobs for working men and women, said Congressman Cicilline. I'm pleased that I was able to work with Senators Reed and Whitehouse to put this money to good use in Rhode Island. With federal support, the City has facilitated the redevelopment of a number of industrial properties within the Waterfront District over the past 15 years. The federal grant from the EDA's Local Technical Assistance Program was awarded to the City of East Providence to make access to the waterfront more efficient for motorists and pedestrians. The City will use the funding to develop a transportation im… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.whitehouse.senate.gov/news/videos/watch/whitehouse-remarks-in-judiciary-on-oversight-of-us-customs-and-border-protection | Whitehouse Remarks in Judiciary on Oversight of U.S. Customs and Border Protection | 2018-12-13 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Democrat | House | RI | Sheldon Whitehouse | W000802 | www.whitehouse.senate.gov | legacy | About Services Agency Assistance Success Stories Grants Flag Requests Visiting D.C. Student Resources Email Sheldon Events Community Dinners Community Outreach … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://langevin.house.gov/press-release/langevin-supports-bipartisan-farm-bill-preserves-vital-nutrition-programs | Langevin Supports Bipartisan Farm Bill that Preserves Vital Nutrition Programs | 2018-12-12 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Democrat | House | RI | Jim Langevin | L000559 | langevin.house.gov | legacy | Congressman Jim Langevin (D-RI) released the following statement after voting in favor of H.R. 2, the Agriculture Improvement Act of 2018 (also known as the Farm Bill), which passed the House by a vote of 369-47 and now heads to the President's desk for his signature: After months of partisan bickering, I am glad that my Republican colleagues have finally returned to the spirit of compromise that has long been the hallmark of our nation's agricultural policy. This bill addresses all aspects of our food economy, from farm to table, in a way that supports local Rhode Island farmers and encourages land conservation. There are few needs so basic as being able to provide food for one's family, and the bill thankfully does not include draconian cuts to nutrition assistance programs that would have left millions of Americans hungry. I will continue to work with my Food First Advisory Committee in Rhode Island to strengthen our local businesses and support the most vulnerable in our society, and I am proud that this bipartisan farm bill does just that. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases/democratic-senators-urge-pentagon-not-to-use-defense-funds-for-border-wall-along-arizona-bombing-range | Democratic Senators Urge Pentagon Not to Use Defense Funds for Border Wall Along Arizona Bombing Range | 2018-12-12 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Democrat | House | RI | Jack Reed | R000122 | www.reed.senate.gov | legacy | 12/12/2018WASHINGTON, DC U.S. Senators Jack Reed (D-RI), Ranking Member of the Armed Services Committee; Dick Durbin (D-IL), Vice Chairman of the Defense Appropriations Subcommittee; Patrick Leahy (D-VT), Vice Chairman of the Appropriations Committee; and Brian Schatz (D-HI), Ranking Member of the Military Construction-VA Appropriations Subcommittee today pressed Secretary of Defense James Mattis about planned activities on the Barry M. Goldwater Range near Yuma, Arizona, including building more than 31 miles of barriers along the Range. In a letter to Secretary Mattis, the Senators stressed that assessing further upgrades of the Range's fencing would be a wasteful and unjustified expenditure, which only serves to take away from more important priorities, namely military readiness and lethality. The Navy has recently initiated studies on building more than 31 miles of barriers along the Range, despite its inability to provide congressional oversight committees with a clear justification or a compelling argument for diverting as much as $450 million in future funding to this project. We believe the Department of Defense lacks any authorization or appropriations needed to move this project into any stage of construction during fiscal year 2019, the Senators wrote. Lacking this authorization for such a project, and in light of the Department's understanding that such a project would be controversial, the planned expenditures would be better focused on meeting the readiness and lethality needs that you requested Congress to support in your budget request. This would preserve the Department's promise to be a good steward of taxpayer dollars and our congressional oversight responsibility. Full text of the letter follows: Dear Secretary Mattis: We write to you with concerns about planned activities on the Barry M. Goldwater Range now that the John S. McCain National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2019, the Department of Defense Appropriations Act, 2019, and the Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, a… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases/senate-approves-reed-backed-cra-to-overturn-dark-money-rule-and-prevent-foreign-interference-in-us-elections | Senate Approves Reed-Backed CRA to Overturn Dark Money Rule & Prevent Foreign Interference in U.S. Elections | 2018-12-12 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Democrat | House | RI | Jack Reed | R000122 | www.reed.senate.gov | legacy | 12/12/2018WASHINGTON, DC Today, after the U.S. Senate voted in favor of a resolution to overturn a Trump Administration rule that made it easier for wealthy foreign nationals and special interests to interfere in U.S. elections and exempted political nonprofits from disclosing large donors to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), U.S. Senator Jack Reed (D-RI) called the vote a positive step toward fair elections. In a 50-49 vote, the Senate approved a resolution authored by Senator Jon Tester (D-MT), and cosponsored by Senator Reed, that would block the recent Treasury Department change to IRS forms allowing political nonprofits to avoid listing some donors. Today's vote was a positive step toward greater transparency and fair elections, said Senator Reed. This CRA will help shine a light on dark money, improve transparency, and help prevent foreign interference in our elections. I'm pleased the Senate acted on a bipartisan basis and I urge the House to do the same. Under the Congressional Review Act (CRA), members of Congress must introduce a disapproval resolution within 60 calendar days from when the final rule was issued. Under CRA procedures, the legislation only required a simple majority to pass the full U.S. Senate. The measure must now be approved by the U.S. House of Representatives in order to be sent to the President. Print Email Tweet | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.whitehouse.senate.gov/news/release/whitehouse-applauds-protection-of-snap-aquaculture-provision-in-2018-farm-bill | Whitehouse Applauds Protection of SNAP, Aquaculture Provision in 2018 Farm Bill | 2018-12-12 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Democrat | House | RI | Sheldon Whitehouse | W000802 | www.whitehouse.senate.gov | legacy | 12.12.18 Whitehouse Applauds Protection of SNAP, Aquaculture Provision in 2018 Farm Bill Senate-passed farm bill includes priorities for RI agriculture Washington, DC U.S. Senator Sheldon Whitehouse applauded passage in the Senate yesterday of the 2018 farm bill conference report, which protects Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits and includes a provision Whitehouse advocated for to support the growth of the aquaculture industry. The version of the legislation approved by the Senate does not include provisions from the House version of the bill that would have expanded the program's work requirements to older Americans and families with young children receiving SNAP benefits. About 175,000 Rhode Islanders used SNAP benefits each month in 2015, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture. This farm bill makes progress in a number of areas important to agriculture in the Ocean State while protecting the vital nutrition assistance program that so many Rhode Island families depend on to put food on the table, said Whitehouse. A proposal Whitehouse advocated for to insure each of the life stages of shellfish as separate crops was included in the farm bill. Current insurance options are inadequate and often hamstring farmers from expanding their operations. Shellfish farmers are at a high risk of losing their crops because of weather events, diseases, and changes in the marine environment. Shellfish face different kinds of risks as they advance through life stages. These risks amplify the need for farmers to have workable, affordable insurance options like those available to land farmers. Some of the best oysters in the world are harvested from the salt ponds of Rhode Island. Insurance options tailored to the unique challenges of aquaculture farming would give a flourishing local industry the certainty to keep growing, said Whitehouse. Rhode Island's aquaculture industry has grown d… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.whitehouse.senate.gov/news/speeches/whitehouse-floor-remarks-on-the-congressional-review-act-and-dark-money | Whitehouse Floor Remarks on the Congressional Review Act and Dark Money | 2018-12-12 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Democrat | House | RI | Sheldon Whitehouse | W000802 | www.whitehouse.senate.gov | legacy | 12.12.18 Whitehouse Floor Remarks on the Congressional Review Act and Dark Money Mr. President, I am honored to join the senior Senator from Oregon in support of this important resolution. As I think everybody on this floor has observed, there is a rot in our American democracy, and there is a shadow over the Halls of Congress. The rot is dark money, and the shadow is special interest influence empowered by that dark money. A lot of this goes back to the extraordinarily misguided decision of the U.S. Supreme Courtor, I should say, five Republican appointees to the U.S. Supreme Courtin Citizens United, which took the astonishing position that the integrity of our elections should receive a value of zero in their calculus and their solicitude should be exclusively for the wealthiest forces that bring their power to bear on American democracy, because, after all, if what you are doing is unleashing the power of special interests to spend millions of dollars, by definition, you are only powering up the group that has millions of dollars to spend and a reason to spend it. That is, perhaps, the segment of the American population entitled to the least solicitude in our great American debate. Yet it was the exclusive interest of the five Republican appointees on the Court. It was an evil balancing of priorities but, sadly, part of a long traditiongoing back to the Bellotti decisionof Republican appointees to the Supreme Court expanding the role and influence of corporations and special interests. In their foolishness, the five Republican judges who gave us the Citizens United decision claimed that the spending they unleashed was going to be transparentnot so. Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent to append to my remarks at the end with an article pointing out that secret political spending in elections in the United States of America is on track to hit a $1 billion milestone[1]. Not only is the secret spending a menace, but once you allow unlimited spendingparticularly, if you allow unlimited secret spen… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.whitehouse.senate.gov/news/videos/watch/time-to-wake-up-cop24 | Time To Wake Up: COP24 | 2018-12-12 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Democrat | House | RI | Sheldon Whitehouse | W000802 | www.whitehouse.senate.gov | legacy | About Services Agency Assistance Success Stories Grants Flag Requests Visiting D.C. Student Resources Email Sheldon Events Community Dinners Community Outreach … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.whitehouse.senate.gov/news/videos/watch/whitehouse-floor-remarks-on-the-congressional-review-act-and-dark-money | Whitehouse Floor Remarks on the Congressional Review Act and Dark Money | 2018-12-12 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Democrat | House | RI | Sheldon Whitehouse | W000802 | www.whitehouse.senate.gov | legacy | About Services Agency Assistance Success Stories Grants Flag Requests Visiting D.C. Student Resources Email Sheldon Events Community Dinners Community Outreach … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases/reed-and-mccain-to-be-honored-for-bipartisan-leadership | Reed & McCain to Be Honored for Bipartisan Leadership | 2018-12-11 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Democrat | House | RI | Jack Reed | R000122 | www.reed.senate.gov | legacy | 12/11/2018WASHINGTON, DC Tomorrow evening, December 12, the late U.S. Senator John McCain (R-AZ) and U.S. Senator Jack Reed (D-RI) will receive the prestigious Jacob K. Javits Prize for Bipartisan Leadership during a special award ceremony in Washington, DC. McCain, the former Chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee, and Reed, the committee's Ranking Member, are being recognized by the Javits Foundation for their exemplary efforts to facilitate bipartisanship, successfully work across the aisle, and advance the public interest through legislative action. The Jacob K. Javits Prize for Bipartisan Leadership was established in 2016 by the Marian B. and Jacob K. Javits Foundation. The Foundation was created in 1986 by former U.S. Senator Jacob Javits (R-NY) who served for 24 years in the U.S. Senate and became one of most respected and influential political figures of his time. The annual award is bestowed on public servants who take bipartisan action to cut through Congressional gridlock and find bipartisan solutions to pressing national challenges. A West Point graduate and former Army Ranger, Jack Reed has demonstrated an ability throughout his career to bridge partisan divides, bring people together, and get results. His bipartisan Childhood Cancer STAR Act, signed into law this year by President Trump, has been called the most comprehensive childhood cancer legislation ever introduced into Congress, and will help find new treatments and improve outcomes for patients battling pediatric cancer. As Ranking Member of the Appropriations Subcommittee on Transportation, Housing, and Urban Development, Reed has successfully worked alongside Chairman Susan Collins (R-ME) on a bipartisan basis to boost federal investments in housing, transportation, and community development initiatives. And as the Ranking Member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, he worked closely with Chairman McCain to support our troops and enhance the military's ability to respond to new and emerging threats. Under their leadersh… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases/reed-helps-pass-bipartisan-farm-bill | Reed Helps Pass Bipartisan Farm Bill | 2018-12-11 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Democrat | House | RI | Jack Reed | R000122 | www.reed.senate.gov | legacy | 12/11/2018WASHINGTON, DC As President Trump's trade policies continue to negatively impact American farmers, the U.S. Senate today voted 87-13 to adopt the Agriculture and Nutrition Act (Farm Bill) to help small farms, farmers markets, and local food production, and conservation efforts. The bipartisan Farm Bill was negotiated in a House-Senate conference and now heads to the U.S. House of Representatives, where it is also expected to pass with strong support. After successfully advocating for provisions to keep nutritious food on the table for Rhode Islanders, U.S. Senator Jack Reed supported the five-year Farm Bill reauthorization. The bill will help expand crop insurance access to shellfish growers, and better protect the nation's food supply. It will also help provide healthy food for families in need, boost local food economies, and allow farmers across the U.S. to begin cultivating industrial hemp as an agricultural commodity. A healthy agricultural sector is vital to public health, environmental health, and the health of our economy. This bill isn't perfect, but it supports family farmers and will keep small farms like the ones we have in Rhode Island viable and able to compete with giant, multi-national agribusinesses. It also promotes diverse and quality food production and land management, will help feed hungry families, and grow Rhode Island's local food economy, said Senator Reed. Highlights of the 2018 Farm Bill include: Protects the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) for Rhode Island families facing food insecurity by rejecting funding cuts as well as harmful changes from the House Farm Bill that would have created unnecessary obstacles for those in need of food and nutrition assistance. SNAP is a critical lifeline for more than 150,000 Rhode Islanders. The bill includes job training opportunities to help SNAP participants find and keep good-paying jobs. And provisions to strengthen oversight of SNAP will help ensure every dollar goes to families in need. Creates improved dair… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/videos/reed-speaks-at-department-of-transportation-infrastructure-event | Reed Speaks at Department of Transportation Infrastructure Event | 2018-12-11 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Democrat | House | RI | Jack Reed | R000122 | www.reed.senate.gov | legacy | Senator Reed speaks at a Department of Transportation event hosted by Secretary Elaine Chao to announce the recipients of the Department's Better Utilizing Investments to Leverage Development (BUILD) grant program. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.whitehouse.senate.gov/news/release/senate-passes-bipartisan-juvenile-justice-bill | Senate Passes Bipartisan Juvenile Justice Bill | 2018-12-11 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Democrat | House | RI | Sheldon Whitehouse | W000802 | www.whitehouse.senate.gov | legacy | 12.11.18 Senate Passes Bipartisan Juvenile Justice Bill Whitehouse-Grassley legislation encourages states to adopt new protections for youth Washington, DC The Senate this evening unanimously passed the bipartisan Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention Reauthorization Act of 2018, authored by Senators Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI) and Charles Grassley (R-IA), to secure new protections for youth in the federal juvenile justice grant program. Senator Grassley and I have been fighting for years to update our juvenile justice protections to do a better job getting kids back on track and out of the system for good, said Whitehouse. This legislation will limit harsh practices like putting young people in solitary confinement or confining them with adults. It helps kids stay up to date on their studies. It also tackles substance abuse, mental health, and other factors that may be driving bad behavior. These are wins for our kids and society as a whole. Thank you to the Rhode Islanders and everyone who's advocated tirelessly for juvenile justice reform. Kids in our juvenile justice system need safety, fairness and treatment that encourages respect for the law. That's why this bill deserved to be passed. There was one final hold on the Democratic side that finally relented, allowing this bill to pass the Senate unanimously. Thanks to Congressman Bobby Scott for his swift help to make that happen, Grassley said. This will be the first update to the law in over a decade. Our bill includes important new accountability measures that protect taxpayer dollars and prevent states from being rewarded when failing to provide the minimum standard of protections for minors. The legislation takes steps to reduce the unnecessary incarceration of youth, improves safeguards for minors who encounter the justice system, and strengthens services that encourage a smooth transition back into society. This bill is a bicameral comprom… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.whitehouse.senate.gov/news/speeches/time-to-wake-up-cop24 | Time To Wake Up: COP24 | 2018-12-11 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Democrat | House | RI | Sheldon Whitehouse | W000802 | www.whitehouse.senate.gov | legacy | 12.11.18 Time To Wake Up: COP24 As-prepared for delivery Mr. President, this week, nations of the world are gathering in Katowice [cat-oh-vee-za], Poland, to review and we hope amplify their commitments to reduce carbon emissions under the 2015 Paris Agreement, and to discuss how they will report and verify reductions in carbon pollution. The U.S. is technically present in the form of a small delegation, but American leadership on climate change is decidedly absent. Why? Because the government of the United States of America has fallen under the political control of the industry most responsible for this mess. American leadership was essential to forging the global consensus on carbon emissions in the original Paris Agreement. I know because I was there in Paris in 2015 as Secretary Kerry and the U.S. negotiating team worked to seal the landmark pact. What a pathetic difference a few years make. In 2017, President Trump announced that the U.S. would become the only country in the world to turn its back on this agreement. The U.S. abdicates its leadership just as the scientific warnings of the dangers of climate change grow clearer, and grimmer. In October came a new report from the world's scientists working through the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change. Last month, the federal government released its own sobering news about the worsening risks climate change poses to our nation and our economy. Our National Climate Assessment warned of hundreds of billions of dollars in losses due to climate change if we don't act to curtail carbon emissions. Trump's responded first by describing his own very high levels of intelligence, but then simply denied all the science because, he said, I don't see it. Well, guess what? Pope Paul V didn't see it when Galileo demonstrated that the earth revolved around the sun. That didn't change the astrophysics. The climate science, laid out in black and white by Tru… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.whitehouse.senate.gov/news/videos/watch/heitkamp-remarks-in-farewell-speech-on-working-with-whitehouse | Heitkamp Remarks in Farewell Speech on Working with Whitehouse | 2018-12-11 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Democrat | House | RI | Sheldon Whitehouse | W000802 | www.whitehouse.senate.gov | legacy | Thank you Senator Heidi Heitkampthe Senator who got Senator Whitehouse and Mitch McConnell on a bill that involves carbon and the coal industryfor your service here in the Senate and your courageous commitment to doing what's right. You will be missed by all of us who had the pleasure of working alongside you for the past six years. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases/ccap-head-starts-plan-for-a-new-early-learning-center-on-broad-street_gets-nearly-1-million-boost | CCAP Head Start’s Plan for a New Early Learning Center on Broad Street Gets Nearly $1 Million Boost | 2018-12-10 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Democrat | House | RI | Jack Reed | R000122 | www.reed.senate.gov | legacy | 12/10/2018CRANSTON, RI Donning a hard hat and swinging a ceremonial sledge hammer, U.S. Senator Jack Reed today helped mark the start of renovations to a new Head Start early education center facility on Broad Street, and assisted Comprehensive Community Action Program (CCAP) with its mission of empowering low-income families to overcome barriers to economic opportunity and educational development. Senator Reed was joined at the event by CCAP President and CEO Joanne McGunagle; Mayor Allan Fung; Councilman Steven Stycos (Council Ward 1), early childhood educators, and other dignitaries. The walls came tumbling down and the interior will soon have a new look thanks in part to a $938,708 federal grant Senator Reed helped secure for CCAP's Child Development Centers Head Start Program. When it is completed, the Head Start renovation and expansion project will give students much-needed state-of-the-art classroom space, as well as space for future growth. Head Start is a federal program that provides early childhood education, health, nutrition and parent involvement services to low-income children and families. Children cared for at CCAP's Head Start and Early Head Start centers range from infants to three-year-olds and receive nutritious meals and snacks along with quality care focused on educational, social, and emotional development. Renovating this space will help CCAP expand their classroom space while also expanding opportunities for kids, said Senator Reed, a senior member of the Appropriations Committee. We want every child to have a chance to start off strong and achieve their full potential. I am proud to have helped deliver these federal funds. This is a win for the neighborhood, especially young families in need of high-quality, affordable, comprehensive care and education that are the hallmarks of Head Start. I commend Joanne McGunagle for her vision and leadership and everyone at CCAP for making a positive difference. They are preparing children to succeed, putting them on a path to a brighter futur… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cicilline.house.gov/press-release/cicilline-statement-cohen-filings | Cicilline Statement on Cohen Filings | 2018-12-07 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Democrat | House | RI | David Cicilline | C001084 | cicilline.house.gov | legacy | PAWTUCKET Democratic Policy and Communications Committee (DPCC) Chair David N. Cicilline (RI-01), who serves on the House Judiciary Committee, issued the following statement tonight: The Department of Justice has concluded that the President of the United States directed his personal attorney to commit two separate felonies. These are incredibly serious allegations. It is Congress's responsibility to hold the President accountable if he has broken the law. For the last two years, Republicans in the House have done everything they can to avoid the corruption surrounding this presidency. They should not wait for Democrats to take control in January. Republicans should work with us to immediately begin conducting real oversight of the President and his administration. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://langevin.house.gov/press-release/langevin-reacts-repeated-air-force-background-check-failures-run-sutherland-springs | Langevin Reacts to Repeated Air Force Background Check Failures in Run up to Sutherland Springs Shooting | 2018-12-07 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Democrat | House | RI | Jim Langevin | L000559 | langevin.house.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON Congressman Jim Langevin (D-RI), a senior member of the House Committee on Armed Services, issued the following statement regarding the Department of Defense Inspector General Report entitled: Report of Investigation into the United States Air Force's Failure to Submit Devin Kelley's Criminal History Information to the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Langevin led a letter to Secretary of the Air Force Heather Wilson in the days following the shooting requesting a thorough review of failures that led to the shooter, a former airman with a documented history of domestic violence, being able to buy a firearm and kill more than two dozen worshippers at the First Baptist Church in Sutherland Springs, Texas. The Inspector General's report is very disturbing. There were six opportunities for the Air Force to ensure this dangerous individual could not purchase a firearm, yet information about his history of violence was never conveyed to the FBI. These systematic failures are unacceptable, and I will continue vigorous oversight in Congress to ensure a lapse like this never happens again. The victims of the Sutherland Springs shooting deserved better from our government, and while nothing will bring their loved ones back, we owe it to them to do everything in our power to keep guns out of the wrong hands and stem the tide of gun violence that has taken so many innocent lives. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/photos/reed-to-announce-project-to-address-marine-debris-on-aquidneck-island | Reed to Announce Project to Address Marine Debris on Aquidneck Island | 2018-12-07 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Democrat | House | RI | Jack Reed | R000122 | www.reed.senate.gov | legacy | Reed to Announce Project to Address Marine Debris on Aquidneck Island 12/07/2018Senator Reed helped announce the start of a new, two-year project led by environmental non-profit Clean Ocean Access and funde… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.whitehouse.senate.gov/news/release/whitehouse-statement-on-barr- | Whitehouse Statement on Barr | 2018-12-07 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Democrat | House | RI | Sheldon Whitehouse | W000802 | www.whitehouse.senate.gov | legacy | 12.07.18 Whitehouse Statement on Barr Providence, RI U.S. Senator Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), a member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, released the following statement today on the nomination of William Barr for Attorney General: Barr is an experienced and able lawyer. I will have questions about his record and positions on pressing issues facing the Department of Justice, particularly his willingness to defend the Department's investigationsincluding Bob Mueller'snow looking at the Trumps and Trump cronies. Barr's strange calls for the Department to investigate fringe conspiracy theories involving the Clintons raise questions, both about his partisanship and judgment. His confirmation will require close scrutiny in the Senate, and I look forward to getting answers in the coming weeks. This nomination still doesn't solve the problem of the unconstitutional appointment of Matthew Whitaker, whose political and professional conflicts of interest are disqualifying, and who should be removed. ### Print Email Tweet Previous Article | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cicilline.house.gov/press-release/cicilline-langevin-help-deliver-20-million-pell-bridge | Cicilline, Langevin Help Deliver $20 Million for Pell Bridge | 2018-12-06 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Democrat | House | RI | David Cicilline | C001084 | cicilline.house.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON - Democratic Policy and Communications Committee (DPCC) Chair David N. Cicilline (RI-01) and U.S. Congressman Jim Langevin (RI-02) applauded the allocation of $20 million in federal funds for improvements on ramps and roadways servicing the Pell Bridge in Newport. Cicilline and Langevin advocated for the funding directly with the U.S. Department of Transportation. This critical funding will meet one of Rhode Island's most pressing infrastructure needs, said Cicilline, who represents Aquidneck Island in Congress. It will strengthen our economy, making it easier to move goods and services and enhancing quality of life across our state. I look forward to seeing this money put to work. As one of our state's iconic structures, the Pell Bridge serves as a major transportation artery for thousands of Rhode Islanders who travel across Narragansett Bay every day, said Congressman Langevin. These federal funds will help state and local officials repair and revitalize the bridge and its on-ramps. This important work will improve safety, relieve congestion, and make way for increased economic development opportunities. The funding announced today will support construction to rebuild and improve the layout of the ramps and roadways leading to the Pell Bridge from Aquidneck Island. The money is being provided to the Rhode Island Department of Transportation (RIDOT) through the Better Utilizing Investments to Leverage Development (BUILD) discretionary grant program. In addition to providing a significant infrastructure investment, the project will open 30 acres of land for redevelopment in the City of Newport. Cicilline, who serves in the House Democratic Leadership as Chair of the DPCC, helped craft a $1 trillion infrastructure investment plan that will help create 16 million new, good-paying jobs after it is signed into law. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://langevin.house.gov/press-release/langevin-cicilline-help-deliver-20-million-pell-bridge | Langevin, Cicilline Help Deliver $20 Million for Pell Bridge | 2018-12-06 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Democrat | House | RI | Jim Langevin | L000559 | langevin.house.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON - U.S. Congressman Jim Langevin (RI-02) and Democratic Policy and Communications Committee (DPCC) Chair David N. Cicilline (RI-01) applauded the allocation of $20 million in federal funds for improvements on ramps and roadways servicing the Pell Bridge in Newport. Cicilline and Langevin advocated for the funding directly with the U.S. Department of Transportation. As one of our state's iconic structures, the Pell Bridge serves as a major transportation artery for thousands of Rhode Islanders who travel across Narragansett Bay every day, said Congressman Langevin. These federal funds will help state and local officials repair and revitalize the bridge and its on-ramps. This important work will improve safety, relieve congestion, and make way for increased economic development opportunities. This critical funding will meet one of Rhode Island's most pressing infrastructure needs, saidCongressman Cicilline, who represents Aquidneck Island in Congress. It will strengthen our economy, making it easier to move goods and services and enhancing quality of life across our state. I look forward to seeing this money put to work. The funding announced today will support construction to rebuild and improve the layout of the ramps and roadways leading to the Pell Bridge from Aquidneck Island. The money is being provided to the Rhode Island Department of Transportation (RIDOT) through the Better Utilizing Investments to Leverage Development (BUILD) discretionary grant program. In addition to providing a significant infrastructure investment, the project will open 30 acres of land for redevelopment in the City of Newport. Cicilline, who serves in the House Democratic Leadership as Chair of the DPCC, helped craft a $1 trillion infrastructure investment plan that will help create 16 million new, good-paying jobs after it is signed into law. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://langevin.house.gov/press-release/social-enterprise-greenhouse-wins-eda-funding-statewide-expansion | Social Enterprise Greenhouse Wins EDA Funding for Statewide Expansion | 2018-12-06 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Democrat | House | RI | Jim Langevin | L000559 | langevin.house.gov | legacy | Washington, DC U.S. Senator Sheldon Whitehouse and Congressmen Jim Langevin and David Cicilline today announced that Providence-based social impact business incubator Social Enterprise Greenhouse (SEG) has won a $257,321 competitive grant from the U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA) to grow the organization's footprint in Pawtucket, Central Falls, and Newport. The expansion will provide support to a more diverse population of social entrepreneurs as they create jobs and grow Rhode Island's innovation economy. The Social Enterprise Greenhouse is proving that Rhode Island entrepreneurs can do well while doing good in the community, said Whitehouse. With this federal grant, the Social Enterprise Greenhouse can help scale the success of more small businesses that are creating jobs and making Rhode Island a better place. I've long been a proponent of the work done at the Social Enterprise Greenhouse, said Langevin.SEG has already helped several Rhode Island entrepreneurs launch businesses that have a positive social and economic impact, and this funding will help further expand the reach of its valuable services. Social Enterprise Greenhouse has and continues to be a great partner in helping entrepreneurs develop and succeed in creating market-driven solutions to social problems, said Cicilline. This funding will help continue their tradition of developing a strong work force in Rhode Island and creating an economy that works for everyone. SEG provides social entrepreneurs with the tools and networks they need to thrive. An expanded footprint will allow SEG to serve and connect entrepreneurs operating outside of Providence. The federal grant will support a market assessment, the recruitment of entrepreneurs, and technical assistance and ongoing support for social ventures. The SEG Community is honored and thrilled to receive this award from the EDA, said Kelly Ramirez, CEO of SEG. The support will enable us to more intentionally expand our footprint into communities across Rhode Island, particularly those… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases/reed-new-20-million-federal-grant-to-revamp-pell-bridge-ramps | Reed: New $20 Million Federal Grant to Revamp Pell Bridge Ramps | 2018-12-06 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Democrat | House | RI | Jack Reed | R000122 | www.reed.senate.gov | legacy | 12/06/2018WASHINGTON, DC Newport's vision for revamping the Pell Bridge ramp system got a significant boost today as U.S. Senator Jack Reed (D-RI), the Ranking Member of the Appropriations Subcommittee on Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies (THUD), announced a new $20 million federal grant to support state and local efforts to realign the Pell Bridge ramps to enhance safety, relieve traffic congestion, improve efficiency, and free up dozens of acres of land for economic development. Senator Reed has worked for over a decade to provide federal funding to support plans to reconfigure the ramps to improve traffic flow and safety. In the 2005 transportation law (SAFETEA-LU), Reed secured an initial $5 million earmark to help jumpstart the state and local planning process and obtain some of the rights of way needed to move the project forward to this stage. At 11,247 feet in length, the iconic Pell Bridge is the longest suspension bridge in New England and will mark its 50th anniversary next year. The bridge is owned and operated by the Rhode Island Turnpike and Bridge Authority and serves as key artery for regional commuters, beach traffic, and military personnel travelling to and from the U.S. Naval War College. The existing roads and on-ramps that service the bridge are in need of maintenance and the state has undertaken a comprehensive and ongoing planning assessment with public input to develop a ramp reconfiguration and re-use plan for the area that could become available. The Rhode Island Department of Transportation (RIDOT) will receive the federal funds. Senator Reed created and secured this pool of funding in the fiscal year 2018 appropriations law. The program is administered by the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT). In its application, RIDOT estimated the overall project would cost a total of $66.1 million, with state and local contributions. Reed, along with Senator Susan Collins (R-ME), led efforts to allocate $1.5 billion for the Better Utilizing Investments to… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.whitehouse.senate.gov/news/release/social-enterprise-greenhouse-wins-eda-funding-for-statewide-expansion | Social Enterprise Greenhouse Wins EDA Funding for Statewide Expansion | 2018-12-06 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Democrat | House | RI | Sheldon Whitehouse | W000802 | www.whitehouse.senate.gov | legacy | 12.06.18 Social Enterprise Greenhouse Wins EDA Funding for Statewide Expansion Federal grant will boost social entrepreneurship across RI Washington, DC U.S. Senator Sheldon Whitehouse and Congressmen Jim Langevin and David Cicilline today announced that Providence-based social impact business incubator Social Enterprise Greenhouse (SEG) has won a $257,321 competitive grant from the U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA) to grow the organization's footprint in Pawtucket, Central Falls, and Newport. The expansion will provide support to a more diverse population of social entrepreneurs as they create jobs and grow Rhode Island's innovation economy. The Social Enterprise Greenhouse is proving that Rhode Island entrepreneurs can do well while doing good in the community, said Whitehouse. With this federal grant, the Social Enterprise Greenhouse can help scale the success of more small businesses that are creating jobs and making Rhode Island a better place. I've long been a proponent of the work done at the Social Enterprise Greenhouse, said Langevin. SEG has already helped several Rhode Island entrepreneurs launch businesses that have a positive social and economic impact, and this funding will help further expand the reach of its valuable services. Social Enterprise Greenhouse has and continues to be a great partner in helping entrepreneurs develop and succeed in creating market-driven solutions to social problems, said Cicilline. This funding will help continue their tradition of developing a strong work force in Rhode Island and creating an economy that works for everyone. SEG provides social entrepreneurs with the tools and networks they need to thrive. An expanded footprint will allow SEG to serve and connect entrepreneurs operating outside of Providence. The federal grant will support a market assessment, the recruitment of entrepreneurs, and technical assistance and ongoing support for soc… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.whitehouse.senate.gov/news/release/whitehouse-applauds-20-million-grant-to-rebuild-pell-bridge-ramps | Whitehouse Applauds $20 Million Grant to Rebuild Pell Bridge Ramps | 2018-12-06 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Democrat | House | RI | Sheldon Whitehouse | W000802 | www.whitehouse.senate.gov | legacy | 12.06.18 Whitehouse Applauds $20 Million Grant to Rebuild Pell Bridge Ramps Project will improve traffic flow and safety while freeing up land for development Washington, DC U.S. Senator Sheldon Whitehouse today applauded the news that the state of Rhode Island has been awarded $20 million from the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) to rebuild the ramps leading to the Pell Bridge from Aquidneck Island. The Pell Bridge, which spans Narragansett Bay to connect Newport and Jamestown, is nearly fifty years old. The Pell Bridge is one of Rhode Island's most iconic structures, said Whitehouse, who advocated for the grant. I'm thrilled to help deliver this federal investment to streamline the gateway to Aquidneck Island and Jamestown for residents and visitors. The funding from the BUILD Transportation grant program, formerly known as the Transportation Investment Generating Economic Recovery (TIGER) grant program, will support state and local efforts to realign and rebuild the deteriorating ramps on the Newport side of the bridge. The project will improve traffic flow and safety while freeing up acres of land for economic development, including the planned Newport Innovation Hub. As a member of the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee, Whitehouse has made investing in Rhode Island's infrastructure one of his top priorities. During the current Congress, Whitehouse has successfully advocated for $20 million to make major improvements to Route 37, in addition to fighting for $26 million in additional federal highway funds for other shovel-ready projects. The National Oceans and Coastal Security Fund created by Whitehouse is distributing approximately $30 million in grants this year to support coastal resiliency and natural infrastructure across the country. ### Print Email Tweet … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.whitehouse.senate.gov/news/release/whitehouse-joins-fellow-doj-alums-in-call-to-replace-whitaker- | Whitehouse Joins Fellow DOJ Alums in Call to Replace Whitaker | 2018-12-06 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Democrat | House | RI | Sheldon Whitehouse | W000802 | www.whitehouse.senate.gov | legacy | 12.06.18 Whitehouse Joins Fellow DOJ Alums in Call to Replace Whitaker Whitehouse: I join my fellow former Department officials in expressing deep concern over Mr. Whitaker's conflicts of interest and the apparent threat he poses to the Department's mission and reputation' Washington, DC Today, Senator Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), a member of the Senate Judiciary Committee and a former U.S. Attorney, announced he has joined hundreds of fellow Department of Justice alumni in a statement outlining the threat posed by the appointment of Acting Attorney General Matthew Whitaker. The statement calls on President Donald Trump to appoint a replacement swiftly, and for the Senate to demand the chance to exercise its Constitutional duty of advice and consent. Upon joining the statement, Whitehouse said, Independence from political influence is vital to the Justice Department's work enforcing our nation's laws and protecting Americans' liberties. Elevating a man with deeply troubling political and professional conflicts of interest to Acting Attorney General by skirting the Senate's advice and consent is a serious threat to that independence. I join my fellow former Department officials in expressing deep concern over Mr. Whitaker's conflicts of interest and the apparent threat he poses to the Department's mission and reputation. The former Justice Department officials state: We, the undersigned, are proud alumni of the United States Department of Justice. We have served under Senate-confirmed Attorneys General who come from both political parties. Because of our respect for our oaths of office and our personal experiences carrying out the Department's mission, we are disturbed by the President's appointment of Matthew Whitaker to serve as Acting Attorney General. We know that overseeing the Department of Justice is one of the most important roles in our government. The Attorney General is responsible for ensuring… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.whitehouse.senate.gov/news/release/whitehouse-slams-epa-rollback-of-air-pollution-standard- | Whitehouse Slams EPA Rollback of Air Pollution Standard | 2018-12-06 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Democrat | House | RI | Sheldon Whitehouse | W000802 | www.whitehouse.senate.gov | legacy | 12.06.18 Whitehouse Slams EPA Rollback of Air Pollution Standard Washington, DC Senator Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), a senior member of the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee, released the following statement on the Environmental Protection Agency's proposal released today to ease emissions standards for new fossil fuel-fired power plants: This proposal is another illegal attempt by the Trump administration to prop up an industry already buckling under the powerful force of the free market. Easing the new source performance standard does nothing but deliver a short-term boost for the Trump administration's fossil fuel backers and allow for more reckless carbon pollution. Did the EPA even read the National Climate Assessment, released just last month? If the president cared about coal miners, he would start working on ways to help the industry's workforce adjust to the new economic reality and begin investing in their future. ### Print Email Tweet Previous Article | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.whitehouse.senate.gov/news/speeches/time-to-wake-up-from-coast-to-coast | Time To Wake Up: From Coast to Coast | 2018-12-06 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Democrat | House | RI | Sheldon Whitehouse | W000802 | www.whitehouse.senate.gov | legacy | 12.06.18 Time To Wake Up: From Coast to Coast As-prepared for delivery Mr. President, I'm very pleased that Senator Feinstein is joining me today welcome. We're here to discuss how climate change is affecting the U.S. from the East to the West, from large states like California to the smallest one, Rhode Island small in size, but long on coastline! As coastal states, both Rhode Island and California are on the front lines of climate change. Sea levels are already rising, and as they do, Rhode Island's coastal communities are having to spend more and more money on resiliency projects to protect their roads, bridges, beaches, water treatment plants, harbors, and other infrastructure. A 2017 study by the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management found that seven of the state's 19 water treatment facilities are expected to be overwashed by floodwaters driven by climate change. Frankly, just figuring out what this risk looks like is hard for coastal municipalities. Our state's Coastal Resources Management Council has developed a project called STORMTOOLS, which allows Rhode Islanders to see how sea level rise is expected to affect their homes, businesses, beaches, and parks. Here's a STORMTOOLS-generated map of Rhode Island's Upper Narragansett Bay at the end of the century. The bright blue color is now land that gets covered by 10 feet of sea level rise, and the teal is 12 feet of sea level rise. This is STORMTOOLS' business-as-usual scenario, in which the world continues to burn fossil fuels unabated. As you can see, some of Rhode Island's peninsulas will be cut off from land, forming new islands, and some of our islands will disappear underwater. We become an archipelago. A recent New York Times article suggested that we may have to retreat from the coasts, in order to protect ourselves from rising waters and more powerful storms. Why should Rhode Islanders have to do that? Just to protect … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.whitehouse.senate.gov/news/videos/watch/time-to-wake-up-from-coast-to-coast-with-senator-feinstein | Time To Wake Up: From Coast To Coast with Senator Feinstein | 2018-12-06 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Democrat | House | RI | Sheldon Whitehouse | W000802 | www.whitehouse.senate.gov | legacy | About Services Agency Assistance Success Stories Grants Flag Requests Visiting D.C. Student Resources Email Sheldon Events Community Dinners Community Outreach … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.whitehouse.senate.gov/news/videos/watch/time-to-wake-up-sciences-latest-warning-with-senators-markey-and-shaheen | Time to Wake Up: Science's Latest Warning with Senators Markey and Shaheen | 2018-12-06 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Democrat | House | RI | Sheldon Whitehouse | W000802 | www.whitehouse.senate.gov | legacy | About Services Agency Assistance Success Stories Grants Flag Requests Visiting D.C. Student Resources Email Sheldon Events Community Dinners Community Outreach … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.whitehouse.senate.gov/news/videos/watch/whitehouse-floor-remarks-on-the-nomination-of-bernard-mcnamee-to-the-ferc | Whitehouse Floor Remarks on the Nomination of Bernard McNamee to the FERC | 2018-12-06 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Democrat | House | RI | Sheldon Whitehouse | W000802 | www.whitehouse.senate.gov | legacy | About Services Agency Assistance Success Stories Grants Flag Requests Visiting D.C. Student Resources Email Sheldon Events Community Dinners Community Outreach … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases/us-senate-approves-reed-collins-murkowski-library-and-museum-bill- | U.S. Senate Approves Reed-Collins-Murkowski Library & Museum Bill | 2018-12-05 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Democrat | House | RI | Jack Reed | R000122 | www.reed.senate.gov | legacy | 12/05/2018WASHINGTON, DC In a major victory for libraries, museums, and lifelong learning opportunities, the full U.S. Senate passed the Museum and Library Services Act of 2018 (S.3530) on a unanimous vote. The bipartisan bill, authored by U.S. Senator Jack Reed (D-RI) with lead cosponsors Susan Collins (R-ME), Lisa Murkowski (R-AK), and Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY) renews and builds on the $240 million commitment to the federal museum and library programs administered by the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS), an independent federal agency that helps museums and libraries across the country advance their educational missions, deliver services, preserve history, and make their collections more accessible. The U.S. Senate sent a strong bipartisan message that robustly supporting the federal agency that helps museums and libraries better serve their communities. IMLS supports programs at more than 120,000 libraries and 35,000 museums nationwide. This is a big, bipartisan win for all who use libraries and museums, and for our communities. Local libraries and museums are cornerstones for their communities. They educate, provide connectivity, and preserve our history and culture. Without this bill, local libraries would have to cutback services. Passage of the Museum and Library Services Act will help us write a new chapter in the digital age, as IMLS helps libraries and museums modernize, collaborate, and strengthen their capacity to serve their communities well into the future. It will help fully leverage the role of libraries and museums in supporting the learning, educational, and workforce development needs of Americans nationwide, and I salute Senators Collins and Murkowski for their leadership and critical support, said Senator Reed, who noted that, since the last reauthorization in 2010, Rhode Island libraries and museums have received over $10 million in federal grants from these programs. This year, Rhode Island has received $1,082,194 from IMLS under the Library and Services and Technology Act… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.whitehouse.senate.gov/news/speeches/nomination-of-bernard-mcnamees-for-ferc-commissioner | Whitehouse Remarks on the Nomination of Bernard McNamee’s for FERC Commissioner | 2018-12-05 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Democrat | House | RI | Sheldon Whitehouse | W000802 | www.whitehouse.senate.gov | legacy | 12.05.18 Whitehouse Remarks on the Nomination of Bernard McNamee's for FERC Commissioner Mr. President, I am here today to express my extremely grave concerns about the person we have just begun to move to a vote to the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission. He would be Commissioner McNamee if we were to confirm him. This is in an administration that has distinguished itself with terrible energy appointmentsconceivably the worst. It is too important to our country to have an independent and reality based Federal Energy Regulatory Commission to allow an industry plant like Mr. McNameewho will never be independent, who will always have his thumb on the scale for the vested interestsget onto the Federal Regulatory Commission. In addition to the bad decisions he will make because he will be trying to throw decisions for the fossil fuel industry, he will also create an enormous amount of litigation because people who come before a Federal administrative agency are entitled to an honest look at their claims, and if the regulatory agency is incapable of giving them that honest look, that is grounds for appeal. McNamee is a walking failure of any honest look at any question in which the fossil fuel industryand specifically the coal industryhas an interest. Sadly, his position isn't just a question of a personal failing; he comes out of a system, and I am going to take some time to describe the system he comes out of. No one less than our late friend Senator John McCain was once asked in an interview: Why has it taken so long for Congress to address climate change? Katie Couric was the interviewer. She asked: Why has it taken so long, Senator? Here was John McCain's answer: Special interests. It is the special interests. It is the utility companies and the petroleum companies and other special interests. They are the ones that have blocked progress in the Congress of the United States and the administration. That is a little straight talk. The way these industries work is kind of interesting. They figured… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://langevin.house.gov/press-release/new-legislation-aims-bolster-cybersecurity-education-among-skilled-trades | New Legislation Aims to Bolster Cybersecurity Education Among Skilled Trades | 2018-12-04 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Democrat | House | RI | Jim Langevin | L000559 | langevin.house.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON On Monday, Congressmen Jim Langevin (D-RI) and Glenn GT' Thompson (R-PA), co-chairs of the Congressional Career and Technical Education (CTE) Caucus, introduced the Cybersecurity Education Integration Act, legislation that provides resources to develop CTE programs of study that include cybersecurity fundamentals. Whether in our hospitals or our power grid, vital systems are increasingly being connected to the Internet, said Congressman Langevin, co-founder and co-chair of the Congressional Cybersecurity Caucus and a senior member of the House Committee on Homeland Security. These connections enable increased efficiency and better service, but they also provide pathways for cyber intruders to cause havoc. We need to offer better training for the workers who deal with these systems on a day-to-day basis, particularly in safety critical industries where lives can be put in jeopardy by malicious cyber actors. These operators have a strong culture of safety, and we need to make sure emerging cyber threats are included in that culture. They are the first line of defense, and our bill ensures they will have the skills they need to keep us safe. Developing a 21st century workforce to meet the technical demands our country is facing now and in the future is paramount, said Congressman Thompson, a senior Member on the House Education & the Workforce Committee. We must ensure we're protecting sensitive data and critical infrastructure from bad actors, and this bill is one step in the right direction. By enabling our next generation of learners to have the most sophisticated and comprehensive educational programs out there, we will be better prepared to protect our most critical systems and assets. I encourage my colleagues to support this bill. The Cybersecurity Education Integration Act would establish a competitive grant program to add cybersecurity into new or existing CTE curricula. Many CTE programs already have strong program elements focused on safety; however, cybersecurity is rarely included as p… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases/opening-statement-by-ranking-member-reed-at-12-4-hearing-on-dod-nominations | Opening Statement by Ranking Member Reed at 12-4 Hearing on DOD Nominations | 2018-12-04 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Democrat | House | RI | Jack Reed | R000122 | www.reed.senate.gov | legacy | 12/04/2018Thank you, Mr. Chairman. I would like to join you in welcoming our nominees. Thank you both for your willingness to serve in positions of great responsibility in the Department of Defense. I would also like to thank your family members who, like all military families, sacrifice so much for the security of our nation. I also note with a heavy heart the loss of U.S. Fifth Fleet commander Vice Admiral Scott Stearney over the weekend. On behalf of the entire Committee, I extend our condolences to his friends, family, and all who knew him. General McKenzie and General Clarke, if confirmed, you will lead combatant commands at the forefront of protecting our national security. As noted by the National Defense Strategy, or NDS, long-term strategic competitions with China and Russia are the principal priorities for the Department, and require both increased and sustained investment. The NDS goes on to say the Department will sustain its efforts to deter and counter rogue regimes such as North Korea and Iran, defeat terrorist threats to the United States, and consolidate our gains in Iraq and Afghanistan while moving to a more resource-sustainable approach. The guidance contained in the NDS is likely to result in significant changes to the commands you have been asked to lead. With respect to U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM), the NDS forecasts reduced force structure and more efficient utilization of what remains. Managing the implementation of those changes and any impact they may have on our ability to carry out counterterrorism operations, deter Iran, and reassure our allies and partners will be significant considerations for CENTCOM in the coming years. With respect to U.S. Special Operations Command (SOCOM), the focus of the NDS raises questions about the role of special operations forces in the competition with potential near-peer adversaries. Given that special operations forces have been heavily committed to the fight against violent extremist groups since 9/11, SOCOM will necessarily have to evaluate w… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.whitehouse.senate.gov/news/release/senators-press-justice-department-on-whitaker-benczkowski-conflicts-of-interest | Senators Press Justice Department on Whitaker, Benczkowski Conflicts of Interest | 2018-12-04 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Democrat | House | RI | Sheldon Whitehouse | W000802 | www.whitehouse.senate.gov | legacy | 12.04.18 Senators Press Justice Department on Whitaker, Benczkowski Conflicts of Interest Whitaker's $1.2 million in salary from dark money group and Benczkowski's close ties to Russian Alfa Bank are serious ethical red flags, senators write Washington, DC Senators Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), Dianne Feinstein (D-CA), Patrick Leahy (D-VT), Dick Durbin (D-IL), Ron Wyden (D-OR), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Chris Coons (D-DE), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Cory Booker (D-NJ), and Kamala Harris (D-CA) asked the Department of Justice today to detail its handling of the serious financial, professional, and political conflicts of interest of Acting Attorney General Matthew Whitaker and Assistant Attorney General for the Criminal Division, Brian Benczkowski. The two officials' activities before arriving at the Justice Department present ethical concerns that agency ethics officials have not yet fully resolved and memorialized. Despite repeated requests for ethics records by members of Congress, and growing concern with the influence Whitaker and Benczkowski have over highly sensitive Justice Department work like Special Counsel Robert Mueller's investigation, the Department has not been forthcoming. To maintain the public's trust in an impartial DOJ, we urge you to provide prompt, complete, and public responses to the issues we raise, the senators write to the Justice Department's Assistant Attorney General for Administration and Designated Agency Ethics Official and Professional Responsibility Advisory Office. The impartiality and credibility of DOJ's leadership are of national importance. According to financial disclosures, Whitaker has accepted over $1.2 million in compensation as executive director of the Foundation for Accountability and Civic Trust (FACT), an organization that filed at least 14 complaints in recent years against Democratic politicians, and has spent thousands of dollars on contra… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases/menendez-reed-warner-pen-letter-to-pres-trump-urging-against-withdrawing-us-from-inf-treaty | Menendez, Reed, Warner Pen Letter to Pres. Trump Urging Against Withdrawing U.S. from INF Treaty | 2018-12-03 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Democrat | House | RI | Jack Reed | R000122 | www.reed.senate.gov | legacy | 12/03/2018WASHINGTONIn a letter to President Donald Trump,SenatorsBob Menendez (D-N.J.),Ranking Member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee,Jack Reed(D-R.I.),Ranking member of the Senate Armed Services Committee,and Mark Warner (D-Va.),Vice Chairman of the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence, expressed their serious concerns regarding the Administration's expressed intention to pull the United States out of the Intermediate-range Nuclear Forces (INF) treaty. While we understand the challenges of getting Russia to reverse its violation of the INF Treaty, the Administration's sudden decision to withdraw unilaterally is a political and geostrategic gift to Russia,wrote the Senators.It takes the focus away from Russia's transgressions and malign behavior and instead feeds a narrative that the United States is willing to shred our commitments unilaterally without any strategic alternative. Additionally, it allows Russia to expand the production and deployment of its intermediate range missile system, the 9M729, which will further menace Europe. The senators' letter comes on the heels of a scheduled NATO Foreign Ministerial later this week, which presents the Trump administration with an opportunityto consult with European allies on the INF treaty and show the United States will not take unilateral steps to the detriment of European security and stability. Moving forward, before taking steps to withdraw or suspend participation in the INF Treaty, we urge you and your administration to engage with Congress on the implications of this step for strategic stability and our relations with European and Asian allies,concluded the Senators. A copy of the letter can be foundbelow. The Honorable Donald J. Trump President of the United States of America The White House 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW Washington, DC 20500 Dear Mr. President: We write to you to express our serious concerns regarding your announced intention to pull the United States out of the Intermediate-range Nuclear Forces (INF) Treaty. Withdr… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://langevin.house.gov/press-release/langevin-statement-passing-president-george-hw-bush | Langevin Statement on Passing of President George H.W. Bush | 2018-12-02 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Democrat | House | RI | Jim Langevin | L000559 | langevin.house.gov | legacy | Langevin Statement on Passing of President George H.W. Bush Dec 1, 2018 WARWICK, RI - Congressman Jim Langevin (D-RI) issued the following statement following the passing of President George H.W. Bush: Today we mourn the passage of President George H.W. Bush, a true statesman and public servant. He signed the ADA into law that ushered in an era of inclusion and equality for millions of people with disabilities. He will be missed, but his legacy will live on. I extend my condolences and my thoughts and prayers to the entire Bush family. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cicilline.house.gov/press-release/cicilline-statement-death-former-president-george-h-w-bush | Cicilline Statement on Death of Former President George H. W. Bush | 2018-12-01 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Democrat | House | RI | David Cicilline | C001084 | cicilline.house.gov | legacy | PAWTUCKET Democratic Policy and Communications Committee (DPCC) Chair David N. Cicilline (RI-01) issued the following statement today: President George H. W. Bush embodied our country's highest ideals of service and devotion to a cause greater than yourself. As a young man, who was born into privilege and who came of age during World War II, George Bush was told over and over again to stay in school and let others fight the war for him. Instead, he answered the call to serve. As the youngest pilot in the Navy, he commanded the largest bomber plane in the Pacific fleet. He survived after being shot down and later earned the Air Medal, two Gold Stars, and the Distinguished Flying Cross for his service. At the end of the war, George Bush left his native New England for Texas where he would start a family with his beloved wife, Barbara. After nearly two decades of success in business, he once again felt called to service. Whether a diplomat, Congressman, CIA Director, Vice President, or President, George H. W. Bush always served the country he loved with honor, dignity, and grace. Few Americans will ever know the joys of public service as well as President Bush did. My thoughts are with his entire family today. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cicilline.house.gov/press-release/cicilline-statement-dojs-bump-stock-rule | Cicilline Statement on DOJ's Bump Stock Rule | 2018-12-01 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Democrat | House | RI | David Cicilline | C001084 | cicilline.house.gov | legacy | PAWTUCKET - Democratic Policy and Communications Committee (DPCC) Chair David N. Cicilline (RI-01), who authored the Automatic Gunfire Prevention Act, which is co-sponsored by 175 members of the House and 41 members of the Senate, issued the following statement today: It should not have taken more than a year since Las Vegas to get to this point, but it's a step in the right direction. In order to permanently end the threat that bump stocks pose to public safety, Congress must act. The Automatic Gunfire Prevention Act will stop, once and for all, the sale of these devices that turn semi-automatic rifles into the functional equivalent of machine guns. Both chambers of Congress should pass this bill as soon as possible. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases/reed-statement-on-passing-of_former-president-george-h-w-bush | Reed Statement on Passing of Former President George H. W. Bush | 2018-12-01 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Democrat | House | RI | Jack Reed | R000122 | www.reed.senate.gov | legacy | 12/01/2018WASHINGTON, DC - U.S. Senator Jack Reed issued the following statement on the passing of George Herbert Walker Bush, the forty-first President of the United States: We mourn the loss of former President George H. W. Bush and thank him for a lifetime of patriotic service. He was just 18 years old when he began his career as a naval aviator during World War II. His commitment to public service continued in Congress, diplomatic and intelligence posts, as Vice President and President, and throughout his post-presidency. We may not have agreed on every issue, but you had to admire his character, integrity, and resolve. He wasn't afraid to work across party lines to improve the lives of Americans and people around the world. He deserves great credit for signing the Americans with Disabilities Act into law. His humanitarian work and disaster relief efforts have helped change lives and uplift communities at home and abroad. He and his beloved, late wife Barbara were devoted to our nation and each other. We are grateful for their service and prayerful they are reunited once more. Our sincere condolences to the Bush family. Print Email Tweet | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.whitehouse.senate.gov/news/release/whitehouse-statement-on-death-of-george-hw-bush | Whitehouse Statement on Death of George H.W. Bush | 2018-12-01 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Democrat | House | RI | Sheldon Whitehouse | W000802 | www.whitehouse.senate.gov | legacy | 12.01.18 Whitehouse Statement on Death of George H.W. Bush Newport, RI U.S. Senator Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI) released the following statement on the passing of the 41st President, George H.W. Bush: Today I join all Americans in remembering the life and legacy of President Bush, who served his country in uniform and in office. Sandra and I wish peace and comfort for the Bush family as they bid him farewell. ### Print Email Tweet Previous Article | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cicilline.house.gov/press-release/langevin-cicilline-laud-house-passage-bill-honoring-army-captain-matthew-j-august | Langevin, Cicilline Laud House Passage of Bill Honoring Army Captain Matthew J. August | 2018-11-30 | 2018 | 2018-11 | Democrat | House | RI | David Cicilline | C001084 | cicilline.house.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON Today, Congressman Jim Langevin (D-RI) and David Cicilline (D-RI) applauded House passage of legislation designating the post office in Saunderstown, Rhode Island, as the Captain Matthew J. August Post Office. Captain August made the ultimate sacrifice for his country, and I am humbled to be able honor his memory with this post office dedication, said Langevin. He served Rhode Island and our nation with distinction, and this bill will help memorialize his brave legacy in his hometown. Army Captain Matthew J. August was a proud Rhode Islander who laid down his life for our country during Operation Iraqi Freedom, said Cicilline. I am pleased that this bill to create a permanent memorial to his life is now one step closer to becoming law. Army Captain Matthew J. August was born and raised in North Kingstown, where he attended local schools and graduated from Bishop Hendricken High School in 1993. He graduated from the U.S. Military Academy at West Point in 1997 and deployed to Iraq in 2003 in command of B Company, 1st Engineer Battalion, 1st Infantry Division attached to the 82nd Airborne. On January 27, 2004, Captain August was killed in action leading his company on a mission to find and destroy munitions in Khalidya, Iraq, when his convoy was ambushed. He was the first Rhode Islander to be killed in action in Operation Iraqi Freedom. Captain August was posthumously awarded the Bronze Star, Purple Heart, Meritorious Service Medal, Iraqi Campaign and Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medals and Combat Action Badge. During his career, he also received the Army Commendation Medal, Army Achievement Medal with two oak leaves, National Defense Service Medal and the Army Service and Overseas Service Ribbons. Captain August is survived by his parents, Donna and Richard August; his brother, Brig. Gen. Mark August, USAF; his sister, Melanie Cargilo, and their families. Matthew gave his life to make the world safer for future generations, said Richard and Donna August. We couldn't be more proud of Matthew, an… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://langevin.house.gov/press-release/langevin-cicilline-laud-house-passage-bill-honoring-army-captain-matthew-j-august | Langevin, Cicilline Laud House Passage of Bill Honoring Army Captain Matthew J. August | 2018-11-30 | 2018 | 2018-11 | Democrat | House | RI | Jim Langevin | L000559 | langevin.house.gov | legacy | Today, Congressmen Jim Langevin (D-RI) and David Cicilline (D-RI) applauded House passage of legislation designating the post office in Saunderstown, Rhode Island, as the Captain Matthew J. August Post Office. Captain August made the ultimate sacrifice for his country, and I am humbled to be able honor his memory with this post office dedication, said Langevin. He served Rhode Island and our nation with distinction, and this bill will help memorialize his brave legacy in his hometown. Army Captain Matthew J. August was a proud Rhode Islander who laid down his life for our country during Operation Iraqi Freedom, said Cicilline. I am pleased that this bill to create a permanent memorial to his life is now one step closer to becoming law. Army Captain Matthew J. August was born and raised in North Kingstown, where he attended local schools and graduated from Bishop Hendricken High School in 1993. He graduated from the U.S. Military Academy at West Point in 1997 and deployed to Iraq in 2003 in command of B Company, 1st Engineer Battalion, 1st Infantry Division attached to the 82nd Airborne. On January 27, 2004, Captain August was killed in action leading his company on a mission to find and destroy munitions in Khalidya, Iraq, when his convoy was ambushed. He was the first Rhode Islander to be killed in action in Operation Iraqi Freedom. Captain August was posthumously awarded the Bronze Star, Purple Heart, Meritorious Service Medal, Iraqi Campaign and Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medals and Combat Action Badge. During his career, he also received the Army Commendation Medal, Army Achievement Medal with two oak leaves, National Defense Service Medal and the Army Service and Overseas Service Ribbons. Captain August is survived by his parents, Donna and Richard August; his brother, Brig. Gen. Mark August, USAF; his sister, Melanie Cargilo, and their families. Matthew gave his life to make the world safer for future generations, said Richard and Donna August. We couldn't be more proud of Matthew, and we want to… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases/check-it-out-reed-collins-library-and-museum-bill-advances-in-senate | Check It Out: Reed-Collins Library & Museum Bill Advances in Senate | 2018-11-30 | 2018 | 2018-11 | Democrat | House | RI | Jack Reed | R000122 | www.reed.senate.gov | legacy | 11/30/2018WASHINGTON, DC The Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor and Pensions (HELP) unanimously approved U.S. Senators Jack Reed's (D-RI) Museum and Library Services Act of 2018 (S.3530) this week and advanced it to consideration by the full Senate. Introduced by Senators Reed, Susan Collins (R-ME), Kirstin Gillibrand (D-NY), and Lisa Murkowski (R-AK), this critical legislation renews and builds on the $240 million commitment to the federal museum and library programs administered by the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS). Despite President Trump's repeated efforts to eliminate the Institute of Museum and Library Services, which supports programs at over 120,000 libraries and 35,000 museums nationwide, the unanimous HELP Committee vote to approve Reed's bill signals there is strong bipartisan support in Congress for supporting the federal agency that helps museums and libraries serve their communities. We must do all we can to support libraries and museums, which serve as anchor institutions for their communities and are beacons of education, connectivity, and discussion across our nation. The Museum and Library Services Act is a crucial step toward ensuring that these institutions are funded, staffed, and accessible to all. Through a relatively modest federal investment, this law helps build the capacity to support and expand access to library and museum services at the state and local level, and it will help fully leverage the role of libraries and museums in supporting the learning, educational, and workforce development needs of Americans nationwide, said Senator Reed, who noted that, since the last reauthorization in 2010, Rhode Island libraries and museums have received over $10 million in federal grants from these programs. This year, Rhode Island has received $1,082,194 from IMLS under the Library and Services and Technology Act Grants to States Program. This bill will help to ensure that small states like Rhode Island are able to receive a fair share of library funding and will… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.whitehouse.senate.gov/news/videos/watch/whitehouse-floor-remarks-on-the-national-flood-insurance-program-extension | Whitehouse Floor Remarks on the National Flood Insurance Program Extension | 2018-11-30 | 2018 | 2018-11 | Democrat | House | RI | Sheldon Whitehouse | W000802 | www.whitehouse.senate.gov | legacy | About Services Agency Assistance Success Stories Grants Flag Requests Visiting D.C. Student Resources Email Sheldon Events Community Dinners Community Outreach … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z |
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