url,title,date,year,month,party,chamber,state,member_name,bioguide_id,domain,scraper,source,date_source,text,has_text,collected_at,updated_at
https://courtney.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-courtney-statement-passing-former-president-jimmy-carter,Rep. Courtney Statement on the Passing of former President Jimmy Carter,2024-12-29,2024,2024-12,Democrat,House,CT,Joe Courtney,C001069,courtney.house.gov,courtney,https://courtney.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"NORWICH, CT –Today, Congressman Joe Courtney (CT-02) issued the following statement in response to the passing of the 39th President of the United States, Jimmy Carter. In 2023, Rep. Courtney penned an op-ed in CT Mirror and later spoke on the House Floor recounting Carter’s exceptional service, including in the U.S. Navy, and his connection to Connecticut.

“America lost a great man today. President Jimmy Carter personified the highest form of public service, not just as Governor and President, but as an ensign in the U.S. Navy who rose to be one of Admiral Hyman G. Rickover’s select officers at the birth of the 'Nuclear Navy’.

“In 2005, when the Navy sought to close Submarine Base New London, former President Carter stood by'Team Connecticut' in opposition to a plan which would have moved the Base’s fleet to his home state of Georgia. His decision to support ‘Team Connecticut’ in the face of political pressure at home represents the integrity and honor he served with throughout his life. Today, eastern Connecticut maintains our proud role as Submarine Capital of the World thanks to former President Carter. I join the American people in sending my deepest condolences and gratitude to the Carter family for his lifetime of service.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://hayes.house.gov/press-releases?ID=55DFC002-A610-4B52-9DA6-183D76BE92EC,Hayes Statement on the Passing of Former President Jimmy Carter,2024-12-29,2024,2024-12,Democrat,House,CT,Jahana Hayes,H001081,hayes.house.gov,hayes,https://hayes.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WATERBURY, CT – Today, Congresswoman Jahana Hayes (CT-05) released the following statement on the passing of former President Jimmy Carter:

“Today, our nation mourns the passing of Nobel laureate and former President Jimmy Carter.

During his presidency and in the decades after, President Carter served as an advocate for peace, human rights, and democracy.

His work with Habitat for Humanity inspired me to introduce my students to service and has helped build strength, stability and self reliance for so many through shelter.

My thoughts and prayers are with the Carter family during this time and I thank him for his lifetime of service.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://larson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/larson-statement-passing-former-president-jimmy-carter,Larson Statement on the Passing of Former President Jimmy Carter,2024-12-29,2024,2024-12,Democrat,House,CT,John B. Larson,L000557,larson.house.gov,larson,https://larson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"“President Carter led our nation with integrity, spending his life promoting human rights and peace across the globe,” said Larson. “He was a man of deep conviction who always exhibited class on the public stage, whether he was a candidate, a President, or an elder statesman. With his deep commitment to his faith and his work with the Carter Center, Jimmy Carter demonstrated how to be a role model and make a difference in the world even when you leave elective office. He will be deeply missed by so many people he touched around the world. I send my condolences to his children Jack, Chip, Donnel, and Amy, and the entire Carter family.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://larson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/larson-statement-hr-82-and-path-forward-social-security,Larson Statement on H.R. 82 and the Path Forward on Social Security,2024-12-23,2024,2024-12,Democrat,House,CT,John B. Larson,L000557,larson.house.gov,larson,https://larson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"“Thanks to the tireless work of advocates from across the country, our public servants, including teachers, firefighters, and police officers, are finally on track to receive the benefits they have earned and deserve,” said Larson. “I want to commend the countless labor leaders and public servants for their work and advocacy to correct these unjust provisions, especially the National WEP/GPO Repeal Task Force, led by my dear friend and constituent Bette Marafino.”

“Now we must all roll up our sleeves and work together to prevent automatic benefit cuts set to occur in 2034 and strengthen the program for years to come, especially for the 35 million Americans who rely on their earned benefits for the majority of their income,” Larson continued. “Democrats have a plan to extend Social Security’s solvency, cut taxes for seniors, and enhance benefits by making sure that everyone, including the most wealthy, pay their fair share into the system. Let’s build on this hard-fought win for our public servants by enhancing Social Security for all beneficiaries for the first time in more than 50 years.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://courtney.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-courtney-applauds-delivery-future-uss-iowa,Rep. Courtney Applauds Delivery of Future USS IOWA,2024-12-20,2024,2024-12,Democrat,House,CT,Joe Courtney,C001069,courtney.house.gov,courtney,https://courtney.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Joe Courtney (CT-02) issued the following statement after General Dynamics Electric Boat delivered the future USS IOWA (SSN 797), the 24th Virginia class boat, to the U.S. Navy on Wednesday.

“The delivery of the future USS IOWA marks the 24th boat delivered in the Virginia class program and the second boat delivered in 2024. Next year, the Navy will take delivery of the USS MASSACHUSETTS and IDAHO, the 25th and 26th boats in the class. Despite the nationwide manufacturing slowdown caused by COVID, the delivery of IOWA and the rising production cadence are promising signs of the industry's recovery. This momentum will be supported by the seapower provisions in the annual defense bill that will soon be signed into law and rejects the Navy’s inadequate budget request by authorizing a second Virginia submarine, growing the supply chain, and boosting the wages of frontline shipyard workers, a critical step to increase recruitment and retention among the metal trades workforce.

“Fair winds and following seas to the crew, and kudos to the outstanding shipbuilders who worked with great patriotism and skill to deliver the IOWA.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://courtney.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-courtney-votes-avert-costly-harmful-shutdown,"Rep. Courtney Votes to Avert Costly, Harmful Shutdown",2024-12-20,2024,2024-12,Democrat,House,CT,Joe Courtney,C001069,courtney.house.gov,courtney,https://courtney.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Joe Courtney (CT-02) issued the following statement after voting to pass a Continuing Resolution that funds the government through mid-March and removes Elon Musk’s demand to suspend the debt ceiling. The bill overwhelmingly passed by a vote of 366-34-1.

“Tonight, I voted to pass a bipartisan Continuing Resolution that keeps our federal government open, ensures essential services remain uninterrupted, and retains several important provisions I fought for, like shipbuilding investments and essential aid for our farmers, while stripping Elon Musk’s $4 trillion demand to suspend the debt limit. His last-minute intrusion had nothing to do with keeping the government open and was all about his selfish desire to pave the way for a tax cut for the super-rich next year. Last night, I joined a bipartisan majority of members to stop a blank check for Musk and his cronies.

“In eastern Connecticut, the short-term spending bill will ensure that federal employees, including roughly 9,000 sailors and officers at the Groton submarine base, will not have their pay disrupted, as well the Coast Guard Academy staff in New London. Their important work will continue uninterrupted.”

On the funding for submarine programs, Rep. Courtney, Ranking Member of the Seapower Subcommittee, said: “Importantly, the final Continuing Resolution maintains the Biden Administration’s request to Congress of over $14 billion for the Virginia and Columbia class submarine programs and the industrial base, which will help the Navy and industry boost production cadence and grow the supply chain. Importantly, it includes the authorities I called for in the national defense bill to allow Electric Boat and Newport News Shipbuilding to increase wages for frontline workers to ensure our shipyards can recruit and retain a talented workforce.”

On direct disaster economic assistance for farmers, Rep. Courtney, said: “Many farms in Connecticut have felt the devastating consequences of several extreme weather events over the last two years. My colleagues and I in the Connecticut delegation have been leading the push for direct disaster assistance that is free of red tape and roadblocks and meets the real needs of our farmers and producers. I am thrilled that this bill achieves that goal.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://delauro.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/delauro-letter-congressional-leadership-musk-chaos-government-funding,DeLauro in Letter to Congressional Leadership: Musk Chaos in Government Funding Process Protects His Chinese Investments,2024-12-20,2024,2024-12,Democrat,House,CT,Rosa L. DeLauro,D000216,delauro.house.gov,delauro,https://delauro.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Earlier today, Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro (CT-03), Ranking Member of the House Appropriations Committee, sent a letter to congressional leadership raising concerns that Elon Musk may have upended the government funding process to remove a provision that would regulate U.S. investments in China.

“The four corners of the Appropriations Committee and Congressional leadership reached a government funding deal earlier this week that included a key provision that would screen U.S. investments in critical sectors in China,” said DeLauro. “Musk’s investments in China and his ties with the Chinese Communist Party have only grown over the last few years with Tesla’s Shanghai plant producing about 50 percent of Tesla’s global automobile output. It is no surprise ‘President’ Musk does not want to see a funding deal containing this provision be signed into law.”

In the letter, DeLauro outlines how an outbound investment provision would have kept cutting edge technologies in the United States and prevent wealthy investors from offshoring production and U.S. intellectual property to China. Musk’s Shanghai plant is Tesla’s largest car manufacturing facility – producing about 50 percent of Tesla’s global automobile output over the last year. Nearly a quarter of Tesla’s global revenue in 2023 drew from sales of Chinese made vehicles from the Shanghai factory. In May of this year, Tesla broke ground on a new $200 million factory to manufacture large batteries critical to its electric vehicle supply chain – down the street from its Shanghai car factory. Notably, proponents of regulating U.S. investment in China have advocated for the inclusion of large battery manufacturing in the list of technologies subject to outbound investment screening.

“Musk’s ties to China and Tesla’s significant investments in the country raise significant questions as to why he urged House Republican leadership walking away from a bipartisan, bicameral negotiated funding deal that included this provision,” DeLauro continued. “I urge congressional leadership to return to the deal and include this critical provision that ensures U.S. capabilities and capital do not fuel that of the Chinese Communist Party.”

The full letter can be found here and below.

Dear Speaker Johnson, Leader Jeffries, Leader Schumer, and Leader McConnell:

I write to express significant concerns with the influence and potential conflicts of interest that unelected multibillionaire Elon Musk has wielded to sow last-minute chaos throughout the government funding process. It is particularly disturbing that Musk may have sought to upend this critical negotiated agreement to remove a bipartisan provision regulating U.S. investments in China in order to protect his wallet and the Chinese Communist Party at the expense of American workers, innovators, and businesses.

Despite the four corners of the Appropriations Committees and Congressional leadership having reached a government funding agreement earlier this week, Republican leadership caved at the last minute to the demands of “President” Musk to shut down the government and strip out hundreds of pages of critical provisions that would have reauthorized important programs to support American workers and families. One key provision that Republicans’ new government funding bill stripped out: a bill to screen U.S. investments in critical sectors in China.

This outbound investment provision was agreed to after months of bipartisan, bicameral negotiations and years of advocacy from Members of Congress. It would have kept innovation and manufacturing in semiconductors, artificial intelligence (AI), quantum computing, and other cutting-edge technologies in the United States and prevented wealthy investors from continuing to offshore production and U.S. intellectual property into China – benefiting only their bottom lines and the Chinese Communist Party, while hurting American workers and threatening our national security. Importantly, many of the innovations this bill would have protected were developed with the help of taxpayer dollars – all the more reason for these innovations to remain at home and not be used to fuel adversaries’ technological and military capabilities.

It is no surprise, then, that “President” Musk does not want to see a funding deal containing this provision be signed into law. Musk’s investments in China, and ties with its government, have only grown over the last few years – alongside his growing involvement in American politics. Musk’s car company, Tesla has poured billions of dollars into investments in China, particularly its “gigafactory” in Shanghai. The Shanghai plant is Tesla’s largest car manufacturing facility – the Chinese gigafactory produced about 50 percent of Tesla’s global automobile output over thel ast year, and Tesla drew nearly a quarter of its global revenue in 2023 from sales of Chinese made vehicles from the Shanghai factory. And there are signs that Musk plans to double down on his company’s investments in China – as Tesla awaits the Chinese government’s approval of its “Full Self-Driving” technology, Musk noted that “the value of Tesla lies primarily in its plans for autonomous driving.” And in May of this year, Tesla broke ground on a new $200 million factory to manufacture large batteries critical to its electric vehicle supply chain – down the street from its Shanghai car factory. Notably, proponents of regulating U.S. investment in China have advocated for the inclusion of large battery manufacturing in the list of technologies subject to outbound investment screening.

Given the need for Chinese government approvals for his company’s projects in the country, it is similarly unsurprising, yet concerning, that Musk has ingratiated himself with Chinese Communist Party leadership. In April of this year, for example, Musk met with Chinese premier Li Qiang, who helped rush the construction of Tesla’s Shanghai gigafactory when he was still the secretary of the city’s Communist Party. At the meeting, Musk noted that “‘Tesla is willing to further deepen cooperation with China.’” Evidently, “[w]hen Chinese leaders have an important message to convey to President Trump, Elon Musk would clearly be the best conduit.” This is unsurprising given that Musk’s personal finances depend heavily on Tesla’s success or failure: Musk holds a 13 percent ownership stake in Tesla worth more than $100 billion, or more than a quarter of his total net worth.

Musk’s ties to China, and Tesla’s significant investments in the country, are especially concerning in light of the significant U.S. federal, state, and local financial support Tesla and Musk’s other companies have received. From Fiscal Year (FY) 2000 to present, Tesla has received nearly $3 billion in taxpayer subsidies and more than $466 million in federal loans, and since 2008, the company has benefited from $41.9 million in federal contracts. Musk’s rocket company, SpaceX, received more than $100 million in federal loans and taxpayer subsidies since FY 2000, and has won nearly $19.8 billion in federal contracts since 2008. Some of those contracts include partnerships with U.S. government agencies to “work toward accelerating the knowledge and critical technology” needed to support further space travel. All told, according to federal contracting data, “Musk’s business deals with the government total nearly $20 billion” over the past 16 years.

What is to stop Musk from offshoring his other companies’ innovation and manufacturing to China, just as he did with Tesla? The answer: an outbound investment screening regime like the one House Republicans pulled out of the government funding deal at “President” Musk’s behest.

It is extremely alarming that House Republican leadership, at the urging of an unelected billionaire, scrapped a bipartisan, bicameral negotiated funding deal that included this critical provision to protect American jobs and critical capabilities. This is particularly concerning given Elon Musk’s extensive investments in China in key sectors and his personal ties with Chinese Communist Party leadership, and calls into question the real reason for Musk’s opposition to the original funding deal. As conversations continue on a funding deal to avert a harmful government shutdown, I urge you to return to the bipartisan deal, which included this critical provision.

Sincerely,",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://delauro.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/delauro-secures-historic-disaster-assistance-new-england-farmers,DeLauro Secures Historic Disaster Assistance for New England Farmers in Funding Bill,2024-12-20,2024,2024-12,Democrat,House,CT,Rosa L. DeLauro,D000216,delauro.house.gov,delauro,https://delauro.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Today, Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro (CT-03), Ranking Member of the House Appropriations Committee, announced that she created and secured funding in the government funding and disaster assistance package for a Farm Recovery and Support Block Grant Program for small and medium-sized farmers.

“This year, we have seen the devastating impacts of extreme, localized weather events on small farmers across the country– particularly in New England,” said DeLauro. “What is worse is that these farmers are left with few resources to recoup their losses – forcing them to make difficult decisions that put their livelihoods in danger and community food systems at risk. This is one of the primary reasons that Connecticut has lost 460 farms over the last five years. In this bill, I created a historic new block grant that is tailored to the needs of small and medium-sized farmers, removing the barrier of crop insurance requirements, which often do not meet the needs of or provide adequate coverage for diverse crop producers. This grant also allows states to determine the need for funding, enabling more flexibility in response to extreme local weather events, which have significantly increased across our region. It will enable more farmers in need to receive disaster relief, opening the door to specialty crop producers left behind by our current farm safety net. We cannot leave small and medium sized farmers high and dry when disaster strikes.”

On August 26, a severe 13-minute hailstorm damaged several farms in Connecticut. One of them was William Dellacamera’s farm, Cecarelli’s Harrison Hill Farm in Northford. Although Will had insurance coverage, he was only able to recoup a little less than half of his over $400,000 loss.

Many specialty crop farms have a hard time receiving crop insurance because of the lack of availability of coverage for diverse and specialty crops. The Farm Recovery and Support Block Grant was created to ensure small and medium-sized farmers can get relief, as our current system often leaves them behind. This block grant also focuses on any weather event in 2023 or 2024 that a State, in its sole discretion, determines warrants such relief. Whether the extreme flooding in Connecticut in 2023 or a 13-minute hailstorm in 2024, this block grant was created to prioritize these farmers.

The parameters established in the block grant are intended to focus on states that struggle to access typical agriculture relief or aid, including New England and states like Hawaii and Alaska.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://delauro.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/delauro-statement-house-passage-continuing-resolution-0,DeLauro Statement on House Passage of Continuing Resolution,2024-12-20,2024,2024-12,Democrat,House,CT,Rosa L. DeLauro,D000216,delauro.house.gov,delauro,https://delauro.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Today, Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro (CT-03) voted in support of a bipartisan continuing resolution to keep government programs and services functioning until March 14, 2025. This package also includes supplemental relief funds necessary to help communities across the country recover from recent natural disasters.

“This bipartisan package is a responsible and necessary measure to ensure that key government functions, and the programs and services that assist and help American workers and families, continue uninterrupted. From Hurricanes Helene and Milton, to the fires in Maui, to extreme weather events in every corner of the country, severe disasters have forced hardworking families to rebuild their homes, restore their communities, and reestablish their local economies. The bill provides communities across the country with critical relief, investing $100 billion to help Americans rebuild and recover.

“I am pleased that this package includes important resources for American farmers, emergency defense investments, investments in the Virginia Class submarine program, and increased funding for child care. I am disappointed this final bill removes a provision on outbound investment protections I have long fought for to prevent American dollars from fueling the Chinese Communist Party's policies with our capital and capabilities.I believe at the last minute, Elon Musk blocked this provision from becoming law because of Tesla’s significant investment in China. I will continue to fight for outbound investment screening that protects U.S. investments, capabilities, and jobs.”

The legislation is now headed to the Senate.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://larson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/larson-votes-avert-holiday-shutdown-secures-disaster-relief-connecticut,"Larson Votes to Avert Holiday Shutdown, Secures Disaster Relief for Connecticut Farmers",2024-12-20,2024,2024-12,Democrat,House,CT,John B. Larson,L000557,larson.house.gov,larson,https://larson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"“Today we stood up and stopped Elon Musk and Donald Trump’s efforts to shut down the government ahead of the holidays,” said Larson. “Once again, Democrats stood united and voted to keep government open for the people we serve. I was proud to secure critical relief for farmers in my District and across Connecticut who are recovering from the flooding and frost that devastated their crops and ensure both federal workers and our troops continue to receive their paychecks. However, this unprecedented chaos is a preview of how we can expect House Republicans, President-elect Trump, and Elon Musk to legislate in the future. I am thankful for the leadership of Rep. Rosa DeLauro and Leader Jeffries and hope we can continue to work together to fully fund the government and important community projects in the new year.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://courtney.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-courtney-speaker-johnson-abandoned-his-agreement-beck-and-call,Rep. Courtney: Speaker Johnson Abandoned his Agreement at the Beck and Call of the President-elect and his Non-Elected “DOGE” Advisor Elon Musk,2024-12-19,2024,2024-12,Democrat,House,CT,Joe Courtney,C001069,courtney.house.gov,courtney,https://courtney.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Joe Courtney (CT-02) issued the following statement.

“In the period of less than 24 hours after Republican Speaker Mike Johnson released the bipartisan Continuing Resolution that would avoid a government shutdown and fund critical programs for CT farmers, shipbuilders, and Medicare patients, he abandoned his agreement at the beck and call of the President-elect and his non-elected “DOGE” advisor Elon Musk.

“The bipartisan Continuing Resolution we agreed to provided approximately $23 million in long overdue economic and disaster assistance for Connecticut’s farmers, expanded workforce training programs like Connecticut’s Manufacturing Pipeline Initiative, and delivered sorely needed aid for Americans rebuilding from recent natural disasters. The bill also would have responded to the Biden Administration’s request to Congress of over $14 billion for the Virginia and Columbia class submarine programs and the industrial base, which is desperately needed to help the Navy and industry boost production cadence and grow the supply chain—requirements that are recognized by lawmakers on both sides of the aisle.

“Instead of adhering to this pro-worker, pro-farmer, and pro-Navy bipartisan deal that would keep our government open, Republicans are catering to out of touch billionaires. As a result, they are jeopardizing the pay of over 9,000 sailors and officers in Groton, Coast Guard Academy personnel in New London, and TSA agents and other federal employees ahead of Christmas.

“Speaker Johnson’s waffling has brought this country to the brink of a totally avoidable crisis that will cause real life harm to eastern Connecticut.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://courtney.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-courtney-statement-after-musk-johnson-fiasco-fails,Rep. Courtney Statement After Musk-Johnson Fiasco Fails,2024-12-19,2024,2024-12,Democrat,House,CT,Joe Courtney,C001069,courtney.house.gov,courtney,https://courtney.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Joe Courtney (CT-02) issued the following statement after voting ‘no’ on H.R. 10515, which was resoundingly defeated in a bipartisan vote of 174-235.

“House Speaker Mike Johnson abandoned the bipartisan bill he himself introduced two days ago after misleading, threatening tweets from an unelected billionaire, Elon Musk.

“Now, the new hyper-partisan Musk-Johnson bill stripped critical bipartisan provisions that Americans desperately need to lower drug costs, help seniors, and support hospitals and community clinics. Musk’s demand to prematurely suspend the debt ceiling is a blatant gambit to slash taxes for the ultra-wealthy and do so at the detriment of working-class Americans and our nation’s debt – which increased by record amounts during then-President Trump’s first term.

“As President Trump said in 2019, ‘I can’t imagine anybody ever even thinking of using the debt ceiling as a negotiating wedge.’ We must return to the bipartisan Continuing Resolution that provides disaster assistance to farmers and Americans rebuilding from extreme weather events and invests in shipbuilding programs without giving the President-elect and Elon Musk unchecked power for the next two years.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://larson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/larson-opposes-billionaire-backed-bill-fails-working-families,Larson Opposes Billionaire-Backed Bill that Fails Working Families,2024-12-19,2024,2024-12,Democrat,House,CT,John B. Larson,L000557,larson.house.gov,larson,https://larson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"“I am proud of the bipartisan rejection of Elon Musk’s proposed funding bill,” said Larson. “After a billionaire who operates outside of the cabinet and Congress told his associate Mr. Trump what to do, the Republican leadership broke their word and abandoned an agreement that had been negotiated by Democrats and Republicans alike. This is not how legislation is done. I was proud our whole delegation stood together and opposed this new bill that gutted critical programs for working families, including funding for childhood cancer research, early detection for cervical cancer and breast cancer, community health centers, and nutrition assistance programs. This is a glimpse of what the future will be, but I am proud that the House spoke out against Elon Musk and Donald Trump in a bipartisan manner. Now let us hope we can get back to the original deal that was constructed to keep government funded and finally deliver relief to our farmers.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://courtney.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/courtney-desaulnier-sarbanes-introduce-legislation-institute-major,"Courtney, DeSaulnier, Sarbanes Introduce Legislation to Institute Major Reforms to Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program",2024-12-18,2024,2024-12,Democrat,House,CT,Joe Courtney,C001069,courtney.house.gov,courtney,https://courtney.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Rep. Joe Courtney (D-CT), a senior member of the Education and the Workforce Committee, Rep. Mark DeSaulnier (D-CA), Ranking Member of the Health, Employment, Labor, and Pensions (HELP) Subcommittee, and Rep. John Sarbanes (D-MD), introduced new legislation to institute major reforms to the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program.

In 2007, Rep. Sarbanes authored, and President George W. Bush enacted, the law creating PSLF to attract more Americans to careers like teaching, public health, and law enforcement by providing those who work in these critical professions with a mechanism to discharge the balance of their student loan following at least ten years of consistent, on-time payments.

Unfortunately, borrowers have faced significant challenges in navigating the program and accessing loan relief. While the Biden Administration has heeded Members’ calls to make several fixes, which Rep. Courtney has worked to make permanent, it is clear significant reforms are required to achieve the program’s intended promise.

The Strengthening Efforts for Relief and Vital Incentives for Community Service Engagement Act, or the SERVICE Act, achieves that goal by shortening the time to forgiveness from 120 payments (10 years) to 96 payments (eight years); providing borrowers with more flexibility to make qualifying payments; expanding deferment options in lieu of payments to include military service, cancer treatments, and other circumstances to count as qualifying months of payments; and improving borrowers’ rights and transparency.

“PSLF was established to reward Americans who entered careers that our communities depend on, like teachers, nurses, firefighters, and police officers. My office has heard from many people in these professions who worked hard, followed the rules, but were still denied the PSLF relief they were promised, and we've been pressing on their behalf to make the program more transparent and fairer. The SERVICE Act will make it easier for America's public service workers to qualify for, navigate, and benefit from this patriotic program. Today’s action will ensure we can hit the ground running in the next Congress to deliver on this goal,” said Rep. Courtney.

“The Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program (PSLF) began as a way for the federal government to recruit quality candidates, and for borrowers to access life-changing debt relief while also serving their communities,” said Ranking Member Robert C. “Bobby” Scott (VA-03). “The SERVICE Act builds on the improvements the Biden-Harris Administration made to PSLF by reducing the number of monthly payments and simplifying the process borrowers use to achieve debt relief. It also represents Congressional Democrats’ commitment to improving our nation’s higher education system for students and their families.""

“America’s teachers, social workers, public defenders, service members, and community health care workers make tremendous contributions to our communities while being compensated far less than their counterparts in the private sector, and it’s time we do more to honor their sacrifices,” said Congressman DeSaulnier. “This bill would make long-overdue reforms to the PSLF system to create a clear path to student loan forgiveness for America’s valuable public servants.”

“When I authored the law creating the PSLF program in 2007, it was designed to make it easier for individuals to pursue public service. Unfortunately, technical challenges, servicer errors and bureaucratic hurdles prevented many eligible public servants from accessing relief,"" said Rep. Sarbanes. ""That is why I have long advocated for improvements to PSLF to ensure that the program fulfills its promise. Now, thanks to the Biden Administration's tireless efforts to fix several implementation challenges, over 1 million public service workers have received relief, and many more have been brought closer to forgiveness. The SERVICE Act builds on this progress by codifying fixes, streamlining the path to forgiveness and easing the debt burden for those who serve our communities.""

Specifically, the SERVICE Act:

Reduces the number of qualifying payments from 120 payments to 96 payments

Provides borrowers with streamlined pathways to debt relief by:

Allowing up to three months of prepayment to help borrowers prepare for future expenses while still progressing towards 96 qualifying payments; and

Codifying the Department of Education's (Department) buyback regulations which allows qualified borrowers who have completed 96 months of service, but not 96 payments to ""buyback"" the months they need to achieve debt relief.

Fixes program eligibility issues by:

Allowing independent contractors working public service jobs in states that cannot fill those roles with direct employees to qualify for PSLF; and

Repealing the prohibition on receiving debt relief for the same service under PSLF and loan forgiveness for teachers.

Expands the qualifying deferments and forbearances allowed to include military service, cancer treatments, economic hardships, unemployment, and more.

Improves borrowers' rights and transparency by:

Creating an online web portal for borrowers to receive information from the Department, review their status in the program, and submit forms to the Department; and

Codifying the consideration process for borrowers to appeal to the Secretary if their loan cancellation is denied.

The lawmakers’ bill is a part of the Roadmap to College Student Success, House Democrats’ campaign to reform America’s higher education system for students and families. The “roadmap” brings together a series of bold proposals focused on bringing down the cost of college, helping students access a quality degree, and—once students are in school—providing them with the support they need to graduate. Learn more about the Roadmap to College Student Success here.

To read the fact sheet, click here",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://delauro.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/delauro-receives-response-boars-head-regarding-listeria-outbreak,DeLauro Receives “Response” from Boar’s Head Regarding Listeria Outbreak,2024-12-18,2024,2024-12,Democrat,House,CT,Rosa L. DeLauro,D000216,delauro.house.gov,delauro,https://delauro.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Today, Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro (CT-03) announced that she has received a response to her September 30 letter to Boar’s Head regarding the Boar’s Head plant at the center of the recent nationwide Listeria outbreak which caused 10 deaths and dozens of hospitalizations – the largest listeriosis outbreak since 2011. The plant was allowed to keep operating despite over 60 citations for noncompliance and U.S. inspectors warning that the conditions at the plant posed an imminent threat to public health two years prior to the outbreak.

“This September, I demanded answers from Boar’s Head about their Virginia plant—the one at the center of the recent Listeria outbreak,” said DeLauro. “What I received in return was not a credible response; it was a classic corporate dodge. They skirted almost every substantive question, from how they test for contaminants, to their alarmingly vague plans to prevent another deadly outbreak. The American people will not be satisfied with marketing fluff or half-truths—they deserve straight answers. Honesty and accountability are essential to prevent another outbreak. If Boar’s Head thinks it can brush this inquiry off and slip back to business as usual, they are wrong. I will not stop pushing until we know exactly what went wrong, precisely how they are fixing it, and who is finally going to take responsibility. If they thought this flimsy, PR-driven response to a Congressional inquiry would get them off the hook, they were wrong. I expect a real, substantive response, and soon.”

Boar’s Head failed to answer several questions raised by DeLauro in her September 30 letter, including:

No confirmation if they plan to reopen the Virginia plant at the center of the Listeria outbreak

No clear commitment to improving plant’s infrastructure or explanation how Boar’s Head plans to prevent noncompliances in the future

No response on explaining their past food safety policies

No response on why staff did not act sooner to address food safety concerns or how management will be held accountable

No response on the frequency Boar’s Head conducted microbial testing

No response on testing data as requested.

No word if Boar’s Head tested non-contact food surfaces

No response on whether third party inspections were conducted before the recall

No response on how HQ handled food safety concerns and

Limited information on the documented steps of the recall.

You can read Boar’s Head’s response here. DeLauro’s September 30 letters to Boar’s Head can be found here and her letter to the Food Safety Inspection Service (FSIS) can be found here. DeLauro is still waiting for a response from FSIS.

The United States Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Food Safety Inspection Service (FSIS) just announced key reformsyesterday that were raised by DeLauro in her September 30 letter to the agency. Notable changes include:

FSIS adding broader Listeria species testing to all samples of ready-to-eat product, environmental and food contact surfaces.

FSIS updating its instructions and training for food safety inspectors to better equip the workforce to recognize and highlight systemic problems in a standardized way.

FSIS field supervisors conducting in-person, follow-up visits when systemic issues are identified during a Food Safety Assessment.

FSIS clarifying state and Federal requirements for consistent oversight of Talmadge-Aiken (TA) programs through updated cooperative agreements and instructions.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://himes.house.gov/press-releases?ID=26044FCA-C7D0-4504-9C30-CA5A70B466D1,"Himes Announces Grants to Support Local Police Departments in Bridgeport, Stamford, Norwalk",2024-12-18,2024,2024-12,Democrat,House,CT,James A. Himes,H001047,himes.house.gov,himes,https://himes.house.gov/press-releases,page_html,"Bridgeport, CT – Today, Congressman Jim Himes (CT-04) announced that the cities of Bridgeport, Stamford, and Norwalk would receive a total of $200,000 from the Department of Justice’s Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant (JAG) program.

“I’m thrilled that Bridgeport, Stamford, and Norwalk will receive funding for their local police departments. From increasing patrols to expanding mental health services, these grants will make our communities safer and ensure our police officers have the proper tools and training necessary to successfully carry out their duties,” said Congressman Himes.

“On behalf of the City of Bridgeport and the Bridgeport Police Department, I would like to thank Congressman Jim Himes and his staff for helping us to secure this funding through these various JAG Grants. This funding will allow us to enhance and improve our services to the citizens of the City of Bridgeport, CT,” said Bridgeport Chief of Police Roderick Porter

“The Stamford Police Department will utilize this grant by having our Police Officers attend First Responder Training on how better to deal with Veterans in Crisis. It is estimated that 16.8 Veterans commit suicide daily. Many Veterans are in crisis, silently suffering with post deployment issues. This training will assist our Police Officers in identifying the signs of suicide and strategies for prevention. As Police Officers come into daily contact with Veterans, it is important that we are trained in the best practices to safely and successfully handle the needs of this special population,” said Stamford Chief of Police Timothy Shaw

“The awarding of JAG and DOJ grants has provided the Norwalk Police Department with increased technology in the area of license plate readers to deter car theft and car burglary in Norwalk regions that have seen an increase in property crimes since COVID. DOJ grants have also allowed the department to multiply our Social Services in our Behavioral health unit by adding a second full-time social worker to our unit to provide a cadre of social services and outreach. Awarding these grants with the assistance of Congressman Himes has bolstered public safety, lowered crime, and allowed us to provide more social work resources to the residents of Norwalk,” said Norwalk Chief of Police James Walsh.

The award includes:

$132,157 for the City of Bridgeport to purchase equipment to improve the Bridgeport Police Department's ability to de-escalate dangerous situations and better protect residents, visitors, and police officers.

$48,554 for the City of Stamford to cover partial overtime costs associated with frontline police officers attending specialized training conducted by the U.S. Veterans Administration on identifying and working with veterans experiencing mental health issues during service calls.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-03-30T11:08:25Z
https://larson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/larson-house-republicans-are-bowing-down-billionaire-demands-holiday,Larson: House Republicans are Bowing Down to Billionaire Demands for a Holiday Shutdown,2024-12-18,2024,2024-12,Democrat,House,CT,John B. Larson,L000557,larson.house.gov,larson,https://larson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"“It is unbelievable that an unelected billionaire operating outside of the cabinet and United States Congress is demanding House Republicans to back out of a bipartisan agreement and ordering a holiday shutdown,” said Larson. “I 100% agree with Leader Jeffries. If Republicans back out of a good faith deal, they are leaving families to suffer. By bowing down to a billionaire, they have made the decision to act as mere puppets in the process instead of duly elected representatives. I find this whole ordeal deeply upsetting because at the end of the day, a government shutdown will not impact Elon Musk, Donald Trump, or anyone of their class one iota – it is everyday American families who will pay the price. Federal workers and our troops will go without pay while billionaires like Elon Musk and Donald Trump get their Christmas wish to grind the government to a halt. Connecticut farmers who have been fighting for the support they need to bounce back after severe flooding and frost will be left with nothing. We must get serious and keep the government open to deliver for the people we are sworn to serve.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://himes.house.gov/press-releases?ID=E2627031-D88F-4C62-A574-EEA99AE5CF67,Himes Announces Grant to Improve Health Services for Formerly Incarcerated Individuals,2024-12-17,2024,2024-12,Democrat,House,CT,James A. Himes,H001047,himes.house.gov,himes,https://himes.house.gov/press-releases,page_html,"Bridgeport, CT – Today, Congressman Jim Himes announced Optimus Health Care will receive $1 million from the Department of Health and Human Services’ Quality Improvement Fund – Transitions in Care for Justice-Involved Populations to provide enhanced medical services to individuals as they transition back to their communities.

“Getting your life back on track after serving time is that much harder if poor health prevents you from holding down a job or attending class,” said Congressman Jim Himes. “This grant will provide Optimus with funding to ease that transition by increasing access to high-quality primary care services in the communities they are rejoining.”

“Optimus Health Care, Inc. is proud to announce its receipt of the FY2025 Quality Improvement Fund – Transitions in Care for Justice-Involved Populations. This funding, in collaboration with the Department of Corrections, will support efforts to enhance care transitions for individuals within 90 days of release from incarceration by improving access to high-quality, community-based primary care,” said OPTIMUS Health Care Inc. CEO Karen Daley. “With this one-time investment, Optimus will expand evidence-based practices and pilot innovative approaches to connect justice-involved individuals reentering the community with tailored medical and behavioral health services. In partnership with seven halfway houses in the region, Career Resources Center and the Recovery Network of Programs, Optimus will also provide comprehensive wraparound services, including employment support, housing assistance, and educational opportunities. These resources are vital for fostering successful reentry, better health outcomes, promoting long-term stability, and reducing recidivism.”

The largest provider of primary care in Southwestern Connecticut, Optimus Health Care is a federally-qualified health center (FQHC) that offers a range of medical services and is committed to treating all patients, regardless of their ability to pay. Quality Improvement Fund – Transitions in Care for Justice-Involved Populations Grants are awarded to community health centers to develop and pilot innovative models of care for individuals newly-released from jail or prison.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-03-30T11:08:25Z
https://delauro.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/delauro-statement-house-passage-national-defense-authorization-act-0,DeLauro Statement on House Passage of National Defense Authorization Act,2024-12-12,2024,2024-12,Democrat,House,CT,Rosa L. DeLauro,D000216,delauro.house.gov,delauro,https://delauro.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro (CT-03) voted to pass the National Defense Authorization Act, legislation that authorizes investments to strengthen our national security and support our servicemembers.

“I voted yes on the National Defense Authorization Act, which authorizes critical investments in the foundation of our national defense: our servicemembers, civilian workers, and their families,” said DeLauro. “This legislation reinforces our domestic industrial base, particularly the skilled union workforce here in Connecticut, while improving our military readiness. I will work to ensure these investments are funded in a final bipartisan 2025 defense spending bill.”

The bill authorizes funding for key projects that grow and sustain thousands of jobs in Connecticut:

$2.07 billion for 20 CH-53Ks, built at Sikorsky;

$709 million for 24 UH-60M Blackhawks, made at Sikorsky;

$25 million for Blackhawk Block II Modernization, which will help sustain the engineering and design workforce at Sikorsky for work on the next fleet of Blackhawk helicopters;

$527 million for F135 Engine Core Upgrade development across Air Force, Navy, and Marine Corps, a key engineering program for the F-35 engine underway at Pratt & Whitney;

$3.972 billion for one Virginia Class submarine, with incremental funding authority for a second boat and $357 million for additional material and support;

Moreover, the legislation:

Authorizes a 14.5 percent pay raise for junior enlisted service members and 4.5 percent pay raise for all other service members;

Eliminates copays for eligible TRICARE beneficiaries for contraceptives acquired through retail pharmacies and the national mail-order pharmacy;

Authorizes a $177 million investment in military construction design funds to accelerate replacement of poor and failing unaccompanied housing and barracks;

And authorizes funding for childcare fee assistance programs to eliminate fee assistance waitlists for eligible families;

A summary of the legislation is available here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z
https://courtney.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/courtney-murphy-applaud-unanimous-house-passage-scotland-zip-code,"Courtney, Murphy Applaud Unanimous House Passage of Scotland Zip Code Solution",2024-12-11,2024,2024-12,Democrat,House,CT,Joe Courtney,C001069,courtney.house.gov,courtney,https://courtney.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, the U.S. House of Representatives unanimously passed the bipartisan H.R. 8753 which included Rep. Joe Courtney’s provision to mandate the U.S. Postal Service assign Scotland, Connecticut a single zip code. The vote comes after Courtney urged his colleagues earlier this week to support the measure.

Scotland has 600-plus residencies, but six zip-codes, leading to misplaced packages, difficulty requesting mail-in ballots, and uncertainty about where to send students to school. In March, Rep. Courtney and Sen. Murphy joined forces to introduce bicameral legislation (H.R. 7800 and S. 4052) to direct the USPS to assign Scotland a single zip code. On November 21st, the House Committee on Oversight and Reform approved the House bill, 40-0, as part of a larger package (H.R. 8753), sponsored by Rep. Boebert (R-CO), to address zip-code issues for Americans in 45 towns nationwide.

“With passage of this bill, the voices of Scotland residents have been heard loud and clear in Washington and we are one step closer to once and for all solving this Monty Python-esque absurdity. Senator Murphy and I will continue working together to get this bill through the Senate and to the President’s desk for signature. The hardworking, taxpaying citizens of Scotland deserve to get the same level of postal service as every other community,” Courtney said.

“The people of Scotland have suffered long enough from the logistical nightmare of having six zip codes for one town. It’s great news the House passed this bill, and I’m doing everything I can to make sure the Senate does the same,” said Murphy.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z
https://courtney.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/ranking-member-courtney-speaks-house-floor-support-seapower-provisions,Ranking Member Courtney Speaks on House Floor in Support of Seapower Provisions in Annual Defense Bill,2024-12-11,2024,2024-12,Democrat,House,CT,Joe Courtney,C001069,courtney.house.gov,courtney,https://courtney.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – This afternoon during debate on the FY25 National Defense Authorization Act(NDAA), Rep. Joe Courtney (CT-02), Ranking Member of the House Seapower and Projection Forces Subcommittee, spoke on the House floor in support of the seapower provisions in the final annual defense bill. The House is scheduled to vote on the NDAA later this afternoon.

The bill (H.R. 5009) being considered today reflects the final, negotiated text between the House and the Senate following months of negotiations to reconcile the differences between the versions that each chamber passed last summer. The Senate is expected to follow the House’s lead and pass the bill in the next week and send it to President Biden’s desk for signature.

For a fact sheet on Courtney-led priorities, click here.

To view and download Ranking Member Courtney’s remarks, click here.

Remarks as Delivered

Mr. Speaker, as Ranking Member of Seapower, I want to thank its members, all of its members, for their input crafting this year's National Defense Authorization Act. I also want to salute my friend and outstanding chairman of the subcommittee, Trent Kelly, for his work crafting our bipartisan mark. I have a larger written statement which details our work, which I will submit for the record and use my time today on the issue which consumed the bulk of our time, namely the Virginia class attack submarine program.

Mr. Speaker, the U.S. attack submarine fleet stands as our unmatched strategic advantage against any adversary across the globe. There is overwhelming consensus in Congress, Navy, and industry that we need to expand output for our own fleet and to satisfy our nation's commitments to the AUKUS security agreement. Despite the slowdown caused by COVID, there are promising signs of industry's recovery. In 2024, the Navy commissioned USS New Jersey, the 23rd Virginia sub, and will receive delivery of USS Iowa next week. Next year, the Navy will take delivery of USS Massachusetts and Idaho, the 25th and 26th boats in the class.

This bill recognizes this progress and rejects the Navy's woefully inadequate budget requests, which would undermine procurement stability that is essential to growing the program's supply chain. Simply put, to meet our strategic goals, we have no other choice than to move forward with a strong demand signal.

Final language in this bill uses incremental authority to fund a second Virginia submarine and provides additional authorities that will allow shipyards to boost wages, a critical step to increase recruitment and retention among the metal trades workforce.

This is not pie in the sky. Indeed, just last month, OMB and the Navy belatedly acknowledged our committee's stance and sent over a supplemental request to Congress of nearly $6 billion for the Virginia class submarine program. It is our hope that with this bill, and the supplemental request, Navy and industry can achieve even higher production cadence and execute the long overdue next block contract for the program.

This bill truly carries out our constitutional duty in Article 1, Section 8 to “provide and maintain the Navy.” I want to thank our subcommittee staff, Phil MacNaughton, Ian Bennitt, Kelly Goggin, Kyle Noyes, and Ethan Pelissier for their work in crafting this product and with that, I yield back.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z
https://courtney.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-courtney-votes-support-national-defense-bill,Rep. Courtney Votes in Support of National Defense Bill,2024-12-11,2024,2024-12,Democrat,House,CT,Joe Courtney,C001069,courtney.house.gov,courtney,https://courtney.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Rep. Joe Courtney voted to pass the final FY25 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). This marks the 64th consecutive year the House has passed the annual defense bill.

As Ranking Member of the Seapower and Projection Forces Subcommittee, Rep. Courtney secured generational improvements for servicemembers and their families, successfully reversed the Navy’s request to cut procurement of a Virginia class submarine, and authorized wage increases for shipbuilders at Electric Boat and Newport News Shipbuilding.

The bill (H.R. 5009) passed today (281-140) reflects the final, negotiated text between the House and the Senate following months of negotiations to reconcile the differences between the versions that each chamber passed last summer. The Senate is expected to follow the House’s lead and pass the bill in the next week and send it to President Biden’s desk for signature.

“Last June, I sat down with servicemembers and their spouses at SUBASE NEW LONDON to brief them on the transformational ‘quality of life improvements’ that are included in this year’s defense bill which significantly boosts pay for entry-level enlisted sailors and soldiers, and provides greater housing assistance and day care support for all servicemembers. There’s no question that these provisions are sorely needed and welcomed among the thousands of submariners and their families in eastern Connecticut as well as residents who serve in other branches of the military. The bill also authorizes funding for two Virginia class submarines, rejecting the Navy’s completely inadequate budget request submitted last February. The bill boosts the Virginia account and extends new latitude to submarine shipbuilders to increase wages for frontline shipyard workers.

“This final negotiated bill eliminated most of the partisan ‘poison pills’ included in the legislation that narrowly passed out of the House in June. It is unfortunate that one item that came out of the Senate that limits some TRICARE health care coverage for specific procedures for some minor dependents of servicemembers stayed in the bill at the insistence of Speaker Johnson.

“That said, Speaker Johnson’s intrusion cannot jeopardize delivering major quality life improvements to the sailors in eastern Connecticut and the investments needed to grow our submarine fleet, which the FY25 NDAA achieves,” Courtney concluded.

For a fact sheet on Courtney-led priorities, click here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z
https://delauro.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/house-democrats-elect-delauro-lead-appropriations-committee-119th,House Democrats Elect DeLauro to Lead the Appropriations Committee for 119th Congress,2024-12-11,2024,2024-12,Democrat,House,CT,Rosa L. DeLauro,D000216,delauro.house.gov,delauro,https://delauro.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Today, Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro (CT-03), was selected by her Democratic colleagues to continue serving as Ranking Member of the House Appropriations Committee for the 119th Congress.

“I am honored that my colleagues selected me to continue serving as Ranking Member of the House Appropriations Committee in the 119th Congress,” said Congresswoman DeLauro. “Leading Democrats on the committee is a profound responsibility. I remain committed to passing funding bills that reflect our shared values as Americans. I will fight for bipartisan funding that helps Americans deal with the high cost of living, secures our border, keeps families safe, and protects Americans against extreme weather events and natural disasters while reinforcing United States leadership on the global stage. I will also safeguard Congress’s constitutional power of the purse and oppose any extreme proposals that harm the American people.”

As the top Democrat on the House Appropriations Committee, DeLauro restored Congress’s power to deliver directly to communities across the country after more than a decade-long hiatus. She has secured more than $57 million for Connecticut’s Third Congressional District since 2021 to support local projects, including $3 million for the renovation of the Fair Haven Health Clinic and resources for local police, Boys and Girls Clubs, and infrastructure projects. She has passed dozens of bipartisan funding bills, including major increases in funding for child care, Head Start, the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program, the National Institutes of Health, and national defense.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z
https://hayes.house.gov/press-releases?ID=3B77DB60-AF07-481E-A45D-70F63087F6F0,Hayes Introduces the Helping America's Farmers Act to Assist Farmers Impacted by Disasters,2024-12-11,2024,2024-12,Democrat,House,CT,Jahana Hayes,H001081,hayes.house.gov,hayes,https://hayes.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congresswoman Jahana Hayes (CT-05) introduced the Helping America’s Famers Act, legislation which would authorize the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to provide up to $10 billion in zero-interest loans to assist farms impacted by disasters.

With this funding, USDA would be able to more quickly provide financial support to farmers in need in states where Federal Crop Insurance is unavailable or out of reach. Recipient farmers could use funds to account for crop or livestock losses, maintain employees, and make rent or mortgage payments.

“Over the last several years, farmers in my district and across the country have more frequently experienced extreme weather events from unseasonable cold snaps to record flooding. Despite the growing need for federal disaster assistance for small farmers, USDA often lacks the funding necessary for recovery,” said Congresswoman Hayes. “The Helping America’s Farmers Act would provide USDA with the resources needed to quickly assist farmers in the aftermath of a disaster. This common sense approach allows farmers to focus on rebuilding without the fear of falling further into debt.”

In addition to providing $10 billion to USDA to assist farmers directly, the Helping America’s Farmers Act directs the Secretary of Agriculture to prioritize states participating in USDA Agricultural Management Assistance (AMA), which helps agricultural producers manage financial risk through diversification, marketing, or natural resource conservation practices.

Agricultural Management Assistance is available in 16 states where participation in the Federal Crop Insurance Program is historically low: Connecticut, Delaware, Hawaii, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Utah, Vermont, West Virginia, and Wyoming.

Since 2023, farmers in Connecticut have experienced crop losses in excess of $10.5 million due to extreme weather events. As a member of the Committee on Agriculture, Congresswoman Hayes has worked extensively to increase the federal safety net for farmers and producers.

In June 2024, Congresswoman Hayes introduced the Save Our Small Farms Act to expand federal crop insurance by allowing small farms to better access crop insurance policies.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z
https://himes.house.gov/press-releases?ID=A3C4C3E4-01F5-4800-880B-33D910149FA1,"Himes Votes to Pass Funding For Servicemembers, Connecticut’s Defense Industry",2024-12-11,2024,2024-12,Democrat,House,CT,James A. Himes,H001047,himes.house.gov,himes,https://himes.house.gov/press-releases,page_html,"Washington, DC – Today, the United States House of Representatives passed the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for fiscal year 2025. The NDAA funds the United States’ defense programs and includes significant investments in defense industrial base suppliers and technology companies in Connecticut. This year, it also includes the Intelligence Authorization Act which advances funding and other priorities for the Intelligence Community.

“The 2025 National Defense Authorization Act strengthens existing defense programs, improves pay and benefits for servicemembers— including a 14.5% increase for junior enlisted servicemembers— and ensures that the United States keeps pace with our adversaries in technology and innovation,” said Congressman Himes. “I am proud that Connecticut’s robust defense manufacturing presence remains at the heart of these missions, and that this legislation invests further in our businesses and workforce.”

The National Defense Authorization Act of 2025 invests billions of dollars in funding for Connecticut companies. This includes:",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-03-30T11:08:25Z
https://courtney.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-courtneys-bipartisan-legislation-support-subase-new-london-protect,"Rep. Courtney’s Bipartisan Legislation to Support SUBASE New London, Protect CT Waterways Passes U.S. House",2024-12-10,2024,2024-12,Democrat,House,CT,Joe Courtney,C001069,courtney.house.gov,courtney,https://courtney.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Rep. Joe Courtney voted to pass the final Water Resources Development Act of 2024. The bill includes several priorities Rep. Courtney fought for, including a bipartisan proposal to support Naval Submarine Base New London and enable future Virginia Class submarine missions.

As the Submarine Base continues its modernization and waterfront recapitalization plan to homeport the next generation of Virginia Class submarines, known as Block V and Block VI, which will be 84-fleet longer than the current Virginia Class submarines, existing piers must be extended to homeport these larger vessels. Rep. Courtney’s provision enables construction to extend Pier 8 by transferring a certain portion of the Thames River Channel from the Army Corps of Engineers to the U.S. Navy, as the scope of the project would extend beyond Submarine Base-managed property.

“Good news for SUBASE New London and the Virginia Class submarine program. Expanding the Navy’s control of the Thames River for the Virginia Class submarines enabled with Virginia Payload Modules is a strong commitment by Congress to the ‘enduring’ mission of SUBASE NEW LONDON. Block V and Block VI submarines are the future of the fleet, and this bill, which will soon be enacted by President Biden, aligns the base’s perimeter to be able to home port them while they are on patrol well into the 2060s,” said Rep. Joe Courtney, Ranking Member of the House Seapower Subcommittee. “From reducing invasive species in the CT River to protecting our watersheds and shorelines, the bill will also make significant progress to protect and strengthen eastern Connecticut’s waterways and ecosystems.”

The Water Resources Development Act passed today reflects the final, negotiated text between the House and the Senate following months of negotiations to reconcile the differences between the versions that each chamber passed last summer. The Senate is expected to follow the House’s lead and pass the bill in the next week and send it to President Biden’s desk for signature.

The bill also includes critical provisions to protect Connecticut’s waterways, ports, and ecosystems:

Wastewater and Drinking Water: Rep. Courtney secured an authorization of $25M for Environmental Infrastructure for water and wastewater infrastructure in East Lyme and $25M for Environmental Infrastructure frow water and wastewater infrastructure in East Hampton.

Reducing Invasive Species: Rep. Courtney secured a provision to ensure the hydrilla plaguing the CT River is addressed by the US Army Corp of Engineers.

Reducing Hazards to Shorelines: The bill adds Connecticut’s shoreline to a list of regions that receive more federal resources from the US Army Corps of Engineers to carry out projects and studies to reduce damages from floods, hurricanes, and storms.

Prioritizing Watersheds: The bill adds Connecticut River Watershed to a list of regions prioritized to receive federal support from US Army Corps of Engineers to address needs related to flood damage, sea level rise, and more.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z
https://delauro.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/delauro-amo-introduce-southern-new-england-regional-commission-act,"DeLauro, Amo Introduce Southern New England Regional Commission Act",2024-12-10,2024,2024-12,Democrat,House,CT,Rosa L. DeLauro,D000216,delauro.house.gov,delauro,https://delauro.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Today, U.S. Representatives Rosa DeLauro (CT-03) and Gabe Amo (RI-01) introduced the Southern New England Regional Commission Act. The Southern New England Regional Commission Act would establish a commission that would encourage jurisdictions at different levels to work together to leverage federal support to strengthen the area’s economy.

""The Southern New England Regional Commission is a game-changer for Connecticut, Rhode Island, and Massachusetts, driving investments in defense, maritime manufacturing, and infrastructure to create good-paying jobs and strengthen our economy,” said Congresswoman DeLauro. “Together, we’ll harness federal resources to tackle shared challenges, because our economic future requires regional collaboration.""

“It is great to join with our regional leaders in introducing this important piece of legislation to tackle problems that do not stop at the border of one state,” said Congressman Gabe Amo. “Through the Southern New England Regional Commission, we will better coordinate efforts to fight climate change and grow our blue economy as we leverage the unique strengths of Rhode Island, Connecticut, and Massachusetts to unlock widespread prosperity for our communities.”

This legislation would establish a regional commission covering Rhode Island and surrounding counties in Massachusetts and Connecticut for purposes of promoting economic development in renewable energy, defense manufacturing, the maritime economy, infrastructure, and job training, among others. By facilitating collaboration across various levels of government with federal support, this initiative seeks to bolster the region’s economic resilience and growth.

A fact sheet on the legislation is available here.

DeLauro and Amo introduced the legislation with original cosponsors U.S. Representatives Stephen Lynch, Richie Neal, Seth Moulton, Joe Courtney, Seth Magaziner, Jake Auchincloss, and Lori Trahan.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z
https://delauro.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/delauro-selected-co-chair-italian-american-congressional-delegation,DeLauro Selected as Co-Chair of Italian American Congressional Delegation,2024-12-10,2024,2024-12,Democrat,House,CT,Rosa L. DeLauro,D000216,delauro.house.gov,delauro,https://delauro.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Today, Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro (CT-03) announced that she had been selected as the new Democratic Co-Chair of the Italian American Congressional Delegation (IACD):

“Italian Americans are an integral part of our nation’s diverse cultural makeup. Growing up in Wooster Square—the heart of New Haven’s Italian American community—I learned the value of hard work, faith, family, responsibility, and community. These values were present everywhere in our neighborhood, from the religious societies to our own kitchen table.

“I am grateful for my colleagues in the Italian American Congressional Delegation for putting their trust in me to lead our community in Congress.

“I must also the recognize the leadership of my dear friend Bill Pascrell, our former Democratic Co-Chair, who was such a champion for our community in Congress. I hope to honor his legacy by continuing to work on issues that affect our community while promoting and celebrating our proud history as Italian Americans.”

The IACD is a bicameral, bipartisan caucus committed to upholding and supporting the relationship between the United States and Italy. The IACD is composed of nearly 200 Members of Congress, many of which can trace their ancestry to Italy.

U.S. Representatives Rosa DeLauro (D-CT-03) and Michael Rulli (R-OH-06) will serve as bipartisan Co-Chairs of the delegation, with U.S. Representatives Jimmy Panetta (D-CA-19) and Andrew Garbarino (R-NY-02) serving as Co-Vice Chairs.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z
https://himes.house.gov/press-releases?ID=C6A69840-0FB4-4E63-80F2-471477C7444F,Himes Votes to Pass Bridgeport Ferry Terminal Proposal,2024-12-10,2024,2024-12,Democrat,House,CT,James A. Himes,H001047,himes.house.gov,himes,https://himes.house.gov/press-releases,page_html,"Washington, D.C. – Today, Congressman Jim Himes (CT-04) voted to pass the Water Resources Development Act of 2024. The bill included his request to deauthorize part of the federal navigation channel in Bridgeport Harbor, clearing the way for construction of a new ferry terminal that will facilitate increased marine activity and improve maritime passenger and vessel safety.

“I’d like to thank the Connecticut Port Authority, Bridgeport Port Authority, U.S. Coast Guard, and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, for their collaboration in securing this project for Bridgeport. This proposal makes it possible to build a new ferry terminal at Barnum Landing which will allow for safer, expanded service between Bridgeport and Port Jefferson, New York. Expanding transportation options for people is always a win and I’m glad to have been a part of it,” said Congressman Himes.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-03-30T11:08:25Z
https://courtney.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/ahead-house-vote-rep-courtney-urges-support-scotland-zip-code-solution,"Ahead of House Vote, Rep. Courtney Urges Support for Scotland Zip Code Solution",2024-12-09,2024,2024-12,Democrat,House,CT,Joe Courtney,C001069,courtney.house.gov,courtney,https://courtney.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Ahead of a vote by the U.S. House of Representatives, Rep. Joe Courtney (CT-02) urged his colleagues to support H.R. 8753, which includes Rep. Courtney’s provision to assign just one zip-code to the town of Scotland, Connecticut. The House is scheduled to consider the bill early this week. Click here to view and download Rep. Courtney’s remarks.

Scotland has 600-plus residencies, but six zip-codes, leading to misplaced packages, difficulty requesting mail-in ballots, and uncertainty about where to send students to school. In March, Rep. Courtney and Sen. Murphy joined forces to introduce bicameral legislation (H.R. 7800 and S. 4052) to direct the USPS to assign Scotland a single zip code. On November 21st, the House Committee on Oversight and Reform approved the House bill, 40-0, as part of a larger package (H.R. 8753), sponsored by Rep. Boebert (R-CO), to address zip-code issues for Americans in 45 towns nationwide.

“Delivery of social security notices, checks, Medicare information, prescription medication, notices from banks, employers, and absentee ballots and absentee ballot applications are all disrupted day in and day out. Town leaders and my office have tried, along with Senator Chris Murphy, to get this ridiculous, almost Monty Python-esque absurdity resolved for many years with the Postal Service to no avail. This week's action by the House will mandate that USPS address this problem once and for all by designating a single unique zip code for these 45 small towns,” said Courtney on the House Floor today.

“I urge my colleagues to support this measure, send it to the Senate for swift passage, and to the President's desk. The hardworking, taxpaying citizens of these towns deserve to get the same level of postal service as every other community,” Courtney concluded.

Full Transcript

Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of a bill that the House will be voting on this week, H.R. 8753, which directs the U.S. Postal Service to designate a single unique zip code for certain communities. H.R. 8753 will provide long overdue relief to 45 mostly small towns in 13 states from Connecticut to California by fixing a chaotic situation where the resident zip codes are hopelessly carved up in a hodgepodge that results in lost mail, delayed mail, and wrong deliveries. One of the towns included in HR 8753's list is the small town of Scotland, Connecticut, located in the heart of Eastern Connecticut, which I have the great privilege to represent. Scotland is the quintessential historic New England small town with a population of 1,576 people.

It may be small, but its history is rich. One of the signers of the Declaration of Independence, Samuel Huntington, was born in his family's home located in Scotland, and today it is a significant part of the Rochambeau National History Trail, which was the route that the American Continental Army, under the leadership of George Washington and John Baptiste Rochambeau, marched in 1781 from Newport, Rhode Island to Yorktown, Virginia, where the Battle of Yorktown took place and the small army of colonists defeated the greatest military power of the British Empire.

Today in 2024, it is a town that the U.S. Postal Service has assigned five, that's right, five zip codes that cause endless aggravation and harm to the town's residents. Delivery of social security notices, checks, Medicare information, prescription medication, notices from banks, employers, and absentee ballots and absentee ballot applications are all disrupted day in and day out. Town leaders in my office have tried, along with Senator Chris Murphy, to get this ridiculous, almost Monty Python-esque absurdity resolved for many years with the Postal Service to no avail. This week's action by the House will mandate that USPS address this problem once and for all by designating a single unique zip code for these 45 small towns. Mr. Speaker, this vote has been a long time in coming. I want to recognize the town's first selectman, Mr. Dana Barrows and his predecessor, Mr. Gary Greenberg, who have diligently raised this issue along with the town postmasters with the postal service for many years, laying out the real life consequences of fragmenting this small community and essentially disconnecting it to the vital service that the residents require. This week, the House can help Scotland as well as 44 other similarly situated towns by passing 8753.

The bill was reported out of the House Oversight and Government Reform Committee unanimously and has strong bipartisan support. I urge my colleagues to support this measure, send it to the Senate for swift passage and to the President's desk. The hardworking, taxpaying citizens of these towns deserve to get the same level of postal service as every other community. I yield back the balance of my time.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z
https://delauro.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/us-representative-delauro-us-senator-blumenthal-and-us-senator-murphy,"U.S. Representative DeLauro, U.S. Senator Blumenthal and U.S. Senator Murphy Announce $1 Million EPIC Prize to ClimateHaven to Boost Clean Energy Innovation",2024-12-09,2024,2024-12,Democrat,House,CT,Rosa L. DeLauro,D000216,delauro.house.gov,delauro,https://delauro.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"U.S. Representative Rosa DeLauro and U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal today announced a $1 million cooperative agreement awarded to ClimateHaven, a cutting-edge climate technology incubator based in New Haven, CT. The award comes from the U.S. Department of Energy's (DOE) Energy Program for Innovation Clusters (EPIC) Prize and marks a significant investment in Connecticut’s clean energy future.

ClimateHaven has been at the forefront of fostering climate technology startups that aim to drive economic growth, create new jobs, and position Connecticut as a national leader in clean energy innovation. Over the next three years, this funding will empower the organization to provide specialized support for green chemistry companies, to accelerate the adoption of sustainable technologies, and strengthen partnerships with industry leaders.

“ClimateHaven’s mission is to drive transformative solutions for clean air, clean water and energy resilience by accelerating the journey of early stage climate tech companies from lab to market. This funding, secured with the invaluable support of Senator Blumenthal, Senator Murphy, and Congresswoman DeLauro, underscores the importance of federal partnerships in scaling transformative climate technologies. It is a testament of their commitment to fostering innovation in Connecticut, and to accelerating the transition to a resilient, low-carbon future,” said Justine Lee ClimateHaven CEO.

“This $1 million Energy Program for Innovation Clusters (EPIC) Prize isn’t just a win for ClimateHaven, it is a win for entrepreneurs in New Haven, who are at the forefront of mitigating the impacts of climate change and creating good paying jobs,” said U.S. Representative Rosa DeLauro. “This award from the U.S. Department of Energy will support ClimateHaven’s work to keep Connecticut a leader in energy innovation, strengthening our resilience and improving energy efficiency.”

“This $1 million in federal funding will support ClimateHaven’s innovative, cutting-edge work – significant to Connecticut’s clean energy efforts. This investment will boost our state’s economic growth, create new jobs, and support the next generation of clean energy leaders and entrepreneurs. I will continue to fight for federal investments that advance Connecticut’s clean energy goals and tackle climate change,” said U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal.

""This $1 million award to ClimateHaven is a big step forward for Connecticut's clean energy future. By supporting startups that are tackling climate change and creating good-paying jobs, this investment strengthens New Haven's role as a hub for innovation and sustainability,"" said U.S. Senator Chris Murphy. ""I’m proud to see federal funding helping Connecticut entrepreneurs lead the way in clean energy.""

The EPIC Prize is a competitive program that identifies and supports organizations fostering innovation clusters, a key driver of economic growth and sustainable energy solutions. ClimateHaven has demonstrated remarkable success in helping startups secure funding, expand partnerships, and advance clean energy technologies.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z
https://larson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/larson-davis-wyden-ask-gao-review-social-security-administrations,"Larson, Davis, Wyden Ask GAO to Review Social Security Administration’s Efforts to Improve Customer Service for Overpaid Beneficiaries",2024-12-09,2024,2024-12,Democrat,House,CT,John B. Larson,L000557,larson.house.gov,larson,https://larson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. - Today, Ways and Means Social Security Subcommittee Ranking MemberJohn B. Larson (CT-01), Worker and Family Support Subcommittee Ranking MemberDanny K. Davis (IL-07), and Senate Committee on Finance Chair Ron Wyden (OR) sent a letter to the U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO) requesting a review of ongoing efforts by the Social Security Administration (SSA) to improve customer service for beneficiaries who are seeking to resolve overpayments of their Social Security or Supplemental Security Income benefits.

“It is impossible to overstate the importance of SSA benefits to the American people – or the potentially dire consequences if a beneficiary’s monthly payments are put at risk due to the need to recoup an overpayment. While in the vast majority of cases SSA pays the correct amount, recent media reports have highlighted the plight of beneficiaries who unknowingly received overpayments for months or even years, in some cases adding up to tens of thousands of dollars or more,” the Members wrote.

“Under past policies, SSA often withheld much or all of a person’s Social Security benefits to recoup an overpayment, causing severe hardship,” the Members continued. “In addition, beneficiaries often found it extremely difficult, if not impossible, to navigate the process to appeal an overpayment or to request relief in the form of a waiver. SSA’s longstanding rules and procedures were extremely complex and put the burden on customers to prove that the agency had erred and that it would cause hardship for them to repay the extra benefits”

“We are pleased that under the Biden Administration, including through initiatives led by former Commissioner Martin O’Malley, SSA has prioritized taking proactive steps to address often harsh recoupment policies,” the Members concluded.

To gain a better understanding of the status of SSA’s efforts to improve customer service for beneficiaries who face overpayments, the Members asked the GAO to review:

The ways in which SSA overpayments can create hardships for beneficiaries.

The customer service challenges and barriers that beneficiaries have faced in recent years to resolving SSA overpayments.

The recent changes made by SSA to improve its customer service for beneficiaries who are seeking to understand an overpayment and access relief.

The steps SSA is taking to evaluate whether the recent changes to its overpayment notices have reduced hardship among overpaid beneficiaries.

SSA’s plan for identifying additional customer service improvements for beneficiaries to resolve their overpayment issues.

Read the full letter here and below.

Dear Comptroller Dodaro:

The Social Security Administration (SSA) provides benefits to more than 70 million people including seniors, survivors, and people with disabilities. Social Security and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) payments help beneficiaries to put food on the table, keep a roof over their heads, pay medical bills, and secure other basics. SSA benefits are particularly important for people of color and women, who on average have fewer resources to fall back on in retirement or in the event of a severe disability, and for children.

It is impossible to overstate the importance of SSA benefits to the American people – or the potentially dire consequences if a beneficiary’s monthly payments are put at risk due to the need to recoup an overpayment. While in the vast majority of cases, SSA pays the correct amount, recent media reports have highlighted the plight of beneficiaries who unknowingly received overpayments for months or even years, in some cases adding up to tens of thousands of dollars or more.

Under past policies, SSA often withheld much or all of a person’s Social Security benefits to recoup an overpayment, causing severe hardship. In addition, beneficiaries often found it extremely difficult, if not impossible, to navigate the process to appeal an overpayment or to request relief in the form of a waiver. SSA’s longstanding rules and procedures were extremely complex and put the burden on customers to prove that the agency had erred and that it would cause hardship for them to repay the extra benefits. Furthermore, years of underfunding have severely eroded SSA’s customer service, making it hard for beneficiaries to get help from SSA’s national 1-800 number or field offices to understand and resolve overpayments.

We are pleased that under the Biden Administration, including through initiatives led by former Commissioner Martin O’Malley, SSA has prioritized taking proactive steps to address often harsh recoupment policies. To gain a better understanding of the status of SSA’s efforts to improve customer service for beneficiaries who face overpayments, we request that GAO examine the following questions:

What are the ways in which SSA overpayments can create hardships for beneficiaries, including worsening beneficiaries’ financial security and health? How did SSA’s past policies and practices, prior to recent changes, contribute to these hardships?

What customer service challenges and barriers have beneficiaries faced in recent years to resolve SSA overpayments, including with regard to:

understanding the overpayment, including why it occurred and options for relief;

appealing the overpayment;

accessing a monthly repayment plan that they can afford; and

applying for and obtaining a waiver of part or all of the overpaid benefits?

What recent changes has SSA made to improve its customer service for beneficiaries who are seeking to understand an overpayment and access relief through an appeal, affordable repayment plan, or waiver? How have these changes altered the experience of beneficiaries who receive overpayment notices, including those who call the agency’s national 1-800 number or visit a field office for assistance?

What steps is SSA taking to evaluate whether the changes to its overpayment notices and to its policies and processes for appeals, repayment plans, and waivers have reduced anxiety and hardship among beneficiaries who receive overpayment notices, and what has been found?",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z
https://himes.house.gov/press-releases?ID=73A3FE17-597C-4D97-820A-3C232418BB89,"Governor Lamont Announces $9.8 Million in Federal Grants to Benefit Municipal Parks in Bridgeport, Bristol, and Stamford",2024-12-06,2024,2024-12,Democrat,House,CT,James A. Himes,H001047,himes.house.gov,himes,https://himes.house.gov/press-releases,page_html,"Hartford, CT – Governor Ned Lamont and the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) today announced that the cities of Bridgeport, Bristol, and Stamford are being awarded more than $9.8 million in competitive federal funding that will benefit four municipal park development projects in each city.

The funds are provided through the Land and Water Conservation Fund – Outdoor Recreation Legacy Partnership grants program (LWCF-ORLP), a nationally competitive program that provides matching grants to cities for park projects in underserved communities.

DEEP partnered with each of the municipalities to secure the awards. Partnerships between DEEP and municipalities to secure these awards have had a 100% success rate in 2023 and 2024, with two large-scale development projects being awarded funding in Bridgeport and Stamford in 2023 and two more approved in Bristol and Stamford in 2024.

“Great parks and safe outdoor places for our communities enhances the great quality of life we have here in Connecticut,” Governor Lamont said. “I thank our Congressional delegation and federal agency partners for their efforts to secure this important funding for our state. This is a great example of federal, state, and local governments working together to accomplish big things for the residents of our state.”

“Public parks are one of the few places where people in the community can come together, spend time outdoors, and connect with friends and neighbors,” U.S. Senator Chris Murphy said. “This $9 million in federal funding will help create a new park in Bridgeport and support upgrades to Rockwell, Boccuzzi, and Cummings Parks in Bristol and Stamford, giving Connecticut families more opportunities to enjoy fun outdoor activities like hiking, picnicking, and kayaking for years to come.”

“Connecticut families should have access to high-quality parks where they can come together, stay active, and enjoy the outdoors, regardless of where they live,” U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal said. “This $9.8 million in federal funding expands access to parks in Bridgeport, Bristol, and Stamford, and I will continue fighting for federal investments to reinvigorate and develop Connecticut’s outdoor spaces.”

“I am glad to see nearly $2 million coming to Bristol through the federal Land and Water Conservation Fund to make long overdue repairs and improvements to Rockwell Park,” U.S. Representative John Larson (CT-01) said. “This funding will modernize amenities, upgrade facilities, expand park hours, and improve access. I will continue to work with the entire Connecticut delegation and our partners at the state and local levels to secure investments like these that preserve access to outdoor spaces and offer new recreational opportunities for residents.”

“Investing in urban parks is a no brainer,” U.S. Representative Jim Himes (CT-04) said. “They provide places for families to gather and children to play, as well as help improve air quality and lower temperatures in our cities. This nearly $8 million investment will tangibly impact people’s lives in Stamford and Bridgeport by transforming these public lands into beautiful, accessible areas of recreation where communities can come together and rejoice in all the outdoors has to offer.”

“DEEP is excited to partner with Bridgeport, Bristol, and Stamford on these transformative parks projects,” DEEP Commissioner Katie Dykes said. “This program is particularly important to ensure our communities impacted by both historical underinvestment and disproportional environmental pollution receive funding to improve the quality of life for their residents. These parks will provide safe playgrounds, splash pads, recreational fields, and access to nature for thousands of youths living in these neighborhoods. We are excited to celebrate these park openings and re-openings in the years to come.”

Bridgeport receives $1 million for Sliver by the River

Bridgeport is receiving $1,062,454 for its project called Sliver by the River that will transform a vacant lot into a three-acre riverside park. The park will feature a kayak launch, fishing pier, playscape, shade pavilion, terraced lawn with seating, lighting, and native plantings. This is the pilot project for Bridgeport’s initiative to create an interconnected series of waterfront parks and amenities along the 22 miles of riverfront area within the city. The city’s application was developed through a partnership with the City of Bridgeport and the Trust for Public Land, with initial input and technical support from the National Park Service’s Rivers, Trails, and Conservation Assistance group (RTCA).

“I would like to thank The Outdoor Recreation Legacy Program for choosing Bridgeport as a beneficiary to a grant that will help us maximize our efforts to utilize our waterfront,” Bridgeport Mayor Joseph Ganim said. “The Sliver by the River is symbolic of what it means to have true collaborative efforts come together to create spaces in our city that our residents can benefit from. As we work closely with local grassroots organizations such as the Trust for Public Land, our hope is that our state and federal partners will continue to maintain connections with other grassroots organizations while we all work side-by-side to provide Bridgeport residents with the amenities they deserve.”

“This is just what Bridgeport needs,” State Senator Herron Keyon Gaston (D-Bridgeport) said. “What a wonderful opportunity for our community. Not only will this park provide a space for future events that will bring people together, but it will create an environment to support a healthy ecosystem by improving the quality for local wildlife. I am beyond grateful for this funding that will help create a beautiful park for residents to enjoy for years to come.”

“Trust for Public Land is proud to support the Bridgeport Waterfront Pathway project, a vital link connecting the community to the outdoors and expanding equitable access to green spaces,” Walker Holmes, vice president for the Mid-Atlantic Region and Connecticut state director for Trust for Public Land, said. “With the support of the Outdoor Recreation Legacy Partnership program, we’re able to invest in projects that strengthen neighborhoods and transform spaces into a destination for recreation, relaxation, and outdoor learning – making cities like Bridgeport healthier, greener, and more connected.”

Bristol receives $1.9 million for Rockwell Park

Bristol is receiving $1,930,000 for long-overdue improvements to modernize Rockwell Park, often considered the crown jewel of the City of Bristol system of parks. Significant renovations have not been made to the park in almost 20 years, and currently many of the facilities incur massive maintenance costs to keep safe for the public. Some facilities are even on the verge of being unusable.

With this award, the city will renovate popular and heavily utilized amenities within the 105-acre park, including the splash park, playgrounds, outdoor pool, and bathhouse. The award will also allow for ADA improvements on existing trails and Fraser Field, new basketball court lighting, installation of a new fitness track, and improvements to the existing 18-hole disc golf course. These improvements will modernize existing park amenities, improve visitor experiences and expand park hours and accessibility in Bristol’s most heavily visited park.

“On behalf of the Board of Park Commissioners and City of Bristol Parks, Recreation, Youth and Community Services Department, we are incredibly pleased to have been selected for this grant,” Bristol Mayor Jeff Caggiano said. “These funds will be used to renovate the splash park, playground, pool bathhouse, disc golf course, basketball courts and accessible upgrades to the trail system and at Fraser Little League Field. Rockwell Park is a gem, and these funds will allow us to revitalize the park to provide for our residents and future generations of park users.”

Stamford receives $6.8 million for Boccuzzi Park, Cummings Park, West Beach

Stamford will receive funding for two separate projects. For improvements to Boccuzzi Park, it will receive $1,811,075. Improvements will include the addition of a splash pad, the creation of a new multi-use field and event space, as well as a new dog park and basketball court. The city will also upgrade its existing children’s playground, create additional parking and install new landscaping throughout the park.

For improvements at Cummings Park and West Beach, Stamford will receive $5,000,000. The city will resurface and expand parking lots, renovate restrooms and park maintenance facilities, install tennis/pickleball courts, a softball field and convert an unused parking lot into a playscape area. Many of these repairs are needed from damage created by Superstorm Sandy. The city will also add a scour wall to protect facilities from future storms, replace the eroded beach promenade, and renovate outdoor showers as well as a lifeguard storage area. The improvements will also include landscaping with native plants throughout both facilities.

“Investing in our parks is investing in the health, well-being, and future of our communities,” State Representative Corey Paris (D-Stamford) said. “The funding for Boccuzzi Park and Cummings Park in Stamford will transform these spaces into vibrant hubs for recreation and connection, while addressing the lingering effects of Superstorm Sandy. I’m proud to support this critical investment in our city’s infrastructure and quality of life. I want to thank the Land and Water Conservation Fund and DEEP for their commitment to ensuring all families have access to safe, modern outdoor spaces.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-03-30T11:08:25Z
https://larson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/members-connecticut-congressional-delegation-governor-lamont-announce,"Members of the Connecticut Congressional Delegation, Governor Lamont Announce $9.8 Million in Federal Grants to Benefit Municipal Parks in Bridgeport, Bristol, and Stamford",2024-12-06,2024,2024-12,Democrat,House,CT,John B. Larson,L000557,larson.house.gov,larson,https://larson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"East Hartford, CT - Members of the Connecticut Congressional delegation, Governor Ned Lamont, and the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) today announced that the cities of Bridgeport, Bristol, and Stamford are being awarded more than $9.8 million in competitive federal funding that will benefit four municipal park development projects in each city.

The funds are provided through the Land and Water Conservation Fund – Outdoor Recreation Legacy Partnership grants program (LWCF-ORLP), a nationally competitive program that provides matching grants to cities for park projects in underserved communities.

DEEP partnered with each of the municipalities to secure the awards. Partnerships between DEEP and municipalities to secure these awards have had a 100% success rate in 2023 and 2024, with two large-scale development projects being awarded funding in Bridgeport and Stamford in 2023 and two more approved in Bristol and Stamford in 2024.

“I am glad to see nearly $2 million coming to Bristol through the federal Land and Water Conservation Fund to make long overdue repairs and improvements to Rockwell Park,” said Larson. “This funding will modernize amenities, upgrade facilities, expand park hours, and improve access. I will continue to work with the entire Connecticut delegation and our partners at the state and local levels to secure investments like these that preserve access to outdoor spaces and offer new recreational opportunities for residents.”

“Great parks and safe outdoor places for our communities enhances the great quality of life we have here in Connecticut,” saidGovernor Lamont. “I thank our Congressional delegation and federal agency partners for their efforts to secure this important funding for our state. This is a great example of federal, state, and local governments working together to accomplish big things for the residents of our state.”

“Public parks are one of the few places where people in the community can come together, spend time outdoors, and connect with friends and neighbors,” said Murphy. “This $9 million in federal funding will help create a new park in Bridgeport and support upgrades to Rockwell, Boccuzzi, and Cummings Parks in Bristol and Stamford, giving Connecticut families more opportunities to enjoy fun outdoor activities like hiking, picnicking, and kayaking for years to come.”

“Connecticut families should have access to high-quality parks where they can come together, stay active, and enjoy the outdoors, regardless of where they live,” said Blumenthal. “This $9.8 million in federal funding expands access to parks in Bridgeport, Bristol, and Stamford, and I will continue fighting for federal investments to reinvigorate and develop Connecticut’s outdoor spaces.”

“Investing in urban parks is a no brainer,” saidHimes. “They provide places for families to gather and children to play, as well as help improve air quality and lower temperatures in our cities. This nearly $8 million investment will tangibly impact people’s lives in Stamford and Bridgeport by transforming these public lands into beautiful, accessible areas of recreation where communities can come together and rejoice in all the outdoors has to offer.”

“DEEP is excited to partner with Bridgeport, Bristol, and Stamford on these transformative parks projects,” saidDEEP Commissioner Katie Dykes. “This program is particularly important to ensure our communities impacted by both historical underinvestment and disproportional environmental pollution receive funding to improve the quality of life for their residents. These parks will provide safe playgrounds, splash pads, recreational fields, and access to nature for thousands of youths living in these neighborhoods. We are excited to celebrate these park openings and re-openings in the years to come.”

Bridgeport receives $1 million for Sliver by the River

Bridgeport is receiving $1,062,454 for its project called Sliver by the River that will transform a vacant lot into a three-acre riverside park. The park will feature a kayak launch, fishing pier, playscape, shade pavilion, terraced lawn with seating, lighting, and native plantings. This is the pilot project for Bridgeport’s initiative to create an interconnected series of waterfront parks and amenities along the 22 miles of riverfront area within the city. The city’s application was developed through a partnership with the City of Bridgeport and the Trust for Public Land, with initial input and technical support from the National Park Service’s Rivers, Trails, and Conservation Assistance group (RTCA).

“I would like to thank The Outdoor Recreation Legacy Program for choosing Bridgeport as a beneficiary to a grant that will help us maximize our efforts to utilize our waterfront,” saidBridgeport Mayor Joseph Ganim. “The Sliver by the River is symbolic of what it means to have true collaborative efforts come together to create spaces in our city that our residents can benefit from. As we work closely with local grassroots organizations such as the Trust for Public Land, our hope is that our state and federal partners will continue to maintain connections with other grassroots organizations while we all work side-by-side to provide Bridgeport residents with the amenities they deserve.”

“This is just what Bridgeport needs,” saidState Senator Herron Keyon Gaston (D-Bridgeport). “What a wonderful opportunity for our community. Not only will this park provide a space for future events that will bring people together, but it will create an environment to support a healthy ecosystem by improving the quality for local wildlife. I am beyond grateful for this funding that will help create a beautiful park for residents to enjoy for years to come.”

“Trust for Public Land is proud to support the Bridgeport Waterfront Pathway project, a vital link connecting the community to the outdoors and expanding equitable access to green spaces,” saidWalker Holmes, vice president for the Mid-Atlantic Region and Connecticut state director for Trust for Public Land. “With the support of the Outdoor Recreation Legacy Partnership program, we’re able to invest in projects that strengthen neighborhoods and transform spaces into a destination for recreation, relaxation, and outdoor learning – making cities like Bridgeport healthier, greener, and more connected.”

Bristol receives $1.9 million for Rockwell Park

Bristol is receiving $1,930,000 for long-overdue improvements to modernize Rockwell Park, often considered the crown jewel of the City of Bristol system of parks. Significant renovations have not been made to the park in almost 20 years, and currently many of the facilities incur massive maintenance costs to keep safe for the public. Some facilities are even on the verge of being unusable.

With this award, the city will renovate popular and heavily utilized amenities within the 105-acre park, including the splash park, playgrounds, outdoor pool, and bathhouse. The award will also allow for ADA improvements on existing trails and Fraser Field, new basketball court lighting, installation of a new fitness track, and improvements to the existing 18-hole disc golf course. These improvements will modernize existing park amenities, improve visitor experiences and expand park hours and accessibility in Bristol’s most heavily visited park.

“On behalf of the Board of Park Commissioners and City of Bristol Parks, Recreation, Youth and Community Services Department, we are incredibly pleased to have been selected for this grant,” saidBristol Mayor Jeff Caggiano. “These funds will be used to renovate the splash park, playground, pool bathhouse, disc golf course, basketball courts and accessible upgrades to the trail system and at Fraser Little League Field. Rockwell Park is a gem, and these funds will allow us to revitalize the park to provide for our residents and future generations of park users.”

Stamford receives $6.8 million for Boccuzzi Park, Cummings Park, West Beach

Stamford will receive funding for two separate projects. For improvements to Boccuzzi Park, it will receive $1,811,075. Improvements will include the addition of a splash pad, the creation of a new multi-use field and event space, as well as a new dog park and basketball court. The city will also upgrade its existing children’s playground, create additional parking and install new landscaping throughout the park.

For improvements at Cummings Park and West Beach, Stamford will receive $5,000,000. The city will resurface and expand parking lots, renovate restrooms and park maintenance facilities, install tennis/pickleball courts, a softball field and convert an unused parking lot into a playscape area. Many of these repairs are needed from damage created by Superstorm Sandy. The city will also add a scour wall to protect facilities from future storms, replace the eroded beach promenade, and renovate outdoor showers as well as a lifeguard storage area. The improvements will also include landscaping with native plants throughout both facilities.

“Investing in our parks is investing in the health, well-being, and future of our communities,” State Representative Corey Paris (D-Stamford) said. “The funding for Boccuzzi Park and Cummings Park in Stamford will transform these spaces into vibrant hubs for recreation and connection, while addressing the lingering effects of Superstorm Sandy. I’m proud to support this critical investment in our city’s infrastructure and quality of life. I want to thank the Land and Water Conservation Fund and DEEP for their commitment to ensuring all families have access to safe, modern outdoor spaces.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z
https://delauro.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/icymi-fda-deputy-commissioner-human-foods-confirms-fda-intends-finalize,ICYMI: FDA Deputy Commissioner for Human Foods Confirms FDA Intends to Finalize Decision on Red 3,2024-12-05,2024,2024-12,Democrat,House,CT,Rosa L. DeLauro,D000216,delauro.house.gov,delauro,https://delauro.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Today, FDA Deputy Commissioner for Human Foods Jim Jones confirmed in a Senate hearing that the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) intends to finalize their decision on the carcinogenic food dye FD&C Red No. 3, known as Red 3, in the use of foods in the coming weeks. You can view the interaction here.

“Senator Tuberville: Let me say this, Red 3 has been known to cause cancer in cosmetic s but we still allow it to be put in our food… I don’t understand that.

“Commissioner Jones: So, Red 3, we have a petition in front of us to revoke the authorization for it and we are hopeful that within the next few weeks we will be acting on that petition and a decision should be forthcoming.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z
https://larson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/larson-courtney-delauro-applaud-13-billion-contract-strengthen-engine,"Larson, Courtney, DeLauro Applaud $1.3 Billion Contract to Strengthen Engine Manufacturing Supply Chain",2024-12-05,2024,2024-12,Democrat,House,CT,John B. Larson,L000557,larson.house.gov,larson,https://larson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. - Today, Reps. John B. Larson (CT-01), Joe Courtney (CT-02), and Rosa DeLauro (CT-03) applauded the Department of Defense’s announcement of a $1.3 billion modification to a Pratt & Whitney contract for F135 maintenance and sustainment. 46% of all the work completed under this contract will be performed in East Hartford and Windsor Locks, Connecticut.

“The F135 is the most capable production fighter engine the world has ever known, and it is built right here in Connecticut by the best machinists and engineers in the world,” said Larson. “This contract supports nearly 20,000 jobs in our state and the security needs of our Military Services and our allies across the globe. It is a true testament to the hard work of Connecticut’s skilled machinists and engineers, who have driven down production costs of this engine by 50%. The entire Connecticut delegation led a broad coalition of machinists and Members of Congress in both parties to ensure Pratt & Whitney remains the sole source provider of the F135 engine, a decision that will secure critical investments in our region’s workforce for years to come and save taxpayers billions of dollars. Together, we will keep the eagle flying!”

""This award by the Department of Defense once again validates the critical importance that the employees of Pratt & Whitney deliver to the F-35 enterprise, particularly on maintenance and life cycle sustainment,"" said Courtney, a senior member of the House Armed Services Committee. ""The contract enables Pratt & Whitney to continue their impressive work to reduce life cycle and maintenance costs while increasing overall readiness of the F-35 fleet to deliver for our warfighters and international program partners. Kudos to my colleague and friend Congressman John B. Larson for championing the F-35 enterprise, which has created thousands of good-paying jobs for Connecticut workers.”

“This $1.3 billion contract modification builds on the progress I made negotiating this year’s bipartisan funding bill, which firmly established Pratt & Whitney as the sole engine supplier for the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter, the world’s most advanced and capable fifth-generation fighter aircraft,” said DeLauro. “Not only will this contract support high-skilled, well-paying jobs in Connecticut, it will continue to reduce the costs of the F135 engine program for taxpayers, which have already been cut in half thanks to years of cumulative improvements in production and design. I was proud to work with such a broad group of lawmakers led by Congressman Larson, including our whole Connecticut delegation, to finalize this contract. Today, we are ensuring that high-skilled well-paying jobs will be protected and created right here in Connecticut American taxpayers continue to get the best value for their money out of the F-35 platform, and that our servicemembers and allied militaries can rely on the Connecticut-made, world-beating F135 engine for years to come.”

As Co-Chair of the Joint Strike Fighter Caucus, Rep. Larson led a coalition of machinists and bipartisan Members of Congress in support of engine modernization and against a costly alternative engine to the Connecticut-built F135.

Earlier this year, President Biden signed a bipartisan funding bill into law, negotiated by Appropriations Committee Ranking Member Rosa DeLauro and supported by the entire Connecticut delegation, that achieved a nearly three-decade goal to secure Pratt & Whitney as the sole supplier of engines for the F-35.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z
https://larson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/larson-murphy-blumenthal-courtney-delauro-call-department-education,"Larson, Murphy, Blumenthal, Courtney, DeLauro Call on Department of Education to Discharge Loans for Defrauded Borrowers",2024-12-05,2024,2024-12,Democrat,House,CT,John B. Larson,L000557,larson.house.gov,larson,https://larson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. - Today, Reps. John B. Larson (CT-01), Joe Courtney (CT-02), and Rosa DeLauro (CT-03), and Senators Richard Blumenthal and Chris Murphy called on the U.S. Department of Education to discharge student loan debt for hundreds of thousands of students who were defrauded by predatory schools.

During the first Trump administration, defrauded borrowers’ applications for debt relief were left to languish for years, and if reviewed, were often denied. In their letter, the lawmakers called for the Department to use its authority to immediately discharge debt.

“The Biden administration has demonstrated a commitment to supporting student borrowers and mitigating the devastating impact of student loan debt, including issuing targeted debt relief to hundreds of thousands of borrowers defrauded by predatory higher education institutions,” the lawmakers wrote.

The lawmakers continued: “We urge the Department of Education to follow through on its commitment by immediately processing debt discharges for borrowers already approved for relief; issuing additional discharges for students who attended institutions with documented histories of predatory practices; and processing any outstanding borrower defense applications.”

Since 2022, the Department has announced group discharges for more than 1.2 million individuals who attended schools that engaged in documented fraud and misconduct, including ITT Technical Institute and Corinthian Colleges. Yet, hundreds of thousands of borrowers are still awaiting their discharges. Many additional borrowers are eligible for borrower defense group discharge because they attended schools for which the Department possesses evidence of fraud and misconduct; 400,000 borrowers have submitted individual applications for borrower defense discharges that the Department has yet to process.

The full text of the letter is available HERE and below:

Dear Secretary Cardona,

The Biden administration has demonstrated a commitment to supporting student borrowers and mitigating the devastating impact of student loan debt, including issuing targeted debt relief to hundreds of thousands of borrowers defrauded by predatory higher education institutions. We urge the Department of Education (Department) to follow through on its commitment by immediately processing debt discharges for borrowers already approved for relief; issuing additional discharges for students who attended institutions with documented histories of predatory practices; and processing any outstanding borrower defense applications.

Too many student borrowers have been preyed on by predatory schools, most of which are for-profit colleges. These for-profit colleges have a long history of disproportionately enrolling veterans, low-income students, students of color, homeless students, and first-generation college students and falsely promising high-quality jobs after graduation. Unfortunately, too many of these borrowers were saddled with debilitating debt, often without a degree to show for it. Debt has forced many of these borrowers to put their economic lives on hold, forgoing buying homes and starting families.

The Department must take three concrete steps to help these student borrowers.

First, the Department must immediately discharge the student loans for the hundreds of thousands of students who the Department has already committed to providing borrower defense debt relief. Since 2022, the Department has announced group discharges for more than 1.2 million individuals who attended schools that engaged in documented fraud and misconduct, including:

Art Institutes – 317,000 students (May 2024)

Phoenix University – 1,200 students (September 2023)

Ashford University – 2,300 students (August 2023)

CollegeAmerica – 7,400 students (July 2023)

Westwood College – 79,000 students (August 2022)

ITT Technical Institute – 208,000 students (August 2022)

Kaplan Career Institute – 100 students (August 2022)

Corinthian Colleges – 560,000 students (June 2022)

Marinello Schools of Beauty – 28,200 students (April 2022)

DeVry University – 1,800 students (February 2022)

Minnesota School of Business/Globe University – 270 students (July 2021)

However, according to recent court filings, hundreds of thousands of these borrowers still await relief. For example, as of October 31, 2024, more than 25 percent of Corinthian Colleges’ borrowers await their discharges, and many others await promised refunds of amounts previously paid. The Department must immediately process debt relief for these borrowers.

Second, the Department must use its authority under the Higher Education Act to issue group discharges for the millions of borrowers who attended other institutions with documented histories of predatory practices. These institutions are included in the appendix. The Department should promptly issue findings and utilize its authority to fully discharge the student loan balances of borrowers who attended the schools listed. Substantial evidence of misconduct already exists for each of these schools. Defrauded students should not be left holding the bag for institutions that no longer exist.

Third, the Department must process any remaining applications for borrower defense discharge. These borrowers completed an onerous application to demonstrate that they were victims of fraud, but the Department has yet to act. Though the Department has not shared its number with Congress or the public, an estimated 400,000 borrowers have pending applications for borrower defense discharge. By processing existing group discharges and issuing findings for additional group discharges, the Department will eliminate much of the backlog in remaining borrower defense applications, efficiently delivering relief. Additionally, the Department must process any remaining borrower defense applications as soon as possible.

Under the previous Trump Administration, borrowers’ applications were allowed to languish for years. If their application was reviewed, borrowers often were denied and granted no relief. Then-Education Secretary DeVos denied nearly 130,000 borrower defense applications. It is imperative that the Department provide immediate relief to borrowers. Borrowers who attended fraudulent schools and have struggled with debt for years, or even decades, cannot afford to wait any longer. We thank you for your attention to this urgent issue and look forward to working together to ensure that all students who were victims of predatory practices receive relief.

Sincerely,",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z
https://hayes.house.gov/press-releases?ID=B91BDAD9-DB44-43C2-A286-D6B4010AD394,Hayes Introduces Legislation to Lower Costs for Telehealth Care,2024-12-04,2024,2024-12,Democrat,House,CT,Jahana Hayes,H001081,hayes.house.gov,hayes,https://hayes.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congresswoman Jahana Hayes (CT-05) introduced the Fair Telehealth Billing Act of 2024 to prohibit healthcare providers from imposing certain facility fees for telehealth services, lowering the cost to the patient.

Facility fees are often used by hospitals and providers to maximize revenue and are added on top of professional service fees. There is often little transparency on when, how, or why hospitals charge patients these supplemental fees for telehealth services. According to the National Academy for State Health Policy, facility fees can increase out-of-pocket costs for patients by as much as $1,000.

“The Fair Telehealth Billing Act is a commonsense approach to lower the overall cost of telehealth care by eliminating unnecessary fees,” said Congresswoman Hayes. “Patients should not pay for facility fees if they are receiving telehealth services and never step into a physical medical office. This legislation prevents healthcare providers from charging arbitrary fees while protecting protects patients from runaway costs of care.”

Further, patients are often charged separately for professional service and facility fees, resulting in double billing.The Fair Telehealth Billing Act of 2024prevents health care facilities from charging consumers a separate facility fee. This legislation ensures facility fees for telehealth would only be permitted when there is no professional fee available to the billing provider. This approach is fair to health care providers, who will get paid for their services, and to patients, who will only receive one bill for the care they receive through telehealth.

The Fair Telehealth Billing Act of 2024 builds off anamendment Congresswoman Hayes offered before the House Committee on Education and the Workforce in September, which was unanimously adopted into H.R. 9457.

During her time in the House of Representatives, Congresswoman Hayes has continued to advocate for policies and investments to lower the cost of healthcare. The Fair Telehealth Billing Act of 2024 is the latest proposal by Congresswoman Hayes to protect patients and make healthcare more accessible and affordable for all.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z
https://larson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/larson-condemns-racist-threats-targeting-middle-school-students,Larson Condemns Racist Threats Targeting Middle School Students in Bloomfield,2024-11-08,2024,2024-11,Democrat,House,CT,John B. Larson,L000557,larson.house.gov,larson,https://larson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"“To see middle school students in Bloomfield targeted by racist and threatening anonymous messages is nothing short of reprehensible,” said Larson. “All students must be able to feel safe at home, in the classroom, and on the internet, and no one should ever be targeted because of who they are. It is especially disturbing to see this was not a remote or isolated incident, with Black students across the country reporting that they received similar text messages. I completely stand behind law enforcement’s efforts to investigate these hateful threats and hope to see the perpetrators brought to justice. I join with our Attorney General, William Tong, who has made it clear there will be no tolerance for this type of hate in the State of Connecticut. While extremists may aim to divide us with their hate, diversity will always remain our strength as Americans.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:07:06Z
https://delauro.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/delauro-statement-us-presidential-election,DeLauro Statement on U.S. Presidential Election,2024-11-07,2024,2024-11,Democrat,House,CT,Rosa L. DeLauro,D000216,delauro.house.gov,delauro,https://delauro.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro (CT-03) released a statement in response to the results of the U.S. presidential election:

“I thank Vice President Harris and Governor Tim Walz for the extraordinary campaign they ran. The American people have spoken, and I respect their decision. President-elect Trump won the trust of many of my constituents and I will help him succeed where possible. We worked together on trade issues. With the incoming administration, I am committed to finding common ground, including enacting an expanded, monthly Child Tax Credit and bipartisan government funding bills. On issues we disagree, like Project 2025, plans on federal health programs, education, and women’s health, I will oppose him. I will continue to advocate for the middle-class, working people, and the vulnerable.

“Many votes are still being counted and there remains a chance Democrats will reclaim the House. Every vote must be counted.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:07:06Z
https://larson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/larson-statement-incident-us-capitol,Larson Statement on Incident at the U.S. Capitol,2024-11-05,2024,2024-11,Democrat,House,CT,John B. Larson,L000557,larson.house.gov,larson,https://larson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"“Thank God no one was harmed during today’s incident at the Capitol,"" said Larson. ""I am grateful for the swift action of the U. S. Capitol Police as they work to keep staff and visitors safe today and every day. We must ensure USCP and our first responders have the resources they need to investigate this incident and continue to keep the Capitol safe and secure. Threats to our democracy will not stand, especially on Election Day. The American people should rest assured their voices will be heard at the ballot box, and those results will be respected.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:07:06Z
https://hayes.house.gov/press-releases?ID=978E8597-E29D-4038-BE36-86BFAFB37575,"Hayes, Connecticut Delegation Announce $77.8 Million in Low-Income Heating Assistance for Connecticut",2024-11-04,2024,2024-11,Democrat,House,CT,Jahana Hayes,H001081,hayes.house.gov,hayes,https://hayes.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WATERBURY – Today, Congresswoman Jahana Hayes (CT-05) and the Connecticut Congressional delegation announced Connecticut will receive $77,834,656 from the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) ahead of the winter season. This is the first allocation of LIHEAP dollars this season.

“LIHEAP is a lifeline for many families faced with rising heating costs. I am delighted $77.8 million is coming back to Connecticut to help families stay warm this winter,” said Congresswoman Hayes. “This assistance will help to ease the burden of high heating costs. In Congress, I will continue to advocate for additional funding for this vital resource, which lowers utility costs and prevents shut-offs across Connecticut.”

“This home heating aid is desperately needed by families who face a frigid winter without fuel for basic warmth,” said Senator Blumenthal. “With $77.8 million, many families will be assured this basic necessity. Every day, I see and speak to people struggling to make ends meet and worrying about financial hardships and challenges. I’ll fight for more federal support for LIHEAP and other programs that help them with essential needs.”

“For too many families in Connecticut, falling temperatures mean having to choose between heating your home or putting food on the table. This $77.8 million in LIHEAP funding will help ease that burden for households feeling the strain of rising energy costs this winter, and as a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, I’ll keep working with our delegation to ensure Connecticut families continue to have the support they need so they don’t have to make those difficult choices,” said Senator Murphy.

“High costs are spreading families thin,” said Congresswoman DeLauro (CT-03). “No family should have to choose between keeping their home warm during the colder months, keeping their lights on, or putting food on the table. As Ranking Member of the House Appropriations Committee, I secured $77.8 million for the program to help Connecticut’s families keep warm this season. Every family deserves warmth. I am committed to ensuring no household goes cold this winter.”

“As we approach the winter months, we must ensure all families are able to heat their homes without breaking the bank,” said Congressman Larson (CT-01). “Thanks to the steadfast leadership of Rep. Rosa DeLauro on the Appropriations Committee, I am thrilled to join the entire Connecticut delegation to announce $77.8 million in new funding to help families afford their energy bills. We will continue to work together to ensure Connecticut residents can get the assistance they need this season.”

“There’s no question high energy costs are pinching homeowners’ wallets. As we head into the colder months, this $77 million federal investment in heating and energy assistance will bring welcomed relief to Connecticut residents,"" Congressman Courtney (CT-02) said.

“Too many families have to worry about rising energy costs that make it increasingly difficult to pay their heating bills and keep their children warm in the coming months,” said Congressman Himes (CT-04). “LIHEAP offers a lifeline to struggling Americans to ensure every home offers a reprieve from our cold New England winter. I am proud to help deliver nearly $78 million to Connecticut in federal funding, including over $4 million from President Biden’s Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act.”

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), through the Office of Community Services (OCS) at the Administration for Children and Families (ACF), announced the release of $3.6 billion in LIHEAP funding to all 50 states, the District of Columbia, three territories, and more than 125 tribes. This amount includes the regular block grant appropriation and an additional $100.1 million appropriated from President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA).",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:07:06Z
https://larson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/larson-blumenthal-murphy-lamont-announce-6-million-federal-funds,"Larson, Blumenthal, Murphy, Lamont Announce $6 Million in Federal Funds for Bradley International Airport Improvement Project",2024-11-04,2024,2024-11,Democrat,House,CT,John B. Larson,L000557,larson.house.gov,larson,https://larson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Windsor Locks, CT - Today, Rep. John B. Larson (CT-01), Senators Richard Blumenthal and Chris Murphy, and Governor Ned Lamont joined the Connecticut Airport Authority (CAA) to announce $6 million in federal funding for a major improvement project at Bradley International Airport (BDL).

“This $6 million in funding for Bradley International Airport builds on the progress that’s been made to improve passenger experience, modernize baggage screening, expand flight options, and create good-paying jobs,” saidRepresentative John B. Larson. “I am proud to have worked with the delegation to deliver millions of dollars in funding for Bradley through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. We will continue to work with our partners at the state, including the CAA, to advance our airport’s infrastructure and ensure a positive experience for travelers.”

“As a frequent flyer – from Bradley back and forth weekly to DC – I know very personally what a great airport it is, and how much greater it could be. In fact, with this $6 million federal funding boost, it will be on a flight path to become one of the nation’s premier air travel hubs. Streamlined, upgraded, and expanded, its services will be speedier and safer than ever. I’ll continue fighting for even more federal support,” saidSenator Richard Blumenthal.

“Investing in Connecticut’s airports isn’t just good for travelers—it also creates lots of good-paying jobs and draws new businesses to our state,” saidSenator Chris Murphy. “This $6 million for a new baggage handling system will help open up space for more flight options and keep flyers safe, making the travel experience even more convenient and ensuring Bradley continues to be recognized as one of the top airports in the country.”

“Over the last several years, Bradley has implemented many major improvements that have resulted in this airport being ranked among the best in the nation,” saidGovernor Ned Lamont. “This funding will enable Bradley to continue making upgrades that will strengthen its reputation as one of the best and most convenient airports available.”

“The CAA is grateful for this new infusion of federal funding as we continue construction on major projects to enhance the passenger experience at Bradley International Airport. We also want to particularly thank Governor Lamont, Connecticut’s federal delegation, and the Connecticut Business and Industry Association for working hard to secure this funding,” saidCAA Executive Director Kevin A. Dillon, A.A.E.

“The CAA wants to thank our elected officials, particularly Governor Lamont, Senator Blumenthal, Senator Murphy, and Congressman Larson, for their unwavering support of Bradley International Airport in our pursuit of federal funding for these critical projects. Due to their hard work, Bipartisan Infrastructure Bill funds continue to be put to work in our state to modernize the airport,” saidCAA Board Chair Tony Sheridan.

“Bradley Airport is a critical piece of Connecticut’s economy,” saidCBIA President and CEO Chris DiPentima. “Businesses and their workforces need to be able to move around the state and the rest of the country to attract businesses and individuals to the state. These improvements will help make Bradley, and Connecticut, an even more desirable destination.”

The funding will be used for the ongoing construction of an 80,000 square foot inline baggage screening facility behind the Sheraton Hotel, which is one of two construction projects currently underway at BDL. Once complete, baggage will be sent from the airline ticket counters along a mile-long conveyor belt to the new facility for screening. Current explosive-detection machines located in the terminal lobby will be relocated once the new screening facility is operational, which will open additional space for current and future airline growth. The facility will also entail the construction of three new gates.

The total cost of the inline baggage screening facility project is estimated at $188 million. In addition to the federal funding, the construction of the facility will be funded through a combination of passenger facility charges and airport revenue.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:07:06Z
https://delauro.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/connecticut-delegation-announces-778-million-home-energy-assistance,Connecticut Delegation Announces $77.8 Million in Home Energy Assistance Funding for State,2024-11-01,2024,2024-11,Democrat,House,CT,Rosa L. DeLauro,D000216,delauro.house.gov,delauro,https://delauro.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Today, Members of Connecticut’s Congressional delegation announced that Connecticut will receive $77,834,656 from the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) ahead of the winter season. This is the first allocation of LIHEAP dollars this season.

“High costs are spreading families thin,” said Congresswoman DeLauro. “No family should have to choose between keeping their home warm during the colder months, keeping their lights on, or putting food on the table. As Ranking Member of the House Appropriations Committee, I secured $77.8 million for the program to help Connecticut’s families keep warm this season. Every family deserves warmth. I am committed to ensuring no household goes cold this winter.”

“This home heating aid is desperately needed by families who face a frigid winter without fuel for basic warmth,” said Senator Blumenthal. “With $77.8 million, many families will be assured this basic necessity. Every day, I see and speak to people struggling to make ends meet and worrying about financial hardships and challenges. I’ll fight for more federal support for LIHEAP and other programs that help them with essential needs.”

“For too many families in Connecticut, falling temperatures mean having to choose between heating your home or putting food on the table. This $77.8 million in LIHEAP funding will help ease that burden for households feeling the strain of rising energy costs this winter, and as a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, I’ll keep working with our delegation to ensure Connecticut families continue to have the support they need so they don’t have to make those difficult choices,” said Senator Murphy.

“As we approach the winter months, we must ensure all families are able to heat their homes without breaking the bank,” said Congressman Larson. “Thanks to the steadfast leadership of Rep. Rosa DeLauro on the Appropriations Committee, I am thrilled to join the entire Connecticut delegation to announce $77.8 million in new funding to help families afford their energy bills. We will continue to work together to ensure Connecticut residents can get the assistance they need this season.”

“There’s no question high energy costs are pinching homeowners’ wallets. As we head into the colder months, this $77 million federal investment in heating and energy assistance will bring welcomed relief to Connecticut residents,"" Congressman Courtney said.

“Too many families have to worry about rising energy costs that make it increasingly difficultto pay their heating bills and keep their children warm in the coming months,” said Congressman Himes. “LIHEAP offers a lifeline to struggling Americans to ensure every home offers a reprieve from our cold New England winter. I am proud to help deliver nearly $78 million to Connecticut in federal funding, including over $4 million from President Biden’s Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act.”

“LIHEAP is a lifeline for many families faced with rising heating costs. I am delighted $77.8 million is coming back to Connecticut to help families stay warm this winter,” said Congresswoman Hayes. “This assistance will help to ease the burden of high heating costs. In Congress, I will continue to advocate for additional funding for this vital resource, which lowers utility costs and prevents shut offs across Connecticut.”

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), through the Office of Community Services (OCS) at the Administration for Children and Families (ACF), announced the release of $3.6 billion in LIHEAP funding to all 50 states, the District of Columbia, three territories, and more than 125 tribes. This amount includes the regular block grant appropriation and an additional $100.1 million appropriated from President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA).

Connecticut was awarded a total of $77,834,656 to assist low-income families ahead of the winter season. This includes:",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:07:06Z
https://delauro.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/ranking-member-rosa-delauro-appropriations-committee-members-take,"Ranking Member Rosa DeLauro, Appropriations Committee Members Take Bipartisan National Security Trip to Middle East",2024-11-01,2024,2024-11,Democrat,House,CT,Rosa L. DeLauro,D000216,delauro.house.gov,delauro,https://delauro.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Amid rising threats, instability, and changes in Israel, House Appropriations Ranking Member Rosa DeLauro (D-CT) joined a bipartisan Congressional delegation to the Middle East. It will help strengthen America’s defense, reinforce partnerships with allies, and make critical changes possible.

The Members met with heads of state and other leaders from Egypt, Jordan, and Saudi Arabia to work effectively against Iran, address the humanitarian crisis, and to achieve peace and security in the region. It was critical to see our Armed Forces deployed in the region who play such a critical role.

“I was grateful for this opportunity to join a bipartisan delegation of United States lawmakers to gather firsthand information and perspectives from some of our closest allies and security partners in the Middle East,” said Ranking Member DeLauro. “The Middle East is at a crisis point after years of destabilizing influence from Iran and its proxy groups, and it is vital that the United States work with our allies to bring critical changes. The delegation affirmed our strong bipartisan support for Israel’s security, and I emphasized that it is time to transform Israel’s military victories into strategic success. We need an immediate ceasefire, release of the hostages, and massive help for Gaza. It is tied to a political path that includes a viable Palestinian state, which is key to regional peace.”

DeLauro was joined by House Appropriations Chairman Tom Cole (R-OK) and Representatives John Rutherford (R-FL), Ed Case (D-HI), and Mark Alford (R-MO).

During visits with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi, King of Jordan Abdullah II bin Al-Hussein, and Saudi officials, the U.S. lawmakers held productive, high-level meetings on reinforcing strategic alliances, the importance of increased regional cooperation, and our shared commitments to supporting global security and the safety of our citizens. The group agreed to unite to bolster peace and security during this difficult time.

In Israel, the delegation reiterated the unbreakable bond the United States shares with our friend and ally. While meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, and Foreign Minister Israel Katz, Members received briefings on military and humanitarian operations, continued efforts to rescue hostages, including American citizens, and the malign activities of Hamas, Hezbollah, and other Iranian-regime proxies.

Just over a year after the deadliest attack on the Jewish people since the Holocaust, the Members concluded their time in Israel with a visit to Mount Herzl to honor the tremendous stories of heroism and tragedy. On behalf of the U.S. House of Representatives, they laid a wreath at the cemetery in solemn remembrance of those lost.

Their final stop of the trip was to visit with officers and crew of a U.S. warship on duty in the eastern Mediterranean.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:07:06Z
https://himes.house.gov/press-releases?ID=F9C9CB29-E06B-4175-B38F-ADF7115B9B42,Connecticut Delegation Announces $77.8 Million in Home Energy Assistance Funding for State,2024-11-01,2024,2024-11,Democrat,House,CT,James A. Himes,H001047,himes.house.gov,himes,https://himes.house.gov/press-releases,page_html,"Washington, DC – Today, Members of Connecticut’s Congressional delegation announced that Connecticut will receive $77,834,656 from the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) ahead of the winter season. This is the first allocation of LIHEAP dollars this season.

“High costs are spreading families thin,” said Congresswoman DeLauro. “No family should have to choose between keeping their home warm during the colder months, keeping their lights on, or putting food on the table. As Ranking Member of the House Appropriations Committee, I secured $77.8 million for the program to help Connecticut’s families keep warm this season. Every family deserves warmth. I am committed to ensuring no household goes cold this winter.”

“This home heating aid is desperately needed by families who face a frigid winter without fuel for basic warmth,” said Senator Blumenthal. “With $77.8 million, many families will be assured this basic necessity. Every day, I see and speak to people struggling to make ends meet and worrying about financial hardships and challenges. I’ll fight for more federal support for LIHEAP and other programs that help them with essential needs.”

“For too many families in Connecticut, falling temperatures mean having to choose between heating your home or putting food on the table. This $77.8 million in LIHEAP funding will help ease that burden for households feeling the strain of rising energy costs this winter, and as a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, I’ll keep working with our delegation to ensure Connecticut families continue to have the support they need so they don’t have to make those difficult choices,” said Senator Murphy.

“As we approach the winter months, we must ensure all families are able to heat their homes without breaking the bank,” said Congressman Larson. “Thanks to the steadfast leadership of Rep. Rosa DeLauro on the Appropriations Committee, I am thrilled to join the entire Connecticut delegation to announce $77.8 million in new funding to help families afford their energy bills. We will continue to work together to ensure Connecticut residents can get the assistance they need this season.”

“There’s no question high energy costs are pinching homeowners’ wallets. As we head into the colder months, this $77 million federal investment in heating and energy assistance will bring welcomed relief to Connecticut residents,"" Congressman Courtney said.

“Too many families have to worry about rising energy costs that make it increasingly difficult to pay their heating bills and keep their children warm in the coming months,” said Congressman Himes. “LIHEAP offers a lifeline to struggling Americans to ensure every home offers a reprieve from our cold New England winter. I am proud to help deliver nearly $78 million to Connecticut in federal funding, including over $4 million from President Biden’s Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act.”

“LIHEAP is a lifeline for many families faced with rising heating costs. I am delighted $77.8 million is coming back to Connecticut to help families stay warm this winter,” said Congresswoman Hayes. “This assistance will help to ease the burden of high heating costs. In Congress, I will continue to advocate for additional funding for this vital resource, which lowers utility costs and prevents shut offs across Connecticut.”

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), through the Office of Community Services (OCS) at the Administration for Children and Families (ACF), announced the release of $3.6 billion in LIHEAP funding to all 50 states, the District of Columbia, three territories, and more than 125 tribes. This amount includes the regular block grant appropriation and an additional $100.1 million appropriated from President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA).

Connecticut was awarded a total of $77,834,656 to assist low-income families ahead of the winter season. This includes:",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-03-30T11:08:25Z
https://larson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/connecticut-delegation-announces-778-million-home-energy-assistance,Connecticut Delegation Announces $77.8 Million in Home Energy Assistance Funding for State,2024-11-01,2024,2024-11,Democrat,House,CT,John B. Larson,L000557,larson.house.gov,larson,https://larson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today, Members of Connecticut’s Congressional delegation announced that Connecticut will receive $77,834,656 from the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) ahead of the winter season. This is the first allocation of LIHEAP dollars this season.

“As we approach the winter months, we must ensure all families are able to heat their homes without breaking the bank,” said Congressman Larson. “Thanks to the steadfast leadership of Rep. Rosa DeLauro on the Appropriations Committee, I am thrilled to join the entire Connecticut delegation to announce $77.8 million in new funding to help families afford their energy bills. We will continue to work together to ensure Connecticut residents can get the assistance they need this season.”

“High costs are spreading families thin,” said Congresswoman DeLauro. “No family should have to choose between keeping their home warm during the colder months, keeping their lights on, or putting food on the table. As Ranking Member of the House Appropriations Committee, I secured $77.8 million for the program to help Connecticut’s families keep warm this season. Every family deserves warmth. I am committed to ensuring no household goes cold this winter.”

“This home heating aid is desperately needed by families who face a frigid winter without fuel for basic warmth,” said Senator Blumenthal. “With $77.8 million, many families will be assured this basic necessity. Every day, I see and speak to people struggling to make ends meet and worrying about financial hardships and challenges. I’ll fight for more federal support for LIHEAP and other programs that help them with essential needs.”

“For too many families in Connecticut, falling temperatures mean having to choose between heating your home or putting food on the table. This $77.8 million in LIHEAP funding will help ease that burden for households feeling the strain of rising energy costs this winter, and as a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, I’ll keep working with our delegation to ensure Connecticut families continue to have the support they need so they don’t have to make those difficult choices,” said Senator Murphy.

“There’s no question high energy costs are pinching homeowners’ wallets. As we head into the colder months, this $77 million federal investment in heating and energy assistance will bring welcomed relief to Connecticut residents,"" Congressman Courtney said.

“Too many families have to worry about rising energy costs that make it increasingly difficult to pay their heating bills and keep their children warm in the coming months,” said Congressman Himes. “LIHEAP offers a lifeline to struggling Americans to ensure every home offers a reprieve from our cold New England winter. I am proud to help deliver nearly $78 million to Connecticut in federal funding, including over $4 million from President Biden’s Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act.”

“LIHEAP is a lifeline for many families faced with rising heating costs. I am delighted $77.8 million is coming back to Connecticut to help families stay warm this winter,” said Congresswoman Hayes. “This assistance will help to ease the burden of high heating costs. In Congress, I will continue to advocate for additional funding for this vital resource, which lowers utility costs and prevents shut offs across Connecticut.”

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), through the Office of Community Services (OCS) at the Administration for Children and Families (ACF), announced the release of $3.6 billion in LIHEAP funding to all 50 states, the District of Columbia, three territories, and more than 125 tribes. This amount includes the regular block grant appropriation and an additional $100.1 million appropriated from President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA).

Connecticut was awarded a total of $77,834,656 to assist low-income families ahead of the winter season. This includes:",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:07:06Z
https://larson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/connecticut-congressional-delegation-announces-250000-funding-prevent,"Connecticut Congressional Delegation Announces $250,000 in Funding to Prevent Pollution",2024-10-31,2024,2024-10,Democrat,House,CT,John B. Larson,L000557,larson.house.gov,larson,https://larson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"East Hartford, CT - Today, members of the Connecticut Congressional delegation and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced $250,000 in grant funding for the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (CT DEEP) to provide technical assistance to businesses to develop and adopt pollution prevention (P2) practices in local communities.

“Addressing pollution at the source is key to protecting community health and taking on the threat of climate change,” said Rep. John B. Larson. “I have been proud to work with the entire Connecticut Congressional delegation to deliver federal funding for projects to combat pollution and ensure all communities have access to clean air and water. This funding will support ongoing work at the state and local level to invest in innovative solutions that protect our environment, combat pollution, and help reduce energy bills.”

“This investment in greener craft breweries and wineries will help them be even more successful as environmental stewards. With greater technical aid, beverage businesses can expand consumer appeal by reducing pollution and protecting natural resources. It’s a boost for our economy and environment,” said Senator Richard Blumenthal.

“We won’t achieve our climate goals unless everybody is involved in the fight, but small businesses often face greater barriers to making the upfront investments for cleaner practices. By providing direct technical support to Connecticut’s local craft beverage manufacturers, this $250,000 in federal funding from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law will help small business owners across our state adopt more sustainable, cost-effective practices that reduce harmful emissions, strengthen our economy, and safeguard the health of our communities for generations to come,” said Senator Chris Murphy.

""Thanks to the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, CT DEEP can bolster its work with businesses across our state to reduce pollution,” said Rep. Rosa DeLauro. “These funds will help drive economic growth and ensure Connecticut leads the way in combatting pollution. The climate crisis is here, and it is an existential threat. We must do all we can to reduce pollution and protect our planet for generations to come.”

“Every community deserves clean air, safe water, and a healthy environment—and pollution prevention grants help achieve that by reducing waste at the source. By adopting smarter and innovative practices that limit the use of toxic materials and conserve resources, these investments are helping our partners to support New England businesses to cut costs, grow sustainably, and protect the environment,” said EPA Regional Administrator David W. Cash. “Thanks to the Biden-Harris Administration, together we’re creating lasting benefits for local economies and ensuring that environmental progress and economic growth go hand in hand and reach all communities, including those that need it most. That's Investing in America.”

In total, EPA announced 48 selectees across the country that will collectively receive nearly $19 million in grants to support states, Tribal Nations, and U.S. territories in providing technical assistance to businesses to develop and adopt pollution prevention (P2) practices in local communities. Thanks to President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, nearly half of the funds awarded this year were made available with no cost share/match requirement.

Pollution prevention, also known as P2 or source reduction, is any practice that reduces, eliminates, or prevents pollution at its source prior to recycling, treatment, or disposal. Preventing pollution at the source rather than managing waste afterwards is an important way to support American business’ efforts to reduce costs, while protecting communities from exposure to toxic chemicals and conserving natural resources. These practices are essential for protecting health, improving environmental conditions–including in and around disadvantaged communities–and preserving natural resources like wetlands, groundwater sources, and other critical ecosystems.

Between 2011-2022, EPA’s Pollution Prevention program issued over 500 grants totaling more than $54 million, which have helped businesses identify, develop, and adopt P2 approaches. These approaches have resulted in 31.9 billion kWh in energy savings, eliminated 20.8 million metric tons of greenhouse gases, saved 52 billion gallons of water, reduced 1 billion pounds of hazardous materials, and saved businesses more than $2.3 billion.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z
https://himes.house.gov/press-releases?ID=41CF3E22-7443-4414-9BBE-E7C4547253BF,Biden-Harris Administration Approves and Recommends for Award Connecticut’s Digital Equity Capacity Grant Application for More Than $9 Million,2024-10-30,2024,2024-10,Democrat,House,CT,James A. Himes,H001047,himes.house.gov,himes,https://himes.house.gov/press-releases,page_html,"Washington, DC — The Department of Commerce’s National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) today has approved and recommended for award an application from Connecticut, allowing the state to request access to more than $9 million to implement its Digital Equity Plan. This funding comes from the $1.44 billion State Digital Equity Capacity Grant Program, one of three Digital Equity Act grant programs created by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.

This funding is part of the “Internet for All” initiative, a key component of President Biden’s “Investing in America” agenda. For a variety of reasons, many Americans struggle to use the Internet connection available to them—for example, some lack the skills to navigate online resources and protect their personal and financial information online; others cannot afford a computer or tablet at home.

Connecticut will use this funding to implement its digital equity plan, which outlines how the state will empower individuals and communities with the tools and skills necessary to benefit from meaningful access to affordable, reliable, high-speed Internet service.

“Quality, affordable high-speed Internet allows families and businesses to thrive in our modern economy. Thanks to President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, the Department of Commerce is connecting everyone in Connecticut and across the country to quality, affordable high-speed Internet and providing the resources they need to make the most of that Internet connection,” said U.S. Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo. “We look forward to working with Connecticut to ensure residents across the state have the tools and skills to take advantage of quality, affordable high-speed Internet – whether it’s for work, education, health care, or any other essential service.”

This approval is from the first funding round of the Digital Equity Capacity Grant Program, which made available more than $800 million for states, including Puerto Rico and the District of Columbia, U.S. Territories, and Native Entities to apply for grants to implement their digital equity plans. These plans were developed under the State Digital Equity Planning Grant Program. Awards of funding will require additional review and approval of State-submitted documentation.

“For the first time, every state in the nation has a digital equity plan in place to promote widespread adoption of high-speed Internet services. Connecticut now can request access to the funds to put its digital equity plan into action,” said Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Communications and Information and NTIA Administrator Alan Davidson. “The Biden-Harris Administration’s Internet for All initiative will ensure everyone can thrive online through access to devices and digital skills.”

“This award comes at a perfect time to further the important steps Connecticut has already taken to close the digital divide,” said Governor Ned Lamont. “We are grateful for this investment to help ensure that all residents have the connections, computers, skills, and support to thrive in today’s digital world.”

“Internet access has quickly become a necessity in our society,” said Congressman Jim Himes (CT-4). “Without affordable internet and digital skills, people struggle to access adequate education, health care, and other modern resources. I am thrilled to help deliver over $9 million to Connecticut in federal funding to ensure that populations are not left behind as technology continues to advance.”

Connecticut will use the $9,183,114 in funding to implement key digital equity initiatives, including:

Create an urban and rural Digital Navigator Pilot program

Develop a digital equity curriculum covering basic digital literacy, online safety, digital citizenship, information literacy and the use of AI tools

Create a searchable database that identifies and categorizes digital equity resources

Additional funding opportunities will be available in the future. NTIA will announce State Digital Equity Capacity Grant Program awards from this first round of funding on a rolling basis.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-03-30T11:08:25Z
https://larson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/connecticut-congressional-delegation-announce-10-million-award,Connecticut Congressional Delegation Announce $10 Million Award to University of Connecticut to Help Local Communities Address Environmental Justice Challenges,2024-10-30,2024,2024-10,Democrat,House,CT,John B. Larson,L000557,larson.house.gov,larson,https://larson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"East Hartford, CT – Today, the Connecticut Congressional delegation and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced that the University of Connecticut’s (UConn) Thriving Communities Technical Assistance Center (TCTAC) is open and accepting requests from communities and organizations across New England for technical assistance to help address local environmental justice challenges. EPA selected UConn to establish one of 17 TCTACs across the country and awarded UConn $10 million to support this work for five years.

UConn’s TCTAC will provide critical support to overburdened communities in Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, Vermont and federally recognized Tribes in New England. The assistance will help local communities navigate the federal grant application process, strengthen their capacity for community engagement, and ensure they can benefit from funding opportunities from the Inflation Reduction Act and Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.

“I am thrilled to see UConn’s Thriving Communities Technical Assistance Center open and available to communities interested in accessing the suite of programs, benefits, and funding made available by the Biden Administration.” said Rep. John B. Larson. “The entire Connecticut Congressional delegation has worked together to secure federal funding and enact new incentives to unleash clean energy in our communities, strengthen public health, and make our state’s infrastructure more resilient to climate change. This technical assistance center is a vital resource for ensuring that all people across New England can equitably advocate for their environmental interests. I will continue to work with UConn and our state and local partners to accomplish these goals and ensure a healthy environment for generations to come.”

“Too often, communities with the most pressing environmental justice concerns have been left behind due to barriers in accessing federal funding,” said EPA New England Regional Administrator David W. Cash. “UConn’s technical assistance center is a game-changer for New England and will provide greater access to services to ensure overburdened and underserved communities and our Tribal nations can access historic investments to address generational environmental and health disparities.”

“As Connecticut’s flagship university, UConn takes pride in service to our communities and helping to prepare them for the environmental challenges they face in the present and the future,” said Pamir Alpay, UConn Vice President for Research, Innovation, and Entrepreneurship. “With the EPA’s generous support, we are proud to extend our expertise and resourcefulness to support environmental justice throughout the cities, towns, and Tribes of New England.”

Senator Richard Blumenthal said: “Armed with this $10 million, UConn will support communities fighting to restore and preserve environmental resources. Aid from experienced experts will be particularly important to underserved areas facing economic and health inequities. This supremely smart investment benefits our entire state.”

“Community leaders and grassroots organizations are the driving force behind Connecticut’s conservation efforts, but too often, these small groups find it nearly impossible to navigate the bureaucratic red tape to access federal grants and programs,” said Senator Chris Murphy. “I’m proud to see the federal government partnering with UConn to help ensure every community can fully benefit from the Biden-Harris Administration’s historic investments in environmental justice.”

“The University of Connecticut’s Technical Assistance Center is here to help communities across the state and region address the effects of climate change and prepare for a clean energy future,"" said Rep. Joe Courtney. “This is particularly important in helping organizations unlock and use funding from the federal Infrastructure Law and Inflation Reduction Act that my colleagues and I championed in Congress. Under President Maric's highly skilled leadership and her strong background in energy sciences, the mission of the Assistance Center is in good hands.”

UConn will partner with the following organizations to engage with local communities:

Environmental Protection Network will provide region-wide support for community capacity building to address challenging health and environmental injustices, offer technical assistance, education and outreach, and conduct community engagement.

Groundwork USA affiliates in Bridgeport, Conn., Lawrence, Mass., and Providence R.I., will coordinate outreach to urban-based community organizations and help tailor technical assistance to meet the diverse needs of urban communities.

New England Rural Health Association in Vermont will coordinate outreach to rural community-based organizations via its more than 600 members and provide technical assistance to address environmental and energy needs as well as public transit, broadband and cell service.

University of Massachusetts Boston’s Institute for New England Native American Studies will coordinate the outreach to Tribes and Native non-profit organizations across the region and tailor location-based technical assistance to meet each tribe’s unique needs.

University of Southern Maine’s New England Environmental Finance Center will provide sustainable solutions to fund and finance environmental and climate priorities and technical assistance to address climate adaptation and water infrastructure needs.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z
https://delauro.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/delauro-statement-israel-banning-unrwa,DeLauro Statement on Israel Banning UNRWA,2024-10-29,2024,2024-10,Democrat,House,CT,Rosa L. DeLauro,D000216,delauro.house.gov,delauro,https://delauro.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Today, Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro (CT-03) released a statement in response to Israel’s parliament passing legislation to ban the United Nation’s Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA):

“The United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) is indispensable in addressing Gaza’s humanitarian crisis, as well as maintaining stability in the West Bank. Israel’s decision to enact legislation to halt UNRWA operations and cease all cooperation is dangerous, short-sighted, and would leave innocent Palestinians even more vulnerable to the devastating impacts of this war. At a time when we are already failing to meet the urgent needs of Gazans, this action further undermines UNRWA, fosters distrust in our international institutions, and fuels animosity toward Israel from its neighbors. This crisis is costing far too many innocent lives, including at least 60 people – mostly women and children – killed in a single strike on Tuesday in northern Gaza. The toll on civilian lives is tragic and underscores the need for uninterrupted humanitarian support.

“As nearly 2 million Gazans continue to face starvation, this action would intensify an already dire crisis. It further threatens the health of Gazans, interrupting vital healthcare efforts, such as the World Health Organization’s polio vaccination campaign, which depends on UNRWA infrastructure and support and Israeli cooperation. Further destabilized Palestinian communities and friction with the United Nations jeopardizes regional security and isolates Israel globally.

“UNRWA must be able to continue its lifesaving work. The agency has expressed commitment to working with Israel to ensure that its operations are not used by Hamas. Our focus should be placed on the proposed reforms laid out in the Colonna Report to ensure the organization’s neutrality in a difficult working environment, not scapegoating a critical humanitarian actor.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z
https://delauro.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/delauro-statement-final-outbound-investment-rule,DeLauro Statement on Final Outbound Investment Rule,2024-10-28,2024,2024-10,Democrat,House,CT,Rosa L. DeLauro,D000216,delauro.house.gov,delauro,https://delauro.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Today, Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro (CT-03) released a statement in response to the U.S. Treasury Department finalizing its rule on U.S. outbound investments:

“The final rule issued by the Treasury Department on U.S. outbound investment is a meaningful step in strengthening U.S. competitiveness and safeguarding our national security and supply chains.

“As I have said, we cannot allow U.S. capital and capabilities to fuel the Chinese Communist Party’s policies. We have already seen the impact of offshoring crucial manufacturing and innovation capacity on our economy, national security, and industrial base in the form of job losses and shortages of critical materials. I fought hard to take action to turn this around – from pushing for my legislation, the National Critical Capabilities Defense Act, in the House-passed America COMPETES Act to securing funding in the 2022 appropriations bill to protect our critical capabilities.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z
https://himes.house.gov/press-releases?ID=903CB876-08E5-439D-9B89-CA87096A4620,Governor Lamont Announces FEMA Amends Major Disaster Declaration for August Storm to Include Public Assistance Program,2024-10-28,2024,2024-10,Democrat,House,CT,James A. Himes,H001047,himes.house.gov,himes,https://himes.house.gov/press-releases,page_html,"Hartford, CT – Governor Ned Lamont today announced that he has received notification from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) informing him that the major disaster declaration President Joe Biden approved for Fairfield County, Litchfield County, and New Haven County as a result of the historic rainfall and extreme flooding that region of Connecticut received on August 18, 2024, has been amended to include the governor’s request for FEMA’s Public Assistance Program.

Approval of this program means that municipal governments within those three counties, as well as Connecticut state government and certain nonprofit organizations, are now eligible to apply for federal reimbursement of 75% of the costs associated with repairing and rebuilding uninsured damage to public infrastructure caused by the storm – such as roads, bridges, rail lines, schools, parks, and other facilities – and the costs associated with their emergency response and protective measures.

Previously, the declaration was approved to include the Individual Assistance Program – which makes federal disaster funding available to individuals to cover the costs of uninsured damage to private property and other related emergency actions – and the Hazard Mitigation Program, which supports state and local governments with the costs of taking actions that can reduce or eliminate long-term risk to people and property from natural disasters. The initial declaration also brought Small Business Administration loan assistance to eligible businesses and individuals.

In his application to FEMA, Governor Lamont estimates that state and local governments in these counties experienced roughly $14.3 million in damage to public infrastructure from this storm, with much of the damage impacting the transportation system, such as state and local roads and bridges, as well as the Waterbury Branch Line of Metro-North Railroad’s New Haven Line.

Governor Lamont said, “Approval of this program will be a relief to many towns that experienced significant damage to public infrastructure from this storm, especially to roads and bridges that were completely destroyed and needed swift rebuilding to ensure that residents who live in these areas have access to critical routes. The Biden-Harris administration has been extremely helpful in their response to this unprecedented flooding event, and I thank FEMA and the Small Business Administration for their on-the-ground actions in Connecticut to help our residents and businesses recover. I also thank the members of Connecticut’s Congressional delegation for helping our state secure this declaration and the associated resources it provides.”

U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal said, “We’ve been holding our breath for this decision. In my multiple visits to towns hard hit by catastrophic flooding, I’ve seen the huge costs and consequences of rebuilding that such historic federal aid will support. It will enable public assets like roads and bridges to be rebuilt – better and stronger for the new weather normal – sparing Connecticut taxpayers most of the fiscal burden. It’s a day well worth the wait. Our state will be more resilient with less financial burden.”

U.S. Representative Rosa DeLauro (CT-03) said, “The inclusion of the Public Assistance Program in this disaster declaration is a crucial step in helping Connecticut communities recover and rebuild. With this, local governments can now access federal support to cover the costs of restoring essential public infrastructure damaged by the storm. Roads, bridges, and other critical public infrastructure connect us to our workplaces, schools, and our families. Rebuilding them is key to our recovery. This support from FEMA means that our towns won’t have to bear the financial strain alone. I will continue to fight to ensure our communities receive the resources they need to recover.”

U.S. Representative Jahana Hayes (CT-05) said, “Amending the major disaster declaration will unlock federal reimbursement resources for municipalities, state government and eligible nonprofits – reducing the financial burden in addition to restoring critical infrastructure. When Connecticut was impacted by record flooding, we received swift support from our federal partners. I remain grateful to the Biden-Harris administration for the continued support our residents, businesses, and communities have received to rebuild and recover.”

U.S. Representative Jim Himes (CT-04) said, “So many in southwest Connecticut are still rebuilding from August’s devastating flooding. I was glad to help bring federal disaster relief to repair the damage and support families in need of assistance, and I’m thrilled that the program has been expanded to offer additional aid without raising property taxes. With this change, our towns will have access to the resources they need to restore roads, bridges, and other critical public infrastructure that Connecticut’s families depend on. Thank you to the Biden-Harris administration, Governor Lamont, and my Congressional colleagues for their continued efforts to support this disaster recovery effort.”

The Lamont administration, through the Connecticut Division of Emergency Management and Homeland Security, will be in touch with municipal officials in the impacted areas to ensure they have information on how they can begin applying for federal disaster assistance under the Public Assistance Program.

So far under his declaration, FEMA has approved more than $8 million in federal disaster assistance to Connecticut residents through the Individual Assistance Program. The deadline for residents to apply for the Individual Assistance Program is November 19, 2024.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-03-30T11:08:25Z
https://delauro.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/delauro-statement-israels-targeted-strikes-against-iran,DeLauro Statement on Israel’s Targeted Strikes Against Iran,2024-10-27,2024,2024-10,Democrat,House,CT,Rosa L. DeLauro,D000216,delauro.house.gov,delauro,https://delauro.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Today, Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro (CT-03) released a statement on Israel’s retaliatory strikes against Iran in response to Iran’s ballistic missile attacks:

""Israel was right to respond strongly to Iran’s ballistic missile attack to ensure its security. Iran should no longer be permitted to work for Israel’s destruction.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z
https://delauro.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/delauro-announces-11-million-community-project-funding-marrakech-inc,"DeLauro Announces $1.1 Million in Community Project Funding for Marrakech, Inc",2024-10-25,2024,2024-10,Democrat,House,CT,Rosa L. DeLauro,D000216,delauro.house.gov,delauro,https://delauro.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Today, Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro (CT-03) announced $1,100,000 secured for Marrakech, Inc. This investment will support renovations to Marrakech’s headquarters, ensuring the facility is safer and more accessible for people with disabilities. The project will address critical issues, such as deteriorating building conditions and unsafe parking areas, which pose risks to both employees and visitors. Marrakech is a nonprofit organization that has been providing human services for individuals throughout Connecticut since 1971, serving over 1,000 individuals every year.

“The funds I have secured for community projects go directly to communities and allow them to move forward with local infrastructure projects, foster new developments, invest in childcare, build climate resiliency, help our health care centers support their patients’ medical needs – and so much more,” said Congresswoman DeLauro. “The funding we are celebrating for Marrakech will help thoroughly renovate this facility, improving its efficiency, safety, and accessibility. It is my hope that this will improve both the working conditions forstaff and the visiting experience for their clients, creating a new community center for all those seeking a level up.”

“I cannot overstate enough how important the funding of this project is to Marrakech, Inc. Just when we felt we were out of options, learning of the investment that Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro recommended on behalf of Marrakech actually brought me to tears. The improvements in the efficiency, safety, and accessibility of our main building will not only positively impact the persons supported, their families, and the many employees who work in or frequent the building but will also affect the community around it as we improve the condition of the building. Marrakech has been committed to providing quality services to residents of Connecticut for over 50 years. The support of Marrakech's project is further proof of the Congresswoman's commitment to people with disabilities and her understanding of the gravity of this commitment.” – Heather LaTorra, Marrakech Inc. President and CEO.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z
https://larson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/expand-social-security-caucus-house-co-chairs-statement-trumps-social,Expand Social Security Caucus House Co-Chairs Statement on Trump’s Social Security Policies,2024-10-23,2024,2024-10,Democrat,House,CT,John B. Larson,L000557,larson.house.gov,larson,https://larson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"East Hartford, CT - This week, the Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget (CRFB), a non-profit, non-partisan organization, released a new report detailing how former President Donald Trump’s proposed policies, if enacted, would render Social Security insolvent in six years. Expand Social Security Caucus House Co-Chairs Reps. John B. Larson (CT-01), Raúl Grijalva (AZ-07), and Debbie Dingell (MI-06) released the following statement:

“Social Security is a cornerstone of economic stability for millions of Americans, providing essential financial support to retirees, disabled individuals, and survivors of deceased workers. Trump’s proposed policies are a non-starter. If implemented, they would eliminate revenue streams used to help finance Social Security and accelerate the depletion of Social Security funding. We will fight back against any attempts to weaken Social Security and stop Trump’s policies that would cause devastating, irrevocable damage to an institution that millions of Americans depend on.”

“Maintaining the solvency of Social Security is vital for promoting economic security, and a moral obligation to honor the commitments made to those who have contributed to the system throughout their working lives. To safeguard the future of Social Security, we cannot allow for Trump’s policies to gut these hard-earned benefits and instead must engage in a simple reform like the Social Security 2100 Act that fixes insolvency by having the wealthy pay into the system the same as everyone else.”

According to CRFB’s new report, If President Trump’s agenda were enacted in full it would shrink Social Security solvency by one-third, to only six years.

Proposals from President Trump that would weaken Social Security’s finances include:

Ending taxation of Social Security benefits, which would eliminate a revenue stream currently used to help finance Social Security.

Ending all taxes on overtime pay and tips, which would reduce payroll tax collection accruing to the Social Security trust funds.

Imposing large tariffs on imports, which would either increase cost-of-living adjustments (COLAs) through higher inflation or reduce taxable payroll.

Enhancing border security and deporting unauthorized immigrants, which would reduce the number of immigrant workers paying into the Social Security trust funds.

President Trump’s proposals to eliminate taxation of Social Security benefits, end taxes on tips and overtime, impose tariffs, and expand deportations would all widen Social Security’s cash deficits. Under CRFB’s central estimate, they find that President Trump’s agenda would:

Increase Social Security’s ten-year cash shortfall by $2.3 trillion through FY 2035.

Advance insolvency by three years, from FY 2034 to FY 2031 – hastening the next President’s insolvency timeline by one-third.

Lead to a 33 percent across-the-board benefit cut in 2035, up from the 23 percent CBO projects under current law.

Increase Social Security’s annual shortfall by roughly 50 percent in FY 2035, from 3.6 to 4 percent of payroll.

Require the equivalent of reducing current law benefits by about one-third or increasing revenue by about one-half to restore 75-year solvency.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z
https://larson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/larson-blumenthal-murphy-announce-41-million-upgrade-connecticuts-water,"Larson, Blumenthal, Murphy Announce $41 Million to Upgrade Connecticut's Water Infrastructure",2024-10-23,2024,2024-10,Democrat,House,CT,John B. Larson,L000557,larson.house.gov,larson,https://larson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"East Hartford, CT - Today, Rep. John B. Larson (CT-01), and Senators Richard Blumenthal and Chris Murphy joined the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to announce $41 million in new Bipartisan Infrastructure Law funding to upgrade Connecticut's water infrastructure and keep communities safe.

“The nearly $41 million in federal funding announced today will help improve local water infrastructure through lead pipe replacement, wastewater management infrastructure improvements, and broken water main repairs,” said Rep. John B. Larson. “We passed the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to accomplish these goals while also creating good-paying jobs, and I will continue to work with the entire Connecticut delegation to deliver federal funding to improve our water systems and ensure everyone has access to safe drinking water.”

“A commitment to clean water speaks volumes about a nation’s values. This $40 million federal investment enables communities to improve their water infrastructure, expanding access to safe and clean drinking water, protecting our local freshwater sources, and reducing wastewater pollutants in our waterways. I am proud that the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law continues to deliver for communities across Connecticut,” said Senator Richard Blumenthal.

“These historic investments from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law will go a long way towards tackling some of Connecticut’s most challenging water infrastructure projects,” said Senator Chris Murphy. “From replacing aging pipes to protecting our watersheds, this $40 million in federal dollars will help ensure every community across our state has reliable access to clean, safe water for generations to come.”

“Water keeps us healthy, sustains vibrant communities and dynamic ecosystems, and supports economic opportunity. When our water infrastructure fails, it threatens people’s health, peace of mind, and the environment,” said EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan. “With the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law’s historic investment in water, EPA is working with states and local partners to upgrade infrastructure and address local challenges—from lead in drinking water, to PFAS, to water main breaks, to sewer overflows and climate resilience. Together, we are creating good-paying jobs while ensuring that all people can rely on clean and safe water.”

“Clean, reliable water is at the heart of every thriving community. Yet too many communities—especially those overburdened by pollution or left behind by past investments—face challenges accessing the resources they need to upgrade water infrastructure,"" said EPA Regional Administrator David W. Cash. ""Thanks to the Biden-Harris Administration, we are delivering transformative funding to support local solutions to water issues, from fixing aging infrastructure to addressing emerging contaminants like PFAS. These investments don’t just protect public health and reduce pollution in waterways; they also create good-paying jobs and help communities become more resilient for the future.”

These Bipartisan Infrastructure Law funds will flow through the Clean Water and Drinking Water State Revolving Funds (CWSRF and DWSRF), a long-standing federal-state water investment partnership. This multibillion-dollar investment will fund state-run, low-interest loan programs that address key challenges in financing water infrastructure. Today’s announcement includes allotments for Bipartisan Infrastructure Law Clean Water General Supplemental funds for Connecticut ($30,484,000), Emerging Contaminant funds ($2,631,000), and $7,640,000 under the Drinking Water Emerging Contaminant Fund.

This funding is part of a five-year, $50 billion investment in water infrastructure through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law – the largest investment in water infrastructure in American history. To ensure investments reach communities that need them the most, the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law mandates that a majority of the funding announced today must be provided to disadvantaged communities in the form of grants or loans that do not have to be repaid.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z
https://courtney.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-joe-courtney-awarded-pre-eminent-honor-extraordinary-service,Rep. Joe Courtney Awarded with Pre-Eminent Honor for Extraordinary Service to Australia,2024-10-22,2024,2024-10,Democrat,House,CT,Joe Courtney,C001069,courtney.house.gov,courtney,https://courtney.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"NORWICH, CT – Today, Congressman Joe Courtney, Co-Chair of the Friends of Australia Caucus, has been appointed by the Governor-General of the Commonwealth of Australia as an Honorary Officer in the General Division of the Order of Australia (AO). Honorary awards and appointments in the Order of Australia are made to individuals who are not Australian citizens, formally recognizing extraordinary service to Australia.

Congressman Courtney joins a select group of appointees, including Senator Roy Blunt, former Co-Chair of the Friends of Australia Caucus, Admiral Harry Harris, former U.S. Ambassador to South Korea and Commander of the Indo-Pacific Command, and General David Petraeus, former Director of the Central Intelligence Agency.

The Embassy of Australia will hold a banquet next month in Washington, DC at which Congressman Courtney will be presented the award.

“As co-chair of the Friends of Australia Caucus, it has been a distinct honor to advance the U.S.-Australia relationship that is founded on a shared commitment to preserving international rule of law and democratic values. Australia is a nation that has provided early warning guidance about the challenges that democracies face around the world, particularly in the Indo-Pacific. To this day, it is ranked by Freedom House as one the world’s healthiest democracies, a powerful inspiration at a time when autocracy is on the rise. The Friends Caucus has fostered bipartisan inter-Congressional and Parliamentary dialogue over the last eight years, which has benefited both nations. Starting in 2021, the U.S.-Australian relationship entered a new era of collaboration under the AUKUS agreement to protect a free and open pacific, and, thanks to the Courtney-Gallagher amendment in 2022, classes of Royal Australian Navy sailors are today conducting training alongside U.S. Navy submariners in Groton, Connecticut. In 2023, the Caucus supported passage of new AUKUS authorities, which will enable robust integration of advanced technologies among Australia, the U.K., and the U.S. to deter coercive behavior. It is an honor to accept this appointment from the Governor-General of the Commonwealth of Australia, Her Excellency the Honourable Ms Sam Mostyn AC, which is a reflection of the Australian government’s ironclad commitment to our nations’ long-standing mateship,” said Congressman Courtney AO.

On July 26, 2024, Courtney met with the first group of Royal Australian Navy enlisted Sailors who graduated from Basic Enlisted Submarine School in his district, Groton, Connecticut.

The Order of Australia is the pre-eminent way Australians recognize achievements and service.

Honorary appointments in the Order of Australia, like Congressman Courtney received, are made to people who are not Australian citizens where they have given extraordinary service to Australia or humanity at large. Recommendations for non-citizens and non-permanent residents for Honorary appointments in the General Division of the Order of Australia are made to the Governor-General by the Prime Minister of Australia.

To read more about Courtney’s leadership on the trilateral AUKUS security agreement, click here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z
https://himes.house.gov/press-releases?ID=7C641743-2005-4CDA-B832-8A00E3D08673,"Himes, Pappas, Gottheimer Introduce Multi-State Worker Tax Fairness Act",2024-10-22,2024,2024-10,Democrat,House,CT,James A. Himes,H001047,himes.house.gov,himes,https://himes.house.gov/press-releases,page_html,"Washington, DC –Today, Representatives Jim Himes (CT-04), Chris Pappas (NH-01), and Josh Gottheimer (NJ-05), introduced the Multi-State Worker Tax Fairness Act. This bill establishes a uniform standard for taxing income based on physical presence in a state. In doing so, the bill prohibits a state from taxing a nonresident’s income earned when the individual was not physically in that state.

“Despite a pandemic-driven surge in telework, conflicting state tax rules still burden employees and discourage working from home,” said Congressman Jim Himes. “There is no good reason why residents of Connecticut who work from home offices in Connecticut should be paying taxes to any other state. It is time to modernize our laws to support an evolving workforce and protect Americans from unfair over-taxation.”

“Every dollar hard-working Granite Staters can keep in their pocket matters, and workers must be protected from unfair, out-of-state taxes,” said Congressman Chris Pappas. “The Multi-State Worker Tax Fairness Act would protect individuals who telework for a company in a state different from the one they reside in from over-taxation. I will continue to fight for tax fairness for all.”

“The Multi-State Worker Tax Fairness Act is essential for cutting taxes and ensuring people in New Jersey keep more of their hard-earned dollars where they belong — in their own pockets,” said Congressman Josh Gottheimer. “By clarifying that they should only pay taxes to the state where they live and work, we’re not just protecting their financial well-being — we’re ensuring they aren’t double taxed by a state they don’t even set foot in.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-03-30T11:08:25Z
https://larson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/larson-blumenthal-announce-1-million-veterans-affordable-housing-and,"Larson, Blumenthal Announce $1 Million for Veterans’ Affordable Housing and Services in Winsted",2024-10-22,2024,2024-10,Democrat,House,CT,John B. Larson,L000557,larson.house.gov,larson,https://larson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Winchester, CT – Today, Rep. John B. Larson (CT-01) and Senator Richard Blumenthal announced $1 million in federal funding for the Winsted Health Center to support the construction of affordable housing and a live, work, and wellness space for veterans.

“Everyone deserves access to quality, affordable housing, yet far too often, our veterans return from service and struggle to secure employment and housing,” said Larson. “It was my honor to work to secure funding in Congress to support the needs of Northwestern Connecticut’s veterans, from housing to job training and medical care. I want to thank Kris Griffin and her team at the Winsted Health Center, alongside the countless community advocates involved in this project, for their bold vision for the future of this site.”

“This $1 million will enable our heroes to have housing, skill training and other services they deserve and need. There’s no better venue than the Winsted Health Center to be the centerpiece for this bold, transformative program,” said Blumenthal.

“What a wonderful affirmation and pledge of support from Congressman Larson for our anticipated one- of-a-kind campus where folks can learn new job skills, start their own businesses, and find safe and affordable places to live,” said Winsted Health Center Executive Director Kris Griffin. “Congressman Larson and his staff have been extremely helpful to us over the years, and we know this investment of federal dollars he championed for us will yield many returns for many in Winsted and beyond! We are very grateful to him.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z
https://larson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/larson-trump-and-republicans-congress-continue-target-seniors-hard,Larson: Trump and Republicans in Congress Continue to Target Seniors’ Hard-Earned Benefits for Cuts,2024-10-21,2024,2024-10,Democrat,House,CT,John B. Larson,L000557,larson.house.gov,larson,https://larson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"East Hartford, CT – Today, House Ways and Means Social Security Subcommittee Ranking Member John B. Larson (CT-01) released the following statement after the Washington Posthighlighted a report revealing former President Donald Trump’s plans for Social Security could drain the Trust Funds in six years.

“I am glad to see the news media shine a light on the real impact of Donald Trump’s plans for Social Security,” said Larson. “While he continues to peddle an unpaid for tax cut that could result in automatic benefit cuts for seniors, the facts are clear: the former President and his Republican allies in Congress have targeted seniors’ hard-earned benefits for cuts. Ironically, when he was President, Democrats put forward a plan to cut taxes for seniors and expand Social Security, and Donald Trump ignored it, instead annually calling for cuts to Social Security in his budgets. Adding insult to injury, he did this while passing massive cash breaks for the wealthiest one percent. Democrats are united around President Biden and Vice President Harris’ call to strengthen Social Security by ‘scrapping the cap’ on people making more than $400,000 a year, so they pay their fair share in to the program, just like everyday Americans. Social Security 2100 will enhance benefits for the first time in more than 50 years, extend the program’s solvency by decades, and cut taxes for seniors without putting their hard-earned benefits at risk.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z
https://delauro.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/delauro-statement-death-hamas-leader-yahya-sinwar,DeLauro Statement on Death of Hamas Leader Yahya Sinwar,2024-10-18,2024,2024-10,Democrat,House,CT,Rosa L. DeLauro,D000216,delauro.house.gov,delauro,https://delauro.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Today, Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro (CT-03) released a statement on the death of Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar:

“Yahya Sinwar was the terrorist who orchestrated the barbaric October 7th attacks. It is just that he was killed by IDF forces. His death is key to Israel’s security. It was also important for global security and for all those looking for stability and peace.

“It is a moment to pause and rethink how best to get back the hostages and help Gaza escape the current humanitarian crisis while ensuring Israeli citizens are able to return to the North.

“Israel must deal with Iran’s ballistic missile attack in a way that ensures its security.

“Everyone loses if Hamas remains in control of Gaza. They must be defeated. However, this war is against Hamas – not the Palestinian people – and all efforts must move toward a two-state solution.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z
https://larson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressional-delegation-and-governor-lamont-secure-125-million-federal,"Congressional Delegation and Governor Lamont Secure $125 Million Federal Grant for Phase 3 of I-91, I-691, Route 15 Interchange Reconfiguration in Meriden",2024-10-18,2024,2024-10,Democrat,House,CT,John B. Larson,L000557,larson.house.gov,larson,https://larson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Hartford, CT - Reps. John B. Larson (CT-01), Rosa DeLauro (CT-03), and Jahana Hayes (CT-05), Senator Richard Blumenthal, Senator Chris Murphy, Governor Ned Lamont, and Transportation Commissioner Garrett Eucalitto today announced that the Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) has been awarded a $125 million competitive grant from the U.S. Department of Transportation through President Joe Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to support Phase 3 of the construction project reconfiguring the highway interchange that connects Interstate 91, Interstate 691, and Route 15 in Meriden.

This interchange is one of the most congested, outdated, and crash prone highway corridors in Connecticut, and the state leaders have been unified in working to secure federal funding that will enable the state to complete a major reconfiguration of this area.

CTDOT is currently constructing the second of the project’s three phases. The project’s overall goal is to reduce congestion and improve safety by eliminating dangerous weaving points, correcting roadway geometry, and adding multi-lane exits. Upon completion of Phase 3 in 2030, the project will see the replacement and rehabilitation of several bridges and the addition and extension of auxiliary lanes to reduce crashes and improve traffic flow.

“Connecticut has some of the most congested and dangerous highways and interchanges in America,"" said Rep. Larson."" I worked with the entire Connecticut Congressional delegation to pass the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law so we can cut down on traffic congestion, repair aging roads and bridges, and support good-paying union jobs. I applaud Governor Lamont and Commissioner Eucalitto for their ongoing commitment to improving our infrastructure and revitalizing our communities, and I look forward to continuing to work with them to support projects across the state, including the Greater Hartford area, that accomplish those goals.”

“This area of highway is one of the most heavily congested in Connecticut and our administration has made its reconfiguration a priority because it’s about time that we do something about the backups, crashes, and delays that this oddly designed section of roadway causes nearly every day,"" said Governor Lamont. ""This is a major reconfiguration of a very heavily traveled area and it’s going to take some time to complete, but ultimately central Connecticut will benefit from finally easing the congestion on these highways. We’re able to execute this project thanks to the funding released by President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, and I applaud Connecticut’s outstanding Congressional delegation for not only helping to get this law passed but also working to ensure that our state benefits from it in a major way. I thank the Biden-Harris administration and the U.S. Department of Transportation for working with our administration to secure the funding for this important project.”

“I am proud that a historic $125 million in federal funding will support the reconfiguration of one of Connecticut’s most congested interchanges,"" said Senator Blumenthal. ""This redesign will provide relief to the countless motorists who pass through every day and provide much-needed infrastructure upgrades. I will continue fighting to deliver federal investments to Connecticut that make our roads and highways more safe and secure.”

“Getting through the congestion on I-91, I-691, and Route 15 has become a daily headache for Connecticut drivers,"" said Senator Murphy. ""This $125 million in federal dollars from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law will help realign ramps, replace aging bridges, improve drainage, and support other long-needed infrastructure upgrades that streamline the flow of traffic, create good-paying jobs, and ensure a safer, smoother commute for thousands of people.”

“This is another victory for Connecticut,"" said Rep. Rosa DeLauro. ""When my fellow Congressional members and I worked on the Bipartisan Infrastructure Act, we understood the law’s potential to benefit communities throughout the state. With funding now in place for Phase 3 of the reconfiguration of Interstate 91, Interstate 691, and Route 15, we are generating well-paying jobs, fixing bridges, expanding traffic lanes on I-91, making our roads safer, and enhancing road conditions.”

“Reconfiguring the I-91, I-691, Route 15 interchange will reduce traffic and increase safety for drivers,"" said Rep. Jahana Hayes. ""I am delighted to see another federal investment awarded to move this project forward. Investing in modernizing infrastructure benefits communities, and I will continue to work with my Congressional colleagues to prioritize more projects that deliver for Connecticut.”

“Improving safety is our number one priority at CTDOT and it is the number one goal of this project,"" said Commissioner Eucalitto. ""Without federal support from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, projects like this can sit idle for decades while Connecticut pays the price. We are thankful to Governor Lamont and the state legislature for ensuring we had matching funds to secure this grant, appreciative of our Congressional delegation for its steadfast advocacy, and grateful to our partners at USDOT who allow us to dream big once again.”

The cost of the project’s first phase totaled $80 million and was entirely funded by the state. The second phase is supported by a combination of $50 million in state funding and $200 million federal funding from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. The third phase will be supported by the $125 million federal grant announced today, as well as additional state funding. Combined, the expenditure for all three phases is anticipated to be more than $500 million.

This project includes a project labor agreement with the building trades, providing good-paying jobs and workforce development training for the next generation of workers.

The first phase began in early 2023 and is aimed at repairing bridges, adding a lane of traffic to I-91, and making related road improvements. This includes:

Realigning and reconfiguring the ramp from I-691 eastbound to I-91 northbound (Exit 1A old Exit 11) to two lanes to meet traffic demand.

Bridge replacement due to the proposed ramp realignment.

Adding an auxiliary lane on I-91 northbound to relieve congestion and improve safety caused by a steep uphill grade.

This second phase began in June and includes:

Adding a new two-lane exit ramp from Route 15 northbound to I-91 northbound to reduce traffic congestion on the Exit 68 N-E ramp.

Closing the existing Exit 17 ramp from I-91 northbound to Route 15 northbound and re-routing traffic to Exit 16 to provide a two-lane exit ramp with a right-side traffic merge onto Route 15 northbound.

Reconfiguring the existing Exit 68W ramp from Route 15 northbound to I-691 westbound to two lanes.

Reconfiguring the acceleration and deceleration lanes to provide adequate traffic weaving distances to improve safety.

The third phase will include:

A new two-lane exit ramp from Route 15 southbound to I-91 southbound to reduce traffic congestion on the existing Exit 67 ramp.

A new two-lane I-91 southbound ramp to Route 15 southbound to reduce traffic congestion on the existing Exit 17 ramp.

Reconfiguring the ramp from I-691 eastbound to Route 15 southbound (Exit 10) to two lanes.

Reconfiguring the ramp from I-91 southbound to I-691 westbound (Exit 18) to two lanes.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z
https://larson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/larson-delauro-announce-587633-mental-health-service-professionals,"Larson, DeLauro Announce $587,633 for Mental Health Service Professionals at University of Connecticut",2024-10-18,2024,2024-10,Democrat,House,CT,John B. Larson,L000557,larson.house.gov,larson,https://larson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"East Hartford, CT - Today, Reps. John B. Larson (CT-01) and Rosa DeLauro (CT-03) announced a $587,633 grant for the University of Connecticut School of Social Work to support innovative partnerships to train school-based mental health services providers and expand the number of mental health service professionals available to address the dire need in our schools. The funding comes from the Mental Health Service Professionals Demonstration Program.

“With 1 in 6 youth in the United States experiencing mental illness each year, it has never been more important to grow our mental health workforce and prioritize the well-being of our children and adolescents in Connecticut and across the nation,” said Rep. Larson. “Thanks to the leadership of Rep. Rosa DeLauro on the Appropriations Committee, we have worked to increase federal funding for training and workforce development in the health care field. This new grant will support programs at UConn to train mental health care providers and ensure our schools have the personnel and resources needed to support students of all ages.”

“Mental health is critical for the well-being of students,” said Rep. DeLauro. “To tackle the mental health crisis we face, we need a strong and capable workforce of mental health professionals ready to provide comprehensive care and support in our schools and communities. With this funding, UCONN can continue to develop a strong pipeline of mental health professionals who can ensure our students have access to the mental health services they need. I proudly fought for a $74 million increase for awards in two critical programs, the School-Based Mental Health Services Grants and Mental Health Service Professional Demonstration Grants, which are critical to addressing the youth mental health crisis in our communities. I will always work to make sure our youth have the resources they need to thrive.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z
https://delauro.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/delauro-renews-call-emergency-disaster-supplemental,DeLauro Renews Call for Emergency Disaster Supplemental,2024-10-17,2024,2024-10,Democrat,House,CT,Rosa L. DeLauro,D000216,delauro.house.gov,delauro,https://delauro.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Today, House Appropriations Committee Ranking Member Rosa DeLauro (CT-03) released a statement renewing calls for a comprehensive disaster relief package following news that the Small Business Administration (SBA) had exhausted funds for new disaster loans:

“For the last year, I have consistently called for a comprehensive emergency supplemental in response to several disasters – from Hurricanes Helene and Milton, to Connecticut flooding and other localized extreme weather events fueled by climate change, to wildfires, to the collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge. The SBA’s funds for disaster loans are now exhausted while small businesses and communities across the country still face the impact of these events. While we provided $20 billion for FEMA in the funding bill we passed at the end of September to ensure that they could provide immediate assistance, it is clear now that more is needed. It is far past time for Speaker Johnson to agree to a comprehensive disaster package to help American families, farms, businesses, and communities recover.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z
https://courtney.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-courtney-celebrates-crumbling-foundations-milestone-1000-homeowners,"Rep. Courtney Celebrates Crumbling Foundations Milestone:  1,000 Homeowners Received Relief through CFSIC",2024-10-14,2024,2024-10,Democrat,House,CT,Joe Courtney,C001069,courtney.house.gov,courtney,https://courtney.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"NORWICH, CT – Congressman Joe Courtney (CT-02) today applauded a major milestone for homeowners facing the crumbling foundation crisis. On Friday, the Connecticut Foundation Solutions Indemnity Company (CFSIC) announced that it has served over 1000 homeowners.

“This remarkable milestone of service underscores CFSIC’s life-changing role for Connecticut’s homeowners. CFSIC and my office have worked closely over the years to help reach this milestone. Its creation in 2017 by the Connecticut General Assembly was a bold move driven by a grassroots coalition of homeowners who had no other redress. My office worked with the IRS to ensure that CFSIC grants for repairs were not taxable by the federal government to homeowners and we also secured the organization’s non-profit status so it could receive philanthropic gifts and expand its reach.

“There are still many homes at risk from pyrrhotite damage, and it is critical that we redouble our efforts to stabilize the home and real estate markets in Connecticut that have been ravaged by this insidious defective concrete. I look forward to working with colleagues in the Connecticut Congressional delegation to advance my Casualty Loss Deduction Restoration Act to help achieve that goal. Thank you to Mike Maglaras, CFSIC President Steve Werbner and his team, the General Assembly, and Governor Lamont for your persistence and commitment to helping residents plagued by pyrrhotite and crumbling foundations,” Courtney said.

Michael Maglaras, Superintendent of CFSIC, commented, “We’ve reached the number 1,000 families served...we’re enormously pleased to be helping the victims of this crisis, literally one family at a time.”

Rep. Courtney has long supported CFSIC to ensure it can deliver relief to homeowners. In March 2019, thanks to Rep. Courtney’s leadership, CFSIC received its 501(c)(3) designation which has allowed CFSIC to receive tens of thousands of dollars in private donations in addition to the public money it received. Then, in April 2019, Reps. Courtney and Larson urged the IRS and finally received tax clarification from the IRS that homeowners impacted by crumbling foundations could claim additional crumbling foundations-related repairs.

More recently, federal funding Courtney secured allowed the Capital Regions Council of Government and CFSIC to launch the new Crumbling Foundation Remediation and Restoration program to help low- and moderate-income homeowners access financial assistance to repair damages caused by crumbling foundations.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z
https://courtney.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/ranking-member-courtney-applauds-128b-navy-contracts-electric-boat,Ranking Member Courtney Applauds $1.28B Navy Contracts for Electric Boat,2024-10-13,2024,2024-10,Democrat,House,CT,Joe Courtney,C001069,courtney.house.gov,courtney,https://courtney.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"NORWICH, CT – Today, Congressman Joe Courtney (CT-02), Ranking Member of the U.S. House Seapower and Projection Forces Subcommittee, issued the following statement after the U.S. Navy awarded Electric Boat a pair of contracts valued at a total of $1.28B to ensure the health and security of the submarine supplier base and to procure components needed for boats in Block VI of the Virginia class submarine program. Funding was authorized by the FY24 National Defense Authorization Act, which Courtney championed as Ranking Member of the Seapower and Projection Forces Subcommittee.

“These contracts, authorized by the U.S. House Seapower Subcommittee, ensure that suppliers across the country have the funding needed to meet the Congress’ and Navy’s aggressive demand for submarine construction by providing additional components for boats in the construction pipeline. This work also ensures that long-lead materials for the next generation Block VI submarines in the Virginia class program will be delivered on time when construction begins. Continued investments into suppliers for purchase orders is a clear commitment to meet the goal of improving the health and stability of the nationwide industrial base reflecting the intent of Congress.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z
https://delauro.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/delauro-statement-death-new-haven-alder-tom-ficklin,DeLauro Statement on Death of New Haven Alder Tom Ficklin,2024-10-11,2024,2024-10,Democrat,House,CT,Rosa L. DeLauro,D000216,delauro.house.gov,delauro,https://delauro.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Today, Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro released a statement in response to news that New Haven Alder Tom Ficklin had passed away:

“I am deeply saddened by the passing of my friend, Alder Tom Ficklin. Tom has been a pillar in our community for over 50 years. He was a champion for truth and justice.

“He always believed in the power of community engagement and participation. Through his work in the press, both as Editor-in-Chief of Inner City News and as a host on WNHH, Tom provided a platform for countless voices – many that usually went unheard. His work always demonstrated his unwavering commitment to our city’s future.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z
https://courtney.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-courtney-calls-speaker-johnson-reconvene-house-urgently-deliver,Rep. Courtney Calls on Speaker Johnson to Reconvene the House to Urgently Deliver Disaster Relief,2024-10-10,2024,2024-10,Democrat,House,CT,Joe Courtney,C001069,courtney.house.gov,courtney,https://courtney.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"NORWICH, CT – Today, Congressman Joe Courtney (CT-02) issued the following statement after sending a letter with 62 of his colleagues to Speaker Johnson calling on him to reconvene the U.S. House to pass additional disaster relief funding. On September 25, Courtney also voted to pass the Continuing Resolution which included $20 billion for FEMA’s disaster relief fund.

“Yesterday, I sent a letter with dozens of my colleagues to Speaker Johnson urging him to reconvene the US House of Representatives so that we can pass robust disaster relief funding for both FEMA and the Small Business Administration. Whatever reason Speaker Johnson had last week to refuse action by the House has been dwarfed by the magnitude of destruction by Hurricanes Helene and Milton. FEMA’s ‘burn rate’ since the House freed up $20 billion for disaster assistance on September 25 requires immediate supplemental aid. The Speaker needs to show leadership for the sake of communities and first responders who are facing the devastating consequences of these disasters right now.""

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z
https://larson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/larson-statement-2025-social-security-cola-announcement,Larson Statement on the 2025 Social Security COLA Announcement,2024-10-10,2024,2024-10,Democrat,House,CT,John B. Larson,L000557,larson.house.gov,larson,https://larson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"East Hartford, CT – Today, House Ways and Means Social Security Subcommittee Ranking Member John B. Larson (CT-01) released the following statement after the Social Security Administration (SSA) announced that the Social Security Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA) for 2025 will be 2.5 percent.

“The annual cost-of-living adjustment is vital to ensure our nation’s nearly 70 million Social Security beneficiaries can make ends meet,” said Larson. “However, the current COLA formula is not nearly enough for seniors living on fixed incomes, including the more than 5 million Americans who receive monthly checks below the poverty level. That is why there is an urgent need to act to enhance Social Security and protect it from the cuts that my Republican colleagues have proposed. The time is long overdue to enhance benefits, and improve the COLA, which has not been addressed in more than 50 years. Democrats’ plan would both enhance benefits and ensure the annual COLA keeps pace with rising costs by incorporating the CPI-E into the formula to specifically address the expenses seniors face, an idea supported by the AARP. Most importantly, it’s time for Congress to vote!”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z
https://himes.house.gov/press-releases?ID=A0602346-2EDE-4F36-895A-4CDAD1AAB16D,Himes Celebrates Federal Funding Anti-Human Trafficking Non-Profit,2024-10-09,2024,2024-10,Democrat,House,CT,James A. Himes,H001047,himes.house.gov,himes,https://himes.house.gov/press-releases,page_html,"Bridgeport, CT – Today, Congressman Jim Himes announced that the Partnership to End Human Trafficking (PEHT) was awarded a $1 million grant by the U.S. Department of Justice through their Office for Victims of Crime’s Anti-Trafficking Housing Assistance program. Grants are awarded to community organizations dedicated to providing housing to survivors of human trafficking.

Congressman Himes said, “PEHT has long been a haven for survivors of human trafficking, offering comprehensive resources to provide much-needed security and stability. Every person who comes through PEHT’s doors is not a statistic, but a person deserving care. This federal funding will help PEHT maintain its current transitional and short-term housing assistance and allow the non-profit to expand its capacity to serve additional survivors throughout Fairfield County.”

PEHT Executive Director, Jamie Manirakiza, LSW, said, ""We are honored to receive this critical grant from the Department of Justice’s Office for Victims of Crime, which will enable us to expand our housing assistance for victims of human trafficking in Southwest Connecticut. This funding addresses an urgent need for transitional and rapid re-housing services, allowing us to not only increase the identification of labor and sex trafficking victims but also provide comprehensive, wrap-around support. We remain committed to ensuring that every survivor has access to the safe, stable environment and supportive services necessary for their journey toward healing and independence.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-03-30T11:08:25Z
https://himes.house.gov/press-releases?ID=EA6A6A87-F588-4F54-96BE-927E5AE21BA0,"Blumenthal, Murphy, Courtney, Himes, and Hayes Announce Over $16 Million for Lead-Free Homes",2024-10-09,2024,2024-10,Democrat,House,CT,James A. Himes,H001047,himes.house.gov,himes,https://himes.house.gov/press-releases,page_html,"Hartford, CT – Today, U.S. Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) and Chris Murphy (D-CT) and U.S. Representatives Joe Courtney (CT-02), Jim Himes (CT-04), and Jahana Hayes (CT-05) announced over $16 million in funding from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to protect children under the age of six years old from lead poisoning. The funds are awarded through HUD’s Lead-Based Paint Hazard Reduction Grant Program.

“Over $16 million will protect families across Connecticut from exposure to the pernicious poison that is lead in their homes. Lead poisoning causes detrimental and irreversible damage, especially to children. Currently, more than 1,000 Connecticut children are affected by lead each year and I am proud that federal funding will work to address this dire crisis,” said Blumenthal.

“Investing in lead paint removal will protect our communities from the lifelong, devastating effects of lead poisoning. This $16 million in funding will help mitigate lead-based paint hazards in older homes, maintain affordable housing, and provide resources to ensure families in Bridgeport, Norwich, and Waterbury can address other health and safety concerns. There is no safe level of lead exposure, and I will keep fighting to ensure everyone in our state has a safe and healthy place to call home,” said Murphy.

“My office and I were pleased to lead the federal effort to advocate on the City of Norwich’s behalf and bring the federal funding home to ensure less children are exposed to the serious dangers of lead paint. The federal funding award is a clear testament to the outstanding work executed by the City, Wayne Sharkey, and his team, and the hours and hours they spent on this application to continue their live-saving work,” said Courtney.

“Many New England homes and apartments were constructed well before we knew how dangerous lead paint exposure can be, especially for young children. The over $6 million in federal funding Bridgeport will receive will allow the city to expand its remediation efforts and help ensure children are no longer exposed to lead paint’s harmful effects. When coupled with the Governor’s Lead Free CT Campaign, this investment brings us closer to eliminating lead contaminants in Connecticut once and for all,” said Himes.

The federal funding announced today will address lead-based paint hazards in the following municipalities:

The City of Waterbury will receive $7,000,000.

The City of Bridgeport will receive $6,006,105.

The City of Norwich will receive $3,157,991.

The Lead-Based Paint Hazard Reduction Grant Program helps transform communities by fixing older housing, preserving affordable housing, and improving communities and the health of children and families in these communities. In addition to addressing lead-based paint hazards, HUD also offers healthy homes supplemental funding to address other housing related health and safety issues while addressing the lead-based paint.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-03-30T11:08:25Z
https://larson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/larson-announces-650000-hispanic-federation-launch-financial-education,"Larson Announces $650,000 for the Hispanic Federation to Launch Financial Education Initiative in Greater Hartford",2024-10-09,2024,2024-10,Democrat,House,CT,John B. Larson,L000557,larson.house.gov,larson,https://larson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Hartford, CT – Today, Rep. John B. Larson (CT-01) announced $650,000 in federal funding for the Hispanic Federation to launch a new, community-based financial education initiative in Greater Hartford with The Village for Families & Children, Capitol Squash, International Hartford, and Our Piece of the Pie.

“Due to a variety of economic factors, Latinos have significantly lower household wealth and savings compared to non-Hispanic white Americans,” said Larson. “We must do more to improve financial literacy, so everyone has the tools they need to get ahead, and that is why I worked to secure federal funding for new financial literacy workshops and services right here in Hartford. As one of our nation’s premiere Latino nonprofits, I cannot think of a better organization than the Hispanic Federation to lead this multilingual, multi-generational financial education initiative with four great organizations who work directly in the community to expand opportunity for Hartford residents. As we recognize Hispanic Heritage Month, I am thrilled to announce this new initiative to empower our area’s Latino community.”

“I am grateful for the advocacy and support of our federal partners, especially Congressman Larson, in providing this critical support to the Hispanic Federation and the sub-grantee organizations,” said Hartford Mayor Arunan Arulampalam. “This grant will directly impact families in Hartford’s Latino community by providing education on the core tenets of financial solvency—debt, budgeting, saving, and investing.”

“Every day we see Latinos working hard to try and reach the American Dream, unfortunately the pathway to the American Dream is not clear and very few people have the bandwidth to figure that out. I am excited to work with our partners in Connecticut to help illuminate the pathway so that more people can see how they can reach financial security and deliver on the promise of taking care of their loved ones,” said Frankie Miranda, President and CEO of Hispanic Federation.

“The Village is committed to expanding access to financial literacy training for Hispanic families in Greater Hartford and this grant will help accomplish that,” said Village President & CEO Hector Glynn. “We are grateful for the leadership of Congressman Larson and our other partners who made this possible. I can’t think of a better way to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month than to highlight this accomplishment, and then get to work helping families achieve financial stability.

“The SBA Financial Education Initiative through the Hispanic Federation made post-secondary education more accessible for Hartford students. This past summer, with this funding, Capitol Squash toured twelve different colleges and universities across four states. We’ve never had the resources to tour this many schools in the summer before. These visits exposed our students to educational institutions beyond the scope of their communities and encouraged early planning to balance affordability and academics. This grant helped our students and their families navigate the financial aid process by funding workshops that provided step-by-step support with the FAFSA, net price calculators, scholarship applications, and more. The Hispanic Federation provided vital experiences for our students that made furthering their education attainable.” said Pat Purcell, College Access and Success Manager, Capitol Squash.

“We are thrilled by the overwhelming response to our financial literacy workshops, highlighting the urgent need for accessible education in our community. Thanks to the support of Congressman Larson and the Financial Literacy grant, we can expand our efforts to empower Spanish speaking and English-speaking residents alike in the Twon of East Hartford, equipping them with the tools they need to make informed financial decisions for their families and future. This initiative is a critical step toward closing the financial knowledge gap and fostering economic resilience in our community,” said Erwin T. Hurst, Sr., MBA, Financial Literacy Project Director for International Hartford.

""Our Piece of the Pie is incredibly grateful to be the recipient of The Hispanic Federation’s financial literacy grant. This grant allows us to provide valuable workshops to our youth that give them the fundamental financial literacy skills necessary to become successful young adults. 40% of all OPP youth identify as Hispanic/Latino which signifies the importance of this program for our organization. Financial literacy programs lead to better education outcomes, employment opportunities, and helps build generational wealth which allows youth to be in charge of their own future,"" said Hector Rivera, President & CEO, Our Piece of the Pie, Inc.

Despite having the highest labor force participation rates of any community in the United States, Latinos trail non-Hispanic Americans across many economic indicators, including homeownership, wealth, access to banking, and retirement savings. Studies have shown that more than one-third of financial inequality could potentially be alleviated through improved financial literacy.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z
https://courtney.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-courtney-celebrates-31-million-federal-grant-protect-children-lead,Rep. Courtney Celebrates $3.1 Million Federal Grant to Protect Children from Lead Paint,2024-10-08,2024,2024-10,Democrat,House,CT,Joe Courtney,C001069,courtney.house.gov,courtney,https://courtney.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"NORWICH, CT -- Today, Rep. Joe Courtney celebrated a $3.1 million federal grant he helped secure for the City of Norwich to remove lead paint from low-income homes with children. The announcement comes after Rep. Courtney led the effort with Sens. Blumenthal and Murphy in August 2024 urging the agency to deliver these critical funds to the City.

The funding was awarded through the U.S. Housing and Urban Development’s Lead-Based Paint Hazard Reduction Grant Program. The City will utilize funding to remove lead paint hazards from at least 85 properties with a specific focus on homes with children in the Norwich area. Many of the residents of these homes will be low-to-moderate income families with at-risk children under the age of six.

“My office and I were pleased to lead the federal effort to advocate on their behalf and bring the federal funding home to ensure less children are exposed to the serious dangers of lead paint,” Courtney said. “The federal funding award is a clear testament to the outstanding work executed by the City of Norwich, Wayne Sharkey, and his team, and the hours and hours they spent on this application to continue their live-saving work.”

“The Office of Community Development’s staff is excited to be able to continue our ongoing work in preventing Lead Poisoning in Children here in Norwich. We want to thank Joe Courtney and his entire team for assisting us in securing these much needed funds for our Community,” Wayne Sharkey, the City of Norwich’s Lead Program Manager, said.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z
https://courtney.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/one-year-later-rep-courtney-sits-down-ct-hostage-family,One Year Later: Rep. Courtney Sits Down with CT Hostage Family,2024-10-07,2024,2024-10,Democrat,House,CT,Joe Courtney,C001069,courtney.house.gov,courtney,https://courtney.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"NORWICH, CT – Rep. Joe Courtney sat down with the family of a freed Israeli-American hostage with ties to Connecticut to mark the first anniversary since Hamas’ brutal terrorist attack.

“My cousin Yehuda called me and said my ‘daughter has been taken to Gaza [by Hamas].’ He called me Sunday, October 8 and I immediately called Joe Courtney,” Jerry Fischer of Waterford, Connecticut said. “He got the wheels rolling.”

“My office was able to connect him to the State Department on that Sunday and by the end of the day Liat was registered in their system [as a missing person] and that gave the family something to hold on to in terms of making sure someone was tracking her whereabouts,” Courtney said. “By the end of November, because there was a ceasefire negotiated, she was part of the last group that was released. Diplomacy in that instance succeeded.”

In July, Rep. Courtney met with Liat Beinin Atzili, her father, Yehuda Beinin, and Jerry Fischer in Washington, DC.

Watch on Fox 61

Watch on Channel 3

Watch on NBC CT's Face the Facts

Watch on News 8

Courtney also invited Fischer as his guest for the 2024 State of the Union to bring attention to the urgent need for a ceasefire to bring all hostages home safely.

To read Rep. Courtney’s statement on the release of Liat Beinin Atzili, click here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z
https://delauro.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/delauro-recognizes-one-year-october-7-terrorist-attacks,DeLauro Recognizes One Year Since October 7 Terrorist Attacks,2024-10-07,2024,2024-10,Democrat,House,CT,Rosa L. DeLauro,D000216,delauro.house.gov,delauro,https://delauro.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Today, Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro (CT-03) released the following statement marking one year since the Hamas terrorist attacks that resulted in the loss of 1,195 Israeli lives, hundreds of hostages held by Hamas, and has spurred the ongoing conflict in the region:

“On October 7, Israel faced the most devastating terrorist attack in its history. My heart breaks for the lives lost and the families torn apart. Earlier this year, I went to Kibbutz Be’eri and saw the homes where so many were massacred, to the site of the supernova Sukkot Gathering music festival that Hamas attacked, and met repeatedly with families of those taken in the Hostage Square. I continue to stand with Israel and support its right to defend itself from threats – whether it be Hamas’s terrorist violence, Hezbollah’s aggression, or Iran’s ballistic missile attacks. October 7th also brought an unacceptable rise in antisemitism that we must fight.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z
https://larson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/larson-statement-anniversary-october-7th-attacks,Larson Statement on the Anniversary of the October 7th Attacks,2024-10-07,2024,2024-10,Democrat,House,CT,John B. Larson,L000557,larson.house.gov,larson,https://larson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"East Hartford, CT – Today, Rep. John B. Larson (CT-01) released the following statement on the one-year anniversary of Hamas’s terrorist attack on Israel, where 1,195 people were killed and 251 were taken hostage, including 101 who remain in captivity today.

“The October 7th attack was the deadliest day for the Jewish people since the Holocaust. 1,195 people were brutally murdered by Hamas, including 14 American citizens,” said Larson. “The United States stands with the people of Israel and remains committed to their security as they continue to face threats. Additionally, over the last year, Jewish and Muslim people have faced a staggering rise in antisemitism and Islamophobia. No one deserves to live in fear because of their faith or ethnicity. The people of Israel and Gaza should be able to live their lives freed from the threat of terrorism and hate. I stand with President Biden, the hundreds of thousands of Israeli citizens, and the families of hostages held in Gaza, including former Connecticut resident Jonathan Dekel-Chen, who are demanding their safe return and calling for this war to come to an end.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z
https://courtney.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-courtney-announces-new-additional-funding-virginia-class-submarine,"Rep. Courtney Announces New, Additional Funding for Virginia Class Submarine Construction",2024-10-04,2024,2024-10,Democrat,House,CT,Joe Courtney,C001069,courtney.house.gov,courtney,https://courtney.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"NORWICH, CT – Today, Congressman Joe Courtney (CT-02) issued the following statement after the Navy released $376,788,600 to Electric Boat to advance the Virginia class submarine program. As then-Chairman and now Ranking Member of the Seapower Subcommittee, Courtney authorized this funding through the FY21 through FY24 National Defense Authorization Acts.

“Electric Boat’s new $376 million contract, coupled with its record large workforce, continues the strong momentum to build a stronger, larger fleet of Virginia class submarines. This federal funding, which was authorized by the Seapower Subcommittee, will also support research and design of advanced capabilities on future generations of attack submarines to ensure our Navy maintains its undersea superiority. The award also serves as a testament to the outstanding shipbuilders and their track record of excellence on our submarine programs.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z
https://larson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/larson-blumenthal-lamont-join-hud-officials-announce-more-11-million,"Larson, Blumenthal, Lamont Join HUD Officials to Announce More Than $11 Million to Address Health Hazards in Connecticut Public Housing",2024-10-04,2024,2024-10,Democrat,House,CT,John B. Larson,L000557,larson.house.gov,larson,https://larson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Hartford, CT – Today, Rep. John B. Larson (CT-01), Senator Richard Blumenthal, and Governor Ned Lamont joined the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to announce $11.5 million in funding for two housing authorities in Connecticut to evaluate and reduce residential health hazards in public housing, including lead-based paint, carbon monoxide, mold, radon, and fire safety.

“Dangerous toxins like lead are still far too commonly found in homes and apartments. Today’s announcement of over $4 million in federal funding will help protect children and families from the dangers of lead poisoning in Hartford. This investment will go a long way from evaluating risks to eliminating lead paint from homes, where more than 1,000 Connecticut children are negatively impacted annually. I will continue to work with our state and local partners to support funding to improve public health outcomes and increase access to high-quality, affordable housing,” said Congressman John B. Larson (CT-01).

“This $11 million will protect more Norwich and Hartford families from exposure to hazardous lead in their homes, ensuring they can grow, play, and learn in safe environments,"" said Senator Richard Blumenthal. ""Lead poisoning can cause devastating and irreversible damage, most especially to young children, and I am thrilled to see this desperately needed federal funding come to Connecticut.”

“In Connecticut, we've been taking aggressive actions to invest in our communities so that every child can grow up safe from lead exposure,” stated Governor Ned Lamont. “This partnership with the Biden-Harris administration and HUD means that we can expand these efforts to remove lead paint hazards from even more Connecticut homes, especially those most at risk. This funding means that more children can grow up in a lead-safe environment.”

“Far too many Americans, specifically children, are living in at-risk conditions, like older homes, exposing them to lead-based paint hazards,” said HUD Acting Secretary Adrianne Todman. “The funding announced today is an integral step in identifying the risks of lead exposure and other health hazards across communities and working towards a future where unhealthy housing is no longer an issue.”

“The negative effects of lead poisoning can be irreversible and cause learning disabilities, reduced intelligence, and life-long health effects in children as well as grave health damage to adults,” said HUD Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary Richard Monocchio. “This funding will help to remediate housing units with potential lead exposure and protect families in the US and their children – especially families with limited resources in older homes – from lead poisoning and harmful exposure to other hazardous contaminants in their homes.”

“A large portion of Hartford’s public housing stock was built before the ban on lead-based paint, and protecting our residents and vulnerable populations from lead-based hazards is a priority for our administration,” said Hartford Mayor Arunan Arulampalam. “I’m grateful to our federal partners at the Department of Housing and Urban Development for making this critical investment in improving the quality of life for Hartford residents and preventing adverse, irreversible health effects from taking hold.”

""We are so grateful to HUD for being among the housing authorities nationwide selected to receive a portion of this federal funding. These critically important funds will provide the resources we need to ensure that HUD-subsidized housing across our many programs is safe for our residents,"" said Annette Sanderson, Executive Director of the Housing Authority of the City of Hartford (HACH). ""Our more than $4 million share of this money will enhance our ability to evaluate and assess whether buildings under our oversight meet the physical condition standards established under the National Standards for Physical Inspection for Real Estate (NSPIRE) guidelines and is aligned with HACH's mission to be a fiscally sound agency that provides safe, decent and affordable high-quality housing and homeownership choices.”

“On behalf of the Norwich Housing Authority, residents of Oakwood Knoll, our dedicated staff, our board of commissioners, and the city of Norwich, we want to thank you all for this grant award of $7.5 million dollars,” remarked Norwich Housing Authority Executive Director Jeff Arn. “The funds will allow the Norwich Housing Authority to remove the lead-based paint hazards from our Oakwood Knoll Development and help create safer homes for 74 families. Without this grant, it would have taken ten years or more to complete this work. Now, we will complete this project within 24 to 36 months and quickly mitigate all lead-based paint hazards on the property and create a more appealing place for our families to call home.”

According to HUD’s American Healthy Homes Survey II, more than 34 million homes in America have lead paint somewhere in the building, and approximately 3.3 million homes—including more than 2 million low-income households—across the country have children less than six years of age facing one or more lead-based paint hazards, including over 2 million low-income households. Based on data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, this unfortunately results in more than 1 million children suffering from the irreversible impacts of lead poisoning, including reduced intelligence, behavioral and learning disabilities, and effects on many other body systems. Lead-contaminated dust from chipped or peeling lead-based paint is one of the most common causes of elevated blood lead levels in children. Infants and children are especially vulnerable to lead paint exposure because their growing bodies absorb more lead than adults do, and their brains and nervous systems are more sensitive to the damaging effects of lead. Adults with exposure to lead can develop symptoms such as high blood pressure, memory loss, and reduced motor skills.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z
https://himes.house.gov/press-releases?ID=941F4C10-2F3F-4B78-9685-0FF150EC6596,Himes Announces Millions for Trumbull Med-Tech Companies,2024-10-03,2024,2024-10,Democrat,House,CT,James A. Himes,H001047,himes.house.gov,himes,https://himes.house.gov/press-releases,page_html,"Bridgeport, CT – Today, Congressman Jim Himes announced ZetrOZ Systems and Gynion—two Trumbull-based medical technology companies—were selected to receive Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) grants.

Congressman Himes said, “The therapeutic research conducted in Southwestern Connecticut is truly amazing. The treatments ZetrOZ Systems and Gynion are developing are poised to help people suffering worldwide. Whether it be reducing pain from everyday tasks or preventing cervical cancer, these companies’ research initiatives stand to tangibly impact, and potentially save, millions of lives. I am glad the federal government has selected them to receive SBIR grants.”

ZetrOZ Systems, a leader in the development and manufacturing of wearable, non-invasive ultrasound-based medical devices, will receive more than $2 million in federal funding to refine its pioneering sonophoresis patch, designed to treat knee osteoarthritis.

President and CEO of ZetrOZ Systems, George K. Lewis, Ph.D., “We are working with key stakeholders across the healthcare ecosystem to expand broad physician and patient access to our innovative non-invasive and non-opioid sustained acoustic medicine (sam®) biotechnologies to accelerate soft tissue healing and treat chronic joint pain. As part of this active-aging commercialization program, we are increasing our USA-based manufacturing and service partner network, driving clinical education and adoption at regional and national levels, and expanding our clinical portfolio offerings and soft-tissue indications. By enabling easy access to sam® care and eliminating barriers for patients we will help 100 million Americans live active and healthy lives pain free.”

A startup founded to address undertreated women’s health conditions, Gynion will receive over $360,000 in federal funding to support development of ablative topical gels meant to treat cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN) and other life-threatening conditions caused by human papillomavirus (HPV).

Oleg Shikhman, Founder and CEO of Gynion, said, “Gynion is developing several products for Women’s Health, including Clarablex for the prevention of cervical cancer. Clarablex is designed to be as effective as current alternatives, yet a lot easier to use and significantly more affordable, removing all existing access barriers to timely care for women in the US and globally. This SBIR grant from the National Cancer Institute further validates our technology and will accelerate our progress in the development of Clarablex.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-03-30T11:08:25Z
https://delauro.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/delauro-statement-potential-offshoring-american-union-jobs,DeLauro Statement on Potential Offshoring of American Union Jobs,2024-10-02,2024,2024-10,Democrat,House,CT,Rosa L. DeLauro,D000216,delauro.house.gov,delauro,https://delauro.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Today, Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro (CT-03) released a statement on reports that thousands of American jobs could be offshored:

“I am deeply troubled by reports of big corporations like Stellantis potentially offshoring American jobs, a move that would further diminish the U.S. manufacturing base and economic resilience. I stand with the workers impacted by this and urge Stellantis to prioritize protecting American manufacturing jobs.

“As I said in 2019 when we renegotiated NAFTA into the USMCA, we set a floor – not a ceiling. The USMCA established important principles we should build from, but it was never a model for future, worker-centered trade agreements. When we begin the six-year review of the USMCA in the 119th Congress, I will work to strengthen provisions that protect American workers and competitiveness, like accounting for increased Chinese investment in Mexico, improving the Rapid Response Mechanism, and reexamining the digital trade chapter.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z
https://himes.house.gov/press-releases?ID=AE360DF8-62F2-4695-AD9F-C2C390C23FBE,Connecticut House Delegation Applauds $1.3 Billion F135 Modernization Contract for Pratt & Whitney,2024-10-02,2024,2024-10,Democrat,House,CT,James A. Himes,H001047,himes.house.gov,himes,https://himes.house.gov/press-releases,page_html,"East Hartford, CT - Today, Reps. John B. Larson (CT-01), Joe Courtney (CT-02), Rosa DeLauro (CT-03), Jim Himes (CT-04), and Jahana Hayes (CT-05) applauded the announcement that East Hartford-based Pratt & Whitney was awarded a $1.3 billion contract from the Department of Defense (DoD) to continue their work on the F135 Engine Core Upgrade (ECU), protecting thousands of skilled machinist jobs and supporting nearly 100 suppliers across Connecticut.

“Back in 2001, Pratt & Whitney won the contract to develop the F135 engine fair and square. After years of fighting efforts to relitigate the original decision, this announcement validates the hard work of the best engineers and machinists in the world, right here in Connecticut,” said Rep. John B. Larson (CT-01). “This contract will protect the 18,000 good-paying F135 jobs across our state, support the 100 F135 suppliers across our state, and bolster our manufacturing sector. The F135 is the most advanced production fighter engine the world has ever known, and I am proud to have worked alongside the entire Connecticut delegation to support these good-paying manufacturing jobs by ensuring Pratt & Whitney remains the sole source provider of the F135 engine. Together, we have secured a program that will save taxpayers tens of billions of dollars and protects Connecticut machinists and suppliers. We will continue to keep the eagle flying in Connecticut for years to come.”

“This contract is yet another strong endorsement of the talented workers of Pratt & Whitney by the Department of Defense to continue advancing technology for the F135 upgrade. Modernizing the existing engine is the best option to improve performance and commonality across all variants of the Joint Strike Fighter program and our international partners,” said Rep. Joe Courtney (CT-02).

""Pratt & Whitney is a leader in advanced technology and defense manufacturing,"" said Rep. Rosa DeLauro (CT-03). ""The F135 engine is both cutting-edge and cost-effective. This contract represents the best value for taxpayers and will support over 11,000 workers in East Hartford and Middletown, key contributors to our state's economic strength. I am proud to have championed this contract, which will preserve good paying union jobs and ensure Connecticut remains a global leader in the aerospace industry.""

“Pratt & Whitney’s F135 engine program has not only ensured that the F-35 is powered by the most capable fighter engine ever produced but has also provided tens of thousands of good-paying jobs across the state. By funding the continuation of this critical program, this contract will bolster America’s air superiority while keeping Connecticut manufacturers and workers in business. I’m proud to continue supporting this program alongside my Congressional colleagues,” said Rep. Jim Himes (CT-04).

""For almost a century, Pratt & Whitney has developed the future of aerospace technology in Connecticut, and this contract award will continue that legacy,"" said Rep. Jahana Hayes (CT-05).

As Co-Chair of the Joint Strike Fighter Caucus, Rep. Larson led a coalition of machinists and bipartisan Members of Congress in support of engine modernization and against a costly alternative engine to the Connecticut-built F135.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-03-30T11:08:25Z
https://larson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/connecticut-house-delegation-applauds-13-billion-f135-modernization,Connecticut House Delegation Applauds $1.3 Billion F135 Modernization Contract for Pratt & Whitney,2024-10-02,2024,2024-10,Democrat,House,CT,John B. Larson,L000557,larson.house.gov,larson,https://larson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"East Hartford, CT – Today, Reps. John B. Larson (CT-01), Joe Courtney (CT-02), Rosa DeLauro (CT-03), Jim Himes (CT-04), and Jahana Hayes (CT-05) applauded the announcement that East Hartford-based Pratt & Whitney was awarded a $1.3 billion contract from the Department of Defense (DoD) to continue their work on the F135 Engine Core Upgrade (ECU), protecting thousands of skilled machinist jobs and supporting nearly 100 suppliers across Connecticut.

“Back in 2001, Pratt & Whitney won the contract to develop the F135 engine fair and square. After years of fighting efforts to relitigate the original decision, this announcement validates the hard work of the best engineers and machinists in the world, right here in Connecticut,” said Rep. John B. Larson (CT-01). “This contract will protect the 18,000 good-paying F135 jobs across our state, support the 100 F135 suppliers across our state, and bolster our manufacturing sector. The F135 is the most advanced production fighter engine the world has ever known, and I am proud to have worked alongside the entire Connecticut delegation to support these good-paying manufacturing jobs by ensuring Pratt & Whitney remains the sole source provider of the F135 engine. Together, we have secured a program that will save taxpayers tens of billions of dollars and protects Connecticut machinists and suppliers. We will continue to keep the eagle flying in Connecticut for years to come.”

“This contract is yet another strong endorsement of the talented workers of Pratt & Whitney by the Department of Defense to continue advancing technology for the F135 upgrade. Modernizing the existing engine is the best option to improve performance and commonality across all variants of the Joint Strike Fighter program and our international partners,” said Rep. Joe Courtney (CT-02).

""Pratt & Whitney is a leader in advanced technology and defense manufacturing,"" said Rep. Rosa DeLauro (CT-03). ""The F135 engine is both cutting-edge and cost-effective. This contract represents the best value for taxpayers and will support over 11,000 workers in East Hartford and Middletown, key contributors to our state's economic strength. I am proud to have championed this contract, which will preserve good paying union jobs and ensure Connecticut remains a global leader in the aerospace industry.""

“Pratt & Whitney’s F135 engine program has not only ensured that the F-35 is powered by the most capable fighter engine ever produced but has also provided tens of thousands of good-paying jobs across the state. By funding the continuation of this critical program, this contract will bolster America’s air superiority while keeping Connecticut manufacturers and workers in business. I’m proud to continue supporting this program alongside my Congressional colleagues,” said Rep. Jim Himes (CT-04).

""For almost a century, Pratt & Whitney has developed the future of aerospace technology in Connecticut, and this contract award will continue that legacy,"" said Rep. Jahana Hayes (CT-05).

As Co-Chair of the Joint Strike Fighter Caucus, Rep. Larson led a coalition of machinists and bipartisan Members of Congress in support of engine modernization and against a costly alternative engine to the Connecticut-built F135.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z
https://larson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/larson-announces-230000-community-arts-initiatives,"Larson Announces $230,000 for Community Arts Initiatives",2024-10-02,2024,2024-10,Democrat,House,CT,John B. Larson,L000557,larson.house.gov,larson,https://larson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Manchester, CT – Today, Rep. John B. Larson (CT-01) announced $230,000 in funding from the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) for community organizations to expand local arts initiatives.

“The arts are a bedrock of our society, bringing communities together and raising awareness to the important issues that deserve our collective attention,” said Larson. “I commend Community Partners in Action and HartBeat Ensemble for their efforts to create opportunities for at-risk youth and adults alike to express themselves through creative outlets. I am thrilled to announce new funding for these initiatives that will increase participation in the arts and advance equitable outcomes in Hartford.”

Our arts community is one of the best of any mid-sized city in America, and this financial support from our federal partners adds significantly to the fabric of that community. I’m grateful to Congressman Larson for his partnership and his role in uplifting the valuable work being done in service to Hartford youth by organizations like Community Partners in Action and the HartBeat Ensemble,” said Hartford Mayor Arunan Arulampalam.

“Thank you to Congressman Larson for securing this grant to support these great organizations who are using the arts to better the lives of the youth in our communities,” said Manchester Mayor Jay Moran.

“Community Partners in Action is honored and excited to receive this National Endowment for the Arts ArtsHERE award to sustain and expand the work of the Prison Arts Program, making Connecticut’s prisons a more hopeful, healthy, and productive part of our community,” said Jeffrey Greene, Program Manager of Community Partners in Action’s Prison Arts Program.

“HartBeat is thrilled and blessed that the federal government has collaborated with regional arts organizations to support our work on helping organizations and communities develop more equitable and just working and learning ecosystems,” said Godfrey L. Simmons, Jr., Artistic Director, HartBeat Ensemble.

The following organizations were awarded ArtsHERE grants:

Community Partners in Action was awarded $130,000 to expand their Prison Arts Program that works to positively transform the prison, and the lives of all those living and working inside the prison, through the arts.

HartBeat Ensemble, Inc. was awarded $100,000 to develop their storytelling program into an earned income venture that integrates theater into local civic community partnerships.

112 organizations across the country were awarded grants through the NEA’s ArtsHERE program. Supported with federal funding, the ArtsHERE program aims to improve participation in the arts among underserved populations.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z
https://larson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/larson-statement-iranian-attack-against-israel,Larson Statement on the Iranian Attack Against Israel,2024-10-02,2024,2024-10,Democrat,House,CT,John B. Larson,L000557,larson.house.gov,larson,https://larson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"East Hartford, CT – Today, Rep. John B. Larson (CT-01) released the following statement condemning the recent Iranian ballistic missile attack against Israel.

“I applaud President Biden, our military leaders, and allies in the region for acting swiftly to once again defend Israel from an Iranian ballistic missile attack,” said Larson. “Both the President and Vice President made it clear that the United States stands with our ally, Israel. Our commitment to the security of the Israeli people remains unwavering.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z
https://delauro.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/delauro-statement-ongoing-conflict-middle-east,DeLauro Statement on Ongoing Conflict in the Middle East,2024-10-01,2024,2024-10,Democrat,House,CT,Rosa L. DeLauro,D000216,delauro.house.gov,delauro,https://delauro.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Today, Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro (CT-03) released a statement in response to the ongoing conflict:

""Israel has the absolute right to defend itself and its citizens from threats, including Hezbollah’s aggression and Iran’s ballistic missile attacks. I am relieved Israel's defense systems successfully countered most of the missiles launched from Iran, and that the United States was able to assist our ally in this defense.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z
https://hayes.house.gov/press-releases?ID=502C3C04-0083-4C15-9EC5-EE251DB7265A,Hayes Announces $1.2 Million in Federal Funding for Fifth District Behavioral Health Services,2024-10-01,2024,2024-10,Democrat,House,CT,Jahana Hayes,H001081,hayes.house.gov,hayes,https://hayes.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WATERBURY – Today, Congresswoman Jahana Hayes (CT-05) announced $1.2 million in federal funding for community health centers in Danbury and Plainville to expand mental health, behavioral health, and substance abuse disorder services. The funding, awarded by the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), will support critical services at Connecticut Institute for Communities in Danbury and Wheeler Clinic Inc. in Plainville.

“Community health centers address the most urgent community needs, especially mental health and substance abuse services,” said Congresswoman Hayes. “Through critical investments like this, more people in Danbury, Plainville and surrounding towns will be able to seek the care they need right where they live. I am grateful to the Biden-Harris Administration for its commitment to expanding and improving access to care in Connecticut and across the country.”

According to a 2022 report by the Kaiser Family Foundation, 21 percent of adults in Connecticut reported experiencing mental illness in the past year, and 5 percent reported experiencing serious mental illness. However, because 10 percent of adults with mental illness are uninsured, according to Mental Health America, their health care needs are often unaddressed.

Federally Qualified Health Centers and other local health facilities are crucial to addressing mental health and substance abuse issues for those impacted. But today, most health centers are only able to meet about 27% of the demand for mental health services and 6% of the substance use disorder treatment demand among their patients, according to HRSA. The grants awarded today will help clinics expand their services and increase their patient count.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z
https://delauro.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/delauro-leads-letters-boars-head-usda-questioning-listeria-outbreak,"DeLauro Leads Letters to Boar’s Head, USDA Questioning Listeria Outbreak",2024-09-30,2024,2024-09,Democrat,House,CT,Rosa L. DeLauro,D000216,delauro.house.gov,delauro,https://delauro.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Today, U.S. Representative Rosa DeLauro led her colleagues in sending two bicameral letters to Boar’s Head and the United States Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (USDA FSIS) questioning how the Boar’s Head plant at the center of a nationwide Listeria outbreak was allowed to keep operating despite over 60 citations for noncompliance and U.S. inspectors warning “that conditions at [the] Boar’s Head plant posed an ‘imminent threat’ to public health” two years prior to the outbreak.

In the letter to Boar’s Head, DeLauro and lawmakers demanded answers to better understand how the outbreak was allowed to occur and how the company has committed to preventing outbreaks in the future.

“These conditions show a complete disregard for food safety and for the public health of the American people,” the lawmakers wrote. “As a company that operates within the United States and sells to American consumers, you have an obligation to protect public health and prepare and sell food that meets safety standards. With the science we have available, there is no excuse for the tragic loss of life that has occurred as a result of this outbreak.”

In the letter to USDA’s FSIS, the lawmakers slammed the agency’s lax oversight that led to the outbreak and subsequent plant closure. They demanded answers as to how the plant was allowed to continue operations despite repeated infractions that created ripe conditions that led to product contamination and the outbreak of dangerous pathogens like Listeria.

“This outbreak could have and should have been prevented,” the lawmakers wrote. “What is especially troubling is how egregious sanitation problems occurred despite supposed regular oversight; oversight which typically includes at least one inspection per shift… It is appalling that seemingly no enforcement actions have been taken against Boar’s Head despite the reported repeated records of major noncompliance”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:43:57Z
https://courtney.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/hasc-investigates-reports-faulty-welds-knowingly-made-us-navy-vessels,HASC Investigates Reports of Faulty Welds Knowingly Made to U.S. Navy Vessels,2024-09-27,2024,2024-09,Democrat,House,CT,Joe Courtney,C001069,courtney.house.gov,courtney,https://courtney.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Representatives Joe Courtney (D-CT) and Trent Kelly (R-MS), Ranking Member and Chairman of the Subcommittee on Seapower and Projection Forces, along with Adam Smith (D-WA) and Mike Rogers (R-AL), Ranking Member and Chairman of the House Armed Services Committee, released a statement following reports that faulty welds were knowingly made to U.S. Navy vessels.

“It is deeply concerning to learn that faulty welds may have been knowingly made to U.S. Navy submarines and aircraft carriers. The House Armed Services Committee is investigating how this occurred. The safety of our sailors is our top concern, and we need to immediately understand any risks associated with the faulty work. The Department of Defense needs to immediately provide our committee with answers and a plan for how they will protect U.S. Navy vessels against tampering. Absolute transparency with Congress is essential. These vessels are critical to U.S. defense in the Indo-Pacific – we must ensure that these vessels are protected against any bad actors seeking to put U.S. national security or our service members at risk.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:43:57Z
https://courtney.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/ranking-member-courtney-responds-reports-faulty-ship-construction,Ranking Member Courtney Responds to Reports of Faulty Ship Construction at Newport News Shipyard,2024-09-27,2024,2024-09,Democrat,House,CT,Joe Courtney,C001069,courtney.house.gov,courtney,https://courtney.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"NORWICH, CT – Today, Congressman Joe Courtney, the Ranking Member of the House Seapower and Projection Forces Subcommittee, issued the following statement after the U.S. Department of Justice received notification of suspected faulty welds on subs, aircraft carriers at Newport News Shipbuilding.

“Anytime there is a weld defect on Navy ships and submarines, the safety of the crews that serve aboard are put at risk, and the availability of these platforms are impeded. The members and professional staff of the Seapower and Projection Forces Subcommittee are already in close contact with Navy leadership to ascertain the scope and severity of the weld quality issues. It is imperative that Navy leadership disclose its investigation in a timely manner in the coming weeks.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:43:57Z
https://courtney.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-courtney-statement-aukus-defense-ministers-meeting-communique,Rep. Courtney Statement on AUKUS Defense Ministers’ Meeting Communique,2024-09-27,2024,2024-09,Democrat,House,CT,Joe Courtney,C001069,courtney.house.gov,courtney,https://courtney.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"NORWICH, CT – Today, Congressman Joe Courtney (CT-02), the Co-Chair of the Friends of Australia Caucus, issued the following statement after the Right Honourable John Healey MP, Secretary of State for Defence, United Kingdom hosted the Honourable Richard Marles MP, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Defence, Australia and the Honorable Lloyd J. Austin III, Secretary of Defense, United States (U.S.) at the Old Royal Naval College in Greenwich, London, the United Kingdom (UK) to review progress in and reaffirm their commitment to the AUKUS partnership.

“Today’s communique powerfully demonstrates that the AUKUS security agreement is showing real life, tangible progress. The completion of joint training of hundreds of Australian naval personnel; the integration of shipyard work; and adoption of ‘momentous’ reforms of defense export controls to enable technology transfer under Pillar II of the agreement, are just a few examples of how swiftly the alliance has executed the objectives of the Optimal Pathway announced in March 2023. There is much more to do, yet the communique is proof that the AUKUS partners are determined to achieve its goals of a free and open Indo-Pacific.”

To read about Rep. Courtney’s leadership in Congress on the AUKUS mission as the Co-Chair of the Friends of Australia Caucus, click here.

To watch Rep. Courtney’s floor speech on the graduation of Royal Australian Navy personnel from the Naval Submarine School in Groton, click here",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:43:57Z
https://larson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/larson-blumenthal-murphy-and-governor-lamont-announce-protection-1364,"Larson, Blumenthal, Murphy, and Governor Lamont Announce Protection of 1,364 Acres of Watershed Lands in Winchester",2024-09-27,2024,2024-09,Democrat,House,CT,John B. Larson,L000557,larson.house.gov,larson,https://larson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Hartford, CT - Today, Rep. John B. Larson (CT-01), Senator Richard Blumenthal, Senator Chris Murphy, Governor Ned Lamont, the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP), and the Housatonic Valley Association, announced the successful protection of 1,364 acres of watershed lands in the Town of Winchester.

This is the largest conservation project to leverage federal funding from the Highlands Conservation Act in its 20-year history, and Winchester is the first environmental justice community to benefit from these funds. The Highlands Conservation Act covers 3.4 million acres in portions of Connecticut, New York, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania and is one of the most significant sources of federal land protection grant funding available in Connecticut.

“I have been a longtime supporter of the Highlands Conservation Act, which has helped protect more than 16,000 acres of land across the Northeast over the last twenty years,” U.S. Congressman John B. Larson (CT-01) said. “I’m thrilled to join the Housatonic Valley Association to announce the preservation of 1,364 acres in Winchester. This project, the largest-ever preservation effort supported by the Highlands Conservation Act in Connecticut, will ensure residents have access to both safe drinking water and recreational opportunities to enjoy our region’s natural beauty. I commend the local advocates, donors, and state leaders for their work to protect the community’s public water supply and ensure the preservation of this land for years to come.”

“Open space is one of the top contributors to our great quality of life here in Connecticut, and the land protected under the Highlands Conservation Act is among the most beautiful land around,” Governor Lamont said. “I thank our Congressional delegation and federal agency partners for their efforts to secure land protection funding for our state, as well as our local land trust and conservation partners. This is a great example of federal, state, and local working together to accomplish big things.”

“I am proud that 1,364 acres of land in Winchester are now protected thanks to funding from the Highlands Conservation Act,” U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal said. “This historic conservation will boost outdoor recreation, supply clean drinking water, and protect wildlife – ensuring that Connecticut’s highlands remain an environmental treasure for generations to come.”

“Today’s announcement marks a historic milestone in our fight to conserve land in western Connecticut,” U.S. Senator Chris Murphy said. “I spent years working to reauthorize the Highlands Conservation Act so we could maintain federal funding to support projects like this one. Safeguarding Winchester’s watershed land will help keep public drinking water clean and protect our wildlife and forests for future generations to enjoy.”

“Being one of the largest conservation projects in over a decade, the permanent protection of this land provides numerous benefits to the residents of Connecticut,” DEEP Commissioner Katie Dykes said. “It will enhance the quality of life for Winchester and surrounding municipalities’ residents, who will have access to portions of the property for passive recreation use. It will also protect key watersheds, drinking water supply, and habitats for a diversity of wildlife. This conservation project and others like it also address climate change in a meaningful way by fortifying and preserving forestland. I’m grateful for the partnership with the USFWS, Housatonic Valley Association, the Town of Winchester, and the private volunteers and donors who helped make this project successful.”

“The Highlands Conservation Act is a phenomenal tool, allowing state agencies to conserve priority areas across this vital landscape,” U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Northeast Region Deputy Regional Director Kyla Hastie said. “We are a proud partner in this effort and applaud Connecticut DEEP and the Housatonic Valley Association for their focus on conservation in historically marginalized communities.”

“Conservation at this scale requires the creativity and commitment of many partners,” Tim Abbott, conservation director for the Housatonic Valley Association, said. “I’m deeply grateful to the town leadership for pursuing this opportunity, but perhaps even more impressive is the unanimous support that this effort received from town voters at a selectmen’s meeting to approve the transaction.”

“The serenity and beauty of the natural resources of Winchester are the foundation and bedrock of our community,” Winchester Town Administrator Todd Arcelaschi said. “The actions of the Town of Winchester in seeking to safeguard the town water supply, as well as protect the natural beauty and charm of the area will pay dividends well into the future. By securing these easements, we not only guarantee the protection of our water supply, we also safeguard the habitat of the region’s wildlife allowing future generations to experience the beauty of northwestern Connecticut landscape and wildlife.”

Conservation easements placed over these municipal water company lands will ensure that they remain a source of clean drinking water for the City of Winsted, providing additional safeguards for wildlife habitat and a planned public access trail that will avoid sensitive areas. The property has been protected through the Highlands Conservation Act, matched by DEEP’s Recreation and Natural Heritage Trust Fund, and additional donations raised privately through the Housatonic Valley Association’s Greenprint Partners Pledge Fund. The Housatonic Valley Association also provided a Baseline Documentation Report as part of its contribution to the project that documents the current condition of the more than two dozen parcels that comprise the conserved watershed lands. The Town of Winchester still owns the land and operates its municipal water company.

“In addition to safeguarding our drinking water, the Town Water Company land connects to permanently protected open space owned by the Winchester Land Trust and other conservation groups,” Winchester Land Trust President Jen Perga said. “The new easement creates a large corridor of protected land for animals to move north and south through town.”

Since 2004, the Highlands Conservation Act has brought nearly $25 million to Connecticut and protected more than 7,257 acres in 15 Highlands communities. A recent reauthorization of the act provides a mechanism to expand funding eligibility beyond the initial 26 Connecticut municipalities within the Highlands region. Since then, 11 more Connecticut municipalities have been included, with the potential for further expansion.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:43:57Z
https://delauro.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/delauro-blumenthal-refer-boars-head-doj-responsibility-listeria,"DELAURO & BLUMENTHAL REFER BOAR’S HEAD TO DOJ FOR RESPONSIBILITY IN LISTERIA OUTBREAK, CALL ON USDA TO BOLSTER OVERSIGHT",2024-09-26,2024,2024-09,Democrat,House,CT,Rosa L. DeLauro,D000216,delauro.house.gov,delauro,https://delauro.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"U.S. Representative Rosa DeLauro (D-CT-03) and U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) today called on the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) to hold Boar’s Head Provisions Company, Inc. (Boar’s Head) accountable for the Listeria outbreak linked to liverwurst deli meat produced at their Jarratt, Virginia plant. In a letter to USDA Secretary Thomas Vilsack and Attorney General Merrick Garland, Blumenthal urged USDA to work closely with the DOJ to determine whether to bring criminal charges against Boar’s Head for their responsibility in the outbreak, which has caused 10 deaths and dozens of hospitalizations across the country. Blumenthal and DeLauro also urged USDA to strengthen its Listeria prevention protocols and investigate other Boar’s Head locations for safety violations.

“The time for action is long overdue, and we urge your agencies to work together to seek immediate justice for impacted consumers and to prevent this from happening again,” wrote DeLauro and Blumenthal.

“Moving forward, it is critical that the agency take this matter seriously and take the necessary steps to address the concerns raised by this outbreak. That is why we urge USDA to work closely with the DOJ to determine whether to bring criminal charges against Boar’s Head for their responsibility in this crisis,” DeLauro and Blumenthal continued.

Blumenthal and DeLauro also called on USDA to enhance its oversight of our food supply, “We also urge the agency to initiate reforms to prevent similar situations from recurring at other facilities. In particular, the agency should revisit its regulations requiring establishments to test for Listeria in the processing environment and consider ways to strengthen those requirements, including revisiting the agency’s 2000 proposed rule requiring minimum sampling for Listeria on food contact surfaces.”

“We cannot let large corporations get away with endangering public health, it is imperative that we hold food companies to the highest standards so that Americans can feel safe shopping for groceries and feeding their families. Boar’s Head must be held accountable, those impacted by this crisis deserve more than an apology, they deserve justice,” DeLauro and Blumenthal concluded.

The full text of the letter is below and available here.

We write to urge the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) to hold Boar’s Head Provisions Company, Inc. (Boar’s Head) accountable for the Listeria outbreak linked to liverwurst deli meat produced at their Jarratt, Virginia plant that has caused 10 deaths and 59 hospitalizations across 19 states, and to take immediate action to ensure that the failures responsible for this tragedy are not repeated. The New York Times recently reported that USDA inspectors warned that conditions at the Boar’s Head plant posed an “imminent threat to public health” as early as 2022, and additional records show the alarming conditions continued in the years that followed. It is unacceptable that Boar’s Head did not take sufficient action to rectify these conditions that resulted in repeated violations for similar issues. The time for action is long overdue, and we urge your agencies to work together to seek immediate justice for impacted consumers and to prevent this from happening again.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Listeria monocytogenes is a dangerous bacterium that can be especially harmful for pregnant women, individuals over the age of 65, and those who have a weakened immune system. A Listeria infection can be life threatening. That is why in 1989, the Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) at USDA declared Listeria monocytogenes an adulterant and established a zero-tolerance policy for the bacteria’s presence in any product intended to be “ready to eat” without additional cooking. The USDA also established clear requirements for sanitation to ensure that the bacteria does not contaminate such products and provided for escalating enforcement for violations of such rules, including the ability and discretion to shut down production. That is why it is baffling that inspectors at the Jarratt plant documented 84 noncompliances from June 2023 through this August, many of which indicated significant safety risks, and the agency failed to recognize the blatant pattern of violations or escalate to enforcement when Boar’s Head safety officials failed to take adequate corrective actions necessary to prevent further risks.

It is painfully clear that by choosing not to aggressively ensure that safety standards were being followed, the USDA failed to uphold its congressional mandate. The agency allowed Boar’s Head to put profits over people by producing what its fiduciaries surely knew were products that were at a high risk of adulteration due to the horrific conditions at the Jarratt plant. Years of inadequate response have led to safety conditions within the plant that are impossible to remedy easily, and as a result, Boar’s Head recently decided to indefinitely shut down the plant, potentially leaving hundreds of workers in a small town unemployed.

Moving forward, it is critical that the agency take this matter seriously and take the necessary steps to address the concerns raised by this outbreak. That is why we urge USDA to work closely with the DOJ to determine whether to bring criminal charges against Boar’s Head for their responsibility in this crisis. If criminal charges lead to a consent decree, we urge the agency to include civil penalties for future infractions, enhanced sampling of products and contact surfaces for Listeria monocytogenes and Listeria species, enhanced sanitation commitments from Boar’s Head, third party audits, additional risk-based USDA testing, and any additional remedies the agency deems necessary to ensure strict oversight and accountability.

We also urge the agency to initiate reforms to prevent similar situations from recurring at other facilities. In particular, the agency should revisit its regulations requiring establishments to test for Listeria in the processing environment and consider ways to strengthen those requirements, including revisiting the agency’s 2000 proposed rule requiring minimum sampling for Listeria on food contact surfaces. The agency should also explore measures such as increased agency testing for Listeria, mandatory final product testing by establishments, reporting requirements for establishments that detect Listeria monocytogenes in final products, enhanced communication to escalate issues identified by inspectional staff, and automatic triggers to escalate regulatory penalties against establishments that, like Boar’s Head, demonstrate a pattern of non-compliance with basic sanitation protocols. In this particular case, the USDA should also consider conducting vigorous inspections of all Boar’s Head facilities to ensure that the practices at the Jarratt plant have not been replicated at other locations.

We cannot let large corporations get away with endangering public health, it is imperative that we hold food companies to the highest standards so that Americans can feel safe shopping for groceries and feeding their families. Boar’s Head must be held accountable, those impacted by this crisis deserve more than an apology, they deserve justice.

Thank you for your attention to this matter. We look forward to working with you.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:43:57Z
https://hayes.house.gov/press-releases?ID=81AE2F38-F6D0-44EB-AA19-365B5B612421,"Hayes Announces $130,000 Federal Grant for the Afro Caribbean Cultural Center in Waterbury",2024-09-26,2024,2024-09,Democrat,House,CT,Jahana Hayes,H001081,hayes.house.gov,hayes,https://hayes.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON D.C. – Today, Congresswoman Jahana Hayes (CT-05) announced the Afro Caribbean Cultural Center (ACCC) in Waterbury will receive $130,000 in federal grant funding from the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA). This grant was awarded through the NEA ArtsHERE program, which supports organizations committed to equity and engaging underserved communities.

In April, Congresswoman Hayes signed a letter supporting the ACCC grant application to advocate for funding for the Afro-Caribbean Cultural Center I.D.E.A. Initiative and develop a long-term strategic framework.

“Since its founding in 2021, the ACCC has grown as a space for Afro- Caribbean communities and served as an example of the cultural diversity in Waterbury that makes us stronger,” said Congresswoman Hayes. “I have seen the tremendous work of the center and was enthusiastic about offering offer my support for this National Endowment for the Arts application. This federal grant will enable the ACCC to provide cultural and enriching programming for our community to enjoy.”

Specifically, this funding will support strategic planning, data collection, professional development, and marketing programs by the ACCC, allowing the organization to increase outreach and serve more individuals.

""We are humbled and honored to receive this funding that will help the center strengthen and build strong foundations for future growth and success. Art and Culture in Greater Waterbury are better off because of these funds,” said Rafael Feliciano-Roman, Executive Director, Afro Caribbean Cultural Center.

The Afro Caribbean Cultural Center is a multidisciplinary center which hosts public art exhibitions, performances, workshops, conferences, and international exchanges that support Caribbean Taino and Afro-descendent cultures.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:43:57Z
https://hayes.house.gov/press-releases?ID=8C6A2C28-04FC-4A2F-995E-560FE9237E5B,Hayes Introduces Legislation to Expand Community Service Opportunities for Federal Work-Study Students,2024-09-26,2024,2024-09,Democrat,House,CT,Jahana Hayes,H001081,hayes.house.gov,hayes,https://hayes.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON D.C. – Today, Congresswoman Jahana Hayes (CT-05) introduced the Students Working for Communities Act, which would allocate a greater percentage of existing Federal Work-Study (FWS) program funding to support student employment in community service roles, including with local non-profits and community-based organizations. As written, the legislation would increase the existing FWS community service set-aside dollar amount as FWS funding increases in the future.

“Each year, the Federal Work-Study program helps hundreds of thousands of college students earn an income and gain valuable career experience while in school. Many students are placed in public service jobs with non-profits and other organizations, providing a great benefit to their communities and their education,” said Congresswoman Hayes. “The Students Working for Communities Act would increase the number of students placed in public service jobs, exposing more young people to careers in service while providing additional support for organizations working to improve the community.”

The Federal Work-Study program was created in 1964 as one of the earliest forms of federal financial aid for college students. Today, one in ten full-time undergraduates is employed by FWS in critical career-related positions designed for students who cannot afford to participate in unpaid internships while attending school.

FWS includes a community service element, which sets aside a percentage of job placements and allows students to work in positions that support the communities around their school. Currently, 7 percent of FWS funding is directed towards placing students in community service roles, a number that has not increased since 1998.

The Students Working for Communities Act would increase the existing community service set aside as Congress increases FWS funding, with the percentage directed to community service placements increasing as funding increases.

Specifically, the set-aside would increase to:",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:43:57Z
https://larson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/connecticut-officials-and-governor-lamont-announce-changes-connecticuts,Connecticut Officials and Governor Lamont Announce Changes to Connecticut's Early Child Care and Education Programs That Will Enable More Children to Enroll and at Less Cost to Parents,2024-09-26,2024,2024-09,Democrat,House,CT,John B. Larson,L000557,larson.house.gov,larson,https://larson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Hartford, CT - Today, Governor Ned Lamont, supported by members of Connecticut's Congressional delegation, announced that his administration is making several changes to Connecticut’s early child care and education programs that will result in more children being able to receive access to these programs, while also lowering the associated costs to their parents.

“I am thrilled to see federal funding be used to take bold steps that will make more child care slots available in our state and lower costs by capping fees for low and middle-income families receiving assistance at 7% of their household income,” U.S. Congressman John B. Larson (CT-01) said. “Under Governor Lamont’s leadership, Connecticut is leading the nation to ensure working families can access the child care they need to make ends meet. I will continue to work with President Biden, Vice President Harris, and the entire Connecticut Congressional delegation to build on this progress in Washington so every family can afford high-quality child care.”

“Access to child care and early education programs is massively important to the success of our state, not only because these programs provide valuable tools for children that will lead them to success in the future, but also because being able to enroll your child in care right now means that parents themselves can have an opportunity to obtain employment and earn an income that supports their family,” Governor Lamont said. “Right now, Connecticut is expanding access to child care for high-need communities to levels we’ve never experienced and I am determined to continue this trend. I appreciate the Biden-Harris administration for working with our state to make expanding access to child care a priority.”

Effective January 1, 2025, family fees for Care 4 Kids – the state program that supports low to moderate-income families with some of the costs of paying for child care – will be capped at 7% of household income, which is down from the current rate of 10%. This means that the fees required to participate in Care 4 Kids will decrease for all participating families. On average, it is estimated that this change will save families about $200 per month.

Additionally, effective October 1, 2024, in an effort to reduce the benefit cliff that families enrolled in Care 4 Kids can face, families participating in this program will be able to remain enrolled until their household income reaches 85% of the state median income, which is an increase from the current limit of 65%. This means that if a parent receives a promotion or pay raise from their employer, it is more likely they can accept the pay increase and not worry that it will prevent their child from continuing to receive this care.

Both of these changes bring Connecticut in alignment with federal requirements and can be implemented using existing federal funds.

An additional 1,500 children will be enrolled in Care 4 Kids, bringing the total number of children served under this program from 21,500 to 23,000, using existing state and federal funding.

In addition to the Care 4 Kids changes, the state is adding 900 new state-funded early care and education spaces for young children through the School Readiness and Child Day Care program by maximizing existing state funds.

These programs are administered by the Connecticut Office of Early Childhood.

“Connecticut continues to look for ways to leverage state and federal resources to increase access to affordable child care for families,” Connecticut Early Childhood Commissioner Beth Bye said. “Today’s announcement is about adding capacity and affordability. It’s good for families, good for child care programs, and good for Connecticut’s economy.”

This added capacity brings the total number of children receiving municipal, state, and federally funded early childhood programs in Connecticut to 62,400, which is well ahead of the Connecticut Blue Ribbon Panel on Child Care’s goal of 60,000 children being funded in these programs by fiscal year 2026. With these new investments, 29% of children under 5 years of age will be enrolled in more affordable early childhood education programs in the current fiscal year.

“Child care is a necessity for Connecticut’s working families and the Biden-Harris administration commends the state for moving swiftly to implement a new federal rule to lower costs for families participating in the child care subsidy program,” Ruth Friedman, director of the Office of Child Care for the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, said.

“Few things are more frustrating for parents than trying to find affordable child care,” U.S. Senator Chris Murphy said. “These new changes are going to make a big difference for thousands of families by lowering costs and opening up more spots in child care and early education programs. It’s a big deal for those kids’ development, but it will also give the state’s economy a boost. I’ll keep fighting to increase the federal government’s investment in child care in Connecticut.”

“Affordable child care is essential for families to thrive,” U.S. Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro (CT-03) said. “And yet, they struggle with the high cost – making difficult decisions on their budget to ensure their children are cared for when they go to work. I am proud to have secured American Rescue Plan Act funding and Child Care and Development Fund dollars to help bring down the cost of childcare in Connecticut. Ensuring parents pay no more than seven percent of their income for childcare, will help families keep more of their hard-earned dollars.”

Governor Lamont made these announcements today during a news conference at the Enfield Child Development Center.

“We are very proud to serve families in our community who are working or attending training or college who are supported thorough the Care 4 Kids program,” Eileen Gardner, senior site manager for the Enfield Child Development Center, said. “These changes will help our families pay for child care and other critical household needs. We are also committed to partnering with the Office of Early Childhood to deliver state-funded high-quality early care and education services to our youngest children.”

“I began working at the Enfield Child Development Center two years ago as a teacher’s aide in the toddler program,” Ashley Plaza Torres said. “I have two children, 8 years old and 2 years old, and I am thankful to have the support of Care 4 Kids because it gives me the opportunity to work and afford child care for two children.”

These changes and their impacts on Connecticut’s workforce and its economy are projected to increase the state’s gross domestic product by $351 million and state revenue by $29.7 million. For every dollar invested in adding these child care slots, there is an expected one-year return of approximately $13.50 in total economic benefits. If it is assumed an additional slot enables on additional parent to join the workforce, even at minimum wage, this would add $33,000 in household earnings.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:43:57Z
https://larson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/larson-neal-blast-republican-social-security-scam,"Larson, Neal Blast Republican Social Security Scam",2024-09-26,2024,2024-09,Democrat,House,CT,John B. Larson,L000557,larson.house.gov,larson,https://larson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. - Today, Ways and Means Committee Ranking Member Richard E. Neal (MA-01) and Social Security Subcommittee Ranking Member John B. Larson (CT-01) released the following statement after the Congressional Budget Office, an independent and nonpartisan body, found that schemes to raise the retirement age, like those proposed by House Republicans, would slash annual benefits by 13 percent for today’s workers:

“With this latest report from CBO, the American people can see in black and white how dangerous Republican proposals to raise the retirement age are for our nation’s Social Security recipients. The Republican Study Committee, representing more than three-quarters of House Republicans, has repeatedly proposed raising the age. Let us be clear: Social Security is a sacred promise that only Democrats can be trusted to protect and preserve for generations to come. House Republicans share a draconian agenda to cut earned benefits while still leaving the Social Security Trust Fund in jeopardy.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:43:57Z
https://delauro.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/delauro-introduces-legislation-protect-food-supply-dangerous-chemicals,DeLauro Introduces Legislation to Protect Food Supply from Dangerous Chemicals,2024-09-25,2024,2024-09,Democrat,House,CT,Rosa L. DeLauro,D000216,delauro.house.gov,delauro,https://delauro.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Today, Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro (CT-03) introduced the Toxic Free Food Act, legislation that would require the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to close the ‘General Recognized as Safe’ (GRAS) loophole and make chemical food additives subject to FDA approval and oversight. She also submitted public comment to the FDA, as they work to develop a post-market assessment system of chemicals in foods, urging the agency to close the GRAS loophole that allows companies to self-certify new ingredients are safe for consumers and voluntarily decide whether to notify the FDA of their conclusions.

“When Americans are shopping at the grocery store, they should be confident that the food they are purchasing is safe for consumption and does not contain any harmful chemical additives that could result in illness or death,” said Congresswoman DeLauro. “The GRASloophole allows companies to decide themselves whether additives are safe to add or not, skirting FDA oversight and allowing for potentially dangerous chemicals to reach market. That cannot stand. I have urged the FDA to close this loophole, and I am proud to introduce the Toxic Free Food Act to ensure that chemical food additives are subject to FDA approval.”

The GRAS loophole was originally intended to cover ingredients that are already known to be safe, such as vegetable oil, flour, baking soda, and spices. In 1997, the FDA loosened the existing protocol, creating the “voluntary notification” system. Now, companies themselves are allowed to declare substances as GRAS, allowing hundreds of new chemicals to be introduced in our foods with little to no FDA oversight.

The Toxic Free Food Act would require the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to incorporate certain requirements into its regulations about Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) food substances, including specific restrictions on substances that cause cancer or human reproductive or developmental toxicity. You can find bill text here.

""None of us should have to worry about whether the food we eat and feed to our families is safe,"" said Environmental Working Group Policy Director Jessica Hernandez. ""For too long the FDA has allowed the food and chemical industry to decide whether certain chemicals, like toxic ""forever chemicals"" known as PFAS, are safe to eat. The Toxic Free Food Act will protect consumers by putting the FDA back in charge of food safety, not the food and chemical companies. EWG applauds Congresswoman DeLauro for her leadership on this important public health issue.""

""Current regulations that allow food manufacturers to self-regulate and determine the safety of food chemicals without any FDA review is completely unacceptable,"" said Brian Ronholm, Director of Food Policy for Consumer Reports. ""The Toxic Free Food Act would close this dangerous loophole and stop this secret process that hides safety data, and allow the FDA to determine the safety of substances added to food.""

“Food companies are allowed to add chemicals to foods without ever notifying or providing safety data to the FDA. The Toxic Free Food Act is a much-needed step to empower the FDA to protect consumers from harmful chemicals in our foods.” – President of Center for Science in the Public Interest, Peter Lurie, MD, MPH

DeLauro also submitted written comments to FDA for their public meeting on developing post-market assessments of chemicals in foods, urging the agency to close the GRAS loophole.

“For too long, this loophole and FDA inaction has failed to keep us safe from chemicals added to our food,” DeLauro wrote. “…To rebuild consumer confidence, the FDA must take bold action to ban or restrict food chemicals of concern, and to reassert its regulatory role and close the loopholes that allow the chemical companies to voluntarily decide which chemicals are safe for consumers.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:43:57Z
https://hayes.house.gov/press-releases?ID=3CA96B39-3606-43EE-9192-D9B6DFC5EF78,Hayes Statement on Vote to Temporarily Fund the Government,2024-09-25,2024,2024-09,Democrat,House,CT,Jahana Hayes,H001081,hayes.house.gov,hayes,https://hayes.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON D.C.– Today, Congresswoman Jahana Hayes (CT-05) issued the following statement after the House of Representatives passed a Continuing Resolution (CR) to fund the government through December 20, 2024.

“Today, I voted to pass a Continuing Resolution to keep the government fundeduntil December 20, 2024.

A government shutdown would have been costly and harmful to the American people. This CR keeps funding at current levels, allowing important government programs to continue serving the American people.

Under this CR, health care benefits for veterans will be extended, Social Security services will remain available to seniors, the Federal Emergency Management Agency will be able to respond to disasters in real time, and Temporary Assistance for Needy Families payments will continue supporting families in need.

The CR also includes funding increases for the Secret Service and the upcoming Presidential Transition. As we head into a national election, this funding is vital to ensure the safety of all candidates and the peaceful transition of power.

This is a positive step forward and will allow Congress the time needed to enact bipartisan full year funding bills that can pass both the House and Senate.

I look forward to working with my colleagues when Congress reconvenes to complete the 2025 appropriations and deliver for the American people.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:43:57Z
https://larson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/larson-statement-rep-clay-higgins,Larson Statement on Rep. Clay Higgins,2024-09-25,2024,2024-09,Democrat,House,CT,John B. Larson,L000557,larson.house.gov,larson,https://larson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. - Today, Rep. John B. Larson (CT-01) released the following statement after Rep. Clay Higgins (LA-03) made false claims attacking the Haitian community in a post on social media.

“I echo the statements of Leader Jeffries and Congressional Black Caucus Chair Steven Horsford and join them in condemning Rep. Clay Higgins’ vile social media post attacking the Haitian community,” said Larson. “False narratives about the Haitian community have fueled hate and put lives at risk in Springfield, Ohio, and across the country. We are a nation of immigrants whose diversity is our strength. Hate has no place in America, especially in the People’s House. Rep. Higgins should be censured by the House of Representatives for his racist and unbecoming conduct.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:43:57Z